5 Ways to Limit Distractions While Working From Home 

Are you excited or anxious about the prospect of working from home? Many people enjoy the idea of a virtual background for Google Meet becoming the new standard. Still, others are reluctant because of the potential distractions in the home, from pets to children to spouses or roommates. If remote work is your new normal, how do you limit or eliminate distractions so you can remain productive and an integral member of the team?

1. How Time Blocking Can Help Your Productivity

Aside from using a custom Google Meet background, have you ever heard of time blocking? Time blocking is essentially time management but in a to-do list form. You will divide your day between work hours and recreation hours. During work hours, you should have time specified for each task. 

Time blocking is an effective management tool that helps you maintain accountability for yourself. However, if you want the approach to be effective, you must adhere to your set schedules.

2. Make the Most of Your Day

While it is fun searching for a Zoom virtual office background that suits your personality, it is not the most effective use of your time. You need to ensure that work hours are dedicated to accomplishing specific work-oriented tasks. Any family issues or hobbies need to remain locked in their respective time slots. However, remember remote work is not about rigidity; it is about making the most of your day while maintaining productivity.

3. Setting Clear Boundaries With Family

It is often challenging for children, spouses, roommates, pets, etc., to understand how you can be both present and not present while at home. Your children see you in your office and assume you can talk to them and play with them. They do not realize that you are in a virtual workspace, that you are technically not at home but in the office. Sit down with your family and set clear and predictable boundaries to prevent confusion and distraction.

4. Making Your Work Space Practical and Personal

Part of eliminating or limiting distractions is setting up your environment to promote work. You want your office to contain all the essential tools for you to complete any work-related task. Preferably, you will not have to leave your home office during work hours.

While your office must be practical, you should also make it personal. You need to bring things into your space that motivate you and encourage you to stick to your job. These personal touches are unique to everyone, so it is up to you to decide what they are. 

5. Setting Clear Expectations for Yourself

When you work remotely, you do not have a manager in the next room or hovering over your shoulder. You have the responsibility of setting goals and expectations for yourself. You need to set realistic expectations but also give yourself enough work to keep you busy for the day.

Working from home is challenging. You might need more advice as you begin your remote journey. Consider talking to a remote work expert in your area for more information.