How to stay productive while working from home
Working from home has become a valued aspect of life for many of us as it provides flexibility and removes the daily commute. However, it also presents its own set of challenges, as distractions, a lack of structure, and blurred boundaries between work and personal life can all hinder productivity. Whether you are an experienced remote worker or new to the field, here are ten tried-and-true tips to help you remain productive while working from home.
1. Develop a morning routine
The temptation to roll out of bed and head straight to your desk can be strong, but skipping your usual routine can affect your mindset. Begin your day with a consistent routine, such as going for a walk, having a shower, or enjoying breakfast away from your devices. Dressing for work (even if it’s just casual) will also assist you in mentally shifting into work mode.
2. Designate a work-only space
It’s important to establish boundaries between your work and home life, even if you’re working from a small house or flat. Designate a specific area for work; ideally, this space should be quiet, well-lit, and separate from communal living areas. A dedicated workspace signals to your brain (and others in your household) that it’s time to focus.
3. Set clear work hours
Working from home doesn’t imply you are available 24/7. Establish clear working hours and communicate them to your colleagues, clients, and household members. Setting definite work hours not only protects your personal time but also introduces structure to the flexibility of remote work, fosters balance, and helps in maintaining effectiveness and engagement.
4. Create a daily to-do list
A clear list of tasks provides structure, offering your day distinct boundaries and a defined purpose while keeping you focused and accountable. At the beginning of each day, jot down what you need to achieve, then break it into manageable steps. This will help you prioritise what is important and prevent you from wasting time deciding what to do next. It enables you to allocate your time efficiently, ensuring you meet deadlines and balance workloads throughout the day or week. Remember, when you see your tasks clearly laid out, it can make even a heavy workload feel more manageable, reducing mental clutter and giving you a sense of control.
5. Use the Pomodoro technique
When you're working from home, interruptions are everywhere - whether it’s the fridge, your phone, or family members. The Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break) creates short, structured intervals that help you stay focused because you only need to resist distractions for a brief period before a break. Frequent, scheduled breaks help prevent burnout and allow you to recharge mentally. This is vital when working remotely, as it’s easy to lose track of time and sit for hours without a rest. The time-bound nature of Pomodoro sessions encourages you to concentrate fully on a single task, reducing multitasking and enhancing the quality of work.
6. Minimise distractions
It’s easy to get distracted at home, particularly by chores, pets, or social media, which is why it’s crucial to establish a dedicated workspace and working hours, set clear boundaries, and adhere to a schedule. Identify your primary distractions and seek ways to reduce or eliminate them during work hours, such as silencing non-work-related apps and social media on your phone and browser. You’ll also minimise distractions by preparing meals or snacks in advance, and by using noise-cancelling headphones or playing ambient background music to maintain focus.
7. Stay connected with colleagues
Working remotely can feel isolating. Regular check-ins with colleagues via Zoom, Teams, or Slack help to maintain team cohesion and keep you motivated. Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone or schedule virtual coffee breaks; it’s not all about business; staying socially connected is essential too.
8. Take regular breaks and move around
Working from home doesn’t mean being glued to your desk for eight hours nonstop. Take regular breaks to stretch, move about, or enjoy some fresh air. A brief walk or 10 minutes of light exercise can work wonders for boosting your energy and concentration. This is particularly important if your home office setup isn’t as ergonomic as the one at the office.
9. Set boundaries at home
It can be challenging to separate work from personal time when both occur in the same space. Inform family or housemates about your work schedule and establish both physical and symbolic boundaries. At the end of the day, shut down your laptop, change your clothes, or take a walk to signify the transition from work mode to personal time.
10. Reflect and adjust
Not every strategy works for everyone. Take time to reflect on what helps you remain productive and what doesn’t. Are you more focused in the morning or the afternoon? Do certain tools or routines assist you in getting more done? Flexibility is one of the greatest advantages of working from home, so be sure to utilise it to your advantage.
Final thoughts
Working from home offers incredible benefits, but staying productive requires discipline and self-awareness. By establishing structure, managing distractions, and prioritising your wellbeing, you can transform your home environment into a hub of productivity. The aim isn't to replicate the office; rather, it's to create a system that works for you.
If your home office needs some enhancements to help you maintain focus and increase productivity, we’re here to help make it happen. Take a look at our cash loans of up to $5,000 to learn how quick and easy it is to borrow some extra funds. Once a loan is approved, the cash typically appears in your bank account within a few hours, allowing you to start planning the upgrade of your home office space this week. And don’t forget to consult with your accountant, as any expenses you incur for your home office may be tax-deductible!