5 Tips for Maximum Productivity While Working From Home
While I’ve been working from home for the last seven years, I’ve found that a lot more people were thrust into this world since last March, and they’re lost. Working from home SOUNDS excellent, but in reality, there is a lot of adjustment that has to take place for one to be productive. So here are five tips for maximum productivity while working from home.
Schedule Regular Breaks - This step is imperative when working from home. I suggest taking 15-minute breaks at least 2-3 times during your workday. Make sure you’re not just sitting at your desk all day, as that’s not healthy for your mind or body. In addition, you should attempt to stand up at least once an hour to get your blood circulating. Try setting an alarm to go off every hour so that you can stand up and stretch.
Have a Set Schedule - Please don’t go through your day aimlessly and without a schedule. There’s just no way you can be productive this way. There are so many planners out there where you can map out your day by the hour. Even better than that, you can use your Google Calendar or Sheets to create a set schedule as well. The bottom line is, know what you’re doing and when you’re going to do it.
Keep a Dedicated Workspace - Most people weren’t prepared to work from home when the pandemic started, so they didn’t necessarily have a workspace at home. I’m here to tell you that you need a dedicated workspace if you’re working from home regularly. This will help your work-life balance big time. It helps to separate the two and gives you breathing room. I’d also advise you to keep the office space out of your bedroom. Trust me when I say that it will affect your sleep even if you don’t think so.
Set Boundaries - Make sure that the people in your life know that you’re working and the time frame you’re doing so. Some seem to think that working from home means that you’re not working, which can affect your productivity if you don’t know how to say “no.” Set your work hours and stick to them.
Don’t Be Hard on Yourself - Let’s be honest here; working from home isn’t easy. The adjustment from being in the office can disrupt your productivity. However, you must be good to yourself and stay positive despite the adversity. If there’s a moment when you’re struggling, step away from work and take deep breaths. I promise there’s no such thing as perfect, and you’re going to figure it all out in time. Just stick to the tasks at hand and keep trying.
What are some things that you’ve implemented since you began working from home? Let me know in the comments!