How to Stay Productive While Telecommuting?

Of all things that telecommuting has brought about, one of the most talked about could be productivity. After all, there are more distractions when working from home than there are in the workplace. With television, family, pets, social media, and other factors, one may easily find their productive potential hindered. However, with the right approach, telecommuting could not only be more productive, but could lead to greater heights of success.

The following article will explore tips and tricks to maximize productivity during telecommuting, and maintain peak performance levels.

1. CREATE A SPECIFIC WORKSPACE:

Setting up a dedicated space for work, instead of working from the bed or couch, creates a professional atmosphere, and helps reduce distraction levels. Identify an area within the house that will take on the role of a home office. Setup a desk, an ergonomic chair, adequate lighting, and other essentials.

A dedicated workspace also helps to mentally transition from a recreational mindset to one of work. The simple act of getting up, walking to the office, sitting down at the desk separates work from home. This signified separation helps to harness the mind, focus the mind and set the tone for increased productivity.

2. MAINTAIN A ROUTINE:

Maintaining a routine of waking up and going to bed at regular times, setting specific times for meals and showering, and other activities helps establish a rhythm that could lead to productive behavior. A well-planned routine also helps in structuring and managing time efficiently. Separate breaks within the schedule could also contribute towards refreshing and recharging the mind.

However, it is equally essential not to become complacent. While switching up a routine could boost creativity, sticking to a well-planned schedule helps regulate productivity.

3. CREATE A TO-DO LIST:

A to-do list is a powerful tool when it comes to increasing productivity. Establish specific and measurable goals for the day. The goals on the list should be well thought out, strategically arranged for maximum productivity, and include both personal and professional items.

Each task should be broken down into achievable segments. The feeling of crossing off an accomplished item from the list is a great morale booster.

4. ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS:

Distractions could disrupt focus, cause procrastination, and ultimately lead to a reduction in productivity.

Popular distractions when working from home include social media, pets, and household chores. Setting boundaries is key to maintaining focus. Consider communicating with family members the importance of time management. Also, consider disabling notifications, taking breaks away from the screen, and downloading apps that track time spent on distracting sites.

5. UTILIZE TECHNOLOGY:

Technology offers various applications that not only increase productivity, but also help track and manage time. Some tools such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom provide a platform where face-to-face meetings, virtual workspaces, and task management could all be managed under one application. Other tools like Trello, Asana, and Todoist can help keep track of tasks, deadlines, and priorities. The efficient management of time could also result in valuable family time, setting it aside from work and allowing for quality time with loved ones.

6. STAY CONNECTED:

The distance between team members and colleagues could cause feelings of loneliness and isolation. However, keeping in contact regularly helps increase productivity and fosters teamwork. Communication through video or phone calls, messaging applications like Slack, and frequent updates on group tasks could place the remote worker in the loop, keep them motivated, and contribute to their sense of belonging in the organization.

7. DRESS FOR SUCCESS:

It is often tempting to complete personal tasks from the comfort of pajamas. However, dressing up, like one would do for work, sets the right tone and creates a professional atmosphere. Dressing professionally separates work from recreational activities and helps establish a productive mindset.

8. EXERCISE FOR A HEALTHY BODY AND MIND:

Regular exercise helps reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and stress, all of which could reduce productivity. Exercise also improves memory and boosts creativity. It is advisable to take frequent breaks to stretch, take walks, or perform specific exercises for the eyes, back, and neck.

SUMMARY:

Telecommuting can be a powerful tool when utilized correctly. In conclusion, setting up a dedicated workspace, maintaining a routine, creating a to-do list, eliminating distractions, utilizing technology wisely, staying connected with colleagues, dressing for success, and engaging in healthy exercise regimes all play their part in making remote work a productive success.

By implementing these strategies, remote workers could increase productivity, achieve their objectives and ultimately lead to a more successful future.