Do you want to achieve the same productivity while working from home? Here are seven useful working from home tips that you should keep in mind:
There is still an ongoing debate on who is more productive: The ‘regular’ employees or those who work from home. Yet, recent Harvard Business Review research revealed that those who have a similar work schedule, be it in the office or at home, get more work done. The reason is that they can make an environment that is conducive to work. Luckily, working from home gives you the freedom to do so.
1. Find the Best Space
According to the HBR research, employees who work in an office can stay productive at home because of a quiet environment.
However, we understand that there are people who prefer to listen to music while working. That said, it would be best to look for a space where you can have the creative freedom to work. And by “freedom,” we mean being able to play music whenever you like.
An ideal option would be to look for a vacant room that you can turn into an office. If you do not have that space, you can opt for a desk placed in one corner near the window, far from the TV or kitchen.
What’s important is that you are free from distractions, and you can play music without disturbing the rest of the household.
2. Declutter Your Desk
Whether you have a home office or not, you must declutter your desk.
For one, clutter distracts you from getting things done. Instead of doing your task, you would end up cleaning your office table instead. Hence, clutter can slow you down.
And the longer it takes for you to finish your work, the frustrated you could become. That’s because the more time you spend at work, the less time you have for other meaningful things like your family.
3. Create a Manageable To-Do List
The reason people find it challenging to work from home is because of the allure that they have all the time in the world. So much so that they tend to fit all their tasks in a day.
That said, we suggest that you create a manageable to-do list. It can be as simple as breaking down big tasks into-smaller to-dos.
Another option is to cut down your list. Pick tasks that you know can be done within a couple of hours. And then work on them based on priority.
4. Take Meaningful Breaks
It is also challenging to be productive while working from home because you are less likely to take breaks.
As mentioned earlier, people who treat their time as if working in the office allows them to get things done. This means having meaningful breaks.
Take the time to have lunch with your family and go to the bathroom. Moreover, you should refrain from checking your social media feed.
Consider taking a quick nap, doing some short yoga, or meditation. Doing so allows you to recharge and ensure that you have enough energy to power through the workday.
5. Dress Up for Work
Just because you are working from home does not mean you can be in your PJs all day.
We suggest that you dressed up for work as it can help set the tone for your day. It does not have to be full-on business attire. All you need to do is take a shower and wear something casual.
A denim jacket on top of a white shirt, for example. Such attire is comfortable yet presentable in case you need to do a video call.
It also improves how you perceive yourself. That’s because being able to wear something nice for work gives your confidence a boost.
6. Add Some Greeneries
Another benefit of working from home is that you can decide how you can decorate your workspace. That said, we suggest that you add some greeneries.
According to some studies, plants can help you relieve stress. And when you are not stressed, it is easier for you to get things done.
In addition, an indoor plant can help improve the air quality in your office. And we are not just talking about taking in carbon dioxide in exchange for oxygen.
Plants can also help filter a slew of chemicals coming from your office furnishings.
7. Use Air Diffuser
Other than adding indoor plants, some people find it ideal to make their workspace smelling fresh. This is where having an air diffuser could come in handy.
Aside from making your home office smell nice, it comes with a couple of benefits:
- Stress and Anxiety Relief. Stress can hinder your productivity. And long-term stress can lead to serious health risks.
- Body and Mind Relaxation. Not being stressed means you can relax your mind and body. And when you are relaxed, it will be clear how you can tackle your day-to-day tasks.
- Increased Energy. Because your home office smells good and you are relaxed, you have more energy to get things done.
The only caveat with using an air diffuser is that not everyone reacts the same to the scent. One scent can be relaxing but can cause a headache to your kids.
To be safe, consider using aroma sticks instead.
The key to beating the 3 PM slump is to be strategic with your work habits. This includes setting up a dedicated workspace, having a manageable to-do list, and taking meaningful breaks. As a result, you can be productive even while working from home.
