10 Tips for Working From Home Productively

These tips for working from home will transform any remote work newbie into an organised, productive and happy employee in the comfort of their own home.

Separate your Workspace

It is essential to have a workspace that is separate from your living spaces. Creating a space which is exclusively used for working will train your mind to focus and switch into ‘work mode’ as soon as you sit down at your desk.

If at all possible you should avoid:

• A desk in your bedroom;
• Working from your dining table, couch or kitchen counter;
• Frequently changing or moving your workspace;

Instead you should create an area which is only for working. There are plenty of options. Choose an area that’s quiet with natural lighting. If you have a spare room, that’s perfect, otherwise place a desk in one of these locations:

• Den or cubby;
• Corner of your living area;
• Basement;

Invest In Ergonomic Furniture

Investing in an ergonomic workspace is an investment in your health. It’s worth it. And it doesn’t have to be very expensive.

The essentials are a desk, adjustable office chair and computer monitor. My simple work-from home set-up is super comfortable and cost less than $600:

• Standing Desk from Ikea – $239
• Office Chair from Ikea – $89
• 24″ Computer Monitor – $199
• Books/Magazines to adjust your monitor to the appropriate height – Free

Have a Routine

To work from home effectively your morning and evening routines are critical.

In an office job most people have an incredibly consistent routine to start and end the work day. The act of travelling in to the office, brewing a coffee and sitting at your desk flips a sub-conscious switch. You’re in work mode. You’re focused and your mind is on the job. Then, opening the front door and taking of your shoes and work clothes flips the switch back. You’re in home mode. Your ready to relax and spend time with your family.

When you work from home, there is a huge danger that work and home life can blur together. When this happenes you feel like you’re always at work but you’re exhausted, lacking focus, and totally over it. There is a solution.

Craft a morning routine and an evening routine. These routines can be simple. Follow the routines every day before starting work and after you finish.

Example Morning Routine

• 7:00 Wake Up
• 7:00-7:20 Enjoy an outdoor run;
• 7:20-7:40 Shower, brush your teeth and get dressed;
• 7:40-8:00 Eat breakfast with a cup of green tea;
• 8:00 Sit down at your desk;

Related: Design a Morning Routine for Success

Example Evening Routine

• 6:00 Shut down your computer and stand up from your desk;
• 6:00-6:30 Go for an evening walk;

Make Time to Exercise

Exercise is scientifically proved to improve your mood and focus as well as reducing stress. One of the awesome benefits from working from home is the ability to have greater flexibility in your schedule.

Set aside time to exercise every single day. Try a lunch-time run while the sun is shining, or an early morning yoga session to start your day.

Dress for Work

This is especially important when transitioning from an office job to working from home. When you’re working in an office, getting dressed for work is likely the start of your ‘going to work’ routine. You likely shower, dress in particular clothes, put on make-up and style your hair.

By dressing for work, you’re giving your mind another signal that it’s time for focus and productivity. You’ll also feel more professional communicating with colleagues and clients via messenger, email, phone or video call.

Start and End Your Day at a Set Time

Starting and finishing your day at a set time is all about living life by your priorities and setting boundaries. It’s so easy to write one more email, to tick one more task of the days to do list.

By setting fixed working hours for yourself, you are increasing the separation between work and home. This will allow you to make time for activities outside of work that are important to you.

If you’re having trouble sticking to a finishing time, schedule regular activities at the time you’re supposed to finish work. Plan an after-work drink with a friend, an evening exercise class, or a jog with a buddy. Having a commitment will make it easier for your

Plan Your Day

Start each day with a daily wins list of your five most important things to accomplish that day. Focus on completing these tasks first, with ferocity!

I suggest using a planner to keep track of your daily wins list, your daily tasks, and your long term career goals. A great planner to get started with is the OneNote Planner for Professionals.

Take Regular Breaks

Taking regular breaks during the day will help you to stay focused and productive. When planning your day, aim to take a short break every hour.

During a short break you can:

• Exercise! Do 20 star jumps or push-ups;
• Stand up and sretch;
• Grab a glass of water;
• Do a mindfulness exercise;

Connect Regularly With Colleagues

When working from home it’s even more important to connect regularly with your colleagues. Reach out to colleagues informally in addition to your work-related meetings. You can:

• Say good morning online to your colleagues;
• Schedule an online coffee break, happy hour or walking meeting;
• Allow for 5 minutes of informal discussion at the beginning of a regular meeting;

Use Video Calls

When connecting with colleagues utilise video calling when possible. Seeing your colleagues face to face builds a more personal connection.

What are your challenges OR tips for working from home?

What are your greatest challenges working from home? Or maybe you have a some great tips for working from home to share! Let us know in the comments below.