Many people are working from home, and have been for quite some time. In the beginning of the pandemic it may have been more exciting to work from home and not have to actually commute to the office. Now you may be finding yourself in a rut, like many others, and need to manage your time and productivity while working from home a little better.

Make A Schedule

Working from home can sometimes mean a lack of structure. You can sometimes work based on your own clock and your schedule can quickly get away from you. Try your best to work your typical hours and schedule tasks, meetings, and deadlines as you usually would if you were going into the office.

Take Breaks

It may seem more frivolous to take a break while you’re working from your house and you might find yourself skipping your breaks and working through. For your mental health and productivity levels it is important that you take your breaks. Step outside for fresh air, go for a walk, stretch, or grab a snack. A nice breather will help you feel refreshed and ready to work some more.

Limit Distractions

It’s safe to say that you probably don’t have a television at your office where you can binge Netflix while you work, and working from home should be no different. Put away devices that may tempt you to sway your attention away from your work. Also try to seclude yourself from family members and pets that you normally wouldn’t see during the workday that could become distractions from your work and in meetings.

Create A Workspace

Are you working from your couch or your bed? Those are places meant from relaxing and can hurt productivity and time management. Set up a place that is dedicated for work so that you are able to not only physically separate relaxing from work but also mentally. Make your space clean and inviting so that when you are there you are ready to work.

Get Ready For Work

Studies show that people who work from home are more productive when they get ready as if they were reporting to the office. Some offices do have a less strict dress code and if that’s the case for you, wear your normal attire. However, most companies don’t allow you to show up unwashed and in pajamas. Prioritize self-care and hygiene, as well as your appearance and you will feel better and be more productive.

Set Boundaries

Leave work at “work”. Don’t feel tempted to work beyond your normal schedule or beyond your scope because you are at home and are capable. Doing so may temporarily boost your productivity but will ultimately cause you to burn yourself out in the long run. Setting boundaries for when and where you work will be really beneficially for your time management. If you do not typically work at 7pm on a Saturday, set a boundary and do not do it from home.

Monitor Productivity

Productivity goals can keep you on track and keep you from deviating from your typical work style and amount. Set metrics for things that are easily tracked and reward yourself when you meet or exceed your goals. A reward can be a snack or a unscheduled break (company permitting) and can be a great boost to continue your workday strong.