Around 42% of Americans are working from home full-time. This makes proper time management crucial, as employers aren’t overseeing their teams in person.
Although it sounds overwhelming, there are multiple ways you can improve your time management skills, whether it’s trying new techniques or creating the ultimate work environment. Perhaps you’ve been struggling with time management and you’re looking for inspiration.
Sounds familiar? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. Here is how to manage time when working remotely.
Follow a Schedule
One of the best time managing practices is creating a schedule and sticking to it. It may sound obvious, but many remote newbies underestimate how crucial it is to start at the same time each day, even when you’re not in the office.
As a general rule, choose the same working hours because you’re used to them. But make sure you have clear boundaries with coworkers and bosses so you’re not working late in the evenings or over the weekend.
Further, figure out when you’re most productive. This is so you can set your most challenging tasks at that time so you produce fantastic work. And, for example, if you’re less engaged post-lunch, then schedule menial tasks like answering emails or taking calls.
Dedicate a Workspace
Want to learn how to work remotely and be more productive while you’re at it? Dedicate a workspace so you know you’re in work mode there.
For instance, transform part of your living room into a home office, where you only work. And if you want to binge Netflix, then move to another area to remind yourself that your work area is different.
If you get restless, spend an afternoon working at your local cafe or library to help you set a physical boundary. Plus, the change of scenery will remind you to improve your time management skills and focus.
Dress for Work
An underrated time management technique is to dress like you’re in the office.
Although it’s tempting to work in your pajamas, it can affect how well you’re focused. So wear clothes you’d happily wear in public and enjoy your newfound productivity.
Minimize Social Media Distractions
Employees who are struggling with their time management skills should eliminate distractions like social media.
In fact, 210 million people suffer from social media addictions, whether it’s sneakily checking your Instagram during working hours or replying on Messenger. Either way, the wasted time adds up which can affect how quickly you complete a task.
If this sounds familiar, then log out of your social media accounts during work hours or silence your phone. You should also use incognito browsers as it stops you from automatically logging into your pages.
Time Block Tasks
Not sure how to work remotely? Then time blocks your tasks, as it will streamline your schedule.
Instead of switching between tasks, set one part of your day to reply to emails while the other is working on a particular project. Because you have a set limit, you’ll complete complex tasks faster so you’re not overwhelmed.
Try the Pomodoro Technique
Another useful popular strategy is using the Pomodoro technique. This is where you take a five-minute break after working for 25 minutes. Once you’ve completed four sessions, then you can take a 20-minute break.
Many remote workers find this a useful strategy as you have a time limit so stay focused, making it far easier than having no schedule.
Plan Your Breaks
Like you would at the office, schedule regular breaks during your day. Make sure you take a small break every 90 minutes as it will boost productivity and keep you focused.
Also, during your lunch break, go outside for a walk or get a change of scenery as you may get restless.
Reward Yourself
Struggling to stay motivated? Then reward yourself once you’ve completed a challenging task or if you’ve stayed focus for some time.
But instead of an indulgent treat like chocolate, give yourself a 10-minute break for a cup of tea or coffee.
Stay Away From Personal Tasks
As you’re working from home, you’re surrounded by personal tasks.
For instance, you need to put in the laundry or quickly wash dishes. But you wouldn’t do these in an office, so do these either before you clock in or once you’ve finished for the day.
Prioritize Sleep
Because working remotely feels casual, you may go out for drinks the previous night or binge an entire season of your favorite show.
But it’s important to get plenty of shut-eye so you can be productive the next day. So, as a general rule, get at least eight hours of sleep and follow a bedtime routine as it will prepare you for work.
Meditate Before Work
Before you start your day, meditate for at least 10 minutes. This will ease you into the day and prepare your mind for the work ahead.
You can either meditate to relaxing music or use an app to guide you through the process.
Make Time to Socialize
Although it sounds counter-productive, schedule time to socialize with coworkers or friends. Remote work can be lonely, which could affect your productivity and result in wasted time calling loved ones during working hours.
Instead, visit co-working spaces and work alongside freelance friends so you stay focused on your tasks.
Learn How to Manage Time Today
Hopefully, after reading this article, you now know how to manage time more effectively.
Start by creating a daily schedule, trying productivity techniques, and minimize distractions like social media. You should also get a good night’s sleep and stay connected with coworkers to boost motivation. Good luck! Did you find this article helpful? If yes, then check out the rest of our blog for similar content.
