Tips for Being Productive While Working From Home

COVID-19 or simply nicknamed “The Rona” has changed our daily lives from how we interact with others (because #SocialDistancing is real) and has made particular tasks such as grocery shopping an obstacle course. Working from home can be a challenge for some as well, and many companies have converted their workforce to a remote status. After two weeks of working home, I have finally gotten into a groove that allows a higher level of productivity. Here are a couple of tips to help you adjust to working from home.

WAKE UP EARLY & LOG ON THE SAME TIME TO START WORK

Creating a routine is the most important thing to get your mind in a place to perform at its best. I typically wake up one hour before I log on to work to give myself enough to shower, grab something to eat, and prep for the workday. Nothing is worst than having a meeting at 9 and waking up at 8:50 and NOT being mentally prepared.

CREATE A DEDICATED WORKSPACE

Get out that bed or off that couch! Find a dedicated space in your home or apartment to work from. If you have an extra bedroom, I would recommend using that space or a pick a specific spot at your dining room or at table.

MAKE A TO-DO LIST

The first thing I do when I sit down to start my workday is create a to-do list. This list will you stay on task, and I don’t know about y’all but get a deep sense of joy in checking off items. I love using my Erin Condren for major deadlines for work, but nothing is wrong with a post-it or a simple list. If you want to see how I use my planner in detail to stay organized check out this post.

WFH APPEARANCE AND ATTIRE

Want an automatic pick me up during these WFH times? Put on some real clothes a couple of days out the week. I am not saying throw on your finest threads, but try putting on a some nice lounge-wear or some jeans and a t-shirt. During my first week of working from home, I found myself wearing clothes that were TOO COMFY, and I was not as productive and too comfortable. Throw on some mascara and gloss before you hop on that Zoom call. We don’t need you out here being dry face with your coworkers that you WILL eventually see again.

HEADPHONES 

Headphones are your best friend if you are having to share space with others or to drown out the noise. I have never been able to complete work and listen to my usual trap music, and I usually opt for piano music. I have included my personal trap music playlist for those who need a pick me up and also my piano playlist.

LIMIT YOUR DISTRACTIONS

Think about what you need in your workspace to avoid having to get up. Grab those snacks, fill your water bottle, and place your phone on the opposite side of the room.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR LUNCH

On your lunch do something NOT related to work after eating. Take a walk, cruise your social media platforms, or read a magazine.

DON’T FORGET TO TAKE BREAKS

Typically I will take a breather every two hours where I stand up and stretch or refill my water bottle. If you have an Apple Watch make sure to utilize the Breathe app to remind yourself to take breaks.

I hope these tips help as our new normal is changing the environment we now work in. Now go out there and become a Work From Home Warrior!

What tips do you have to be more productive while being at home?

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