How to (Productively) Work From Home

Key word: productively. 

I know the struggle all too well, as I am a work-from-home intern who just happens to also be addicted to Netflix and Hulu.  Needless to say, sometimes it can be a bit difficult to get things done.

Keep in mind: you don’t have to be a “home-professional” to relate to this problem.  College students – I’m looking at you.  Rewatching all 16 seasons of Law and Order: SVU can seem so appealing when you have a six-page paper due in two hours…

Here’s a few tips to get focused!

1.Get dressed

The best thing you can do to jump-start your ultra-productive work day is to actually get dressed as if you’re leaving the house. No, do not put on a different pair of pajamas… put on real clothes so you’ll mentally feel ready to work.

2. Make a to-do list

Another great way to stay on task is to clearly define what those tasks are.  I’ve gotten pretty good at this –  at the very beginning of the day, I write out each specific task that I need to get done that day.  I usually prioritize these to-do items based on which are due the soonest, and which I can procrastinate until the end of the day.   Even when you get wrapped up in the next season of Nurse Jackie, you can clearly see what you’ve gotten done and what still needs to be completed.  Here’s a great article on effective to-do lists from lifehacker.

3.Have a designated work space

My biggest work-from-home mistake was to work-from-bed.  It’s all too easy to stay in your bed, curled up in a blanket whilst taking business calls.  Unless you’re Puffy or Vash-Daddy, this is a bad move! Clearly define a work space, whether it’s the softest part of the couch and the coffee table, or an actual desk.  Keep your space clean and free of clutter (yeah, right) and you’re off to a great start!

4.Take breaks

In between all of that productivity, be sure to take breaks to refresh yourself.  This is a great rule of thumb for anyone – even those working from the office.   No matter how comfy your couch is, your brain will need a break.  Get out the house, go for a walk, or head to your nearest Starbucks for a pick me up.

Have you recently stumbled upon the keys to work-from-home success? Don’t be selfish – share your tips in the comment section!