There are times when seeing the “P” word in an article or tweet or Facebook post makes me want to tear my hair out. We all know we need to be productive. We know that being productive as a remote worker is more difficult than working in a corporate setting (or am I wrong?).
Why do we have to keep on talking and reading about productivity when we can be using that time to do some work?
Because reading is part of our job, that’s why.
Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.
Enter the other “P” word: procrastinate. You know where I stand when it comes to this.
Procrastinating is supposed to be detrimental to productivity, but I disagree. Remember how you can procrastinate productively? Well, reading is part of that, so if you’re still with me at this point, you’re doing great!
However, I do believe that there are certain habits and activities that can contribute to being a productive remote worker. The graphic below is a pretty good summary of these good habits.
How to Be Productive Working From Home
- Pet your pet(s). If you don’t have one, get one. Studies have shown that stroking cats and dogs help relieve stress. When your deadlines are killing you, get your cat or dog and go stroking!
- Get out of bed. This is too close to home, but I’ll do it one of these days. Maybe tomorrow…Seriously, though, work in your home office. Use your dining table if you must. Go to the park or coffee shop. It doesn’t matter where as long as you don’t work where you’ll be tempted to sleep or get distracted by other comforts.
- Dress up. I’ve always believed in the importance of “pretending” you’re going to the office where you are expected to dress decently. Although the life of a work-at-home writer is often portrayed as working in your pajamas or even your birthday suit if that’s how you roll, dressing up as if you were going out helps in entering the productive zone. And, as the graphic below will tell you, you’ll do others a favor as well.
- Fuel up. It’s easy to forget to eat regularly when you’re all caught up in work – especially when you’re on a creative roll. Being a lean mean writing machine is awesome, but you’ll crash eventually. Ensure that this crash won’t be too bad by giving your body fuel. To make it easier for you, keep food and drinks within an arm’s reach.
Here’s a lighter summary of what I just wrote.
Is this you, or do you need to work on these areas?
How about your own tips, quirks, and habits? Maybe you have something to share with us – feel free to do so!
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