Increasing Productivity - Working from Home

Have you found it hard to stay productive while working from home? Maybe you can't get around to that stack of papers on the corner of your desk, or keep up with all your assignments. We all have distractions, but the key is learning to manage them! Check out our tips on increasing your productivity at home.

Gimme’ a break!

Taking regular breaks is key to maintaining productivity during your day. Whether you take a walk outside, or just walk to the kitchen for another cup of coffee, a quick break from your work can boost your productivity when you come back. We all need breaks, so listen to your body! If you become very tired, or get a headache from too much screen time, it’s probably time for a 5 minute break!

Keep a schedule!

Keeping a schedule is one of the most important ways to maintain productivity. Set a certain time that you will start and stop work for the day, and do your best to follow those times the same as you would in the office. This will keep you from feeling like you’re working at all hours, and your days may be blending together! You might need to adjust from your previous work schedule, if you are currently working from home.

Don’t forget to eat!

While you may think stopping in the middle of your day can pause your productivity, it can actually help you stay organized. If you have tasks that need to be completed, set aside the tasks you plan to finish before and after lunch. This can help you stay on track, and help you better gauge your time. But don’t forget that a nutritious snack can provide the best brain power – so don’t skip this important meal!

Take a breather!

Taking a quick walk outside can help refresh your energy, and increase productivity. Spending all day in your house, as well as all evening can make us all a little stir crazy. To keep yourself from feeling like a groundhog, take some time to get some fresh air! Fresh air can improve your mood and reduce stress. If you can’t fit in a breather, try opening the windows while you work if the weather is nice!

Create a dedicated Office Space!

It’s important to have your workstation set up and dedicated to only work! Find a quiet place in your house to do your work that is free of distractions! Avoid having a television or other electronics in your workroom. Don’t forget your workstation should be set up to prevent body, eye and brain fatigue, with your chair and monitor height in the proper positions. With enough distractions at home already, you wouldn’t want to add in back pain!

Keep them separate!

If you have a lot you need to get done during your work day, it may be best to distance yourself from any family members in the house that might cause you distractions during work hours. We know – we all love our families, but added distractions can decrease your productivity, especially when you are on a tight schedule! It may also be necessary to establish a daily schedule with your family members, so they know when not to bother you to let you get your work done! With these tips, you'll surely feel like you have a grasp on your always changing To-Do list!