Although working from home has become much more common in recent years, the vast majority of professionals are not accustomed to working from home on a full-time basis. At times, it feels like there is less accountability and it can be hard to maintain motivation when you’ve been wearing the same sweatpants for weeks on end. As a result, many are struggling to maintain the same level of productivity.
If this sounds familiar, check out these four steps to be more efficient and get the most out of the time you spend working:
1. Identify a designated work space.
As we are all cooped up inside our homes, it can start to feel like the walls are closing in, especially for apartment dwellers with limited space. Despite this, setting up a specified work space area in your home can help create routine, helping support your mindset. I.e. when I’m sitting at the kitchen table, I’m at work. When I’m sitting on the couch, I’m relaxing. Even if it’s only a different spot in the same room, creating a comfortable work area will allow you to train your brain to focus while you’re sitting there.
2. Break down your task list into smaller chunks.
When your to-do list seems insurmountable and you're having trouble focusing, it can help to break things down into more manageable pieces that feel more approachable. Rather than looking at a huge list and feeling totally overwhelmed, choose one task, or even the first step or two of completing a big project, and make a decision to focus on that. Once you finish that piece, you can move on to the next step. Focus on one thing at a time, rather than trying to work on multiple projects at once.
3. Specify a period of time that you will focus on work.
Identify the amount of time that you are able to stay totally focused. This will vary for everyone. Some will struggle to focus longer than 20 minutes, while others may be able to commit to an hour or more. One isn’t better than the other, you just have to know what works for you. Once you identify how long you are able to sustain attention, set an alarm on your phone so that you don't have to keep an eye on the time. Make a rule that for the next X number of minutes, you are only going to focus on the task at hand. After the alarm goes off, take a short break and then re-set your alarm to dive back in.
4. Minimize distractions.
Once you’ve made your “rule” that you are going to focus on a specific project for a set amount of time, your job is to give that project your undivided attention. Turn off notifications on your phone and computer. Close out tabs. Use the restroom beforehand, grab your coffee and commit to doing nothing other than work. Once your alarm goes off, then it’s time to grab a snack, move around or check email. Not before!
If you have found yourself struggling with all of the recent changes that life has thrown at us, whether related to work or not, reach out for support. Make a telehealth appointment today.
Written by: Kate Loewenstein, LCSW