Struggling with getting things done when working from home? Too many distractions or things that need to be done, and you can’t stay focused for long periods? After five years of working from home, I have found the things that do and don’t work for me, so here are my top 5 tips that allow me to stay productive!
A Master List!
I work great with lists, I love lists actually! I have a whiteboard that includes a master list of to-do’s each week and each day I select the 3-4 items I want to accomplish. This is the easiest way for me to make sure I am working on the top to-do items every week first and fitting in easy to accomplish tasks as I have time! – Plus, if I don’t feel motivated to do something that day I don’t feel the need to force it! It can be done tomorrow.
Touch it Once!
DO NOT allow yourself to work on projects here and there unless you want it to take days, weeks, or even months! I try my hardest not to start a project or task unless I can finish it right then and there. Touching a task multiple times leaves you with tons of half-done projects vs actually crossing off your to-do list
Change Up Your WorkSpace
While I do agree that you should have a dedicated workspace, some weeks I can not focus at my desk no matter what and trying to force myself too does no good. I have gotten some of my best work done in the back corner of Chick Fil A, McAlisters, Starbucks, and many other places. Sometimes just a change in scenery can be a massive increase in creativity and motivation – especially if you can blast some music on your drive there!
Can’t leave your house? Then work someplace comfy and cozy or where you can get fresh air! I love working on my couch in an oversized blanket, a sweatshirt, and with the back door open for some fresh air!
Take BREAKS!
This is a HUGE one! After every big task I complete I allow myself a 5-10 minute break to rest and transition to the next to-do! Also, make sure you schedule lunch. I try my best not to start a big project between 11- 1 if I haven’t eaten lunch yet because I know if I do, I won’t stop for lunch for a few hours and will struggle with focusing.
Batch small to-do’s!
If I have a handful of everyday tasks that take 5-15 minutes each, then I can batch them at one time to knock them out fast! For example – I will send a contract, an invoice, check my inbox for urgent emails, post on social, and check-in with my coaching students during a one-hour timeframe. I know I only have an hour to accomplish these tasks so it keeps me focused and not wandering off task.
( TIP – Checking Emails or checking in with clients can be time-consuming. I NEVER do this until I feel I am at a point in my day where IF there is an emergency or big to-do, I have time to address it. If not, I have to save it for the end of my day! )
BONUS
Don’t jump straight into work the minute you wake up! Allow the first 90 minutes of your day to be YOURS! Workout, get breakfast, get coffee, take the pups for a walk, read a book – do what you enjoy and at an enjoyable pace. Then get to work! You will be way more productive if you don’t start your day by running full steam ahead!
