Photo by Simon Abrams on Unsplash
By Justine Lyn
In museums, efforts are being made to digitize older paper records and to continue digitizing any new items or information that comes to them on databases. This means lots and lots of computer work. However, some find it difficult to see the impact of their work and strain under the monotonous and repetitive computer work. But before you throw in the towel, consider the tips I use in the workplace to combat this feeling.
1. Resting your eyes:
Every hour, I try to look away from your computer. I like to look out of the window from my office at the CN tower. This is very important because I find I tend not to blink as much when I'm looking at the screen and my eyes get dry and strained. So simply looking into the distance and enjoying the scenery will give your eyes and brain a rest so you feel more refreshed when you return to your desk.
2. Keep your body active:
Every hour I try to get up and do some exercise. I sometimes go to the washroom for privacy and just run on the spot and try to get around 250 steps. I wear a Fitbit, so it is easy to track my steps, but if not, just try to exercise for 5 minutes. If I am simply sitting in front of my desk all day, I feel really lethargic. After I do a bit of exercise, I can reset my brain and feel ready for the next hour of work.
3. Know what you need:
Do some introspection and try to understand what you need and approach your supervisor for alternative solutions if your work is weighing on you. For example, some people find their work lonely and perhaps working in the same space with others would help that feeling. Personally, I feel more alert when listening to classical music or an audiobook and after asking my supervisors, I do so only if I am not in the public eye. Whatever you need your supervisor should be willing to hear your feelings and make accommodations if necessary.
4. Think of the bigger picture:
Think of what you are doing, not how. Let’s say you have to measure all the paintings in the Louvre. Will you be thinking “34.5 inches by 15.45 inches” or “Wow I never knew how small the Mona Lisa was, how cool!”? As museum professionals, we have the super cool job of interacting with amazing artifacts and for me that’s what makes me excited about my job. So be passionate about WHAT you are doing! Don’t think about working on 50 records on the computer as this big mass of time spent doing one repetitive thing, think of it as doing 50 different things each with its own challenges and joys. Focus on the things that you love about your job, not the “repetitive” work.
Overall, if you are having trouble dealing with repetitive work, try to take active steps to be healthy and happy both mentally and physically. You never know, sometimes a change of perspective can change everything.
To read more about different computer related health problems, click here.
To read about other tips to deal with repetitive work, click here.