Being passionate about what you do makes you happier and more productive. This passion can stem from being personally invested your employer’s mission of your employer or deeply caring about the tasks that are in front of you.

But what happens when you have to do the same thing repeatedly for years? The fervour for the next adventure has likely died down.

If you’ve been working as a virtual assistant for a while now, you might’ve started forgetting the whys to focus on the hows. Perhaps your interests have changed or you’ve stopped caring – as long as you are getting a fat paycheck.

The problem? You’ll have a hard time securing the results you desire at this rate, whether it’s a salary increase, promotion or bonus.

To regain the zest you had when you were new to remote work, consider the strategies below. Reviving the fire you once had can push you to give your best work performance, and have you enjoy your job like never before.

Identify the problem

Been dragging yourself out of bed lately? The first step is to admit that you’re no longer as passionate about the work as you used to be. The same can be said when you’ve been having bad days more often than not.

Rather than lament about it, think about what’s causing you to have these kinds of issues. The problem may be with work or even within yourself, but this is nothing you have to be ashamed of. Once you know what’s wrong, begin making changes for the better.

Find meaning for work

Priorities change as people enter different phases of their lives. What pushed you to work as a remote assistant a few years back may no longer appeal to you now. This is why you need to look at other aspects of the work which you can be engaged in.

For example, you may have started off your career with a specific interest in optimising websites, but now you can shift to managing SEO specialists for someone else. The love for search engine optimisation is still there; it’s only the method that’s changed.

Establish a routine

A hectic work schedule makes you more prone to burnout. Consider ways to reduce your workload, including learning to say no and delegating tasks instead of doing everything on your own. Being passionate doesn’t mean you have to bear the burden alone.

Fortunately, lengthy commutes aren’t as issue for remote workers since most work from home. Some clients may request that you work in a co-working space, though, so find one nearby. Avoid having to go to places that take longer than 20 minutes of travel time.

Declutter your workspace

Because you work remotely, you’re the only person who sees the actual status of your desk. It’s likely full of useless trinkets and maybe even empty snack wrappers. In the same way that you want to get your inbox to zero, clear your work area up as well.

Once you’ve begun decluttering your home office desk, you’re making choices on what you want to keep or not. This helps you get a sense of what matters to you and what you want to get out of your job. You are essentially realigning your thoughts back to your work.

Seek some support

Have people who will support you when you have problems at work or even at home. As you progress in your online career, ask the advice of those who’ve been through similar issues and find out how they’ve managed to overcome the obstacles.

Set aside time to unwind with friends and family too. Go on a vacation at least once a year. It doesn’t have to be outside the country or even out of town. You can have a staycation, but make sure that you leave your work behind. A break will mitigate stress and help you keep things in perspective.

Bonus tip: Live a healthier life

Exercising more and eating better can contribute to higher energy levels and better quality of life. It’s common to turn to foods high in fat and sugar when you’re stressed, but it’s not the healthiest coping habit.

Changing your diet is going to be a challenge, though, especially if you’re so used to consuming junk food.

Take small steps instead of going cold turkey. Maybe you can skip the bag of chips today and have a salad instead. Perhaps you can walk to a nearby coffee shop than toil away in the living room. Having a buddy to watch over you when shifting to a healthier lifestyle also helps.

Want to Work Remotely?

By itself, the transition to remote work from an office job can mitigate stress – but an online career can help you rediscover your passion for a certain industry too. It might be the push you need to study SEO, web development or any other field.

We at Remote Workmate can connect you with clients who are looking for skilled workers like you. We can guide you on jump-starting a career as a virtual assistant.