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Roughly 30min into the 1st day back in Lockdown 3 - I thought I share some of the things I'm implementing to support my mental health better this time round #AcademicMentalHealth /thread https://twitter.com/GeomechSteph/status/1346208274878771200
Auto-reply explaining that I'm planning and prioritising work after time off and an overview of my new work practices including working hours that allow me to get out during lunch
I will have this auto-reply up for a week but the key information is also copied into my email signature to remind people. If you have caring responsibilities etc consider adding something to your email signature so people are aware - I think this can change how we work together
Email: @arosha shared this email sorting chart with me the other day and I think it's brilliant. I will use this and only reply to emails that require one. I will also be more mindful when I email people and include either a realistic deadline or say it can be done when it suits
Protecting time: as I said my calendar is up to date and this is true for everything I'm in control off until June. I booked my lunch breaks off and protected some time each day for my different work projects. Leaving enough free time for meetings or urgent things popping up
Sticking to my boundaries: This will be the hardest part but I think sharing my boundaries will make it easier to stick to them - it's not like it'll be news to people. However this will only work long-term if I don't end up bending my own boundaries.
Making time for other things: I start my day with some light yoga and I intend to leave my flat at lunch for a walk and on Tuesdays for a run - this I why I love having more flexibility over my work hours as I can make the time for this when it suits
I know this will not work for everyone and it really depends on your situation but I hope by being more open about our boundaries we can create a kinder work place /end