These days, more and more people are starting to work from home as a result of their employment circumstances. It’s usually cheaper for companies to employ people that work remotely, and that’s one of the reasons why it’s become so popular. However, while working from home offers flexibility, it also comes with its challenges.
Sometimes, the day feels slower and there are big gaps in the workflow which can bore you. In these moments, gaming can be a fun way to unwind without losing focus on work. By choosing the right kinds of games and setting boundaries, it’s possible to balance both responsibilities and leisure time to make your work day go by a little quicker.
So in this post, we’ll explore how to enjoy gaming while staying productive at home.
Find the right kinds of games for work breaks
Not all games are suitable when you’re working from home. It’s important to pick games that fit naturally into short bursts of free time.
Turn-based games are a great choice because they don’t require constant attention. For example, games like Civilization or XCOM allow players to take their time planning moves and can be paused or minimized easily if work demands your attention. There are relaxing games like Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing that are also excellent for unwinding during breaks without becoming too intense or distracting.
Classic games like chess or checkers can also fill a few spare minutes. They’re easy to step away from when needed and provide a satisfying mental challenge. These types of games are perfect for giving your brain a brief workout before getting back to work.
Set boundaries between work and play
It’s easy for gaming to become a distraction, so creating clear boundaries is essential to help keep work and play in their proper places.
One simple strategy is scheduling specific times for gaming. For instance, you could play a quick game during a 15-minute break or over lunch. Sticking to these times prevents gaming from creeping into moments when you should be working. It’s also helpful to set alarms or timers to remind yourself when break time is over.
Keeping workspaces and gaming setups separate can also make a difference. If possible, use one area for work and another for gaming. This way, there’s a physical divide between the two activities, helping you mentally switch gears when needed.
Use gaming as a reward for completing tasks
Turning gaming into a reward can make it feel even more satisfying. When used as a motivator, gaming becomes a tool to encourage productivity rather than a source of distraction.
For instance, after finishing a challenging project or ticking off several tasks from your to-do list, you might treat yourself to a 20-minute session of your favorite game. This approach works especially well with games that offer quick, satisfying gameplay. Puzzle games like Tetris can provide just enough entertainment to feel rewarding without taking up too much time.
Gamifying your workday by tying accomplishments to gaming can also add a fun twist to your routine. It’s a creative way to stay focused and make work feel less monotonous.
Explore multiplayer games for social connection
Working from home can sometimes feel isolating, but multiplayer games offer a way to stay connected with friends or coworkers.
Casual multiplayer games like Among Us or Jackbox Party Packs are easy to pick up and can fit into short breaks or lunchtime hangouts. These games are lighthearted and fun, making them perfect for fostering connection without becoming too competitive or time-consuming. Playing with friends can provide a refreshing change of pace and boost your mood during a busy day.
For those who prefer cooperative experiences, online games like Minecraft allow players to work together on creative projects. These games encourage teamwork and can help combat feelings of isolation while still being flexible enough to pause when necessary. Another great thing about these games is that you can work on projects with people at different times, setting tasks and goals to meet cooperatively without having to play at the same time.
Stick to games you can pause or save
Games that allow pausing or saving are ideal when working from home because they don’t demand constant attention. Strategy games, for example, often include features that let players pause or save progress at any moment. This makes it easy to step away if an urgent work task comes up. Games like The Sims or Cities: Skylines let players pick up where they left off without missing a beat.
Mobile games are another convenient option for quick entertainment. Many of them, like Sudoku or word puzzles, are designed for short, casual sessions. They’re great for filling a five-minute gap without pulling you into a longer commitment. There are also incredibly detailed smartphone games such as Honkai: Star Rail and Wuthering Waves which offer quick bursts of action that can be paused at any time and played on most smartphone and tablet devices. They even have desktop PC versions so you can continue playing on the big screen when you finish work.
Prioritize productivity over playtime
While gaming can be a fun way to spend downtime, staying productive should always be the main focus during work hours. There are ways to balance both without sacrificing your responsibilities.
One way to keep things balanced is by monitoring your gaming habits. Apps or tools that track screen time can help ensure you’re not spending too long playing games. If gaming feels like it’s interfering with your work, consider scaling back or choosing less engaging games during the day.
It’s also important to reflect on how gaming affects your energy and focus. If it leaves you feeling refreshed, it’s likely a healthy addition to your routine. However, if it makes it harder to concentrate, it might be worth limiting it to after work.
Try games that stimulate your mind
Some games can actually help sharpen your mental skills and keep your brain active, making them a perfect fit for breaks during work.
Brain-training games like Lumosity or apps with logic puzzles can enhance memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking. These games are quick and engaging, making them ideal for short breaks. Card games, like solitaire, also offer a calm way to relax while still engaging your mind.
For a more creative challenge, sandbox games like Terraria allow you to build and explore without feeling rushed. They give you space to experiment and have fun without being overly demanding, and can even be played with friends and family.
Keep gaming and work in harmony
The key to enjoying gaming while working from home is maintaining a sense of balance. It’s important to treat gaming as a fun break rather than a priority during work hours.
Finding games that complement your workday instead of competing with it is crucial. Whether it’s a quick round of checkers or a relaxing game like Stardew Valley, the goal is to fill spare moments without letting gaming take over. With the right approach, gaming can add a touch of enjoyment to your day while keeping you focused and productive.
At the end of the day, gaming can be a fun and refreshing way to take breaks when working from home, but balance is key so that you’re not forgetting about your work-related responsibilities. By choosing the right games, setting boundaries, and keeping work as the main focus, it’s possible to enjoy both productivity and play. Treat gaming as a reward or a quick way to recharge, and you’ll find it enhances your routine without disrupting your responsibilities.