5 Tips to Improve Productivity While Working from Home
Working remotely is the new normal for so many of us and has been since the start of the pandemic over one year ago. Most of us welcomed this change, giving us better work-life balance, putting a pause on the stressful commute, and allowing us to be more productive in our jobs.
As time has gone on however, it has been difficult to maintain the momentum which can lead to a decline in productivity. There are, however, a few things you can do to keep your productivity high while working remotely. Here are our top 5 tips to improve productivity while working from home!
5 Tips to Improve Productivity While Working from Home
Stick to a Routine
Although we may not have realised it at the time, going to the office kept us in a routine. We had to get up at a certain time, commute at a certain time, and generally finished work at a certain time. But working from home changed this routine.
Not having a commute gave many of us the gift of time. Some chose to use this to have a later start in the morning. Others used the time to do odd-jobs that needed doing. In turn, this can lead to a lack of focus and motivation on work related tasks.
Keeping yourself to a routine can help you stay focused. Write up a daily to-do list to keep yourself accountable. Ticking off each task is not only rewarding, it keeps you productive. Having a schedule keeps your mind focussed on your goals.
Create a Professional Workspace
Creating a workspace or area that is dedicated to your work improves your ability to focus. Having a professional space that allows you to have private conversations or video calls can help with communication with colleagues.
Having a space that means you can shut it away and close the door at the end of the day. This helps you to compartmentalise your work and restrict the temptation to keep working into the evenings or weekends.
Limit Distractions
Limit distractions in your dedicated professional workspace. These could include things like: TV, other family members or even pets. Ensuring these are tucked away or in another room means you’ll be less likely to get distracted. Instead, you’ll maintain your productivity.
If you have family members at home with you, why not try headphones to block the noise. Set clear boundaries, such as knocking before entering. Keep TV or your social media for your breaks which are also important for you to have!
Pick up the Phone
We all know how easy it is for others to read an email we’ve written and interpret it in a way that it wasn’t meant. These misunderstandings generally happen on email. Over the past year, emails have been the go-to communication method.
Email chains can also easily fill up your inbox and quickly overwhelm you. Picking up the phone and having a chat about a subject can eliminate any miscommunication. A quick conversation can also be more efficient than 20 emails!
Take a Break / Self Care
Last but by no means least, take a break! It can be so tempting to carry on working into the evening or on weekends, but it is important to have boundaries and take time for yourself.
Not having a break and not looking after your mental health can lead to burnout and halt productivity. Do something that will relax you, be it going for a walk, reading a book, calling a friend – whatever it is, make time to do it! You will end up feeling more refreshed, motivated, and productive!
