With COVID-19 in full swing, unfortunately, not all of us are loving this new ‘work-from-home’ period. Then again, it’s better to be earning a paycheck than to be without a way to pay your rent or bills this month.

It can be tough transitioning to working alone, in isolation, and without your work colleagues. Mental health is something you have to maintain. If you’re working from home because of coronavirus and struggling to remain positive, here’s how to keep your mental health on the up.

Set Time to Work

You can’t work 24/7. There’s time to work-from-home. Then there’s time to relax. When you’re working, eliminate distractions – no pets, kids, cleaning, eating, or anything. Sit at your desk working. When you’re done, close it up and don’t think about it until the next day. By segmenting your work into a very specific time of day, it will feel less overwhelming and you’ll be giving your mental health time to shut off.

Forgive Yourself

Even if you have a desk, chair, accessories, and an ergonomic home office set up, your productivity might not be what you expect it to be. COVID-19 caught us all off-guard. We all still have responsibilities to tend to. Give yourself some slack. Do what you can. Be focused. At the same time, forgive yourself if you aren’t necessarily hitting the targets you once hit.

Be Kind to Others

One of the top predictors of happiness is doing things for others. When you’re not in your work-from-home mode, check in with family and friends. Ask them how they’re doing. Consider donating some money or resources – only if you have it – to a charity or organization in need. Doing for others will do positive things for you.

Maintain A Work Routine

Set up a home office. Maintain a routine. Set your alarm clock, get up, get dressed, and go to work. You may not be commuting or going into the office but that doesn’t mean your work shouldn’t be approached seriously. Follow a daily schedule.

Connect With Others Online

Even if you’re an introvert, it’s not a bad idea to reach out to others. Continue to chat with colleagues over Facebook, WhatsApp, or text. Join an online community. Continue being social even if you can’t be social in-person.

Exercise Regularly

From a physical health perspective, you’ve got to keep up. Exercise doesn’t have to involve jogging or going outside. Set up a yoga mat and do twenty minutes of stretching. Watch a YouTube online exercise program or join an online exercise class. Get an ergonomic sit-stand desk to keep your body engaged while you work. Your mental health will benefit when you keep you physically active.