Over the past few years, the rise of remote work and the need for social distancing have transformed video conferencing tools like Zoom into a ubiquitous communication platform. While these virtual meetings have enabled people to stay connected and productive, many have also reported feeling excessively tired and sleepy after participating in them. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon, often referred to as ‘Zoom fatigue,’ and discuss ways to mitigate its effects.
Reduced Non-verbal Communication
One of the primary reasons for Zoom fatigue is the inherent limitations of non-verbal communication in video calls. In face-to-face interactions, we rely on a plethora of non-verbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice, to fully grasp the meaning behind someone’s words. However, video calls make it challenging to perceive these cues, as participants often appear in small windows with limited visibility. This forces our brains to work harder to decipher the information, leading to cognitive overload and, ultimately, fatigue.
Constant Self-awareness
Another factor contributing to Zoom fatigue is the increased self-awareness that comes with being on camera. Many people find it difficult to ignore their own video feed, leading to a heightened sense of self-consciousness. This constant self-monitoring can be mentally draining and may cause feelings of exhaustion.
Lack of Physical Movement
During in-person meetings, participants could move around, stretch their legs, and change their posture. In contrast, video calls often require attendees to remain seated and relatively stationary in front of their screens. This lack of physical movement can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and drowsiness.
Screen Overload
In today’s digital world, many of us spend a significant portion of our day staring at screens. Adding video calls to an already screen-heavy routine can exacerbate eye strain and lead to a feeling of fatigue. Moreover, the blue light emitted by screens can disrupt our circadian rhythms, making it more difficult to fall asleep at night.
Back-to-Back Meetings
In a remote work environment, back-to-back video calls are a common occurrence. Without the natural breaks that come with in-person meetings, such as walking to a different room or engaging in casual conversation, Zoom meetings can become an unrelenting series of virtual encounters. This lack of downtime between meetings can contribute to mental exhaustion and feelings of sleepiness.
Strategies to Combat Zoom Fatigue
- Schedule Breaks: Allocate time for short breaks between meetings to allow your brain to rest and recharge.
- Encourage Movement: Stand up, stretch, or walk around during video calls to maintain energy levels and reduce stiffness.
- Limit Screen Time: Schedule regular screen-free periods throughout your day to reduce eye strain and fatigue.
- Use Audio-only Calls: When appropriate, switch to audio-only calls to give your eyes a break and reduce self-consciousness.
- Optimize Your Environment: Ensure your workspace is well-lit and ergonomic to minimize physical discomfort and promote alertness.
Zoom fatigue is a real and prevalent issue faced by many people participating in video conference meetings. By understanding the factors that contribute to this exhaustion, we can take steps to minimize its impact and maintain our energy levels throughout the workday.
Nkozi Knight 