Working from Home: How to Create a Productive Workspace

 

This picture is probably what a lot of people believe working from home looks like. And it may be that way for some people. However, this is not a very good set up for being productive. Although it is very cozy, it will probably make you want to go to sleep, read a good book, look at your phone, play with the dog, have a snack, watch tv, and introduce lots of other distractions. I'll be honest though, that drink and blanket look so nice, I wish I could be productive while working like that.

Working from home does have its benefits. If you have kids, you can take a break anytime and tend to your family. You have the luxury of being flexible. But if you do want to be productive, I would recommend creating a proper workspace that encourages productivity. Here are some tips:

• Pick a room that will be your designated office
• Make sure your office space is clean, quiet, and distraction free
• If your house is not quiet and you are able to, choose a nice library or cafe that is quiet and the ideal place for you to work at
• Have a good, comfortable office chair. It's good to be sitting up while you work. This will help you be more alert and help keep you focused. 
• If you're like me and can work with a little noise -- have some relaxing instrumental music playing while you work. This can help working seem less mundane. 
• Keep an organized workspace. That way you can find everything you need without having to look. If it's unorganized, looking for things that you need while you work can become a distraction.

And as a last little reminder when working at home... take breaks! I have a difficult time following this tip. I like to work for hours without a break and let my brain get fried. Honestly, I found that this can actually decrease productivity. If you don't take breaks, your mind will get tired, and you will start to work slower. So, make sure to take lots of breaks!