Whether you’ve always been a full-time freelance worker or have just started working from home, you know how it can be one of the best things in life, and can give you an insane amount of freedom and flexibility. But yes, there’s a downside to it too, and often, you might find yourself unmotivated to work and even less productive.
If you can relate, here’s some help your way. Read on to discover 6 effective ways to boost your productivity even when you’re working from home.
Get Dressed
Getting to work in your PJs might be the best part of working at home, but it can also shoot down your productivity levels if you’re not careful. Of course, that doesn’t mean you need to dress up in formal clothing even when you’re home, but at least jumping in a basic tee and jeans can make you ‘feel’ ready to take on the day! I still do the school run and walk the dog each morning in order to make myself get up dressed and good to go for the day ahead!
Identify Productivity Killers
For some, it can be loud noises and for others, it can be the phone notifications blowing up. Whatever the productivity killer is for you, identify it and take steps to eliminate it. I like to have my workspace neat, tidy and organised. I use backdrops from clotstudio to be able to make my work area functional and pretty. These are great for photos that I need to take for Instagram and blogging check out Vinyl Backdrop and their Easter themed backdrops. I use stationery that inspires me and have lots of quotes on my desk that motivate me to be productive.
Move Around
Freelancers spend so much time at their desk, it is no wonder a good percentage of them develop back pain, weight gain and other similar issues. Make it a point to move around and get some exercise everyday, particularly by getting out. Exercising has been found to boost mood and make you feel more active and energetic, ready to get stuff done. I tend to run after the school drop off or fit in a morning gym session. This really helps me feel energised for the day. I like my apple watch for reminding me to get up, stretch and move abaout. You can set alerts for stopping to take a drink too. This all helps boosts productivity when working at home.
Ditch the Distractions
When you’re working remotely, there’s always a risk of blurring the lines between work and home, and with all the distractions, you might even end up getting nothing done in the entire day. Analyse the distractions you have, and find out ways to minimize them. Creating a schedule and sticking to it can help. I turn my laptop off in the evenings and ensure I stop working.
Desk Working
Working from home requires a certain amount of discipline and the best way to get it done is to make sure you work from your desk- not sitting on your bed- no matter how much you’re tempted to. Create your work desk an inspiring space by putting up notes or posters of motivational quotes.
Create a To-Do
List One of the simplest ways to make sure you have a productive day even when you’re working from home is to create a to-do list first thing everyday. Break your tasks down into chunks, and keep ticking them off the list as and when they’re done. Make sure the time slots when you’re working, you’re not interrupted by anything- your phone, your pet or even your kids.
