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While there are plenty of people who will view working from home as an easy feat, it definitely has its fair share of challenges. Sure, you don’t have to endure early morning traffic to get to work. However, you still have to fight the temptation to be wildly undisciplined with your time. Thankfully, there are some excellent ways to remain efficient when you’re working from home. Consider the following hacks to get started.
1. Start Early
It’s a lot easier to focus and remain motivated when you begin your day before the sun rises. You don’t have to worry about the distractions of friends calling or sending incessant text messages. Everyone is still asleep so there’s nothing interesting to see on social media platforms. The world gets pretty quiet in the early hours of the morning. Plus, if you have young children, it’s always helpful when you get up before they do.
2. Eliminate Distractions
Take note of the areas where you sense the most distractions. If you love binge-watching shows on YouTube or scrolling through social media, block your computer from being able to visit YouTube during work hours. Put your smartphone on the other side of the room. If you’d like to check social media, you’d have to get up and walk across the room to scroll. The sooner you eliminate distractions, the easier it’ll be for you to focus and get your work done.
3. Take Breaks
When you’ve been sitting at a computer desk for hours on end, this can take a toll on your physical body. Whether you do this once an hour or once every two hours, take time to thoroughly stretch. Incorporate movement into your day. When you stop for a coffee break, do some jumping jacks. If you have a ten-minute break, go outside and take a brisk walk. By finding ways to move your body, it’ll help you recharge for the next phase of the workday.
4. Listen to Focus Music
There are tons of free playlists you can listen to online. With all of the streaming services and platforms, you can easily put on a great pair of headphones to privately listen to your music. The key is to know which type of music really helps you to focus on. For some people, classical music is extremely helpful and inspiring. For others, ambient study music is calming and conducive to productivity. Other people like a good beat that’s provided through options like electronic music. Find what works for you in order to stay focused.
5. Set a Timer
Unfortunately, so many people love to procrastinate. It’s an innate skill for many. However, when the timer is on the clock, something kicks in where people need to quickly finish an assignment. Granted, you should never rush through your work. However, setting a timer can really help you remain conscious of how quickly time is flying by. When you’re able to use your time wisely, it’ll help you remain more efficient throughout any given hour of the workday.
6. Create an Assigned Workspace
Even though many people associate working from home with pajamas and a comfy bed, this is actually one of the biggest mistakes people make. Create a designated workspace that’s specifically for working. Even if the desk is in your bedroom, get out of bed to get work done. If you try to sit up in bed or on a comfy couch to work, it’s only a matter of time before you fall asleep again. Make sure your workspace is well-lit with a good desk lamp. If you need a good wireless office headset to communicate with customers and co-workers, invest in a high-quality option to prevent any hindrances in your ability to deliver.
7. Prioritize a Level of Comfort
If the seat you’re using is uncomfortable, upgrade your chair. When you’re uncomfortable, it’s almost impossible to focus. Make sure your back is supported as you sit in the desk chair. Use proper posture in order to avoid issues with your wrists, ankles, and any other areas as well.
As you develop a routine that works for you, you’ll be able to see your productivity rise. As you continue to strengthen that muscle of discipline, you’ll also be able to use these hacks to help you get your work done in an efficient yet excellent manner. Don’t give up when it gets hard. Keep going because there is a great reward on the other side.