10 Ways to Maximize Productivity When Working From Home
Imagine being able to roll out of bed, and go to work, still in your pajamas. This may seem like a dream to some. I mean think about it, you’re ditching your morning commute, you don’t have to see your boss, and you can work from the comfort of your own bed. Who wouldn’t want to work from home? Believe it or not, working from home isn’t as easy as it may seem. In fact, working from home takes a level of self-discipline and focus that a lot of people aren’t capable of balancing. It’s very easy to lose focus and productivity while working in the comfort of your own home. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Keep reading to learn 10 ways to maximize your productivity when you work from home.
As I stated earlier, working form the comfort of your own home is not as simple as it looks. Yes, you don’t have your boss watching your every move but, I’m sure there are about a million things in your house that can distract you at any moment (family, pets, that pile of laundry, Netflix, etc.) That being said, working from home gives you a certain amount of freedom and flexibility that you’ll never feel when you’re working from the office. Also, with all that’s going on right now, it can also limit the spread of illness.
Many believe that working from home is the new normal, and I agree. Make your work
Here are 10 ways to maximize your productivity when working from home.
Create a Work Space
One way to boost your productivity and improve your focus is to create a designated workspace in your home. Somewhere that you can set up, and get into work mode. No, your bed or couch probably isn’t the best choice. (I’ve tried this and it definitely doesn’t work!) You have to compartmentalize your home. In doing so, you’ll be able to separate work from your home.
Create a Morning Routine
Having a morning ritual is a great way to start your day. What are the steps you deem necessary to get your day started? Create a morning routine that will set you up for success. Maybe it involves a few minutes of meditation, reading, going for a walk or a morning workout.
Ditch the Pajamas
Believe it or not, working in your pajamas is not a great idea. In fact, wearing them for work can make you feel lazier. I even saw someone say it was the death of productivity. Take the time to pick out an outfit for the day so that you shift into work mode, not relaxing at home mode.
Set a Work Schedule
Successfully working from home is all about structure and self-discipline. Failing to establish a work schedule will leave you feeling flustered and all over the place. Set a work schedule, a span of hours that are for work and nothing else.
Prioritize Tasks
It’s important to know what your tasks for each day are and prioritize them accordingly. Create a to-do list and tackle the hardest tasks first. That way you’re limiting procrastinating you’ll be getting the most pressing or hardest duties completed at the beginning of the day.
Use a Planner or Calendar
Planners or calendars are great tools to help you map out your work and how to schedule your tasks. Get into the habit of mapping out your days, weeks, and months if you can. That way you’re taking all the guesswork out of what you need to do and you can just roll up your sleeves and get to work.
Time Block Your Day
Time blocking is a great way to maximize your productivity. All it involves is scheduling every minute of your day and how you’ll be spending it, and breaking them into manageable blocks. In doing so, you’re giving yourself a deadline to complete a specific task. During this block of time, your only focus should be on that task and completing it within the amount of time you set. Time blocking is a great way to fine-tune your focus and I highly recommend that you try it.
I was first introduced to time blocking by YouTuber Amy Landino. She has great videos explaining the idea of time blocking and how to do it in much more detail. Check it out here.
Limit Distractions
Another surefire way to increase your productivity and focus while working from home is to limit your distractions. That means keeping the television off, and social media use to a minimum during your designated work hours. It’s so easy to get pulled in and taken off track.
Read "3 Ways to Eliminate Distractions From Your Life" here.
Set Boundaries
Working from home will involve setting some boundaries with your family and friends. Let’s face it, our loved ones can be major distractions. Ensure that they know and understand that when you’re working you’ll need to focus and be left alone to work.
Take Breaks
Working from home doesn’t mean working around the clock. It is important to take breaks. Go outside for some fresh air, take a walk, run, and get some coffee or lunch. Give yourself some time to relax and take a breather, it will benefit you in a major way.
There you have it! I hope that you find these tips helpful! Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!
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