I have been working from home for the past 2 years and just recently developed a routine that works for me. I’m a workaholic, so I have struggled with not knowing when to stop working. The biggest thing I learned to stay sane and productive is having a DAILY SCHEDULE. That’s why most of my tips below involve keeping a schedule to stay on track. Without further ado, let’s get into my 5 Ways Of Staying Productive While Working From Home.
1) Morning Ritual
Try not to just jump straight into emails first thing in the morning. It may be difficult because we tend to look at our phones when we wake up. Take time to do what you need to do to start your day. Even if it’s just changing out of your pajamas and into “work from home” clothes, it allows you to mentally tackle the day ahead. Do your skincare routine, make some coffee, get some exercise, meditate, get a good breakfast, or journal. A little “me” time will give you a positive boost to your day.
2) Set Boundaries
Working from home can blur the lines between work and home, since there isn’t an office to commute to and from. Set start and end times for your work day, so you won’t make it a habit of responding to emails at odd hours. Boundaries can also mean setting up a space specifically for you to work. It’s a space you can leave once you are done. If possible, try not to work in your bed. It sounds tempting, but your bedroom should be reserved for rest and relaxation. Don’t mix them together to avoid bad energy in your sanctuary.
3) Take breaks
Changing your environment from office to home can make it easy to get carried away working 8 hours straight. You can also run into the opposite problem and get super distracted. Scheduling breaks is a great way to remind yourself to step away, or let you know that these are the times dedicated to non work-related activities. Break up your work day, so you can maintain work-life balance and not get burnt out. A few ideas are to go outside for some fresh air, grab a snack, call a friend, water your plants, or use this time for some stretches.
4) Trackers and To-Do Lists
If you find yourself heads down in work and losing track of simple tasks, here are a few products that may be useful.
A Time Marker Water Bottle to keep you hydrated and on track to reach your daily water intake goal.
Stand Up! The Work Break Timer is a straight forward, easy-to-use app that notifies users to, you guessed it, stand up. It’s possible to get sucked into work and not realize how long you have been sitting. This app breaks that bad habit. Just set the timer preferences with how frequently you want reminders.
(Updated 10/24/23) Notion is my favorite productivity app, where I keep to-do lists and organize my notes.
5) Enhance your space
You can read about of my work from home product essentials in 10 Products To Make Working From Home Easier. With a functional workspace, it decreases stress and discomfort in your day to day.
In addition to function, surround yourself with things that make you happy or inspire you. Plants, art, photos, and desk accessories are all fun ways to add personality to your space. I’ve always been a fan of the photos and art sold at Desenio.
A tidy space also sparks productivity, so keep the clutter away with desk organizers. The Container Store has a ton of different collections to choose from.
Please share any work from home tips you may have. I would love to hear about how you create a productive work routine at home.
