Working from home is not a catalyst for less productivity. In fact, it can lead to increased performance according to a recent Stanford University experiment. Regardless of studies and statistics, skeptics still argue that people who work from home will slack off.
We’ve put together tried and true tips for increasing your productivity while you’re working from home:
Don’t turn on the TV: Resist the urge to binge-watch your favorite TV shows and movies. While studies show that listening to music can improve productivity and creativity, the same doesn’t hold true for movies and TV.
Let people know that you are working from home: Email the people you work closely with to let them know that you will be working from home. Make it clear that you will be available by phone, online chat, and email. Stay accessible throughout the day.
Work at a desk or table: It is much easier to stay focused when you are working at a desk or table instead of your couch or bed. If you regularly work from home, and you have the space, you may want to turn a spare room into a guest room that doubles as a home office.
Get away: If you are having difficulty concentrating, it can be helpful to go to a coffee shop, library, or coworking space.
Dress professionally: Don’t wear your pajamas, gym clothes, or sweatpants–even if you just rolled out of bed or went to the gym. According to the clinical psychologist Dr. Jennifer Baumbartner, how you dress can affect your demeanor and performance. Wear an outfit that makes you feel confident.
Set working hours: If you work for yourself, it is helpful to set working hours. You’ll be more productive during the time that you’ve designated to be your “work day” and you can fully turn-off when that time is up. It can be hard to have your office also be your home. Setting work hours can help you set boundaries without always feeling like you should be working.
Working from home is an opportunity to get a lot of work done without distractions and interruptions. We hope that these productivity tips help you leverage the benefits of working from home.
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