Staying Focused While Working From Home

Working from home can be challenging, especially when you throw in a couple kids, dogs and that endless chore list. Well we did the research and came up with a list of 10 ways to stay focused while working from home.

Have a Dedicated Work Space

Whether you have a sprawling home office or a nook in your kitchen, it’s important to have a dedicated office. Even urban dwellers with limited square footage should carve out a spot that’s just for work.

Dress for Success - No Pajamas Rule

While there’s no need for a three-piece suit or a pencil skirt and heels when you’re not leaving your home, there’s a happy medium for getting dressed in the morning. Wear what’s comfortable for you. But having a morning routine — meaning brushing your teeth and changing out of your pajamas — is crucial, even if you’re just switching to yoga pants.

Save Chores for Later

It’s tempting to run the dishwasher while you work or take a break to vacuum, but doing so can interrupt your flow and focus. Just like everything else, set aside a certain amount of time each day to do this — do not casually mix it into your routine if you are a very tidy person.

Take an (at home) Gym Break

Scheduling a sweat session into your workday is a good idea as long as you plan it right. Your physical health is more at risk than you realize when working from home, even those who sit in an office cubicle still tend to walk a mile or so throughout the day. Plus, taking an exercise break provides a brain boost. Instead of reaching for a cup of coffee, a workout can get those endorphins flowing and deliver a natural burst of energy.

Stay off Social Media

Is there any rabbit hole more tempting than social media? A quick scroll on Instagram can turn into a major time suck, but there are ways to avoid temptation. StayFocusd helps avoid these distractions by restricting the amount of time you can spend on them. The Google Chrome extension lets you set specific time restrictions on certain websites with a 10-minute default option.

Open a Window

Nourish yourself while working from home through incorporating regular short breaks, standing up, opening the window for a deep breath, and going for a walk during lunchtime.

Take a Real Lunch Break - Eat in Another Room

Take a break for lunch as you would during a standard work day. It’s also helpful to eat your meals away from your workstation. Having the mental break and taking time for mindful eating will result in a more productive afternoon.

Create a Schedule for your Kids

If your kids are school-age, they can be largely self-directed for at least part of the day. Try having them do online school work between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Setting a solid schedule for your kids will keep them and yourself on track.

Step Outside and Reset

Try to leave the house for a short break just as you do at the office for a quick reset. Leaving the workspace for a brief period of time allows your body to move, get some fresh air, and provides a mental reset so that you can ensure productivity upon returning to work.

Implement a Self-Care Routine

Research shows that making time for self-care is key to better managing stressful situations. One study found that taking the time out for physical fitness can help to improve your brain function, including your memory and problem-solving skills, which help you to stay focused throughout the day.

Don't Forget About the Pooches

Our friends over at fluentwoof.com have a complete guide on how to maintain a productive work week while dealing with you best furry friends. Please check out their blog at https://fluentwoof.com/working-from-home-with-a-dog/