Tips for Staying Productive and Organized While Working from Home
Professional organizer and bestselling author Julie Morgenstern shares her top strategies for maintaining productivity in a home office setting.
Feeling lost in time? If you’re struggling to keep track of days and meetings, you’re not alone. We reached out to Julie Morgenstern, a renowned expert in organization, productivity, and time management, to provide insights on how to simplify our routines amidst the current challenges. She is the author of several bestselling books, including “Organizing From The Inside Out” and “Time Management From The Inside Out.” Her works have inspired a popular training program designed to boost productivity and optimize daily schedules.
Today, many are juggling work from home with family responsibilities, educational duties, and possibly caregiving for others. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not the only one. Julie has generously offered her best tips for maintaining focus and balance while working remotely. Here’s what she recommends.
Create Dedicated Work Areas
Setting up distinct workspaces for each adult can significantly enhance productivity. If possible, opt for rooms with doors to minimize distractions from pets or kids. Establish a specific area for children to engage in schoolwork, helping them understand when it’s time to concentrate. If space is tight, designate one area for quiet tasks and another for calls. Finding what works for your family is crucial during these unique times.
Establish a Daily Routine
While you can work at any time, it doesn't mean you should. Establish a structured schedule with clear start and end times to give your day boundaries. Try to align lunch and end times with your family, taking advantage of the flexibility that remote work offers. Break your day into three activities: focused work, meetings, and responses. Avoid getting distracted by constant notifications. Keep a centralized to-do list, preferably in your calendar. This will help you stay organized and reduce time lost searching for tasks.
Distinguish Work from Home Life
Our minds can benefit from simple tricks. To help transition into and out of work mode, mimic a daily commute. Get dressed, take a brief walk, and treat it as your journey to work. Once your workday ends, change into comfortable clothing and take another walk to signify the end of work. This technique not only provides fresh air but also helps your brain separate work time from personal time.
Create Relaxation Spaces & Balance
Living and working in the same place blurs the lines between relaxation and work. Designate a few areas in your home strictly for relaxation, keeping these spaces free from work-related tasks. Think of the rule about not having a TV in your bedroom to promote rest; apply similar concepts to your common areas. Use the time saved from your commute to engage in health, wellness, and family activities that you often overlook.
If you or someone you know is facing difficulties during these challenging times, we have resources available to assist, including a comprehensive list of information about financial aid, job opportunities, and other essential support.
To listen to Morgenstern’s original podcast on productivity, check it out here.