How To Stay Productive When Working From Home

Working remotely was once everyone's ideal: it meant being able to wake up in the morning without having five alarms set so you get the bus on time, and having the luxury of setting up a morning routine that promotes positivity throughout the day.

But for some of us, staying productive when working from home is a little more difficult.

Remote work can make it tricky to maintain a work-life balance. You feel torn by trying to juggle work tasks and the distractions of home. Below is some effective advice to help you stay productive when working from home.

Create Your Workspace

Setting up a dedicated workspace in your home office will help you feel as though you are "going to work", and will help to eliminate distractions.

Start by choosing a comfortable computer desk that suits your personal home office aesthetic and size - this sleek computer desk from Office Furniture Online will fit into a smaller space and has designated sections for your laptop and your organisation tools. Position your home office space in an area that is well-lit and ventilated, and avoid working in your bedroom as your mind associates this room with sleep, not work.

Working remotely was once everyone's ideal: it meant being able to wake up in the morning without having five alarms set so you get the bus on time, and having the luxury of setting up a morning routine that promotes positivity throughout the day.

But for some of us, staying productive when working from home is a little more difficult.

Remote work can make it tricky to maintain a work-life balance. You feel torn by trying to juggle work tasks and the distractions of home. Below is some effective advice to help you stay productive when working from home.

Create Your Workspace

Setting up a dedicated workspace in your home office will help you feel as though you are "going to work", and will help to eliminate distractions.

Customise Your Computer Desk

Remote workers have the option to truly customise their computer desk and workspace, without having to follow any office guidelines.

You might want to work with instrumental music playing throughout the day to help promote productivity. To enhance creativity, you could have a few of your favourite photographs framed and placed in easy-to-see spots, or install a pinboard above your desk where you can pin your best ideas or a to-do list. Don't go too overboard- remember, this is still a work environment.

Set Up And Maintain Regular Hours

Starting and ending at the same time every day is ideal when working from home. Because you are no longer leaving for the office, your own home becomes the office - which could mean you never "leave" work.

Choose a set time in the morning to settle in at your computer desk and start the day. Signal the start of the day to your colleagues by logging on at the same time every morning and greeting them. This shows them you're "at work" and won't tempt them to contact you any earlier. Do the same thing at the end of the day and work hard to maintain this every day to keep your routine in check.

Remember To Take Breaks

Working remotely can sometimes mean you are glued to your desk for hours upon end, and this can become unhealthy. It is important to take short breaks every few hours to remain healthy and productive while working.

Going outside for fresh air and exercise improves your energy levels and can make a big difference to your mental clarity throughout the day. If going outside is not easy or accessible, try to create a work schedule that allows for a few breaks away from your computer desk, especially at lunchtime.

Set Clear Expectations For Coworkers

Working remotely can often mean that you are always on call, which does make productive working a little difficult. Conference calls at all hours from colleagues can leave you feeling frazzled and stressed.

Set up a video call or a few phone calls with your coworkers where you can set boundaries with one another about your "heads-down work" hours and when you are more available for meetings. Work hours must be designated to work, and after-hours calls should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.

Pump Your Favourite Music

Many office spaces do not allow music to be played during the working day, but thanks to remote work, you can play whatever music you please in your home office. However, if you live with roommates, a spouse, or family members, remember to be sensitive to their audio needs.

Instrumental music can help you to feel productive and energised, but you can certainly play music that you prefer. Try to avoid music that is distracting or negative. Opt for a computer desk with a raised area, like this one from Office Furniture Online, so that your speakers can provide better sound to your entire dedicated workspace.

Stay Social

Remote work or working from home does not mean you have to become a hermit. In fact, virtual socialising with co-workers can improve your mental health and help you to stay productive. Isolation and a disconnected personal life can make you feel sluggish and less inspired during working hours.

Set up a Zoom or Skype call with your team and check in with how everyone is doing, and update each other on your activities outside of your work life. If anything, these face-to-face calls will encourage you to wear clothes other than pyjamas at your desk.

Following these simple working from home tips can help you to start thriving at and enjoying remote work again.