Productivity tips for working from home

Working from home can often feel like a luxury, but it also has its challenges. When COVID hit, businesses realized they didn’t necessarily need people in the office to get work done. Work can also be done in the comfort of your own home, and often just as well, if not better. It opened up a whole new way of working for many people. While some companies are asking employees to return to the office, many have accepted and continue to work from home.

Working from home can lighten up the day and save time on things like long commutes. But working from home has its challenges, like drawing boundaries around work/life and staying focused throughout the day. To get the most out of your work-from-home day, there are a few things you can do to help maintain structure, creativity, and growth. So take advantage of all the benefits of working from home while maximizing your efforts.

Here are some productivity tips for working from home to ensure you get the most out of your day.

Productivity tips for working from home

dress like going to work

One of the easiest things to do while working from home is to become a little too relaxed and comfortable. Staying in your pajamas until noon can make your work feel less urgent and important. Pajamas and undershirts are clothing that signal your body that it’s time to rest. You can still prioritize comfort while showering and getting dressed for the day. This will make you feel energized and ready to take on your to-do list. I’ve found that putting on a little makeup, wearing clothes I like, and even some jewelry makes me feel better and work better.

create workspace

I’ve been struggling with my workspace lately because my desk is in our living room. I often feel like I can’t escape my work, which is very stressful. Soon we will be converting one of the guest rooms into an office/yoga space. It’s so nice to have a specific space in the home to work in, and not feel the pressure of a to-do list every time you walk into the living room.

If you don’t have the option to designate a space for your office, consider how you can make your workspace feel different and special during “work time” and “family time.” Maybe you work at the dining table but have a special ergonomic chair to bring out during the workday, or a comfy cushion to put on your dining room chair.

If you work in a communal living space, you probably want to have some easy-access storage space for all your supplies and materials. This could be something that is easy to unfold or store on a shelf or in a cupboard. It’s helpful to be able to keep your computer and paper work out of sight when you get off work. That way you don’t want to jump back into work projects.

A friend of mine who works from home finds it really helpful to change up the workspace on a regular basis. She moved to different parts of her home and found it kept her productive and creative. On days when she’s having trouble getting inspiration at home, she’ll head to a local coffee shop, library, or other community venue for a change. Sometimes we just need a slight change of scenery to get out of a mental block.

Decorate your workspace to inspire productivity and creativity

Bringing plants, photos, mood lighting and candles into your workspace are all great ways to make it the space you want. Create a space that inspires productivity and creativity. You want the space to feel warm and inviting, and you like it to reflect the work you do.

In my new office and yoga space, I am excited to include photos of my family and friends, artwork, my favorite plants and herbs, beautiful rugs and some vintage furniture to make the place feel like home . Consider what reflects your own taste, creativity and the work you do. Try incorporating these things into your space to make it feel like a place where you want to be your best self.

Create clear work boundaries

Be conscious of your work boundaries and even write down some guidelines you want to follow. It’s easy to be tolerant of these things when we’re working from home. When do you plan to start and end your work day? Do you take full day off?

Having a 2 year old in a day care center can present a lot of challenges on the job – as I’m sure many of you can relate to. My husband has to go to work every day, and as a home worker, I might feel a responsibility to take time off work and take care of a sick child. But I am very clear to my husband that my work is as important as his, and we take turns being home with our son when things pop up. It’s helped me a lot to share the burden of daycare woes instead of feeling like I have to sacrifice my job all the time.

make a timetable

Having a clear work schedule will help you stay on task. Plan the time it takes to get the job done and devote it. Give yourself a break (don’t forget to eat lunch!). It’s easy to suddenly find yourself doing the dishes or doing the laundry, but remember to think of it as a workday.

act like you’re in the office

When you’re working in your cubicle, do you turn on the TV in the background? I’ve always felt guilty about it, but treating work like an office is a helpful way to stay focused and on track. Try saving things like the TV and scrolling through social media while you get off work.

Enjoy the benefits of working from home

There are also many benefits to working from home. You can take a lunch break with a friend, go for a walk with your dog, or be flexible with your schedule if needed. Do more of the things that make you feel more awake, calm, and focused.

What can help you stay focused and motivated while working from home? Let us know in the comments below.