With a large amount of the population stuck indoors, many people are now forced to work remotely. For some, working in a comfortable environment increases results. Others, however, lose focus working from home. Whether you’re getting through this isolation and returning to work or transitioning into working from home permanently, here are seven easy tips to increase home office productivity and boost techniques for working remotely.
1. Prioritize Important Tasks
Chances are certain tasks in your workload are higher in value than others. As the Mark Twain quote says, “If it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.” Be sure to start your work shift with the most important tasks and work your way down. Here are seven easy tips to increase productivity and boost techniques for working remotely & optimize results.
2. Listen to Music to Boost Productivity at Home
It may seem counterproductive, but turning on music can work wonders for productivity. Studies show listening to music improves mood and focus, allowing you to get more work done. In fact, listening to music you enjoy allows you to complete tasks quickly and efficiently. I’d recommend avoiding loud, heavy music and focusing on lighter upbeat tunes.
3. Optimize your Nutrition
If your body isn’t getting the nutrients it needs, it’s going to be hard to function at an optimally productive level.
In particular, Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to play an important role in brain function. If you think you’re deficient in this area, consider an Omega-3 supplement. It’s never been more important to make sure your diet is on point to boost productivity at home.
4. Let in Fresh Air
It’s been proven that quality ventilation increases employee productivity. If you’re feeling sluggish, open a window. Fresh air will improve focus and cognitive function.
Regular breaks are not just for relaxation but are a critical component of sustained concentration. The Pomodoro Technique, where 25 minutes of focused work is followed by a 5-minute break, is an excellent method. During these short breaks, step away from your workspace.
Engage in a quick physical activity, like stretching or a brisk walk, which can rejuvenate your mind and body. Consider longer breaks too, like a lunch away from your desk. These breaks are also opportunities for eye rest, especially important to prevent digital eye strain from prolonged screen time.
5. Wake Up Earlier to Boost Productivity at Home
If you have children, it’s difficult to focus on them and work – especially without a sitter! The perfect remedy is waking up a few hours earlier. This allows you to at least complete the tasks that require your undivided attention before anyone else is up. Keep reading to this easy tips to increase productivity and boost techniques for working remotely & optimize results.
6. Take Breaks Easy Tips to Increase Productivity
It’s great to stay focused when you’re working on a task, but make sure you take necessary breaks. You’re already home, so spend time getting comfortable and recharge your batteries. You can even set a timer and take a nap. Breaks increase productivity and energy levels. For an added healthy bonus, take a jog or power walk around the block.
7. Create a Designated Workspace to Boost Productivity at Home
Comfortable surroundings may feel nice, but you won’t get much work done. You don’t necessarily need an office, but it’s important to create a boundary between where you work and where you relax. Don’t allow anyone in your home to disrupt your workspace.
Creating a distinct workspace in your home is more than just a physical arrangement; it’s about mentally preparing yourself for productivity. This area should be your ‘productivity zone’ – a place where household distractions fade into the background. The ideal home office should be in a quiet area, away from the hustle and bustle of household activities.
Consider factors like natural lighting, which has been shown to boost mood and energy levels, and ensure the space is well-ventilated. Personalize your workspace with plants or art, but avoid clutter. A tidy workspace can significantly improve focus and efficiency.
8. Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care is essential for productivity. A well-rested mind is more alert and capable of creative and analytical thinking. Prioritize a healthy sleep schedule. Physical exercise, whether it’s a home workout, yoga, or a walk, can boost energy levels and reduce stress. Mindfulness practices like meditation can enhance focus and emotional well-being. Don’t forget to hydrate and eat healthily; nutrition plays a significant role in cognitive function and energy levels.
9. Reflect and Adjust
Finally, the key to sustainable productivity is ongoing reflection and adaptation. Periodically assess what aspects of your home work life are functioning well and what areas need improvement. This reflection isn’t just about your output but also about your overall well-being. Are you feeling overworked? Do you need more breaks or perhaps different types of breaks? Are there times in the day when you feel more productive, and can you align your work schedule to take advantage of these times?
It’s also important to be flexible and adaptable. For instance, if you find that you’re more productive in the early morning, consider adjusting your schedule to start earlier. If certain tools or apps aren’t working for you, don’t hesitate to try out new ones. The goal is to create a personalized productivity system that works for you.
Additionally, remember to celebrate your successes. Working from home can sometimes mean that your achievements go unnoticed, so it’s important to acknowledge your own hard work and milestones. This could be as simple as treating yourself to a nice meal or taking a well-deserved day off.
Lastly, stay informed about productivity trends and tips. The world of work is constantly evolving, and new tools and techniques are always emerging. Subscribe to productivity blogs, listen to podcasts, or join online communities where you can learn from others and share your experiences.
Final Thoughts
Your home can be a productive work environment. As long as you set boundaries, prioritize, and take breaks when necessary, you can make the most out of working remotely. Take this lockdown as an opportunity to be productive and spend time with loved ones. Master your focus and make working remotely a reliable option.
