Zoom Fatigue
One of the biggest changes in business due to the coronavirus
pandemic is the introduction of full-time video meetings. You may have noticed
that you feel extra tired after a day of video meetings but might wonder how
that makes sense. Enter the new 2020 buzzword: Zoom Fatigue. And yes, it's a
real thing.
Video conferences demand more of our attention. We have to
focus more to take in information and process body language cues. It's harder
to interrupt the speaker to ask for clarifying information during a call, and
you can't whisper to your neighbor to ask for help either. Also, you have to stare at the screen for the
full meeting time, while in a physical meeting you can look around the room or
gaze out the window and no one takes offense. The constant attention makes our
brains tired.
Technology itself adds an additional layer. When there are
glitches in internet connection, your brain has to work overtime to make up for
the lag. Natural silence with an in-person conversation is just that: natural.
However, on a video call, this silence can make us nervous by wanting to fill
the silence or wondering if someone's internet connection has failed. This is
all said without mentioning the added stress our nation is under. Our lives
have been upended and the lines between work life and home life have been
blurred.
So how do we combat Zoom Fatigue?
- Take a Break
- No Social Zooms
Video calls have taken off
socially as well, which is understandable considering seeing friends is few
& far between these days. But again, after a full day of video calls,
adding more screen time to your nightly routine will only further exhaust you.
- Opt for Phone Calls
Ask yourself if the meeting can be
conducted via a phone call instead. Just because Zoom and other video platforms
are available does not mean they are necessary.
There's no question that technology has made the transition
into quarantine smoother and possible to work from home for many people. Don't
be surprised when many workers move to full-time work from home roles. However,
remember the real world is out there and it's necessary to take a break from
the screen.
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