Fighting Zoom Fatigue
Technology has given us so many more ways to stay connected while we’re physically apart. But learning and meeting online also brings new challenges. It can be awkward to know when to mute and unmute yourself to speak up during class, and the temptation to multitask is hard to avoid.
As your studies ramp up, we want to help you prevent virtual burnout so you can focus on meeting your goals this semester. Here are some tips!
Hide yourself from view. No, you’re not the only one staring at yourself during Zoom calls! Studies show that many people fixate on their own face during video chats, which can be overwhelming and distracting. Try turning off your self view or simply put a sticky note over your image on the screen. You can also grab a pen and paper to focus your attention away from the screen during your meeting.
Change things up with a phone call. Especially for one-on-one meetings or group projects outside of class, it might be less intimidating and easier to focus over the phone. You’ll have less visual stimulation and won’t have to worry about appearances. In some cases, an email or text message might also work for quick questions and check-ins.
Take a screen break. Remember to make time for breaks away from your screen between classes and study sessions. Get outside, dance to your favorite song, or grab a snack to recharge before jumping into the next Zoom. A few minutes to collect your thoughts and give your eyes a break will go a long way!
