Some absolutely love working from home, while others find it challenging. No matter which category you fit in, a lot of us are working from home right now. Just like when you used to go to the office, there are some days when you just don't feel like working. Or, you find it extremely difficult to concentrate. It's natural. Maybe you didn't get enough sleep the night before, or maybe you just have a lot on your plate that you need to handle. Whatever it is, distractions are found way more easily when you are at home, in your own space.
So, what is there to do on the days that working from home is difficult?
Keep your work hours the same as when you used to go into the office. If you work too little, things will not get done. If you work too much, you will exhaust yourself. Maintaining the same work hours will help you maintain stability (and sanity).
Work in your own area if space allows. Whether it's a partner, child, or roommate, everyone needs their own personal space to concentrate and take meetings in. If you are having trouble canceling the noise in your background, or this is not an option in your living space, invest in noise eliminating headphones. Here are our favorite headphones and earbuds.
Take breaks. There are some studies that suggest work for 20 minutes, take a break for 5-10 minutes. That doesn't work for everyone, though, so take breaks when you feel you need one. It's easy to get stuck in your work, so consider setting an alarm to remind you to take a break from sitting. Get up, change your position, change your location. Just get up and move! Your work will notice. If you literally cannot leave your computer, get a standing desk (also converts into a lap desk for those lazy days 😴 ).
Get speakers. If your office at home is a little quieter than your normal office, and you work well with background noise, consider Bluetooth speakers. Our computers have a lot of work to do throughout the day, and oftentimes get overwhelmed by streaming music. Speakers are the perfect solution. Plus, who doesn't love a midday dance break?!
These tips seem small, but they go a long way in increasing your productivity. We encourage you to test these different options.
