Productivity working remotely is a problem for some people. Changing their environment from the usual office to home is a difficulty as we usually associate our home with a place to relax.
Even if you are stuck at home, you will still need to do your job. And the productivity that you had before is still possible to achieve by making certain changes in your life.
The tips below should come in quite handy for those who have been struggling with their adjustment to working remotely.
1. Use Available Tools
It is likely that you will not have access to certain work tools that you used in the office. However, having a reliable computer and internet connection should cover most bases.
For example, even if you cannot meet colleagues in person to give or receive a signed document, it should not be an issue. One can upload and download from google drive directly.
The lack of communication could also be detrimental to the overall productivity of a business. People in charge need to ensure that all employees have access to communication tools like Slack, where they talk with each other and not miss something important.
2. Stick to a Schedule
Sticking to a schedule is not as easy when you do not have to commute to work. Besides, if there are no strict deadlines, you may end up working late into the night because the temptation to procrastinate was too difficult to resist.
Flexibility at work is a perk, but you should still establish a proper schedule and stick to a routine before things get out of control even more.
Take advantage of time management tools if you cannot remember when to take a break and when to stick to your tasks.
Also, do not spend too long in bed in the mornings. It will be harder to get up each day if you continue to sleep in rather than wake up at a reasonable hour.
3. Leave Home When Possible
The ongoing pandemic makes it difficult to go outside and socialize with others, but there should still be a possibility to take a walk while keeping a social distance.
Spending your time at home is not great for your health. Even if it is just for a few minutes, sneak outside and get a breath of fresh air.
4. Get Rid of Distractions
There are bound to be some distractions regardless if you live alone or with someone. First, let’s discuss how to set boundaries if you have a family or a roommate.
For starters, let them know when you are working and tell them that they should not disturb you unless there is an emergency. This is particularly important if you do not have a separate room to create a dedicated workspace.
On the other hand, if you are the only person at home, or your family is understandable and does not interrupt your work, think about other potential distractions.
In case you have noisy neighbors, have a talk with them and let them know that you are working remotely and need a quiet environment.
Another example of distractions is entertainment one can find on their computers or smartphones. Movies, TV shows, social media, and games are distracting, and you will have a hard time focusing on work with them around.
5. Keep in Touch With Others
Social distancing made it difficult to socialize with others. However, you should still look for opportunities to keep in touch with your friends because locking yourself inside and doing nothing but work will lead to isolation and loss of motivation.
Be it coworkers you are close to or family members; facetime with them via webcam or a smartphone could brighten your day and help with the overall efficiency at work. Also, keep in mind that others are just as eager to spend some time talking with friends, so do not hesitate and be the first to initiate the call.
6. Make Full Use of Extra Time
Since you are working from home, you will likely have more extra free time. No longer needing to commute to work is a big plus. The question is how to make the most out of this extra time at your disposal.
Some people prefer to rest, like sleeping for a bit longer. Others take up a new hobby to keep themselves busy. Different things work for different people. Try stuff for yourself and see what leads to the most productivity.
7. Reward Yourself
At the end of the day, there should be something waiting for you as a reward for a tough time you had working. Rewarding yourself is one of the best ways to find motivation and actually finish your tasks in time and without procrastinating.
Perhaps there is a tasty treat waiting in a fridge that you have been looking forward to all day? Or maybe your favorite TV show just aired a new episode, and you are eager to watch it? Saving these or other perks for after-work out to help with productivity.
