18 Best Tips to Stay Motivated Working from Home
Jul 29, 2024 • 22 min read
Working from home has become a staple for many, offering unparalleled flexibility and the potential for a better work-life balance. However, this shift comes with its own set of challenges, such as distractions, decreased social interaction, and difficulties in maintaining productivity. The key to thriving in a home-based work environment lies in developing effective strategies that cater to individual preferences and work styles. Whether it’s the simple act of getting dressed for work or creating a dedicated workspace, these small changes can significantly impact motivation and productivity.
This article explores 18 practical tips to help you stay motivated and productive while working from home. From setting up a comfortable yet professional work environment to limiting social media distractions, each tip is designed to address common hurdles faced by remote workers. We will discuss the benefits of working in small time blocks, the importance of regular breaks, and how engaging in self-care practices can enhance both mental and physical well-being. By experimenting with these strategies and finding what works best for you, you can transform your home office into a hub of productivity and creativity.
You’ll learn:
- 18 Best Tips to Stay Motivated Working from Home
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18 Best Tips to Stay Motivated Working from Home
1. Get dressed
Working from home offers plenty of benefits, such as flexibility and improved work-life balance. However, motivation can be a challenge, especially if you’re wearing pajamas all day. If you’re not careful, lethargy can set in, and productivity could suffer. That’s why it’s essential to get dressed when working from home, just as you would for the office.
Getting dressed for work can put you in the right frame of mind and set you up for a more productive day. As Karen Pine, a professor of psychology at the University of Hertfordshire, says, “Clothing affects our self-perception and how we feel about ourselves.” Therefore, what you wear can have a significant influence on your motivation levels.
But don’t worry – getting dressed for work doesn’t mean wearing uncomfortable shoes or stuffy clothes. You can create a comfortable yet professional look that allows you to move around in your space freely. Here are some tips on what to wear when working from home:
Dress comfortably: Choose clothes that fit well and feel comfortable to wear, such as leggings or joggers with t-shirts or sweaters.
Keep it simple: Choose simple but elegant outfits to keep your wardrobe versatile and to avoid spending too much time deciding what to wear.
Embrace the outfit mullet: Wear formal clothing on the top half of your body for video conferences while wearing comfortable clothes on the lower half.
Don’t forget your shoes: Even if you don’t leave the house, wearing shoes also signals your brain that it’s time to work.
2. Make a work environment at home
Working from home sounds like a dream, but it can be challenging to remain focused and productive without a designated work environment. It’s essential to establish a physical space that is solely dedicated to work, which will help you maintain a healthy work-life balance and increase productivity.
The first step is to choose a quiet and comfortable corner of your home, free from distractions. This could be a spare bedroom, basement, or even a small nook. The key is to select a spot that allows you to focus without interruptions. Once you have identified the perfect location, create a “do not disturb” sign or boundary that lets family members know you are working.
Furnish your designated workspace with all necessary office equipment such as a desk, ergonomic chair, proper lighting, and noise-canceling headphones. These items will help you maintain proper posture, prevent back pain, and reduce the chances of being disturbed by external distractions such as noise and light.
Privacy is another crucial factor when it comes to having a designated workspace. The last thing you need is to be interrupted by family members or pets during a crucial work call. Having a door in your office space can give you the necessary privacy and sense of ownership, so everyone knows it’s your personal work area.
3. Switch off from social media
Working from home presents various challenges, including digital distractions that reduce productivity levels. One of the biggest culprits is social media. The temptation to browse through Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram during work hours can be overwhelming, leading to wasted time and reduced output. To combat this distraction, here are some tips on how to switch off from social media while working from home.
Remove Social Media Apps from Your Phone
The first step is to remove social media apps from your phone. This will help eliminate the temptation to constantly check notifications or scroll through your feeds during working hours. Removing these apps from your device will allow you to switch off from social media and focus on the tasks at hand.
Log Out of Every Account on Your Computer
Logging out of all your social media accounts on your computer is another way to switch off from social media. By doing this, you’ll need to put in extra effort to log in every time you want to use social media, which creates an extra hurdle and makes it easier to resist the temptation to browse. Logging out also makes it easier to separate work and personal life.
Use Tools to Block Distracting Websites
Another way to switch off from social media is to use tools to block distracting websites. Tools such as an Incognito browser window or a Google Chrome extension like ‘go f***ing work’ can help block distracting websites. These tools make it easy to block access to social media, which can increase productivity levels.
4. Get organised
When working from home, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of work that needs to be done. That’s why it’s important to get organized and create a system that works for you. Here are some practical tips and advice to help you get organized:
- Create a To-Do List: One of the best ways to stay on top of your workload is to create a to-do list. Write down all the tasks that need to be done, big or small. Putting everything in writing will make it easier to keep track of what needs to be done, and you’ll be less likely to forget important tasks.
- Prioritize Tasks: Not all tasks are created equal, some have to be done first, others can wait. Prioritizing your tasks will help you manage your workload more effectively. Use task identifiers like ‘Urgent’, ‘Important’, ‘Not urgent’ and ‘Not important’ to help you prioritize.
- Break Down Large Tasks into Smaller Steps: Big tasks can be daunting, but taking them on step-by-step makes them more manageable. Start by breaking them down into smaller, more achievable steps. It can make the task seem less overwhelming and help you get started.
- Document Tasks: Documenting your tasks will make it easier to reference them later. Use a notebook or an app to keep track of everything you need to do. This will help you stay focused on the task at hand and avoid getting sidetracked by other projects.
5. Work in small time blocks
Working in small time blocks is an effective way to boost productivity. Short but focused bursts of work can help you stay on track and maintain your concentration. Here’s how to work in small time blocks for maximum productivity:
- Set a Time Limit: Determine how much time you want to spend on a task before you start working. This could be as little as 10 minutes or as long as an hour. Choose a block of time that works best for you and stick to it.
- Eliminate Distractions: Turn off your phone, close your email, and shut down anything that could interfere with your work. This will help you stay focused on the task at hand.
- Work on Manageable Tasks: To make the most of your small time blocks, choose tasks that can be completed within that timeframe. Break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable parts to ensure that you can finish within your set timeframe.
- Schedule Your Time: One of the best ways to make small time blocks work for you is to schedule them into your day. Make a plan for what tasks you’ll complete during each block of time, and stick to it.
- Hold Yourself Accountable: It’s easy to get distracted or off-track during small time blocks, so it’s important to hold yourself accountable. Use a timer, a checklist, or an accountability partner to ensure that you stay on task and complete your work.
6. Interact with your colleagues
Working from home can sometimes make individuals feel isolated and disconnected from their colleagues. However, communication is crucial to maintain relationships with colleagues, and it is essential to stay updated on company work and events. So, it’s important to interact regularly with colleagues even when working remotely. Here are a few ways to keep in touch with your colleagues while working from home.
- Use Virtual Communication Tools: With the rise of virtual communication tools like Zoom, Skype and Microsoft Teams, it’s now possible to connect with people from anywhere in the world. Schedule regular video calls with your colleagues for informal meetings to catch up and discuss work-related matters.
- Virtual Hangouts After Work Hours: You can also schedule virtual hangouts after work hours to keep up a sense of camaraderie. This can include virtual team building activities, playing online games, or even just having a casual conversation over a cup of coffee.
- Phone and Chat Messages: Sending chat or phone messages is another way to stay connected with colleagues while working from home. It’s a quick and convenient way to check in with each other, especially when you’re working on a project together.
- Regular Meetings: It’s also important to have regular meetings with your colleagues while working remotely. This ensures that everyone is on the same page about upcoming projects, deadlines, and progress.
7. Take regular breaks
When working from home, it’s easy to fall into the trap of sitting in front of your computer for hours without taking a break. However, taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining good physical and mental health, as well as increasing your motivation and productivity.
Working non-stop can take a physical toll on your body, leading to muscle tension, eye strain, and back pain. Taking short breaks, even just for a few minutes, can help boost your energy levels, improve focus and reduce stress. By doing so, you’ll be able to return to your work with renewed energy and a fresh perspective.
During your breaks, it’s important to engage in short activities that will help you relax and recharge. Consider taking a walk outside to get some fresh air, stretching your body to release tension from your muscles, preparing a healthy snack to replenish your energy, or spending some time with your pet. These activities will help you detach from your work and give your mind a much-needed break.
8. Give yourself rewards
One effective way to maintain motivation while working from home is to give yourself rewards. These rewards can be small, but they should be big enough to keep you motivated without becoming too distracting. The idea is to create incentives that will help you stay focused and on task.
There are many different ways to give yourself rewards while working from home. One simple strategy is to take a break to grab your favorite coffee or snack after completing a task or meeting a deadline. By rewarding yourself with something you enjoy, you’ll be more motivated to continue working.
To make rewards more effective, it’s important to set specific goals and deadlines. For example, you could set a goal to finish a project by the end of the week and offer yourself a reward for doing so. By giving yourself a clear incentive to work towards, you’ll be more motivated to stay on track and complete your tasks in a timely manner.
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11. Wake up earlier
Waking up earlier can be a game-changer when it comes to increasing productivity while working from home. By waking up earlier, you can give yourself more time to prepare and get into the right mindset for your workday. Here are some benefits that can come with waking up earlier:
- More time for healthy habits: When you wake up earlier, you can make time for healthy habits like exercise, stretching, or meditation. These activities can help you wake up your body and mind, leading to more energy and focus throughout the day.
- Increased productivity: When you wake up earlier, you can tackle your work with a fresh mind and fewer distractions. This can increase your productivity and help you get more done in less time.
- Better time management: By waking up earlier, you can get a head start on your day and manage your time more effectively. This can help you meet deadlines and achieve your goals without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
12. Avoid having your office in your bedroom
When working from home, it may be tempting to set up your office in the comfort of your bedroom. However, this can be detrimental to your productivity and work-life balance. Mixing work and sleep in the same space can make it difficult to disconnect from work and can even lead to decreased productivity.
To avoid this, it’s important to create a designated work area in your home. Choose a room or area and transform it into a work-only space. Set up a desk or table and an office chair, and only work in that specific area. This will help you separate work from your personal life and create a healthy work-life balance.
It’s also crucial to keep your work area as separate from your sleeping area as possible. This will help you avoid the temptation to work in bed or let work interfere with your sleep. By creating a designated work area, you’ll be able to switch off from work when you’re done for the day and enjoy the relaxation and rest that comes with being in your bedroom.
13. Stay active
Working from home can sometimes lead to a sedentary lifestyle, with fewer opportunities to move around. That’s why it’s important to make a conscious effort to stay physically active throughout the day.
By staying active, you will be able to maintain your physical health while also enhancing your mental well-being. Remember to listen to your body, and choose the activities that work for you to create a sustainable exercise regime. Staying active while working from home can help you create a healthier work-life balance and improve your overall quality of life.
14. Start a side project
Are you finding yourself feeling bored or lacking motivation while working from home? It’s a common struggle for many remote workers, but there is a solution: start a side project.
Having a side project outside of work can give you something to look forward to and keep your motivation levels high. This could be anything from taking up a new hobby or course, to starting your own freelance business.
Remote work offers the perfect opportunity to explore your interests and passions outside of work hours. With a flexible schedule, you can allocate time towards pursuing these activities without sacrificing your work responsibilities.
Starting a freelance business in particular can be a great career move for someone who desires remote work and a flexible schedule. It allows you to be your own boss and work on projects that align with your interests and skills. Plus, it can be a great source of income outside of your regular job.
15. Declutter your home workstation
One of the best ways to stay motivated while working from home is to maintain a clean and organized workspace. With no one else around to keep things tidy, it’s easy for clutter to accumulate and distract from your work.
Here are some tips to help you declutter your home workstation and set yourself up for maximum productivity:
- Start with a deep clean. Before you can organize your workspace, you need to get rid of any built-up dust, dirt, and debris. Dust your furniture, wipe down your surfaces, and vacuum your floors.
- Sort through your papers. Paper clutter can quickly overwhelm a workspace. Sort through your papers and files, recycling or shredding anything you no longer need.
- Go digital. Whenever possible, scan your important documents and store them on your computer. This will not only help reduce paper clutter, but also make it easier for you to access your files when you need them.
- Create storage solutions. Make use of shelves, drawers, and storage containers to keep your workspace organized. This will help you avoid a cluttered desk and keep everything in its place.
- Minimize distractions. Remove any items that might distract you from your work, like your phone or other electronics that aren’t necessary for your job. This will help you stay focused and productive.
Consider your lighting. Good lighting is crucial for productivity. Make sure your workspace is well-lit with natural light or bright lamps. - Add some plants. Not only do plants make your workspace look nicer, but they can also help boost your mood and reduce stress.
16. Adapt your schedule for when you work best
Working from home can be a challenge when it comes to sticking to a schedule. However, setting a schedule can help you stay productive and motivated while reducing distractions. One way to adapt your schedule to your needs is to start with a basic schedule that includes your start time, lunch break, and finish time.
To better adapt your schedule to your mindset, you may want to schedule more important tasks during the time of day when you are typically most productive. For instance, if you tend to be more focused and energized in the morning, schedule your most challenging tasks during that time.
Reducing distractions during your workday can be a challenge, especially when working from home. However, by setting a schedule that adapts to your mindset, you can make the most of your productive time and reduce distractions. By taking small breaks throughout the day, you reduce the risk of burnout, keeping you motivated and productive for longer periods of time.
17. Experiment to see what works for you
Working from home can be a productivity challenge, but there are several strategies you can experiment with to boost your efficiency and creativity. The first step is to recognize that each person has different rhythms and motivations, so it’s essential to find what works best for you.
One strategy is to allocate your most challenging tasks during your periods of maximum productivity. If you’re a morning person, set aside your most daunting task early in the day when you’re more focused and energetic. If you’re a night owl, take on the most challenging tasks during hours where you feel the most awake.
As an employer, encouraging experimentation and creative thinking can also drive growth and innovation. Remote workers have varying expertise and insights. It’s essential to leverage this diversity by creating a platform where ideas can be shared and experimented on. Regular virtual meetings, brainstorming sessions, and feedback mechanisms can help employees feel connected, motivated, and inspired.
18. Practice self-care
With the rise of remote work, it’s easy to blur the lines between work and personal life. Work can easily start to take over our personal time, making it difficult to prioritize self-care. However, taking care of oneself is essential to maintain motivation and productivity in the long run.
One great way to start practicing self-care is to identify activities that help release stress. Some practical stress-release techniques include deep breathing, meditation, or engaging in a personal hobby. Make it a habit to engage in these activities regularly to reduce stress and recharge your energy.
In addition, taking breaks and stretching between work hours is crucial to prevent burnout. Sitting for prolonged periods of time can lead to muscle stiffness and increases the risk of repetitive strain injuries. To maintain motivation and productivity, schedule regular breaks throughout the day, and make it a habit to stand up, stretch, and move around.
Hydration is another critical aspect of self-care that is easy to overlook. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps boosts energy levels, improves concentration, and promotes overall health. Keep a water bottle nearby and aim to drink at least 8 cups of water each day.
Getting adequate sleep and eating a healthy diet are also essential to maintain motivation and productivity. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night, and include plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein in your diet. Avoid working late into the night as it can disrupt your sleep pattern, leading to decreased productivity the next day.
Lastly, staying connected with loved ones is also a crucial aspect of self-care. Make it a point to take time off work and spend quality time with family and friends. Staying connected with loved ones helps to maintain a healthy work-life balance and promotes overall well-being.
Conclusion
The key takeaway of this article is to work in a way that best suits you. With the ongoing pandemic, working from home has become the new norm for many people. While this may be a dream come true for some, it presents unique challenges, including distractions, lack of social interaction, and the difficulty of maintaining a work-life balance.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s situation is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it’s crucial to experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you. For instance, some people may prefer to work in small time blocks, while others may prefer to work longer stretches with regular breaks. Experimenting with different strategies can help you find a routine that maximizes your productivity while ensuring you don’t overwork yourself.
At the end of the day, working from home should be a positive experience. By understanding your work habits and experimenting with different strategies, you can create an environment that works best for you. Whether it’s working in small time blocks, taking regular breaks, or working longer stretches, finding the right strategy that supports your work style can help you thrive while working from home.
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Use the DigiWorks platform to hire, manage, and pay remote talent from all over the world.
About DigiWorks
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