Working from home can actually result in greater productivity.  There are also many benefits such as reduced travel time, saving on fuel and meals and the comfort of working in your pj’s if that’s what you decide to do.  Also it can help you achieve a work-life balance.

There are disadvantages however.  The laundry needs doing, the floors need cleaning (all of which is right in front of you when you work from home). Your children, partner and neighbours don’t understand the term ‘working from home!’  You try to divide your time  between actually getting work done and trying to cope with all of the distractions.

Here are some tips on how to make the most of productivity in your home office:

Set Up Your Office For Productivity

You can design your home office with productivity in mind.  Try and have your office in a quiet area of your home.  Paint your space with a soothing colour.  Green is especially great for productivity.  Make sure your space has a window.  Place plants and a small fountain outside your window if possible.  This will give you something non-distracting and peaceful to look at.  Make enough space so that you can have everything you need to get your work done with everything close at hand.

Distractions Can Sometimes Be Good

Keep your book, game app or anything you love to do close by, but out of sight.  Reward yourself with short breaks with these.

 

Exercise Equipment

If you have the room, invest in resistance bands, light weights or even a small treadmill.  Taking short breaks for exercise can help you lift your energy, refocus and reenergize.

 

Declutter

You are likely to collect all kinds of things in your home office.  Make it a habit to declutter at least once a week.

Resist the urge to use your office as a storage space.  Decluttering often will help you stay focused.

 

Give Your Eyes A Break

Giving your eyes a break will make a huge difference to your productivity.  Reduce strain every twenty minutes and stop looking at your screen.

 

Work Purposely

At the start of everyday, make a list of tasks you need to complete.  Cross items off the list as you go.

 

 

Be Tough With Distracting People

Gently remind people that just don’t get it.  Working from home still means working!

Don’t answer unrelated work phone calls or answer the door.  Let people know your work hours when you will be busy working.  If you don’t set boundaries, no one will do it for you.

 

Dress Like You Are Going Into The Office

Staying in your pj’s is obviously up to you, but when you dress as though you are really going into the office, this will help with your mindset and your productivity.

Force yourself to get up and get ready for a regular work day.  Don’t get distracted and lose track of time.  You will feel more professional and ready to tackle you work.