Remote working can be challenging, especially in the beginning. Perhaps your to-do list is growing by the hour. Or you’re struggling to stay on task. Or maybe you can’t quite switch off after hours. If that’s the case, it could be time to re-visit some time management basics.
We’ve listed below 5 simple steps to help you to get back on track and to ensure you’re using your time wisely. So whether you’re new to working from home or a seasoned pro, take control of your time thieves and show them who’s boss.
Let’s get cracking….unless you’re reading this when you should be working. If so, bookmark this page for later and GO DO SOME WORK!
Step 1 – Set Clear Objectives
Having clear objectives is an essential element of managing your time effectively. There are a number of ways you can set your goals. One example is the “SMART” method :
Setting specific goals allows you to define exactly what you need to focus your energy on.- Make them measurable so you know when they’re complete or how much work is needed whilst you’re working on them.
- Objectives should be achievable – there’s no point setting yourself up to fail if your target is impossible to reach. Use smaller, bite-sized goals to help you nail the biggies.
- Of course they need to be relevant to your overall plan.
- Setting timescales gives you a deadline to work towards, rather than just floating along.
“Goals are part of every aspect of business/life and provide a sense of direction, motivation, a clear focus, and clarify importance. By setting goals, you are providing yourself with a target to aim for.” (Rf Corporate Finance Institute.)
Step 2 – Plan and Prioritise
Once you have some clear objectives in place, you can start to plan what to work on and when.
Decide which tasks are most urgent and give them priority. Allocate time for the rest of your workload.
Having a timetable is a great way to stay on track and get jobs completed. Identify when you’re at your best for different types of tasks.
For example, if your brain works best first thing in the morning, use this time to tackle more complex tasks. If you have an afternoon slump, use this time for jobs which are easier or more enjoyable to help keep you motivated.
Stick to your schedule where possible but be prepared to make changes where necessary.
“Thoughtful prioritisation typically involves creating an agenda, evaluating tasks, and allocating time and work to bring the most value in a short amount of time. Prioritisation should be flexible, as you may need to interrupt low-priority tasks for urgent must-dos.” (Rf Caitlin Bishop, WeWork.)
Step 3 – Spread the Word
Keep your co-workers in the loop. Let them know what you’re working on and how it’s going. Communication is key, especially when working from home.
It’s essential for forward planning and will help you to identify areas where you may need additional support. Plus it makes you more answerable to others. This way you’ll be less likely to stray from the task at hand.
It’s just as important to talk to your family or the people you share your space with. Let them know when you need absolute quiet for example. Give them an idea of the challenges you’re facing due to remote working.
If you’re all on the same page, the likelihood is that you’ll be given the extra space you need to get on with your work.
“Developing strong communication skills can allow you to make your plans and goals clear to people you work with. It also allows you to delegate, which lets you focus on completing the most important, relevant tasks that align with your goals.” (Rf Hanne Keiling, Indeed.)
Step 4 – Minimise Distractions
Most of us face a number of distractions in the office. But in the home, it’s a whole new ball-game.
It can be hard to stay focused with kids, pets or partners around. Or maybe you have noisy neighbours.
There might be the temptation to start prepping the dinner or catching up on some housework when you should be finishing that presentation.
There’s a good chance you won’t be able to eliminate every distraction, but by identifying the main ones you can find ways to deal with them.
It’s really important to practice self-discipline and keep working. Ask those around you to let you get on with it as well. Make it clear that work time is work time.
Make a “Do Not Disturb” sign for when you really need to concentrate. Use headphones to listen to background music or to drown out noise. Or just put them on without sound. It makes you look less available and often deters interruptions.
“One of the biggest challenges for people who are working from home for the first time is staying on task. Your home offers a variety of distractions that can pull you away from your work at any point, affecting your productivity.” (Rf Michael Page.)
Step 5 – Separate Work Life from Home Life
This is the golden key to working from home successfully. The lines between work and home life get blurred when you work remotely so it’s important to make a clear distinction between the two from the offset.
When you’re working, stick to it and crack on. Have a separate work zone and use this for work only. Make sure you have set breaks and use these for non-work activities. Or just get away from your desk and sit in a different room with a cuppa.
Finish work on time where possible and use your leisure time for your kids, pets, partners. Plan activities outside of your working hours. Assess your work life balance and identify ways you can make improvements.
By separating work and home life, you’ll get the break you need from the job and you’ll be more productive when you’re on-duty.
“Not only does maintaining a distinction between the two sides improve your personal life, but by clearly outlining the boundaries of your working day, you’ll find yourself more productive and better able to achieve your goals in a shorter space of time.” (Rf Steve Hogarty, WeWork.)
The Time Management Basics Takeaway
By re-visiting some time management basics, you’ll be in a great position to make working from home work better for you.
Here’s a quick recap on the 5 simple steps you can start using today :
- Set clear objectives – for focus, motivation and direction.
- Plan and prioritise – identify the best ways to use your time and create a schedule.
- Spread the word – communicate with your co-workers and keep your family in the loop as well.
- Minimise distractions – and work on your self-discipline too.
- Separate your work life from home life – and develop a healthy work life balance.
Working from home can be a real challenge. Take a look at what you’re doing, change the things you can do better and you’ll be working it like a boss in no time!
| Do you struggle to get the job done WFH? What strategies do you use to keep on top of your tasks. How do you keep the distractions at bay? As always, we would love to hear from you. Drop us a comment in the box below or email jane@standingdeskuk.com. |
If you’re still in need of a little inspiration, take a look at the Indeed article on 11 Time Management Tips for Working From Home.
