MAXIMIZE PRODUCTIVITY WHILE WORKING FROM HOME
As technology changes at lightning speed so does the way we work. If you have fantasized about your 9-5 beginning and ending from the comfort of your own home you are not alone. According to Flexjobs.com between 2005 to 2017, there was a 159% increase in remote work. In 2015, 3.9 million U.S. workers were working remotely. Today that number is at 4.7 million, or 3.4% of the population.
States like Massachusetts are even offering employers major tax credits for businesses that allow their employees to work from home. All in the name of reducing our carbon footprint and decongesting our roadways. If you’ve ever had to commute to work in a major city you understand the stress and anxiety.
At CRMD we have consultants across the country who work from home. We try to balance working from home with lots of communication and occasional team outings to encourage bonding and create community within the company. Check out how you can maximize productivity while working from home. So get out of those PJ’s, grab a coffee and get productive!
Plan the night before.
One of the key steps to be productive when working from home is planning out your day the night before. Instead of waking up the morning of your stay-at-home work day frantic and overwhelmed; spend 30 minutes the night before plan your productive day. (Maybe even light cleaning your workspace to make it more inviting the following day)
Waking up early is essential to a blooming day.
The most productive way to start your morning is going straight to work mode. Get your daily dose of coffee and go straight to work. Since you planned your day the night before, you already know what you’re going into so it’s an easy transition. Once you feel like you need a little break, time for breakfast.
Set your work hours.
Setting your work hours creates structure which helps productivity. It will help you determine when to start and end your work day. Being clear and creating boundaries with your work hours will help you balance work and home life. It’ll help your body adapt to your typical work day at home.
Schedule meetings in the afternoon.
A little pro tip is to plan your meetings in the “early afternoon” around 10 or 11 am to boost productivity. If you’ve been working alone all morning , talking to co-workers and clients will help you become more motivated to finish your day off strong.
Take short breaks.
The beauty of working from home is the flexibility, embrace it. Whether you’re going to a workout class or going out for lunch, enjoy time away from your workspace. When you return, you’ll have a refreshed mindset. If you do not want to leave the comfort of your home, take 10 minute breaks to destress by stretching.
Embrace office hours.
Most companies that work remotely set up offices in cities that they employ the most people. Office spaces like WeWork, Oficio, The Wing, and hundreds of other provide an excellent space to get away and focus on your work. If your company provides office hours take advantage of it! You’ll be in an environment with like minded people and will be able to structure your day without the distractions that might occur while working from home.
