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DQ News: Top Tips to Staying Motivated When Working from Home

People who trek to an office everyday often bemoan the fact and wish they could work from home. And while many home-workers are quick to point out the advantages of a stay-at-home job, they will relay the downside just as quickly. So really, it’s not all it’s cracked up to be.

There are very few home workers who sit in their PJs all day, tinkering away at the keyboard, churning out the work. It’s much harder than that, for many. There are often too many distractions, and without the pressure of a nagging boss it’s hard to get things done, especially with that evil angel procrastination sitting on your shoulder. So, what’s the secret to getting motivated and working to your optimum potential? Read on to find out.

1. Take a Break

When you find your mind wandering, take a break away from your desk. Go and do anything else but work. Make those phone calls that have been preying on your mind, nip out and do the grocery shopping or tick a few household chores off the list. If you’re feeling really lethargic, use the time as an exercise break; so clean the bathroom, mop the floors or do the vacuuming. Once you’re finished you’ll find that the rush of energy will have you invigorated and ready to tackle some work.

2. Divide Your Workload

Sometimes it’s difficult to get started on certain projects. They’re either too boring or too overwhelming. Devise a spreadsheet; list all the jobs you need to do, then place them in an order that ensures the boring jobs are sprinkled between the not-so tedious jobs. If a project is threatening to swamp you, divide it into workable parts so it doesn’t seem so daunting. Although, many times you’ll find that once you actually get started on the project it’s easier to do it all at once. You’ll often find motivation kicks in again once you get going.

3. Make a List

Some people in the world can’t function without lists. Making a list is the highlight of their day, but it doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Lists are a good idea as it sets a plan in your head for the day; details what needs doing, and in what order. It/s an excellent way of organising your workload. If you find yourself losing motivation, then take a break from the computer, or whatever you’re doing and write down all the things that need to be done. You might even scare yourself into working once you realise how much needs doing.

4. Set Personal Deadlines

It’s hard working from home if you don’t have an immediate line manager wanting to know when certain projects will be completed. You need to set deadlines yourself, and stick to them. At the beginning of the week, think what you want to achieve by the end and write down your goals. Motivation often comes from having a sense of achievement, so make sure the goals are attainable, otherwise you’ll be fighting a losing battle.

5. Set Rewards

Bribes might be a better choice of words. For every large goal you achieve, give yourself a pat on the back and treat yourself to something, whether it’s a bar of chocolate with coffee or a beer at the end of the day, having something to look forward to will make the success of finishing something all the sweeter. Of course, if you have a beer at the end of the day anyway, you might want to bribe your work efforts with something else!

6. Stay Connected

Sometimes when you’re working from home you just need an extra little push to get things done. If you get connected to other people who work in your field you can be spurred on by their motivation. This doesn’t mean you should while away the hours on LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook, or any other online forums, just look and talk for long enough to gain some inspiration, and thus momentum.

7. Switch On, Tune In

One of the joys of working from home is that you can listen to music as often and as loud as you like, without having to worry about annoying co-workers. True, some people find music a distraction, but depending on your chores at the time it can provide a boost of energy when you need it most. Some people even have their own working tunes, or studying tunes. Find a tempo that suits your sensibilities without infiltrating too much and you’ll soon find those long-lost work juices flowing.

8. Get Some Air

This doesn’t necessarily mean work outside, although, if you have the ways and means it is a great idea. Open the window and let the air flow through the house. A stuffy house can cause you to become a little tired, while fresh air will help lift your mood. Too cold, though, and all you be thinking of is the chill factor, so maintain a temperature that suits you.

9. Move Your Workplace

Another luxury of working from home means you don’t necessarily have to be house-bound. So if you are still stuck in a rut, and have tried a number of ways to get motivated, why not leave the house altogether and seek a new workstation. This can be a local cafe, library or any WiFi public area. Remember though, this move can lead to further frustration if the WiFi connections prove to be pitiful. It’s advisable to test the various outlets and their WiFi on days that you don’t have a pressing workload.

10. Have a Routine

Even if you normally abhor routine, which let’s face it, applies to a number of people who work from home as they’ve managed to shirk the regular workplace, having a routine is so important. It will differ from person to person, but it will make working from home a lot easier. Make sure you’re at your desk at the same time each working day, and set out you plan for the day. Some people like to check emails first, allotting no more than an hour to the task, then list what needs doing, or have a list prepared from the night before. Always take a break for lunch as this will help recharge the batteries, and round off the day by re-checking your list. Ticking off jobs done will give you a sense of achievement and a little pride  and help get you motivated to tackle the next working day.

About the Author: This article was written by William from Home Loan Finder. Visit Home Loan Finder to compare home loan interest rates.

Photo Credit: emdot

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