How to stay productive working from home

In today’s connected world, it is increasingly common for people to work from home. Due to my wanderlust and the nature of my work, I was given the opportunity to become a remote worker and have been working from home for nearly 10 years.

People always ask me ‘How can you work from home? How do you not get distracted?’ Read on, to find out how.

Get dressed

It’s tempting to work in your pyjamas but if you make an effort to get dressed, you will switch your mindset from homebody-mode to work-mode. Bonus: you’ll also be ready for those impromptu video meetings  :D

Start at a set time (and finish at a set time!)

In order to get things done, you need to give yourself enough time and that means starting at a set time. Having a set time also helps signal that it’s time to work.

Equally, having a set knock-off time can spur you on to finish your tasks for the day and signal that it is now home time. It’s tempting to keep working but it’s not healthy – be kind to yourself.

Have a dedicated work space

I know it’s tempting to work from the couch or kitchen counter but working from a dedicated work space is not only more ergonomic (and tax deductible!), it also keeps you focused on your work by defining clear areas in your home for work and home life.

Take regular breaks

If you’re like me, you know it is near impossible to work solidly for 8 hours straight and produce good work. Make sure to schedule regular breaks – at least a lunch break – who can work when you’re thinking about food?! Also consider mini breaks – go make some tea or take a 5-minute break every hour to help you reset and refocus.

Get out of the house

When work becomes stressful or you’re working on something that feels like it’s not going anywhere – stop. It is time for self-care. Your brain and body need a rest. Go for a walk – the fresh air will do you a world of good and helps you destress and refocus.

Bonus: do your most important work first

This tip is for both remote and office workers. Get the most important piece of work done first. By this I mean, the work that needs to be done first (because of deadlines or dependencies) or the work that requires your full attention. The first few hours of work are often your most productive hours because you’re focussed and ready to go as opposed to after lunch or in the afternoon when you’re feeling the brain drain – leave these times for less taxing tasks.

That’s it! I hope my tips help your productivity. If you have any more tips, we’re all ears – hit us up on Twitter or Facebook.