10 Effective Tips to Prevent Zoom Fatigue

After COVID- 19 the world has changed into a new digital era. The way the company is run has changed and now working from home is the new trend. Video conferencing is now a common practice. Virtual meetings have taken the place of in-person meetings for many people, who prefer the flexibility of using multiple places or having strolling meetings. At the end of the day if you feel tired even if you were sitting all day on a chair you are not alone. People are becoming more and more burned out and exhausted as a result of continual video conferencing, a condition known as “Zoom fatigue.”

Zoom fatigue is a real condition that affects a lot of individuals worldwide. If you fall into that category, this blog is ideal for you because we’ll discuss how to avoid Zoom fatigue here.

What is Zoom Fatigue?

Zoom fatigue, often referred to as virtual meeting fatigue, is a common side effect of participating in numerous online video conferences. The term “Zoom” is being used broadly in this context; any video conferencing software that allows gallery views might be considered to be a part of the phenomenon.  

The illness is growing more common, according to many psychologists, in the age of remote work, even though it hasn’t quite reached the status of an official diagnosis.

How to avoid Zoom fatigue:

We have to get used to Zoom Fatigue because it is a part of our new normal. This does not imply that burnout of this nature is unavoidable. Below are some tips to fight off Zoom fatigue:

1. Spend Time Away from the Screen

If your days are dominated by back-to-back meetings, consider setting up sessions for 50 or 25 minutes. You can use those few extra minutes to stretch, buy a coffee, grab a quick snack, or take that necessary restroom break. Additionally, they’ll offer you an opportunity to reset by giving you a scorching minute to glance away from your computer screen and webcam.

2. Examine your Position

It helps to position your screen properly. Glare should be avoided. Make sure the sun isn’t shining on your computer screen while you’re seated near a window. Set up lighting such that it shines on you, not the screen, behind the computer. Try to keep a distance of around 25 inches from the screen and tilt your head so that you are seeing it slightly downward.

3. Turn off Your Video if you Can

Some places of business require you to have your camera on, while others give you the option. If you have the choice, occasionally switch off your camera. This gives you the flexibility to work on a different task which is important, such as folding laundry while you attend a conference. This relieves some of your stress while also allowing you to be more productive and save time. You won’t have to worry about dressing appropriately and keeping your area free of distractions and embarrassing items.

4. Allow Yourself More Room

It might be exhausting to spend the entire day crammed into a small area in front of a computer. Use a wireless keyboard, mouse, and earphones to give yourself more room. You can do this so that you can leave the computer and still take part in the meeting.

5. Shorten Meetings as Needed

A meeting does not necessarily need to last for a lengthy time. Try to keep your meetings as brief as you can; they don’t all have to last an hour. Before the meeting, go over your slides with your coworkers and solicit their input. Always try to get the most out of your meetings; your coworkers will appreciate it.

6. Hide the Self-View

You don’t have to look at yourself constantly because doing so can make you feel self-conscious and encourage self-criticism. The easiest method to stop watching and analyzing every gesture or action you make is to hide your self-view. You won’t be able to worry excessively about your appearance. Using self-view at the start of the call will ensure that everyone can see you. Then switch it off.

7. Protect your Eyes

Follow the “20-20-20” guideline recommended by optometrists to avoid eye strain. Look away from your screen once every 20 minutes, and for 20 seconds, concentrate on anything that is 20 feet away. This technique aids in eye muscle relaxation while ensuring that your vision has time to recuperate before returning to the screen.

8. Use Simulated Backgrounds

Virtual backgrounds are a terrific method to give the impression that the meeting location has changed. Your background could be a lovely location, like Italy, a well-furnished office, or even your business logo! Another excellent way to break the ice and personalize the meeting is with a virtual backdrop.

9. Step Outside

Nothing like fresh air for fighting weariness. Step outside and observe the sky. As far as you can see, look out at the horizon. Breathe deeply while standing tall. Observe how the wind makes the leaves move. Stretch a little or go for a brief walk.

10. Orient Yourself Before Online Meetings

Preparing for video calls or virtual meetings by taking a few deep breaths can be quite beneficial. Engage in mindful breathing exercises to recharge and get ready for Zoom fatigue even before it sets in. Focus on the present moment by using your senses. You could find it useful to manage stressful situations and reduce current stress.

Conclusion

People must deal with online meetings since they are here to stay. People are experiencing burnout and Zoom Fatigue, both of which are quite real. However, there are ways to handle it. If you adhere to the above recommendations, you may manage Zoom fatigue and maintain a healthy work-life balance. 

FAQs on Zoom Fatigue

Q1: What does Zoom fatigue look like?

After a call, you feel drained rather than motivated. You lose focus or daydream while on the phone. You can get hot or perspire more during calls. On the eyes, you experience discomfort or pressure that wasn’t there previously.

Q2: What causes Zoom fatigue?

The overload of nonverbal signs and communication that occurs during video chats, as well as the larger average group size, have been identified as the causes of the Zoom fatigue phenomena.

Q3 What signs or symptoms point to zoom fatigue?

Zoom fatigue, which results from frequently using videoconferencing platforms, is characterized by sleepiness, stress, anxiety, and general mental exhaustion. These signs and symptoms are comparable to what burnout causes.