Hello there! :wave: Are you one of those people who are currently working from home? Or maybe, are you planning to make the switch from office-based to remote work? Since the pandemic hit and changed the way we work, most companies have shifted to working from home setups. And on the brighter side, most employees have found this new setup to be much more comfortable and flexible. But let’s face it, working from home can also be very challenging, especially when it comes to productivity.

Here’s your guide to work from home essentials: productivity tools and hacks, to keep you motivated, focused, and productive throughout your remote work journey.

Plan Your Day Ahead :calendar:

One of the most essential things to keep in mind when working from home is to plan your day ahead. Set a schedule for your work hours, breaks, and even meals. This way, you can manage your time more efficiently and not feel overwhelmed.

You can use calendar apps like Google Calendar or Trello to help you schedule your tasks and keep track of your deadlines. Plus, you can add reminders and alerts to keep you on track.

A person sitting at a desk planning their day on a calendar app on their computer

Set Up Your Workspace :house_with_garden:

Your workspace can greatly impact your productivity. Make sure to set up your workspace in a way that is comfortable, quiet, and organized. A cluttered workspace can lead to procrastination and distractions.

Invest in a good desk and chair, and make sure to keep your workspace tidy. You can also add some plants or decorations to make your workspace more appealing and inspiring.

A tidy workspace with a person sitting at a desk, with plants and decorations on the shelves behind them

Get Dressed and Ready :shirt: :lipstick:

Although the freedom to work in your pajamas might sound appealing, it can actually affect your productivity. Getting dressed as if you were going to the office can help put you in the right mindset for work. It also signals to your brain that it’s work time, not relaxation time.

You don’t have to dress up formally; you can opt for comfortable yet presentable outfits. And when it comes to makeup, just a little touch-up can go a long way in boosting your confidence.

A person sitting at a desk in work clothes, looking at their computer

Manage Your Distractions :no_entry_sign:

One of the most significant challenges of working from home is managing distractions. It can be easy to get sidetracked with household chores, social media, or other non-work-related tasks.

To avoid this, you can try setting a timer for these activities, or better yet, schedule them during your breaks. You can also use productivity apps like Focus@Will or StayFocusd to block distracting websites during your work hours.

A person with earphones on, working on a computer with an app open on the other tab to avoid distractions

Take Breaks and Move :running_woman:

Taking regular breaks is essential in maintaining your productivity and focus throughout the day. You can take short 5-10 minute breaks every hour or two to stretch, walk, or do some exercises. Not only does it help you avoid burnout, but it can also boost your creativity and energy levels.

If you’re not much of an exercise person, you can also opt for other activities such as meditation, reading, or even taking a power nap.

A person stretching their arms while standing up from their desk and looking out the window

Communicate Effectively :speaking_head:

Communication is key when working remotely. Make sure to communicate clearly and regularly with your team, supervisors, and clients. You can use video conferencing apps like Zoom or Skype to conduct meetings, or even just to say hello and keep in touch.

Make sure to also set expectations and boundaries when it comes to work hours and email response times. This way, you can avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

A person smiling in front of their computer, with colleagues on the screen in a virtual meeting

With these productivity tools and hacks, you can make your work from home experience more fulfilling and manageable. Remember that it takes time and practice to adjust to this new working environment, so be patient with yourself. Stay motivated, stay focused, and stay productive. You’ve got this! :muscle:

A person sitting at a tidy desk, smiling and typing on a laptop, with plants and decorations on the shelves behind them