I recently started working exclusively from home. I used to go to the office three times a week and after doing that for a year, I realized it wasn’t adding anything to my work or my life. Instead, I was spending at least 5 hours commuting every week and spending more on gas money.
I now work remotely and I have been enjoying having more time to enjoy the morning before I start working.
But remote work comes with its own set of challenges. If you are a remote worker, you’re likely no stranger to the the issues of staying focused and productive while working from home. Without the structure of an office environment, it’s easy to get sidetracked by household chores, social media, or the comfort of your couch.
But what if you could boost your productivity without sacrificing your flexibility or work-life balance? Here are 10 surprising ways to do just that:
1. Create a “Start Work” Ritual
Develop a consistent morning routine that signals the start of your workday. This could be as simple as making a cup of coffee, doing a quick meditation, or putting on a specific playlist.
My work ritual is one that allows me to wake myself up fully and get in the work mood. It involves making my bed, going for a walk, taking a shower, and doing some quick stretches before I sit down at my desk.
2. Use the “2-Minute Rule”
If a task can be done in less than 2 minutes, do it immediately. This helps eliminate small distractions and frees up mental energy for more important tasks. I get really distracted if I know I have to do a phone call, or get the mail. These things are realtively simple and quick to do, but if I procrastinate, they will end up affecting my work. I have found that it is better to do them immediately.
3. Schedule “Break Reminders”
Set reminders to take regular breaks throughout the day. This helps you recharge, reduces burnout, and increases focus when you return to work.
When I am working on projects that I find interesting or that require a lot of focus, I tend to forget about everything else. I once worked until 6pm (I usually end my work day at 4 pm). I need to remind myself to take breaks to stretch, eat, etc. My watch sends me hourly reminder to avoid staying sedentary for too long.
4. Declutter Your Digital Life
Organize your computer files, tidy up your email inbox, and uninstall unnecessary apps. A clutter-free digital environment helps you stay focused and avoid distractions. I love a clean space in my physical, digital, and mental space.
5. Practice “Time Blocking”
Time blocking is not new. It’s a basic of productivity and it’s very useful. I llike to divide my workday into focused 90-minute blocks, followed by 10-15 minute breaks. This technique helps me to stay in flow and maintain productivity. When I have shorter tasks, I prefer using a 25-minute pomodoro timer with a 5-minute break after each session.
6. Get Moving (Literally)
Incorporate physical activity into your workday, such as a lunchtime workout or a walking meeting. Exercise boosts energy, improves focus, and increases creativity. I do this with my morning and lunch walks.
7. Use “Productivity Music”
Listen to music specifically designed to enhance focus and productivity. Studies show that certain genres, such as classical or lo-fi, can improve cognitive function and reduce distractions.
8. Implement a “No Meeting Day”
Designate one day a week as a “no meeting day,” allowing you to focus on deep work and critical tasks without interruptions. As a junior engineer, I don’t get to choose everything I do, but I do try to put this principle into practice by dividing my days like that:
| Monday | Communication/Meetings Week Planning |
| Tuesday | Deep Work |
| Wednesday | Commmunication/Reset Training Small Tasks |
| Thursday | Deep Work |
| Friday | Small Tasks Review |
9. Leverage “Micro-Habits”
Create small, achievable habits that build momentum and increase productivity. Examples include writing 250 words daily, making 5 sales calls, or completing a specific task within a set timeframe.
This is something I need to start incorporating more. Every year, I set professional goals that I share with my supervisor and we have check-ins about progress and a discussion at the end of the year. I think this would be a great place ot incorporate this.
10. Practice “Digital Detox”
Set aside device-free time each day, such as during meals or before bed, to reduce distractions, improve sleep, and increase productivity.
Suzie Key Tima 
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