The current situation: distractions aplenty present new challenges to focusing on work in our personal spaces. Productivity is something I need to plan for differently when I’m working at home. In the past, slipping into the SEMCOG office and desk made for a fairly easy transition. Also, my family didn’t know the security code to open the office door.
Working from home involves figuring out the best place(s) to work, the best times to get work done, and how to set boundaries between work life and personal life. The physical boundaries that used to exist (miles of distance and doors my kids couldn’t open) have to be built through new routines. It can be challenging and can make the productivity feel elusive at times.
Start with a list
I’m a huge believer in lists. It’s the only way to escort the swirl of ideas out of my head and into a secure, constructive place. Digital lists like To-do-list and many do work as well as old-fashioned paper and pencil. Each morning (even better if I do it the night before), I list out work and personal tasks. Pretending that these worlds are ever really separate is no longer productive for me. I like to highlight a few priority items so I don’t feel as overwhelmed by the length of the list. The best part of using pen and paper is the crossing off as you go. It might be the most satisfying part of my day now that my family always knows where to find me. More likely, it’s because most brains get a dopamine hit from completing a task. Whatever it is, it feels good.
Stick to a routine
Working from home often results in a more flexible structure to the day. Having a routine in place helps give me the structure I had when I went to the office. During the school year, I walk my younger son to school and then get started on my list. The fresh air and activity helps me to feel energized for the day ahead. Choosing an existing habit like taking my son to school acts as a catalyst which makes me feel work-ready.
Follow a schedule
Making a schedule for the day is another way to maximize productivity. I find it helpful to take into consideration the time of day that I am most productive along with the existing routines of the household. It helps to identify “deep work time,” for complete immersion the most important tasks without any interruptions. Studies show that after an interruption, it can take 25 minutes or more to get back to work. After making my to-do list in the morning, I “schedule” the deep work tasks on my calendar. It feels like a commitment to make a meeting with myself allot time to focus on just that task. It also helps, if possible, to momentarily turn off email notifications and silence your phone.
Break up big tasks
When I see a big task on my to-do list, I can feel tempted to procrastinate because I picture sitting in front of the computer for hours. Breaking it up into tiny steps (so tiny it might seem ridiculous), my brain is tricked into action as I collect “easy wins.” As I’m successful, momentum builds and before I know it, I’ve tricked my brain into a full, productive work session. And now I’ll have positive associations with this work which sets me up for future success.
Full disclosure: I’m not a productivity expert. Not at all. Since it doesn’t come easily to me, I’ve had to work on it and find the tools and tricks that I’ve shared. It’s even a possibility that I almost missed my deadline on this blog.
Feel free to email me and let me know what helps you to be productive while working at home. I need all the tips I can get.
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