How can you stay productive when working from home?

During the challenging times of COVID-19, a lot of the day-to-day routine has changed. Most businesses are closed. Grocery stores are seeing more delivery and pick up traffic than in-store traffic. Events are being canceled. However, one of the biggest changes is the shift to remote working for non-essential employees. 

While working from home has its perks (like the lack of a morning and evening commute), it also has its challenges. It can be difficult to be productive with all the distractions a home office can bring. Here are a few productivity tips so you can work remotely more effectively. 

Get into the work mindset

It can be tempting to go straight from waking up to working in order to get started early, but that has its downfalls. Sometimes your brain needs a while to adjust to working mode. Instead of jumping straight out of bed and straight onto the computer, take a few minutes for yourself. Make a pot of coffee and enjoy breakfast before powering on for the day. You can also use this time to get ready—take a shower and put on an outfit that makes you feel ready for the day. While pajamas or sweatpants may seem like a good idea, getting dressed can give you confidence and energy to get through the day.

Separate your work time from your personal time 

With most people working remotely these days, any room can become an office. If you have the space, try to keep your office separate from places where you relax, like the couch or living room. Choose an area—even if it’s just a specific chair or table—as your designated work space. If you can, try to work only at your designated space. This will keep you in the work mindset and make it easier to transition out of work mode at the end of each day. 

Give yourself a break 

It’s proven that people tend to work longer hours while working remotely. Without the usual office distractions, like chats with coworkers or a designated lunch break, it’s easy to forget to take time for yourself and get away from your computer. Whether you spend a few minutes sipping your coffee in peace or taking a quick walk around the block, this time allows you to reset, refocus and remain productive for the rest of the day. 

Keep lines of communication open 

One of the main disadvantages of remote work is the lack of communication and collaboration. Combat miscommunication by embracing online collaboration tools to share your ideas and work together with other coworkers. You can video chat for important meetings or screenshare during brainstorming sessions. 

It’s harder to tell when people are available or present without seeing their faces in the office. Be open and communicative with your coworkers so they know when you’re “on” (or “off” hours) are. Block your calendar during times when you know you won’t be available or send an email to notify your coworkers ahead of time so they can plan accordingly. This type of open communication makes it easier for everyone to be efficient and successful. 

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