One of the most considerable impacts of Covid-19 is changes to remote working trends. Before the pandemic, only about five percent of white-collar employees worked primarily from home. Yet, we can expect that number to rise to thirty percent post-pandemic.
If you are new to work-from-home life, you have likely noticed that you need to change your schedule and habits to increase your home productivity.
All remote or freelance workers face unique challenges according to their job, lifestyle, and personality. Nevertheless, most of the core issues that they face are the same.
Read on for five tips to help you overcome challenges and increase your productivity while working from home!
1. Create an Office Space
If you’re short on space at home, your work area can be as simple as your dining room table. No matter where you work, make sure that you have what you need on hand.
Since each person is different, learn what you need to be productive. For some people, this means listening to music with headphones. Others prefer to work at a standing desk so they can move around as they complete their tasks.
It may take a few weeks to decide what your workspace should look like, but be sure to create the space you need and keep it organized.
2. Stick to a Schedule
When you work from home, you do have a measure of flexibility and control over your schedule. Yet, some people confuse this with the ability to do whatever you want every single day. This mindset makes it easy to procrastinate.
On the other hand, some people who work from home as freelancers find themselves overworking. This can lead to burnout, which puts a damper on productivity.
Having a consistent routine is crucial for work-life balance. Not only will a schedule allow you to be more productive, but it will also let you know when it’s time to call it quits for the day.
Many individuals find it beneficial to have a morning routine that helps them get ready for work. This routine may be exercising, having a cup of coffee, and making a daily to-do list. Once your morning routine is complete, it’s time to start working.
Your schedule should also allow time for short breaks. Strive to stand up from your desk every hour to move around, have a snack, or take a quick walk. While it may appear to be a waste of time, you’ll likely find that these breaks encourage you to be productive and feel better.
Another vital part of sticking to a consistent schedule is communication. Advise your friends and family of your work hours and let them know that you can’t alter your schedule unless there is an emergency.
3. Get Some Fresh Air
For most people, working from home requires them to sit indoors at a desk most of the time. Without a commute, you may not even find the need to go outside every day.
Yet, getting fresh air and natural light is essential, especially for your mental health. Try to get outside every day, especially to take walks or enjoy nature.
If you have a yard or a balcony, take advantage of nice weather by working outdoors, even if it’s just for thirty minutes. You will likely see an improvement in your mood and reduce your risk for depression.
4. Get Involved in Social Activities
Remote workers often feel isolated or lonely. Even if you work for a company, you may feel disconnected from your colleagues.
However, most companies that work remotely offer various ways to socialize, such as Slack, Facebook, or group chats.
There are also optional meetings that you can attend to make your presence known and cultivate relationships. Even if you don’t need to participate in the discussion, try to greet the group and say goodbye before leaving. Just these few small actions can go a long way and will help you feel more engaged.
If you are introverted and don’t necessarily enjoy socializing, you should still try to put forth the effort to cultivate some relationships within your company. This will make it easier for you if you ever decide that you need more socialization or support while working remotely.
Ultimately, you get to decide how much interaction you need to feel connected to your colleagues. Remember, though, that socialization is proven to increase productivity and combat loneliness, making it worthy of your time.
5. Familiarize Yourself With Helpful Resources
Now that so many people work from home, thousands of apps, tools, and other resources have been launched to make being productive easier. Familiarize yourself with those that are relevant to your work and habits.
For example, if you find that you have trouble staying on task, download an app that restricts your access to distracting websites during work hours.
In addition, you can usually track how much time it takes you to complete tasks and set goals with time management applications.
Other resources that can help you are those that assist you in your specific field of work. For example, if you’re a freelance worker, look for services that can help you save time or view WordPress hosting plans.
Looking for Remote Work Opportunities?
Working from home can present unexpected challenges. Nevertheless, with a well-planned routine, home productivity is not only attainable but thoroughly enjoyable!
Pressable is always looking for new people to join our growing team of remote workers. Check out our Career Center to see what positions are open and how to apply.
Amanda Tsourakis
With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, Amanda's experience demonstrates her sales expertise. Her commitment to building, training, and guiding high-performing teams has been instrumental in driving Pressable's success. Amanda's extensive background in sales and marketing, coupled with her sharp business acumen, has made her an invaluable asset to the tech community. Her ability to identify and foster talent, combined with her passion for developing winning sales strategies, has propelled her to the forefront of the industry. When she's not expertly navigating the tech sales landscape, she loves spending quality time with her family, loves travel and adventure, lounging pool/beach-side, playing tennis, working out, and meeting people/making friends all along the way!
