Productivity tips for successful working from home

A huge challenge when working from home can be staying focused. After all, home is where all the distractions are. However, if you set things up with productivity in mind, it is possible. Here are my top productivity tips for staying focused and achieving your goals when working from home.

1. Have a dedicated workspace

Create a calm and uncluttered space where everything you need is within reach. If possible, have a space that you can shut off at the end of the day, so avoid having a workspace in your bedroom.

Even if you have a fabulous home office, there may be days when there are too many distractions at home. On these days, try working at your local library, a shared office space, or a coffee shop.

2. Fuel up!

Breakfast gives your body the energy to stay alert and focused. If you skip breakfast, you may struggle to concentrate. Having said that, as I now follow 16:8 fasting, I plan tasks that are easier on the brain for my morning work sessions!

3. Exercise

Some form of exercise, say a 30-minute walk, can boost your energy levels and productivity. So, it makes sense to exercise in the morning.

4. Plan your day

Write a detailed plan of your day, including all tasks, the order you'll do them, and the time needed. Then check them off as you complete them. This will keep you on track.

If it helps, have a daily planner or a daily to-do list in the notes app of your phone.

5. Set a single main goal for the day

It can be helpful to set one main goal for the day and break that down into multiple tasks; again, allot time to each to help you stay focused. This follows the SMART goals method: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely.

6. Avoid multitasking

Yes, we all know that multitasking is possible, but in reality, it isn’t effective. So, focus on one task at a time for the greatest productivity and fewer mistakes. By all means, group similar tasks together, but complete them one by one, instead of simultaneously. Grouping similar tasks means your mind can shift its focus to the next job on your list quickly.

7. Take regular breaks/work in short bursts

Take care not to get hyper-focused and work for too long without a break. Taking a break and switching off can help your focus when you return to the task. A break can just be moving from your desk to make another cuppa! (See my musing Tips on how to focus on the task at hand.)

8. Set deadlines

Even if a client hasn’t given you a deadline, set one for yourself. This will ensure you don’t spend too much time on a task. Scheduling the right amount of time to complete a task should provide a healthy sense of urgency and help with your time management. Be realistic, though!

9. Work near natural light

Natural light is recognised as being key to boosting productivity, avoiding eyestrain, headaches, and blurred vision. So, when setting up your dedicated workspace, consider the availability of natural light; select a spot near a window or sunny area.

10. Don't be afraid to say 'No'

If you’ve scheduled your workday and set deadlines, then remember that these boundaries are key to your productivity. While you want to be helpful and amenable, if a client sends a request a short notice, it is important to say ‘no’ if you really can’t fit it in.

11. Done, not perfect

Focus on getting the job done right rather than perfectly, because nothing is ever truly perfect. Of course, we all take pride in our work, but we also need to know when to move on to the next task. When starting a task, create a short list of things it must include to be considered complete. Check them off as you go, then move on to the next task.

12. Accountability buddy

If you work on your own and struggle to meet deadlines, it can be useful to find an accountability buddy you can check in with at the end of the day (or week).

Just one more thing… patience

There will always be days when things don't go to plan, when the tasks you scheduled for the day aren’t completed. On these days, be patient with yourself! Remember, tomorrow is another opportunity to get them done!

I hope this helps xx

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