Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are working from home instead of going to the office.
And although we are working in a different environment, our tasks and responsibilities remain the same. Mind you, it is not always easy to tick off everything on your to-do list while in your pajamas.
That said, we have listed down seven tips on how you can be productive while working within the comforts of your home:
Select a Workspace
Depending on your line of work, it is important that you have a workspace suitable for your needs.
A graphics designer might prefer to work near a window in front of a huge computer screen, while an account would want some peace and quiet while crunching some numbers.
Regardless, you can follow these tips when choosing your workspace at home:
- Consider the space where you can be most productive
- Determine whether you prefer entertainment or a quiet space
- Determine how you usually divide your day
You should also make sure that you have the right work equipment. It can be as simple as making do of what you have or typing in “Dr. Office near me” on Google to purchase something affordable.The key here is to make your space cozy yet productive, as well as do your work on this space diligently.
Declutter Your Space
Regardless, whether you work in a home office or on your kitchen counter, it is best that you work in a clean space.
According to Planet Maids Deep Cleaning Services NYC, you may be unaware of it but clutter can affect your productivity. Not to mention that clutter reflects your state of mind.
The issue with working from home is that you can have a lot of reminders that you have chores to do other than your work. As such, you will get distracted, which can hamper your productivity.
That said, it is important that your workspace is clutter-free.
Set a Morning Ritual
Just because you are working from home does not mean that you should work in your PJs. According to Sara Marie Hall of Crate and Barrell, it would be best to set up yourself for success by setting a morning routine.
It can be as simple as waking up like your usual, taking a bath, having your breakfast, and dressing up as if you are going to work. Doing so allows you to get into the right mindset. Hence, increasing your chances of being productive for the day.
Get Started Early
Whether you work from home for hours or you do it in batches, what’s important is that you set your schedule.
This includes establishing when you should start working, when to take small breaks, have your meals, and when you will clock out for the day.
Here’s the thing: Working from home eliminates the natural office structure. You do not have your superiors and colleagues with you. Hence, it is important that you set your schedule.
Sticking with your set routines helps you regain a sense of normalcy. Not to mention that it helps you get into work mode, as well as keep track of your workload.
Create Boundaries
One of the most important aspects of working from home is knowing when to clock out.
And when we say “clock out” we mean turning off of your laptop or desktop computer and stop thinking about work. Some even advised that you develop a phrase that you say to yourself, which will signal your brain that you are done with work.
In case you come up with an idea or remember something work-related, it is best to jot it down and get back to it the following workday.
Have Time for Social Interaction
Depending on your location, having a social interaction might be counterintuitive. After all, there are places wherein a community lockdown is implemented.
Nonetheless, it would be helpful that you take a break and talk to someone. It can be your parents or friends who are not from work. The idea is that you can take your mind away from work for a while.
Doing so prevents you from isolating yourself, which can lead to anxiety and depression. On the other hand, having people connection allows you to keep your sanity intact and be productive.
Check Your Attitude
The reason people who work from home stay productive is because they have their attitude in check. Meaning they are able to see the good in the situation, and so should you.
For instance, since you cannot go out due to the current pandemic, now would be a great time to catch on some sleep, weed your garden, or declutter your house. You might also want to take this time to attend webinars so you can upgrade your skills.
And most of all, be grateful that you are able to work from home.
Working from home is a great opportunity, as long as you have the space that can make you productive. Otherwise, you can be your worse enemy. What do you do to stay productive while working from home? Let us know in the comments!