Checking work emails in the evening amid household tasks? You might be experiencing blurring—a growing issue among employees and freelancers that's raising alarms among health experts. Here's what you need to know and how to address it.
What is blurring?
"Blurring," from the English "to blur" meaning "to obscure or erase," describes the fading line between professional and personal life. Work encroaches on private time—on commutes, at home, weekends, even vacations—fueled by technologies like internet and apps. This trend has intensified, with nearly 8 in 10 European workers contacted outside hours. In turn, personal matters spill into work time. A 2016 study found 37% of workers using professional tools at home or elsewhere.
Did you know?
Research by American expert Alex Soojung-Kim Pang shows peak effectiveness comes from just 4 hours of focused work daily. Charles Darwin thrived on three 90-minute sessions. Shorter days boost productivity and well-being.
Health consequences of blurring
Smartphones, tablets, and laptops enable remote work, offering flexibility but often leading to constant demands that erode performance and focus. Constant availability breeds exhaustion. Key risks include:
These can culminate in burnout—a state of physical and emotional exhaustion that may precede depression.
Combating blurring: Expert strategies
Avoid zombie-like fatigue by reclaiming boundaries.
Step 1: Assess your situation
Track a week's work activities in a notebook: that quick email before Pilates, the call nearly burning dinner. Tally intrusions into evenings and free time to gauge your blurring level.
Step 2: Activate 'off' mode
Silence email and SMS alerts—even turn off your phone. France's 'right to disconnect' protects you from after-hours demands; no repercussions for unavailability on evenings, weekends, or RTT.
Step 3: Build discipline
One unchecked email won't sink the company. Hyper-connectivity often stems from perfectionism. Prioritize quality over availability: dine with friends, unwind in a bath, binge your series. Detach mentally.
Step 4: Seek support
Overwhelming urges may signal addiction. Consult a psychologist, coach, CHSCT, or occupational health services.
Helpful resource
Blurring risks burnout. The France Burn Out Association (AFBO) advocates for those affected—reach out for support.
Often overlooked, blurring harms health profoundly. Disconnect after hours—your well-being depends on it.
