Remote work boosts productivity, supports work-life balance, and saves time. It’s no surprise that 98% of workers want the option to work remotely at least part-time. But working from home isn’t without its challenges. It can lead to burnout, make it difficult to connect with coworkers, and blur the lines between work and personal life.
That’s why we’ve put together the best remote work hacks in this blog. These remote work productivity tips will help you tackle the challenges and make the most of your time.
Best Productivity Hacks for Remote Working
- Use Time Management Techniques
Working remotely can make it easy to lose track of time. To stay on top of your tasks, try incorporating time management techniques. One effective method is the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working for two to three hours followed by a 20- to 30-minute break.
- Set up “Do Not Disturb” Mode
There is a Do Not Disturb mode on PCs and smartphones that will significantly improve your concentration during the work process. In terms of focus, this solution is extremely effective.
However, there is a more interesting approach, namely, using an app to record phone calls. If you decide to download Call Recorder for iPhone, you can not only block incoming calls, but also record them. That is, the phone recording app helps you stay in touch, know who and why called you, and take the necessary actions during rest periods.
- Set Healthy Boundaries
It’s easy for family, friends, and housemates to forget that being at home doesn’t mean you’re available. To keep things smooth and minimize disruptions, have a chat with your household about your work hours and the kind of environment you need to stay productive.
If sticking to your usual schedule isn’t feasible, consider modifying your work hours and responsibilities. Discuss any changes with your manager first, and then inform your colleagues and professional network as needed.
Also, if your hours change, update your calendar to manage expectations and help maintain a good work-life balance.
- Designate a Workspace
Working from your sofa or bed might seem tempting, but these spots are productivity killers. Your mind links them to relaxation, not work. To boost your efficiency, you need a separate workspace that creates a clear boundary between your job and home life.
Create a dedicated workspace that puts you in a work-oriented mindset, whether it’s a spare room or a cozy corner in your living room. Here are some tips for setting up your home office:
- Choose a spot with natural light: Position your workspace near a window for fresh air and sunlight.
- Avoid distractions: Set up away from the kitchen, living area, or busy street views if you get easily distracted.
- Utilize available space: If you don’t have a spare room, designate a work chair and desk in a room corner.
- Invest in ergonomic furniture: Get comfortable, ergonomic furniture, including keyboards, especially if you sit for long periods.
- Consider a standing desk: Use a standing desk for a change of pace and to keep your energy levels up.
- Choose a Proper Home Office
What’s the best part about working from home? For many, it’s the comfort of working from anywhere—be it the living room or bedroom. However, this comfort can sometimes lead to decreased productivity, focus, and missed goals.
While working from bed or the couch might be convenient, disrupted sleep schedules can make it hard to concentrate and avoid dozing off.
You have two choices: succumb to lethargy and feel demotivated, or break free from your cozy home setting to boost productivity. The latter is always the better option.
- Use Podcasts or Music
I didn’t get into podcasts until I started working remotely. They became a way to stay engaged and learn new things. Before I knew it, I was hooked! Funny enough, it was being interviewed on a podcast that sparked my interest in them as a hobby.
Podcasts can be very engaging, which is great, but it means I can’t listen to them while typing emails, thinking hard, or writing. For those tasks, I prefer instrumental music without lyrics, which I stream from a smart device.
- Eat & Sleep right
One of the perks of working from home is having free access to the kitchen. But constantly reaching for snacks during breaks isn’t doing you any favors in the long run.
A healthy diet is essential for any working professional. You need food that boosts your energy, not drains it.
At the office, it’s easier to make healthier choices, whether you’re eating in the cafeteria or bringing a packed lunch. However, when you’re at home, it’s easy to fall into the habit of indulgence.
Conclusion
To boost productivity, you might need to change your current work habits, which can be the most challenging part. However, over time, you’ll see a significant increase in your output. Take it one step at a time and measure the results to ensure they are working for you.