March 12th 2024.
When this article was first published on June 5th, 2017, it sparked a lot of interest among freelancers like myself. You see, one of the biggest challenges of working from home is staying focused and on task. Your workspace is everywhere and there are endless distractions. But even with looming deadlines, it's crucial to find ways to stay productive.
If you find yourself struggling to stay on task, don't worry, you're not alone. Here are some helpful tips to help you reclaim your time and boost productivity:
First and foremost, it's important to work during your peak productivity hours. This means scheduling your work tasks during the time when you are most alert and focused. For some, this may be early in the morning, while for others it could be late at night. Pay attention to your body's natural patterns and use that to your advantage.
Creating a designated work area is also key. I know it can be tempting to work from your bed or couch, but these areas are often associated with relaxation and comfort, which can lead to distractions. Personally, I have a separate office space with a desk and computer to help me get in the right mindset for work. If you don't have a designated office, find a comfortable spot that you can associate with work and use that as your designated workspace.
Taking breaks may seem counterintuitive when trying to stay on task, but it can actually be beneficial. Pushing yourself for long periods of time can lead to mental fatigue and increased distractions. Instead, take short breaks to recharge and come back to your work with a fresh perspective. Go for a walk, meditate, or have lunch away from your workspace to give your mind a break.
Tracking your time is also crucial. When working from home, it can be easy to blur the lines between work and personal time. Take a week to track how you spend your time and see where you can make improvements. Tools like RescueTime can help you stay on track, and using techniques like the Pomodoro method can help you stay focused for set periods of time.
It may be tempting to work in your pajamas all day, but getting dressed can actually help you get in the right mindset for work. It's a simple way to signal to your brain that it's time to be productive. Plus, if you find it hard to get motivated while in your pajamas, changing into work clothes can make all the difference.
Another helpful tip is to schedule specific times for tasks that may be distracting, such as checking emails or scrolling through social media. This way, you can limit your time spent on these activities and stay focused on your essential work tasks. I also recommend setting a time limit for these distractions to avoid getting too caught up in them.
Lastly, it's important to schedule non-work items into your day. When working from home, it can be easy to get caught up in work and neglect other important aspects of your life. By scheduling time for things like laundry, spending time with family, and exercise, you can ensure that you are giving each aspect of your life the attention it deserves.
Remember, working from home doesn't have to mean constant distractions and a lack of productivity. By scheduling your day, working during peak productivity hours, and taking breaks when needed, you can stay focused and get your work done efficiently. This article was written by Miranda Marquit and originally appeared on DUE.com. For more tips on productivity, check out "Do This To Reach Peak Productivity On The Weekend."
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