Regardless of whether working from home is your choice or if you were asked to do so by your employer in order to reduce overhead costs or to minimize the dangers of COVID-19, you still have to do your job properly. Just because you’re in the comfort of your own home, it doesn’t mean that you can slack off and neglect your responsibilities. However, sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to focus. With that in mind, you might be looking for some productivity tips that will help you be more efficient. Keep on reading for useful advice.
Have specific work hours
For starters, you need specific work hours. If your employer has set them for you in advance and expects you to be available at those times, you need to respect this and make sure you’re handling your assignments during this period. Moreover, you also need to notify other household members and friends that you will not be available even though they might think that you’re free just because you work from home. On the other hand, if you have the freedom to choose your own work hours, pick a time of day during which you know you will be the most productive. While many people claim that working in the morning is best, some individuals simply work better in the evening, so organize yourself so that you can make the most of your day.
Find the right communication channels
In order to be productive, you also have to ensure efficient communication. If you’re required to be in contact with your employer or coworkers during the workday, you need to find the fastest way to get in touch with them. Instant messaging apps can be very useful but it’s vital to find some more work-oriented alternatives such as Skype, Slack, or Discord. Emails shouldn’t be disregarded either but they are simply not as efficient.
Use productivity apps
Besides using apps for staying in touch with other colleagues that are working from home, you can also use them to be more productive. For example, you can easily download a few productivity apps that will help you focus on work. These can be used to set timers, stay organized, track your goals and performance, and stop you from checking social media. What is more, keep in mind that your employers might ask you to run a certain app while working to be able to check whether you’re actually doing your assignments.
Limit distractions as much as possible
When working from home, it’s very easy to get distracted. For starters, if you live with other people, they might try to talk to you and get you to help them around the house or go somewhere. Setting boundaries is vital and they need to know not to disturb you during work hours. On the other hand, your mindset also has to be at work during these hours. While you could easily turn on the TV and watch a show or endlessly scroll social media, you need to do your work first. You will have enough time to rest once you’re done with your tasks. Lastly, as you might also be affected by your surroundings which you have no control over, you can invest in noise-canceling headphones.
Create a work area for yourself
Not having a home office can also increase your chances of being distracted. Even though it’s not always possible to get a separate room for the office, you can look for various ways to delineate your workspace in order to be able to focus. For instance, you can find a room divider online or visit a local carpet store and get a rug that can separate two spaces. Furthermore, you want the office to be comfortable so invest in ergonomic equipment such as chairs and keyboards. You also cannot overlook the lighting situation, as you need at least a few light sources to prevent eye strain and headaches.
Consider meal prepping
Working from home can make it seem like it’s easy to make lunch whenever you want. However, you never know when you might get swamped with work, so it’s a good idea to consider meal prepping. For example, dedicate a day or two to preparing lunches for every day of the week. That way, you will have something to eat and you won’t have to resort to ordering delivery.
Don’t forget to take regular breaks
Finally, you cannot forget to take regular breaks. While you don’t want to let others interrupt your work hours, you also don’t want to let your work interrupt your personal life either. Make sure you stop working at the end of the workday and don’t let work notifications affect your self-care time. You need to remember to go outside during the day, get enough physical activity, and socialize with people dear to you.
Working from home can make it seem like handling tasks is easy as you’re in your own home and free to make your own schedule. However, it can be more challenging than it appears, so follow the above-listed tips to stay productive.