How to Be Productive Working From Home

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Many people are now working from home due to the coronavirus.

Effective productivity is essential to successfully working from home whether you’re a remote employee or self-employed.

I’ve been working from home for a little over a year now, with both my remote job and this online business.

Here, I want to share with you my top tips to be more productive working from home.

1. Have a routine

Having a routine gives your day structure. It gets you ready for the day and for work.

Many people who work regular jobs have a routine before going to work and on days off likely relax from the routine.

A routine will make you feel ready and prepared to start your day and your work.

2. Create a schedule (and stick to it!)

Having a schedule changed my life. With regular jobs, we often stick to a schedule.

Having a schedule eliminates the confusion and forces you to focus on what’s important rather than what’s urgent.

3. Limit distractions

Distractions are a major killer for productivity. And they can be very prevalent when working from home.

You can limit distractions by letting people know when you will be working and making sure they understand that you’re working.

Also, limit phone use by turning off notifications, putting on airplane mode, turning off your phone, or putting your phone in a different place from your work if possible.

4. Stay organized

Staying organized will reduce frustration and stress. An organized work space will help you feel motivated and productive.

Feeling productive will lead to be being more productive.

5. Prepare the night before

Prepare your schedule, lists, and routines the day before. This will eliminate all the guess work and chatter. You will save time during the day and be able to jump right into your work.

You won’t need to put in any more mental energy and decision making. It will be easier to get started if everything is already there laid out for you to do.

You’re also more likely to sleep better at night if you write out what you need to get done the next day.

6. Schedule breaks

Humans are not able to intensely focus for long periods of time. Breaks are useful for productivity and focus.

Make sure to schedule breaks into your work schedule so you’re not just letting yourself get distracted.

Set a time limit for your breaks and do whatever you want during that time. Check social media, get up and stretch, or whatever. Just make sure to go back to your work once the break time is up.

7. Set up a workspace

Setting up a work space will help you feel “at work” rather than “at home.” You are more likely to feel motivated, more energized and productive than if you were working from bed or the couch.

You’re also less likely to get distracted or fall asleep.

Consider investing in a quality desk and a comfortable chair for work.

8. Use lists

List are a great way to stay productive and organized. It also helps you prioritize and focus on what’s most important to get done. You’re more likely to meet deadlines as well.

I highly recommend Reminders on iPhone and Trello as well for lists, reminders and project management.

9. Get some fresh air and sun

Make sure to step outside and get some sun and air. This will boost your mood and help with focus and mental clarity.

Consider sometimes working outside, if possible.

10. Get some exercise

When you’re working from home, you’re likely to be spending a lot of time sitting (or sometimes laying down).

Make sure to take the time to get some exercise in your day, even if it’s something light and short such as stretching or a walk.