When you are working from home, there are countless things vying for your attention. That pile of laundry you need to do, the dishes that have to be washed, and the TV show on in the background all often seem much more appealing than the work we have in front of us. Overcoming these challenges as a remote worker can almost seem impossible in the beginning. However, with the right setup, tools and mindset, you can ensure that you stay focused and on track when you are working remotely moving forward. 

Whether you are working home full-time or just a few days a week, it pays to invest in your setup at home. Working at your kitchen table while the kids are running around the house and the dog is barking is no way to stay on track with your work. Take the time to look at some standing desks, office chairs, monitors, noise-canceling headphones and other tools that will improve your remote working experience. Having the right setup, you can ensure that remain focused, on-task, and comfortable throughout the day. 

Let’s take a look at a few key tips to help you to avoid restlessness and stay focused when you’re working from home. 

Understand Your Tendencies

Everybody has a different approach to work and you need to find the best solution for you. Some people work best in the evening, others are more creative in the morning, while other remote workers are at their best after crawling out of bed at 11 am. Figuring out the time of day when you are most productive will help you to plan more important tasks for this time so that you give them the attention they deserve. Working remotely, you are not held to the confines of normal office hours so if you do your best work late at night or early in the morning, embrace it and make remote working, work for you. 

Create A Schedule

When you have figured out when you do your best work, it’s important to put a schedule in place and follow it so that you stay focused and on track. Establishing your work hours around the times of the day you are most productive is crucial. When you are creating your schedule, make sure that you allow enough time for breaks. Put boundaries in place that ensure you can stick to your plan and that you are not distracted during those all-important productive hours. If you share your home with family, friends or housemates, be sure to set rules that you are not to be disturbed when you are working. Often people assume that because you are at home during the middle of the day that you are free to chat or socialize, which can lead to a lot of distraction. Be sure to set boundaries and rules in place to prevent this from happening. 

Use Lists To Stay On Track

Whether you create lists of tasks you need to complete digitally or write them down with pen and paper, this is one of the best ways to stay on track when you are working remotely. Making lists helps to keep you accountable and on track throughout the day and ensures that nothing slips through the cracks. Lists not only serve as an excellent reminder as to what you need to get done but also provide you with a clear starting point when you sit down at your desk. Writing your to-do list for tomorrow at the end of today is always the best approach. 

Stay Active During The Day

Working remotely, it can often be very easy to fall into the trap of not moving enough during the day. Moving regularly throughout the day is not only important for your physical well-being but failing to move regularly can also cause you to become less alert and more distracted. Going for a brisk walk in the morning and again on your lunch break, as well as taking short ten minute breaks from your screen throughout the day will ensure that you get all of the movement you need throughout the day, keeping you alert, focused and on-task during your work hours. Regular movement will also help you to avoid pains and injuries associated with sitting for long periods of time, which is always a bonus. 

Set Yourself Up To Stay Focused When You Are Working Remotely

Working remotely can be hugely beneficial for workers, allowing them to take more control over their day-to-day schedules and strike a better work/life balance. However, working from home also comes with its own fair share of unique challenges that can affect your performance and output significantly if you allow them to. Be sure to follow the tips discussed above so you can fight restlessness successfully, avoid distractions and stay focused on the goals ahead.