It can be difficult to stay focused throughout the whole day while working from home – especially if you’ve recently set up a business in your living room and are still adjusting to the home working environment. Add in the increased distractions with the world being a little different right now, and it can put a dent in your productivity. According to the most recent Government figures, 5.7 million UK micro-businesses are going through all the same home working challenges every day.
But, you’re not alone, and starting your day off the right way can set you up for success.
So, Business Electricity Prices have put together some great tips to make sure you stay on track.
1. Work on your own schedule but maintain regular hours
Get out of the mindset that 9-5 are your working hours. But don’t let time run away from you either. Set a schedule and stick to it. If you’re a morning person, start your working day earlier. Just know when it is time to shut off and switch to home mode.
A study by Wildgoose found that 44% of remote workers work longer hours than office workers. It’s understandable for longer hours to be more frequent for small business owners with a passion. However, working longer hours is a one-way ticket to procrastination and fatigue.
2. Get some early morning fresh air and schedule breaks
If you’re struggling to get a spring in your step on those early mornings, clear your head and set yourself up for the day with a short walk. This time is great to think about your goals for the day and unpack the previous day.
You’ll also want to schedule some short 15-minute breaks throughout the day to stretch, make yourself a drink or even just stand outside in the fresh air. In fact, Advanced Neurotherapy claims that spending some time outdoors has been proven to increase brain function and concentration.
3. Plan your workflow
The best way to stay efficient is to create a to-do list at the beginning for each day. It’s great to tick off easier tasks and then work your way up to more challenging tasks. Make sure you know where your priorities are for the day. Make sure your list is achievable within the working day and know when it is time to ‘clock-off’.
You might find it helpful to take 30 minutes at the end of the day to sit and look back over your day and plan the next working day. You will feel accomplished and set yourself up for success.
4. Set time aside for professional development
The days and weeks can go by in a flash when you’re busy. This should not stop you from setting some time aside for professional development. Whether you want to take that crash course in SEO or learn how to do your own tax return, this will break up the day-to-day and help your business develop. This is especially important if you’re a new business owner.
LinkedIn Learning offers some excellent courses to help advance your multiple skills. You can get your first month free and sharpen your skills on a variety of business, creative and technology topics.
5. Make sure you have a bright and comfortable workstation
Optimizing your workstation can help surge your productivity. Ideally, you will have a spare room to dedicate your office space to. It is important to be able to shut the door away from other household distractions. The room should be bright, airy and absent of distractions. You’ll also want to make sure you have adequate lumbar support with all the necessary equipment to be able to run your business efficiently.
However you choose to work, it is important to establish a routine. It may take a couple of weeks to find out what works for you. Even simple changes such as scheduling meetings in the afternoon can drag you away from that mid-afternoon slump.
