Wonder why you’re more tired doing your work through video platforms like Zoom, Facetime, or Skype?
You are more exhausted because the video platforms require both more of your attention so you can notice non-verbal cues, and you are more aware of your own appearance because you see yourself throughout the meeting. You can become distracted looking at what you don’t like in your own image, facial expressions, or movements. The frozen screens, holes in the verbal transmissions, and scattered pixels can be vexing. Working through the video platform is definitely more tiring than dealing with people in person-even for introverts. To ease your fatigue with the video medium, take at least 10 minute breaks between meeting during which you walk around, stretch, rehydrate or even go outside. If you are part of a group meeting, adjust your screen so you don’t see yourself. At the end of your work day, do something that refreshes you-which may not be spending your off hours on video with friends or family.