Pic Courtesy of jeffwongdesign.com - Lego's Office
As I launch my new online store I am open to any tips to get focused working from home. I have always had a place of profession to go, to get in the zone and be productive in my business. Now I face the challenge of working at home with a toddler, partner, animals, chores, cleaning, washing, cooking, phone, TV - the list goes on when it comes to distractions and interruptions. With lack of room to have a space just for myself and my office, I am going to have to really be committed to the task at hand. Here is a list of handy hints from Remodelista which I came across this morning. I am hoping it will provide some insight. I know that putting our son in front of DVD's all day is not responsible parenting but I find that helps..........
- As much as possible, take care of distractions before working. If you are distracted by disorder or something that can be completed ahead of time, take care of these items each night before heading to bed so you can focus on work the next day.
- Work at your best time. Find out what time of day you are most productive,then structure your schedule so you can do the work that requires the greatest amount of focus during the times when you are at your best.
- Work at a table or desk. Work in a place that feels like you should be doing work there. Sit at an organized desk (or table) and in a sturdy chair.
- Keep your to-do list visible. Start each day by reviewing your to-do list or creating one so you have a clear understanding of where you’re going. Crossoff items as you go.
- Add deadlines to your task list. Use a calendar, a stop watch, or any other device that will help you to reach goals by specific times.
- Keep email notifications turned off. Since email comes in at random times, it is hard to work without interruptions. Check e-mail on a schedule or when you take a break. If you can, turn that notification off when you need to focus.
- Have water and healthful snacks close by. Selecting your snacks at the start of the day will keep you from taking excessive breaks to the kitchen.
- Take breaks and stretch. At least once an hour, you should move a little to keep you at your best.