Using a Tool That Blocks Websites and Other Distractions That Suck Time
This is one of the best ways of making sure you don’t waste time on websites that don’t add any value to your work or well-being. A good example is the StayFocusd Chrome extension that monitors the time you are spending on sites you have designated. You can include social media, news sites, and any sites that take a lot of your time.
Taking Real Breaks
You need to take breaks where you are away from the computer. You should not take your break in front of the computer, consider a short work or doing any other task that doesn’t involve the computer.
Setting and Prioritizing Concrete Goals
In the morning, make a list of things you want to accomplish that day. Make sure your goals are measurable so you can know whether you achieved the goal or not. This is going to help in measuring your progress. Examples include:
- Writing X blog posts
- Inputting X number of data points
- Reviewing Y’s work
- Writing X emails
- Establishing agenda for a meeting
If you have a large goal, break it down into smaller goals. It can be a little challenging to keep track of tasks and subtasks, which is why you should consider getting a task or project management tool, like Asana.
Tracking Your Time
You have many options to choose from when it comes to tools to use in tracking time on task. Some good examples are Hours time and Harvest. There are apps you can use in tracking the amount of time you are spending on the different apps you have on your computer, with RescueTime being one of them. One tool that has always worked for me is a simple spreadsheet measuring how much time I have left in the workday to finish a given task. If you want to use this approach, you need to first estimate how long a given task is going to take – which can be challenging for many people and not just people working remotely. You need to keep track of your time because it is going to help you a lot – you will have data points you can use, and not just relying on estimates.
Connecting With Someone
When you are disconnected from others, you can easily get distracted. It is a good idea to call a team member, a business acquittance, or a client to talk about any roadblocks you might have encountered. You can be motivated by seeing what others are doing. Keeping others updated on what you are doing is going to help you by holding you accountable. This is going to also help you feel like you are not isolated from others, something that remote workers tend to feel.
Working in Chunks of Time
Many people swear by the Pomodoro technique, where it involves focusing on your work for 25 minutes then taking a 5-minute break. Whatever technique you use, make sure you follow it consistently and track how many chunks you complete in a day.
Standing Up
It is a good idea to transition from sitting to a standing desk because it is going to help you stay focused and alert. Sitting the whole day is not good for your health. You don’t have to be standing the entire day, just make sure you try to stand more.
Rest
It is very easy when working from home for the line between work and relaxation to blur. Many people find themselves working late into the evenings and compromising on sleep. Not getting enough sleep will compromise productivity before you even start your day. Stay alert, focused and efficient by getting enough sleep each night. Ensure your bedroom is comfortable. Invest in a new mattress, read these mattress reviews 2021 and get a great night’s sleep.
