8 Tips to Avoid Distractions While Working from Home

Working from home seems like a convenient setup. However, you can also be susceptible to distractions.

That said, we have listed eight easy-to-follow tips that can help avoid distractions while working from home.

1. Set Small Goals

Goal-setting is a crucial part of any workday. That way, you aren't dilly-dallying during working hours.

Although goal-setting is essential, it has to be smart. Make it specific and action-oriented (e.g., "Write blog post draft for XYZ client.")

2. Make a To-Do List

Once you've set your daily goal, your next step is to create a to-do list. A to-do list ensures that you stay on task during the workday.

After dictating your goals for the day, it's easier to write down your tasks to accomplish those goals. When writing down your tasks, estimate how long each task takes you and schedule accordingly.

We also suggest including "clean up" in your daily to-do list. It's a reminder to clean and declutter your workspace before or during the workday, allowing you to start your day with a clean slate.

3. Use Visual Tools to Stay Organized

Some people find that visual tools make it easier to draw ideas up than with their computers. However, doing it on a computer might not be enough, so adding tools like a whiteboard can help you better picture how your day will go.

It also helps to have a visible reminder of the things you need to do. If you leave it digital, your to-dos won't be as noticeable.

After all, we tend to open so many apps that we end up letting our to-dos fall through the cracks.

4. Create a Separate Workspace

One reason you have a hard time working from home may be from a lack of boundary between personal and work life.

We know that achieving a work-life balance is challenging. But if you do not align yourself, something's going to give.

As such, the first step to achieve balance is to create a separate workspace.

It doesn't have to be fancy. It can be a chair and desk in the corner of your room. What's essential is you create a boundary to help you get into that working mindset.

5. Take Regular Breaks

You shouldn't force yourself to work overtime or skip lunch just because you're working from home.

These breaks are there to help your mind recuperate some energy. In addition, it allows your body the chance to move around instead of just sitting down all the time. Therefore, you should take that opportunity.

When your body is healthy, and you get the breaks you need, it will be much easier to focus on the work you need to do.

6. Put Your Phone Away

If you find yourself mindlessly scrolling on your phone during work hours, it's a sign that you are getting distracted.

One thing you can do is set a timer when you scroll through your device mindlessly. But if you know that you lack self-control, you can choose to turn off your phone and place it in a drawer.

Better yet, leave it in a room that you will be less likely to visit throughout the day.

7. Invest in Noise-Blocking Headphones

Some people can concentrate better when listening to music or a podcast, but the noise from everyday life might not work for them. If you fall under this case, investing in noise-blocking headphones is worth it.

If you like listening to music, noise-blocking headphones allow you to focus on the task at hand while listening to music. It also communicates to people living with you not to talk to you because you're working on something while wearing your headphones.

8. Implement a Self-Care Routine

A self-care routine ensures that outside and inside of a work context, you are in tip-top shape. When you have a great life outside of work, the quality of your work improves, and you are more motivated to work.

Once you finish working through your morning self-care routine, you can finally feel settled down enough to start focusing on work.

The tips listed above can come in handy if you are looking for ways to avoid distractions while working from home. Because the less distracted you are, the more productive you can be. And what's fantastic about it is that you can work within the comfort of your home.