President Rodrigo Duterte recently ordered the lockdown of Metro Manila from March 15 to April 14, 2020. Some companies are encouraged to let their employees to telecommute to deter the spread of COVID-19.
I have been working from home for 10 years now, and I’ve come across several obstacles for being productive. Here are some of the tips that I’ve accumulated to eliminate distractions while working from home.
Avoid the bed at all costs
The bed triggers your need to sleep, especially when you’re working during the graveyard shift. Move your work space away from your bedroom. If it can’t be avoided because of the lack of space, make sure that your back is towards the bed or in another position so you won’t see it.
Try to work at a noise-free part of your home
Clear some space on the second floor of your home if you have one so you will be far from the commotion downstairs. If you have a single floor home, arrange the furniture around a space in such a way as to remind others that it is your space and that you need privacy.
Set a working schedule
Talk to the people at home with you and tell them that you need privacy during certain times of the day. Setting schedules will keep distractions at home to a minimum.
Turn off the TV
The television is another item to avoid. As much as possible, turn it off while working or turn away from it if others are watching. Stay focused on your job instead.
In the advent of Netflix and other online streaming services, it can be tempting to watch a video with just a push of a button. Have the discipline to not open the service while working.
Invest in a good headset
Put it over your ears even if you’re not listening to music, you won’t even notice that it’s there. The silence provided by the headset will help you concentrate on your job and prevent your mind from wandering.
Keep your working space clutter-free as much as possible
Too much item on your work desk makes it less conducive for work. Stack your books nicely if you have, or arrange your pencils and pens so that they don’t go places. Organize the things you see and your mind will be free from distractions.
Try not to check your social media accounts
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media can take away your focus and must be avoided while you work. The thing about social media is that they will still be there when you open them during your break time.
Set your phone to silent mode
Messages will still arrive which you can still read during your break. You can check them from time to time, but don’t let the notification sounds distract you as you work.
Keep in mind the reasons why you chose to work from home. Getting distracted and losing focus while working from home will have a negative effect, sometimes at the cost of your employment.
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