Overcoming Digital Fatigue

July 27th, 2020

By: Annemarie Cutruzzola

After months of virtual meetings, events, and networking, a new phenomenon known as Zoom fatigue, or in more general terms, digital burnout, has impacted many people as they adjust to working remotely. On top of the constant pressure that entrepreneurs face to be productive, being online all day can take a toll on mental and physical health, and can increase feelings of social isolation. Last Friday, the SVZ community discussed the reasons behind digital burnout and strategies to overcome it. 

There’s no denying that Zoom fatigue is real. A simple Google search of the term will turn up endless results, most of them from the last 4 months as the realities of working from home started to set in. Even before the pandemic, screens were engrained in so many aspects of our lives. Technology already blurred the separation between work and home life and extended our work hours, but now it’s been taken to an extreme. Those in our group who shared how much time they spent on Zoom reported numbers between 6 and 12 hours a day- and that’s not counting the other work done on computers and time spent on phones. 

The most glaring issue with digital remote work is a lack of human connection. The natural “water cooler” conversations among coworkers that would happen in person are almost impossible to successfully replicate virtually. There’s less opportunity for spontaneity. The natural breaks you would experience in an office like walking around or striking up a conversation just don’t exist in the same way. This can lead to a more intense workplace environment with potentially weaker social bonds. 

It’s not just the social isolation or the monotony of Zoom calls. During our conversation, participants brought up all kinds of symptoms they suspect are the result of too much screen time–from poor sleep schedules to neck and back pain to mental health issues like anxiety. The format of video calls can also create some difficulties in communication. It’s harder to read body language or sense when someone else is about to chime in, and seeing yourself on screen all the time can make you hyper self-aware of your appearance and mannerisms.

What can we do about it?

1. It may be difficult, but it’s not impossible to create opportunities for human connection throughout a remote workday. Some suggestions that came up during our chat were allotting a period of time at the beginning or end of meetings for non-work related chats, bonding amongst smaller groups rather than a massive Zoom call, and scheduling virtual social events or drop-ins. Even other functions on Zoom, like breakout rooms and polls can help break the ice. Also, using alternative methods to connect with people when possible, such as phone calls or messaging, can give everyone involved a much-needed break from Zoom.
2. Another point that came up during our conversation was the importance of physical activity. When working from home, it’s so easy to remain stationary all day. Sitting in front of a computer all day is not good for your health. If you have the flexibility in your schedule to take a walk, do it! One suggestion was, when appropriate, to turn off your camera and walk around during a Zoom call. Working at a standing desk or countertop can also break up the amount of time you spend sitting. Fresh air and exercise are often overlooked, but they can make a difference in your productivity and how energized you are to work. 
3. It might seem obvious, but actually addressing the situation at hand with the people you’re working with can be very effective. It’s likely that they are experiencing similar challenges with working remotely, and just having someone listen to what’s on your mind and acknowledge your struggles can be a relief. Being understanding is crucial– you never know what else could be going on in someone’s life, especially in the circumstances of this pandemic. If you set a good example, the people you work with will know that it’s ok to be human and take breaks. Especially if you’re in a leadership position, it’s a good idea to set up regular check-ins with your team. Talking about what you’re going through is a way to establish solidarity during a time when we can’t physically be together. 

For many, it’s unclear when in-person work will resume. And with some companies considering the benefits of a permanent switch to remote work, digital burnout is something that many of us can expect to deal with going forward. 

Ironically, our conversation about digital burnout happened on a Zoom call. But it’s important to remember that given the circumstances, video conferencing is the best option for most of us. It’s easy to use, works from anywhere in the world, and provides a level of human connection that goes a step above a phone call. Since Caffeinated Innovators went virtual, we’ve had guests join us from places as far as Rwanda, Ireland, and Bangladesh. While there are obvious downsides to working digitally, we’re lucky to have technology that allows us to continue to function in the midst of a pandemic. So give yourself a break–we’re all just trying to stay connected. 

If you missed the conversation, don't worry! We host Caffeinated Innovators every Friday at 9:15am on Zoom. Register here (external link)  to attend an upcoming discussion.