Working from home sounds like a dream, right? Pajamas all day, endless coffee refills, and the commute is just a few steps! But the reality can be different. Distractions lurk around every corner, the fridge suddenly becomes VERY interesting, and the lines between work and personal life can blur. Or maybe it’s binging your favorite show which started off just by telling yourself you’re using it for noise to pay attention to your work.
Don’t worry! With the right strategies, you can transform your home office into a productivity powerhouse. Here’s how to conquer the WFH game:
1. Designate Your Workspace:
- Not just any spot will do: Don’t settle for the couch! That was my first mistake. I would sit on the couch trying to write and easily become distracted. My husband is talking to his buddy on a video game. My daughter asked me to take the dog out. The dog jumping all over me. A dedicated workspace – even a corner of a room – helps signal to your brain “it’s work time!”
- Ergonomics are key: Invest in a comfortable chair, a proper desk, and good lighting to avoid aches and pains. I’m totally going to recommend amazon for those. Plus if you’re on the computer a lot sometimes having multiple screens is great. Right now I’m using my laptop but my plan is to get a three screen set up. It all depends on what you do.
- Keep it tidy: A clutter-free space leads to a clutter-free mind. When I first seriously started working from home I would have trouble finding anything! Even a pen or paper. Finally I got some shelving and organizers and most of the things that I needed were within reach. Now that binder I needed with daily tasks was of course in the other room where I left it the night before…but hey were not all perfect.
2. Master the Art of Scheduling:
- Routine is your friend: Set a consistent schedule, just like you would for an office job. This includes start times, end times, and even breaks. But honestly it depends on what type of work you do. For instance I record podcasts every day of the week for Magnificent Authors Podcast. The times are never the same and I have a bad habit of going over the length of the allotted time. My video editor hates that, I’m sure, lol. Back to the point though if you’re doing a business that you don’t have the same schedule each day try doing a to do list or time blocking.
- Time blocking: Break your day into chunks and assign specific tasks to each block. This helps you prioritize and stay on track. If you have a planner or something similar color blocking can be really fun.
- Be realistic: Don’t overschedule yourself. Build in buffer time for unexpected tasks or calls. I still have the habit of thinking I can do everything and have easily put in 15 hour days but…I’m Human. OMG I know right. I can’t believe it. But on a serious note you totally need to. I started off by doing 8 podcasts a day last season and went down to two podcasts a day this season. (Recording not airing)
3. The Power of Breaks:
- Step away: Regular breaks are essential to prevent burnout and maintain focus. Right now I set a timer for a certain amount of time to work, then a timer of the same amount of time to clean, then a timer to have time to myself doing something I enjoy or relaxing. Today I’m playing Sims 4.
- Move your body: A quick walk, some stretches, or a few yoga poses can do wonders for your energy levels and creativity. Youtube has a lot of videos for beginners.
- Disconnect: Use your break to truly disconnect from work – no emails, no work calls. I’m not going to lie, I struggle with this. By the time I’m done for the night though. I put my phone out of reach, shut my computer off for the night and lay in my bedroom watching a movie till I fell asleep.
4. Banish Distractions:
- Digital detox: Social media, online shopping, and endless newsfeeds are productivity killers. Use website blockers or apps to limit access during work hours. Especially Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. Comment below and tell me you aren’t on one of these while you are supposed to be working lol.
- Silence notifications: Turn off non-essential notifications on your phone and computer.
- Communicate your availability: Let family members know when you’re working and shouldn’t be disturbed. Or an easy way to shut off the phone (better though if you have someone who can answer their phone for emergencies.
5. Stay Connected:
- Reach out: Working from home can be isolating. Make an effort to connect with colleagues through virtual meetings, instant messaging, or even a quick phone call. I usually end up talking to my team members at least once a day whether it’s a team meeting or someone with a question. I definitely feel more comfortable and connected with my team.
- Socialize (virtually): Schedule online coffee breaks or team lunches to maintain camaraderie.
6. Dress for Success (Even in Slippers):
- Out of PJs, into focus: Changing out of your pajamas can signal a shift in mindset and boost productivity. Man I can’t believe I said that. Leggings are my go to. I try to keep a decent shirt on for when I’m doing podcasts. But hey sometimes you need those comfortable clothes too.
- Comfort is key: You don’t need to wear a suit, but choose clothes that make you feel good and ready to work. Ok ok…I Guess I will do this too. LOL.
7. Set Boundaries:
- Define your workspace: Make it clear to family and friends that when you’re in your workspace, you’re working. They still might not understand but once you keep this routine going they might just figure it out.
- Communicate your hours: Let them know your working hours and when you’re available for non-work-related conversations.
- Use visual cues: A closed door or a “Do Not Disturb” sign can help signal that you’re in focus mode. I even got a sign for when I’m on my podcast that says something like podcast in progress do not disturb. I love it! Although I guess I should remember what it says lol.
8. Embrace Flexibility:
- Find your rhythm: One of the perks of WFH is flexibility. Experiment with different work hours to find what works best for you. I can work any time like I mentioned earlier about those 15 hour days. But my favorite time to work is before everyone is awake and I can just have that quiet time.
- Integrate life: Need to run an errand or squeeze in a workout? The flexibility of WFH allows you to do that. Just make sure to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Bonus Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. What works for one person may not work for another. The key is to be intentional about your work habits and create an environment that promotes productivity and well-being.
What works for you? What doesn’t work for you? I’d love to hear what you have to say!