Polish young adults use rituals to transition into work modes

A study conducted for the brand Orbit among Polish adults aged 18–35 reveals that 43% of respondents use specific rituals to transition into work or study modes. Common habits include preparing a drink (33%), organizing necessary materials and tools (31%), and tidying the immediate workspace (28%). Additionally, 20% of participants silence or put away their phones, while 18% use music or specific sounds to focus.

Psychologist Magdalena Chorzewska notes that these rituals serve as mental signals to switch modes, which is particularly beneficial for remote workers who lack the physical boundary of an office. However, she warns that preparation should not become a form of procrastination, such as cleaning an entire apartment instead of starting a task.

Data from a Eurofound report highlights that while remote work can help balance professional and private life, it also increases the risk of longer working hours, irregular schedules, and the pressure to remain constantly available. Establishing clear boundaries through rituals is seen as a way to manage these challenges.