With some uncertainty about what’s next in our global future, we’re staying home for the first extended period of time in history. With or without this medically and politically advised ruling, we can still take this time to get a lot accomplished from the comfort of our homes now and can plan for the future.
Our home can be our sanctuary. It isn’t only where we’re supposed to feel the most comfortable, but it’s also a place where we can get some of our best ideas. So much thinking can go on during periods of relaxation that serve to inspire and rejuvenate us. With so little distraction (besides the big ones like social media and TV), this could be one of the most productive times in our lifetimes.
That said, you shouldn’t be putting too much pressure on yourself to accomplish something great during periods spent at home or working from home. You can, however, experiment much more than you thought possible. Let your imagination run during this time.
If you usually work from home or are more of a homebody in general, then you could use some tips on how to use your time most wisely during your time at home. While the comfortability of being at home can also come to some sluggishness, this is something you want to avoid entirely. All you’ll need are a few essentials and some willpower to make your time at home productive and exciting.
If you’ve started a job where you work remotely, or you’re currently having to work from home due to a crisis, or you’ve just started your online business and need to spend time at home tending to it, then here are some ideas that should keep you at your most productive!
Wake up early.
This is one of the best ways in which you can start the day off right and get much more done during it. While it can seem enticing to sleep in, especially if you don’t have a pressing deadline, setting a time to wake up and sticking to it can really help you to be as productive as possible.
Even if you don’t have to work during the morning, this could be a designated “me time” when you can do an online yoga class, go for a run or a walk, make yourself a nice breakfast, or read a good book. Experts say that the mornings could be the most productive time in the day, especially if you designate that time correctly and rationally.
This could also be a nice experiment in becoming the morning person you’ve always wanted to be.
Exercise.
When you work at home, you risk becoming pretty sedentary. One way you can keep your body in shape and your mind alert is by exercising. Exercising regularly is really important for the body and mind, and if you don’t already do so, you’ll probably want to start whether or not you work from home.
There are several ways in which you can do this and carve out time in your schedule to make exercising a priority for you. Morning exercise is known to be a really healthy way to start the day, and it can be a good way to take a break after lunch to fight the lethargy that can come after a meal (especially a big one).
Some exercises you can do from home include light cardio, yoga, weight training, and toning exercises. If you want to go all out and have space for it, you can buy an exercise machine like a treadmill or elliptical to get your heart and blood pumping.
Have a calendar and a to-do list.
Before you go to sleep each night, try compiling a to-do list for the next day. Once you turn this into a habit, it will be something that can totally help your productivity. Writing down what you need to get accomplished can help you remember what it is you need to do. It can also be really satisfying when you complete the list. You should always have a calendar of events and deadlines, so that you know what to be prepared for.
Start something new.
Once your workday is over, you can focus on your passion projects and hobbies. If you already have a project you’ve been working on, you can continue to work on it. If you’re at a loss as to what to do with yourself, then identify some projects that you’ve thought about starting for a while. What’s something that you promised yourself you’d do if you had the time to do so? Now is the time to start it or work on it!
It can be so exciting to have time to add something new to your life. Have you always wanted to learn how to play an instrument? Have you wanted to brush up your skills in another language? Have you wanted to start an artistic project, but never had the time to dedicate to it? Are you wanting to push yourself forward in your career and complete an ecba certification training? Now’s the time to explore your options.
Think of it like your evenings are entirely for you. While you shouldn’t push yourself too far that you can burn out and want to do nothing, you should be working on something you care about during this time. It can help you to find meaning and solace.
Take a break.
This is really important. Just like mornings have shown to be a productive time, so has the time spent taking a break. If you’re constantly working or creating, you don’t give your body or mind the chance to rest. Take a lunch break during the day, take a break to take the time to sit outside, and get some fresh air. You’ll be glad you did.