It can be hard to focus when you’re working, and it can be even harder to focus when you’re working from home. Even though working from home can have its share of benefits, like being able to work in the comfort of your own home, it can have some drawbacks, too. The main difficulty of working from home, though, is often finding ways to stay both focused and motivated. If you’re looking for ways to stay on top of your tasks, here are a few things to try.
Eat Foods That Help You Focus
One way to help your ability to focus is to eat foods that provide you with sustained energy throughout the day, particularly ones that contain protein and fiber. While sugar and caffeine can be great for a quick pick me up, they can also lead to spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels, too. These crashes can sap you of the energy you need to stay focused on your work. Additionally, you should also think about whether you should eat protein before or after a workout and how often you’re snacking, as not eating enough throughout the day can make it hard to focus as well.
Take Breaks for Exercise
Along with eating balanced meals that keep you energized, it can also be important to take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch. If stretching isn’t enough, taking a walk or going for a jog or run can be other great ways to get your blood pumping and help you feel energized. Not only will you physically feel better after taking a break for some exercise, but it can help stabilize your mood, too. This mood stabilization can be especially helpful for those working at home, because of the stress it can sometimes cause.
Find Ways To Limit Distractions
Distractions may be present in any workplace, but they can be a particularly big issue for those that work at home. When you’re home, it can be so easy to get off track, and shift your attention to any number of things, like what your family members are doing in the other room, to the pile of laundry you need to get done. Even though it may not be possible to cut out all distractions completely, finding ways to limit or reduce them where you can may make a big difference when it comes to your ability to stay on task.
Follow a Routine
Developing a routine and sticking to it can be a great way to help yourself stay motivated. With a routine, it is often easier to get into the groove and stay focused on the task at hand. A routine will provide some stability and regularity to your day, which is something that is often lacking for those working at home, because it is generally a much less structured workplace than the office. A set routine can also make it easier for you to keep track of the progress you make on your work throughout the day, as well as set goals and reach them.
Set Up a Designated Workspace
Having a designated workspace can make a big difference when it comes to your productivity, even though it may not seem like it. By having a spot that is for your work, and only for your work, it can be easier to get into a working mindset, as well as avoid distractions. If possible, it is best to find a space that has a door you can shut, to avoid interference from others in your home. Also, if possible, it is a good idea to find a room to work in that isn’t your bedroom. When you work in you bedroom, it can be easy for your brain to slip into relaxation mode, and you might find yourself napping or daydreaming, rather than getting your work done. Additionally, having a spot that you can decorate in a way similar to the way you would decorate an office space can also help you when it comes to focusing and maintaining your motivation.
The Bottom Line
It can be hard to focus at times, no matter where you work, but it can be especially hard when you work from home. That doesn’t mean, though, that there aren’t things you can do to help yourself stay on track. Whether you make sure you eat well and take plenty of breaks, or make a point to follow a routine, there can be more than one way to improve your motivation and productivity while working from home.
