How to stay focused and productive in your home office

Remote working is not only an attractive option for professionals seeking flexibility but can also be necessary under special circumstances. However, as working from home can blur the line between business and personal life, it can sometimes be difficult to stay attentive. Here are five tips on how to minimise distractions, maintain focus and stay productive at home. 

1. Create your own workspace

Having your own space is important to help stay focused. We recommend purchasing a desk and an ergonomic chair so that you can work comfortably without straining your neck or back. Choose a comfortable chair—your body will thank you.

Also, you should make sure to work on a clean and tidy table with only the essentials such as important documents, a work phone, something to drink, and a notebook. Other things like books or even table decorations could possibly distract you.

2. Consider suitable clothing

Getting up and staying in your pyjamas is both tempting and timesaving. This may work for some, but it prevents many from mentally creating a professional, productive working atmosphere, as they feel that they are not really at work. To get into a working mindset, dress as you would at work, or at least in an outfit you would wear when leaving home.

3. Structure your day

It is important to remember that while working from home, it is your sole responsibility to complete your tasks successfully and efficiently. We recommend that you start your work at the same time each day and set a fixed time frame for your team break and lunch break to help break up the day. Following a routine similar to your regular day in the office is key to remaining productive.

Between these time slots, you should plan out specific times for specific tasks. For example, focus mainly on calls and meetings in the morning and emails and research in the afternoon. This way you can do all your tasks in a structured manner and feel productive, satisfied and relaxed at the end of the day.

4. Make time for breaks

Regular breaks are important so that your brain can rest and your batteries can recharge. Use the lunch break to take a short walk and soak up some sunshine to refuel with vitamin D, call friends on the phone, or energise yourself with a tasty, light snack.

Even between breaks, it’s important to stay moving, even if that just means stretching your legs and going to the kitchen for a cup of tea or coffee or walking out to the garden to get a breath of fresh air!

5. Focus on work-life balance

It is important to make a clear distinction between working hours and free time. However, it is just as important that your private and professional environments and those who surround them, are aware when it is time to work and when you are free.

Openly communicate with your family and friends about your schedule and consider making them aware of the times you will have to take important phone or video calls in order not to be disturbed. Then you have more time for your family and friends during breaks or after work hours.