Working from home isn’t always sunshine just because you can set your own hours or pretty much determine the course of your day. Since I started working from home, I’ve been able to find out what works and what doesn’t. Especially, when it comes to working efficiently and making my workflow go much smoother.
You’ll find that working from home requires discipline and focus to ensure you’re not only getting things done, but getting things done effectively. By doing so, you’re working smarter, not harder! If you’re looking for productivity hacks to make working from home much easier, here are seven ways to do so!
1. CREATE A MORNING ROUTINE
Before diving into your workload, it’s important to use the first portion of your day to take care of yourself. This means, waking up by 7am and not oversleeping. By doing this, you’re giving yourself enough time to enjoy breakfast, your morning coffee/tea, journal, or pamper yourself before indulging into your tasks. Create a productive morning routine that’ll help you gather mindfulness before jumping out of bed and grabbing your laptop. This will allow you to mentally prepare yourself for the day that’s ahead of you!
2. PRIORITIZE TASK
One of the best productivity hacks that has helped me work more effectively is prioritizing the most important tasks on my to-do list. How many times have you made a lengthy to-do list, started tackling the easiest task and didn’t get the important stuff done? I know that’s something I’ve struggled with in the past. I was more focus on getting things done as much as I could and it wasn’t working efficiently.
Start each day by writing down your most important tasks and completing them first. Although it may be time consuming, that’s why you should start with those tasks first. Therefore, you’re more likely to finish them and you’ll knock out the small task with no problem!
DAY DESIGNER -TODAY & TO-DO NOTEBOOK
3. DRESS IN COMFORT
The best part of working from home, is being in comfort! Since you’re enjoying the luxury of working in your own home, you don’t have to get all dressed up, unless you want too. I don’t recommend staying in your pajamas all day, just because you can. Instead, change into something that’s comfy and will make you feel more productive while you’re working from home. My go-to work outfit are leggings and a comfy tee which saves me time when it’s time to get active or run errands.
4. MOVE YOUR BODY
When you work from home, chances are your work doesn’t require too much movement. Which is why you should make physical activity a part of your daily routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. My favorite way of implementing exercise into my daily routine is giving myself a mental break, by enjoying a walk in nature. During this time, I’ll listen to a motivational podcast and gain inspiration. Which brings me new ideas and helps sharpen my skills, while being active.
5. SCHEDULE TASKS AND BREAKS
If you want to create more structure into your work life, then you’ll probably want to make a detailed schedule. It’s so easy to lose track of time while working on tasks. At some point, you’ll need to take a break to refocus and clear your mind.
When making your daily schedule, create a start and end time for each task. This will help you keep track of your task and make the most of your time. Also, be sure to include breaks. Therefore, you’re giving your brain time to relax and make sure it’s at least 20 minutes.
6. HAVE A CLEAN WORK SPACE
Wherever your designated workspace may be, it’s best to have it cleaned and organized before starting your work. I don’t know about you, but if I’m in a cluttered or untidy workspace, it only leads to confusion.
Your workspace should feel like an office. Even if you’re working in your living room or on the couch. Create a space that promotes productivity. A space that allows you to stay inspired and focused, while you’re working. Before I start on my work, I gather everything I’ll need, so I’m not wasting any time or getting distracted! I’m talking pens, notebooks, glasses, planners, laptop charger, and even water to help me stay hydrated.
Make sure all your working essentials are near. Just in case you need them!
7. LIMIT DISTRACTIONS
Your space should be of peace and a place you’ll be able to focus. Having the space clean and organized can truly help out a lot! Planning ahead will also prevent any distractions as well. Also, giving yourself a smaller time frame for your work is a good idea. The objective is to stay focus, so inputting breaks will recharge your mind and reduce the time of becoming distracted. Lastly, put yourself in a quiet area of your home to give yourself a peace of mind to remain sharp!
