One of the main disadvantages of working at home is the constant distractions. They are all around us. Here’s a list of a few common distractions to watch out for and what you can do to deal with them.
- Environment
- When you’re working try to ignore whatever’s going on around you. Having an office with a door you can close will help. Don’t let yourself get involved watching neighborhood activities or the television.
- Put a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door to discourage others from interrupting your work.
- Set the temperature to a comfortable level.
- Arrange your office so you have enough light and there’s no glare on your computer screen.
- Limit time spent on household tasks during working hours.
2. Lists
- Schedule tasks into your planner/calendar as you become aware that they need to be done. Don’t keep adding them to a never-ending list. Constantly reviewing to-do lists keeps reminding you of all the things you’re not doing. Focus on the one item in front of you.
3. Yourself
- Make sure you’re always working on something important. Don’t let your mind become preoccupied with something else you really should be doing.
- Get up and move around every hour or so to give yourself a natural break. Your mind and body can only stay focused for so long without seeking a change. Build in breaks before your mind drifts and your body gets restless.
- If you’re having trouble concentrating on one task, switch gears and work on another for a while.
- See more suggestions in the Value Variety section.
If you’d like more tips on Working from Home, sign up for our newsletter and get a free report.
