5 Methods To Increase Productivity When Working From Home

Given the current environment many of you may be working from home for a while yet.

When you're working from home you should always be looking for ways to increase your productivity. More work done in less time means more time to kick back, relax and have fun. Here are a few suggestions that can really make a difference:

1. Keep a daily routine

Some people who are new to working from home will scoff at the idea of anything resembling a daily schedule. The truth, though, is that it can really boost productivity and prevent work from spilling over into your spare time. By starting and stopping work at approximately the same times every day, you ensure you'll have plenty of time to recharge afterwards, which is ultimately great for productivity.

2. Always plan ahead

Something as simple as a daily to-do list can do wonders for your productivity. Sure, deciding on the spot what to do next has a certain charm, but it leaves you spending too much time on deciding, and too little on actually working. Keep a daily to-do list and decide on your tasks for the next day before your work day is over - you'll notice the difference almost immediately!

3. Stay healthy

It's impossible to stay productive in the long run if you treat your body and mind poorly. You don't have to become a health nut to get some real work done, but you should at the very least try to schedule some exercise a couple of times per week, even if it's just going for a walk around the block. It's also a good idea to invest in an ergonomic workplace, including a good chair to sit on, as that helps reduce fatigue and keep you energized throughout the day.

4. Eliminate distractions

Yes, some people are able to watch TV while they're working. They're probably a minority, however, as most of us find it quite difficult to focus on two things simultaneously. When you're working, turn off the TV, set your phone to silent, close your Facebook tab and most importantly, find a private space where you can shut the door - your productivity will skyrocket!

5. Get out of the house

Even if you're the type of person who enjoys working alone, the fact is it can get lonely after a while. If you spend all your week cooped up in your office, rarely seeing the outside world, chances are you'll feel a bit isolated and your work will suffer as a result. Therefore, make a point of leaving the house at least a few times per week, even if it's just to do something simple such as meeting a friend for coffee.

These were just a few examples of things to you can do to improve your productivity. Most people should benefit from implementing these, but feel free to experiment and find what works best for you. Good luck!