Since the pandemic, many of us have been working from home. With 24% of us in the UK now working at least hybrid, it's become a popular way to work. But how do we work most productively when we're surrounded by a myriad of potential distractions?
Allocate a workspace
If you're working from home, you'll want a dedicated space. Ideally an office but if not, a section of a room that is solely used for your work. Somewhere you can store your laptop, printer and paperwork as well as any equipment or materials you may use. Personalise the area with a nice plant or favourite artwork so it's a pleasure being at your desk.
If you're working in a nook in another room of your house, then make sure you keep doors closed and tell other members of your household that you're working and are not to be disturbed. Advertise to them, and any friends or relatives who may drop in, what your core working hours are and ask for them to be respected.
Get dressed
This may sound obvious (I don't have pyjama days even at the weekend!) but get yourself up, showered, dressed and ready to work. You won't need to wear formal attire but you should be clean and smart. Not only will this mean you're ready for any unexpected Zoom calls but you'll feel like you're ready to work rather than roll back into bed.
Have a commute
You've given up working at the office so you don't commute? That's right, but your commute, whether on public transport, driving or on foot will have given you time to prepare for the day. That half hour or hour will have let you get your thoughts in order and have time to reflect on the day ahead.
So why not make your dog walk first thing? Or go for a stroll around the block to get some fresh air. It'll improve your concentration and raise your energy levels.
Get up from your desk
It's important to exercise as you'll move less at home than you would when you go out to work. You also need to get moving frequently for your mental health. It can be easy when you're working alone to get lost in a work tunnel - I do it a lot! So lift yourself out of any fug by getting up from your desk, making a drink, getting outside or doing 5 minutes of exercise.
Avoid the housework
You're not working from home to spend the day folding washing. As tempting as it is to get chores done, try to put them out of mind while you're at your desk. If you keep your office clean and tidy, your focus should remain there. You're likely to finish work and be 'home from work' an hour or so earlier than you used to so save it for the end of the day.
Join a working group
If you find you're getting lonely working from home and you don't have a base where you can occasionally work, then look into co-working options in your area. I am very lucky to have a converted mansion house in my local town to work from for several hours a week. It's council subsidised so fees are minimal and I feel like I'm going out to work plus my concentration can be better when I'm working there.
Wherever or however you work, it's worth reviewing your space and the way you divide your time to find the best solution for you.
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