Working from home has many perks: no commute, fewer interruptions, and the freedom to wear whatever you want. It’s no wonder many people are jumping on the remote work bandwagon. However, while there are many benefits, staying productive outside a traditional office environment can be challenging. Here are seven tips to help you stay focused and efficient while working from home.

1. Create a “Work” Mindset

To shift into a productive mindset, establish a morning routine similar to what you would do if heading into the office. Make your morning coffee or tea, shower, and dress in something other than pajamas, even if it’s just casual attire. Setting this tone helps differentiate work time from relaxation time. If your home feels too quiet, consider playing background noise, as studies have shown that ambient sound can enhance creativity.

2. Set Up a Dedicated Workspace

Having a specific area in your home reserved solely for work is crucial. Choose a spot not used for relaxation or family activities to help create a mental and physical boundary between work and personal life. When it’s time to end your workday, you can more easily disconnect if your “office” is separate from your living space. Ensure your workspace includes a comfortable chair, good lighting, and office supplies.

3. Prioritize Communication

In a remote work setup, communication is vital. Since face-to-face interactions are limited, please regularly check in with your team through video calls, messaging apps, or project management tools. Regular communication helps maintain team cohesion and keeps everyone aligned on goals and deadlines. For a list of collaboration tools, check out this post.

4. Reduce Distractions

Managing distractions is critical to maintaining productivity at home. Here are a few ways to minimize interruptions:

• Music: Choose a playlist or station that allows uninterrupted listening to avoid constant song switching.

• Pets: Brief interactions with pets can be relaxing, but too much attention can disrupt your work. Keep pets in a separate area during critical work periods.

• Children: If you have children, explain your need for focused work time if they’re old enough to understand. For younger children, consider arranging for childcare or planning engaging activities.

• Deliveries and Visitors: Set boundaries for unscheduled visitors, such as friends or neighbors. A simple “I’m on a deadline today; can we catch up later?” often does the trick.

5. Plan Ahead

Think ahead and prepare for your needs as if you were in a physical office. Keep an ample supply of office essentials like pens, paper, and printer ink. This preparation helps you avoid the distraction of running errands or getting caught up in online shopping.

6. Be Mindful of Eating Habits

With the kitchen nearby, it’s tempting to snack frequently or prepare elaborate meals. Instead, plan your meals and snacks, focusing on nutritious choices that sustain energy and support concentration throughout the day.

7. Schedule Breaks

While it might seem counterproductive, taking regular breaks is crucial for maintaining productivity. Research suggests that the most effective workers alternate between periods of intense focus (around 52 minutes) and short breaks (about 17 minutes). Use breaks to move around, stretch, or relax to reset your mind.

To be successful while working from home, it’s essential to focus on creating a productive environment and routine. Establishing clear boundaries, minimizing distractions, and prioritizing communication can enhance your productivity and enjoy the benefits of remote work. Remember, the key is balancing the “work” and “home” aspects of your day to create a seamless, practical work-from-home experience.