7 Work from Home Hacks Guaranteed to Make You More Productive
In 2016, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) found a third of Australians regularly worked from home. Four years later, it's pretty clear that many of us will have to do it at one point or another.
In theory, swapping a one-hour commute with a home-cooked breakfast sounds ideal, but the reality is that working from home can take quite a bit of adjusting. So, how can you make the most of an autonomous arrangement while ensuring your productivity doesn't suffer? We're glad you asked.
Whether you're a freelancer, business owner or an employee with work from home status, follow these seven hacks to boost your productivity.
Tip #1: Dress the Part
Being able to wear what you like is an advantage of working from your lounge, but it can also be a hindrance when it comes to getting in the right frame of mind. We’re not suggesting you put on a blazer, but there’s a lot to be said for changing into something smart as a physical reminder that you’re at work.
Tip #2: Create a Routine
Having a plan for the day is crucial to staying productive. Start by rising at the same time each day, then add some movement to your morning. Bonus points if you’re able to get outside while you’re at it. Brush your hair and write a to-do list. Plan your lunch break, and a start and finish time, and stick to it.
Tip #3: Leave the House
Being stuck in a rut is a sure-fire way to stifle creativity, however, you can avoid this by finding ways to connect with the world. Taking a walk before your start time, visiting a park on your lunch break, or grabbing a coffee during your afternoon slump are some simple ways to spark inspiration and keep you motivated.
Tip #4: Dedicate a Workspace
If you don’t have a clear distinction between where you work and where you relax, it can start to feel like you never leave the office. Choose a space with natural light and ventilation, and invest in a comfortable desk chair. Clear any clutter and keep only what is inspiring and practical.
Tip #5: Minimise Distractions
Anyone who has spent a day working from home knows the temptation is real to tackle the home to-do list. If it can’t be done in your lunch break, leave it until after hours. Also consider scheduling breaks, putting your phone on silent and setting boundaries for visitors
Tip #6: Snack Right
A downside to working from home is having access to the fridge 24/7. The easiest way to avoid bingeing on snacks is simple—don’t have them in the house. Stock up on nutritious food instead and prep your food the night before to prevent eating out of procrastination.
Tip #7: Stay Connected
When feelings of isolation set in, remind yourself that many others are in a similar position. Schedule Facetime calls with colleagues, call your loved ones, or listen to a podcast while you work. Remind yourself that instead of sitting on a bus, you now have more time to exercise, cook, and read. Try to see having some extra time to yourself as a positive, and an opportunity to connect with yourself and your goals (career or otherwise) on a deeper level.
Enjoyed this? Here are 7 easy ways to avoid the afternoon slump.
