Blog

Home offices are quickly becoming more common. This can be seen with telecommuting, where a remote work arrangement is made with an employer, or for home-based business. Many companies can see that some people just like to work from home for a change, and they are really good at it. The telecommute option is desirable for the independent-minded employees who find value in flexibility.

Not everyone may be highly effective in their home office; thankfully the home routine, just as with an office culture, can be learned. Here are 10 habits for increasing at-home productivity.

1. Stay organized. Many apps are designed just for telecommuters and the unique situations that arise from a home office.  Find the most effective ways to organize your time and information. Telecommuters may need to give special consideration to things like the closest Wi-Fi access or call forwarding options.
2. Take breaks. A more flexible schedule will require more attention. The casual co-worker conversation or group breaks are not instigated by anyone else. Be conscientious that movement increases brain productivity.
3. Morning’s best. Numerous studies have found that the most successful, productive people jump into projects right when they wake up. Try to schedule in the bulk of your work before lunch.
4. Be comfortable. Comfort naturally leads to increased productivity. Dress in clothes that are non-restrictive and relaxed. In case of an impromptu Skype call, keep a nice shirt handy.
5. Hydrate.  Mental, emotional, and physical well-being are at their peak when your tissues are hydrated. Keep a 32 oz. bottle close by, and track how much you consume. Ideally you would drink at least two bottles a day.
6. Single-task. The skill of multi-tasking has long been a desirable skill, but the advent of technology and never-ending distractions has taken it to a whole new level. It is far better to be able to set all distractions aside – email, instant messaging, phone calls, or project work – and focus on one task at a time. Toggling between tasks will actually slow down progress.
7. Set an end. Just as with working at an office, there are days when work will go into the evening hours. This should be an exception and not a standard. Set daily goals with tasks and accomplishments. The day can be over upon their completion. Cleaning your work plate each day will help to stay on track.
8. Intentional errands. Distractions can consume precious time and focus. Steer clear of random wandering and last minute invitations. When leaving the house, have specific errands and a necessary purpose.
9. Track habits. Identify the best and most productive times in your day. Build in mini-breaks as best fits to your schedule.
10. Measure deliverables. Keep track of your deliverables by day, week, and month. This will identify how you’re doing, how much you’ve done, and where you could improve.

Used with permission from Article Aggregator