Here we are, having successfully adapted to the change that was thrown our way almost a year ago. Yes, thinking about our pre-COVID lives feels odd; but this is our new normal now. Our work-life has also experienced significant changes. And now the concept of having a face-to-face or video conferencing meeting suddenly feels foreign. 

Until one experiences something called video conferencing fatigue.

What exactly is ‘video conferencing fatigue?’

In simple terms, this phenomenon refers to extreme exhaustion due to being on video calls all day. While this cannot be deemed a serious psychological disorder; anything that is affecting our mental health needs to be discussed. 

Our mental health determines the quality of our lives, hence, it is pivotal for us to take a step back if we feel overwhelmed by something. 

This phenomenon was birthed when the pandemic began. Other than experiencing this, we must also consider the effect increased screen time has on us. 

All of these concepts are related to one another. 

All in all, it’s crucial to understand that these things are real and completely okay to feel. Let your employees or team leaders know that attending video meetings all day is affecting you. 

In this blog, I will share 5 secrets to overcoming this phenomenon. 

Limit The Number of Calls You Attend 

Source: Science of People 

Yes, it is understandable that sometimes we cannot avoid work meetings. However, there are a few work meetings that are often irrelevant to us. 

For example, attending a project meeting that you are too soon to be involved in or conversing with a person that hasn’t prepared makes a meeting unnecessary. 

Priority is key. If you know you will not be actively involved or contributing then you should be allowed to sit it out. 

Let your team leaders know in advance that you will not be in attendance so they are informed. 

Schedule Breaks 

Take some time out in between meetings to recuperate. Go for a walk, do some quick breathing exercises, move around, etc. 

Going outside for a few minutes definitely helps. Stretching your legs as they say with a nice cup of joe acts as a quick fix of sorts. 

You know yourself the best, so whatever it is that you need to do to be fully rejuvenated, do it. 

For example, when I feel overwhelmed by the number of meetings I have to attend (and yet to attend), I go to my backyard and just soak up some sun with my pet. It helps! And it’s been tried and tested! 

Opt for Text-Based Communication 

If a conversation doesn’t warrant a full-fledged meeting then opt for text-based communication. 

Tools like Slack, G Suite, TelebuPing can be utilized to exchange information. And of course, let’s not forget the classic of all time- EMAILS! 

Having text-based conversations gives you more time to think before replying. This way, you will be able to have better and unique ideas that can then be discussed in video meetings. 

Make Meetings Shorter 

Not all meetings have to be lengthy. Keep meetings short and with strict time limits. 

Using asynchronous video updates helps in saving time. Asynchronous meetings are pre-recorded videos that are played during a meeting. Go through important slides, documents, or information in the video. 

The next meeting can focus on answering questions or collecting feedback. This will decrease the time spent on catching everyone up and will also boost productivity. 

Change Your Environment 

A change of scenery always uplifts one’s mood. Staring at the same kitchen counter with your dirty dishes can definitely decrease motivation. 

So why not change things up a bit? Go to a cafe, park, or an entirely different part of your house.  

You can even spruce up your current workspace as well. Throw in some aesthetically pleasing items on there, or fire up Pinterest to gain some inspiration. 

This will for sure put you in a more productive mood. It will also help alleviate the stress and anxiety of video conferencing fatigue.

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You should also read:

Video Conferencing Etiquette: 7 Simple Rules To Follow

Conclusion 

Although we are unsure when we’ll be relieved of video meetings, I am fairly certain we will miss working in our two-day-old PJs. 

If we pay attention to our bodies and minds, video conferencing fatigue can easily be spotted and prevented from happening in future. 

Our physical and mental health should be put at the forefront. If at any point, you feel overwhelmed it is absolutely alright to take some time off. 

Let your team leaders and members know in advance so they can adjust their schedule accordingly. 

Ultimately, rest is important. So if you need it, take it. 

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