How to stay focused and productive in your home office

The corona pandemic is still going on and working from home will probably remain compulsory for a while. Some employees have no problems with this at all, but others still find it difficult to work focused and productively in their home office. That’s why our experts offer their five most important tips for working successfully in your home office, minimizing distractions, maintaining focus and reconciling professional and private life.

1. Create your own workspace

Having your own space is important in order to stay focused. We recommend purchasing a desk and a back-friendly desk chair so that you can work comfortably without straining your neck or your back. Choose a comfortable chair. Your body will thank you.

Also, you should make sure to work on a clean and tidy table and only have the most important documents, like your work phone, something to drink, and a notebook. Other things like books or even table decorations may distract you.

2. Consider suitable clothing

Getting up and staying in your pyjamas is both tempting and time-saving. This may work for some, but it prevents many from mentally creating a professional and productive work atmosphere because it makes them feel like they are not really at work. It is therefore advisable to dress like you would at work, this will immediately make you feel more focused.

3. Structure your day

It is important to remember that when you work at home, it is your sole responsibility to complete your tasks successfully and efficiently. We recommend that you start your work at the same time every day and set a fixed time for your breaks in order to have more structure. To stay productive, it is important that you follow a routine similar to that of your normal working day at the office.

Between these time slots, you should lay out specific times for specific tasks. For example, focus mainly on calls and meetings in the morning and emails and research in the afternoon.

This way you can do all your tasks in a structured manner and feel productive, satisfied and relaxed at the end of the day.

4. Make time for breaks

Regular breaks are important so that your brain can rest and your batteries can recharge. Use the lunch break, for example, for a short walk in the sun, a phone call with friends or to replenish your energy with a tasty and light snack.

Even between breaks, it’s important to stay moving, even if it is just stretching your legs and going to the kitchen for a cup of tea or coffee, or walking out into the garden to get a breath of fresh air!

5. Focus on work-life balance

It is important that you clearly separate your working hours from your free time. However, it is just as important that your private and professional environments and those that surround it, are aware when it is time to work and when you are free.

It is therefore suggested speaking openly with your family and friends about your schedule and consider making them aware of the times you will have to take important phone calls or video calls in order not to be disturbed. Then you have more time for your family and friends during breaks or after work hours.