What distractions keep you from being productive when working from home?
With startup, small businesses popping up all over the place it’s hard to imagine that there’s enough space for everyone! That’s why many new or small companies are choosing to have employees work from home instead of renting out expensive office real estate. However, one of the struggles of working from home is the potential for distractions. Without a formal office environment, who’s going to catch you sneaking in a little extra nap or watching a ball game in the background? While you do have a bit of freedom from your boss potentially walking by your office, you still have work responsibilities.
3 Ways to be Productive While Working from Home
- Get Dressed
This may sound insignificant, but getting dressed for the day can make a difference in how you approach your work and commitments. If you find that wearing sweatpants and slippers makes you want to lounge around and take a nap, consider wearing jeans and sneakers. Many find that the routine is helpful to putting in productive hours while working.
- Set Up A Work Space
What is your current set up? Are you sitting on the floor using your coffee table as your executive desk space? That may work for a short amount of time, but it is important to situate yourself with a professional workspace. Some people choose to turn their extra bedroom into a home office, while others create a work zone in whatever corner of their home is free. Regardless of where you live, setting up a designated work area will help keep you from distractions.
- Do Not Disturb
Have you ever been in the middle of your workday and someone in your house decides that they want to talk or go on an adventure with you? While you may appreciate their invitation for a midday trip to the mall, YOU ARE WORKING. Again, in creating an official workspace for yourself, it is important to let others know that working from home doesn’t mean free time, all the time. It may be helpful to create business hours for yourself and tell people that you’re going to be working during those times. Creating this distance between leisure and work time will not only help you from feeling distracted by others, but will also help those in your house know that you are busy.
Just like working in an office, working from home has its challenges. For those who have experience in working from home, what other suggestions do you have to be productive? Share with us below!
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