As the pandemic reshaped the world, remote work and video conferencing technology became essential. Zoom replaced many in-person meetings, phone calls, and even casual conversations. If you’ve been working remotely for the past few years and feel worn out from endless video calls, you’re not alone. Zoom fatigue is real, but it’s also manageable. Here’s everything you need to know about minimizing Zoom fatigue while working remotely.
The Causes of Zoom (or Video Conference) Fatigue
Remote work has plenty of upsides, but it also creates new challenges — especially when it comes to communication. Video conferencing fatigue can quickly pile up for several reasons.
A recent survey found that a significant percentage of remote workers take part in at least one video call daily. Long Zoom meetings, back-to-back scheduling, and intense screen time wear down both mental and physical stamina.
Communicating through a screen strips away much of our ability to read nonverbal cues. On Zoom, you're often looking only at someone's head and shoulders, with limited background or body language to interpret. In some calls, participants turn off their cameras entirely, leading to a detached and sometimes awkward communication experience.
Excessive sitting during video calls compounds the issue. Sitting still while maintaining constant eye contact with a webcam requires more cognitive effort than natural face-to-face conversation. Adding in multitasking, problem-solving, and critical thinking during these meetings further strains your brain.
The bottom line: Zoom fatigue isn't just about "too many meetings." It's about unnatural communication, limited mobility, and a constant cognitive load that drains energy faster than traditional in-person work.
Tips for Preventing and Managing Zoom Fatigue
Optimize Your Workspace
Your environment can either add to your fatigue or help alleviate it. Step back and objectively assess your home office setup.
If you’re using an old or stationary desk, it might be time for an upgrade. The Beflo Tenon Desk — the first modular, sit-stand smart desk — allows you to switch positions throughout the day. Standing while working helps improve blood flow, posture, and mental alertness, especially during long video calls.
For better lighting, add the Horizon Light Diffuser to your setup. It brightens your workspace without eye strain, making it easier to stay sharp and attentive during calls.
Limit Distractions and Multitasking
When you're on Zoom, resist the urge to multitask. Multitasking during video calls divides your attention and increases mental exhaustion.
Before a meeting, close unnecessary browser tabs, silence notifications, and turn off nonessential devices. Let others in your household know your meeting schedule to minimize interruptions.
Checking email every few minutes might feel productive, but it fragments your focus. Designate specific times to review and respond to emails. Staying fully present during meetings makes them more efficient and less exhausting.
Set Boundaries and Schedule Breaks
Respect your limits. It’s unrealistic to sit through Zoom calls all day without consequences.
Avoid scheduling back-to-back meetings. Leave at least 30 minutes between video calls to mentally and physically recharge. During breaks, stand up at your Tenon Desk, stretch, hydrate, or take a short walk.
Movement refreshes your body and mind, making it easier to stay energized through the rest of your workday.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Between meetings, take time away from screens altogether. Step outside for a few minutes of fresh air. Practice deep breathing, yoga stretches, or short meditation sessions to center your mind.
Even five minutes of mindful breathing can lower stress levels significantly. Try breathing deeply: inhale for five seconds, hold for five seconds, and exhale slowly.
Earbuds or noise-canceling headphones can help block distractions while you focus on relaxation during your breaks.
Accomplishing Work-Life Balance When Working from Home
The boundary between work and home life can blur easily when your office is also your living room or bedroom.
Start by creating a specific workspace. Keep work-related items in that space only. When the workday ends, close your laptop and leave work materials where they belong.
Outside of work, reconnect with hobbies, friends, and personal interests. Work shouldn't consume your identity. A balanced life includes passion, play, and rest alongside productivity.
Building a routine — one with dedicated work hours and committed downtime — makes it easier to thrive both professionally and personally.
Minimize Fatigue and Maximize Productivity with Beflo
Beflo's work-from-home solutions are designed to help you find your flow, reduce fatigue, and stay productive.
The Tenon Modular Sit-Stand Desk supports movement and ergonomic comfort, while smart accessories like the Granite Desk Cable Organizer and Horizon Light Diffuser create a cleaner, calmer environment.
Recognizing the challenges of remote work is step one. Investing in the right workspace tools and healthy habits is how you overcome them.
Explore Beflo’s full range of WFH products to build a space that energizes and empowers you every day.