You’re working remotely, but your productivity is slipping. What can you do to stay on track?

1 Set a routine

One of the keys to working remotely is to establish a regular routine that suits your preferences and responsibilities. A routine can help you create a clear distinction between work and personal time, as well as reduce stress and procrastination. Try to wake up, start, and end your workday at consistent times, and follow a similar sequence of tasks and breaks. You can also use a calendar or a planner to schedule your priorities and deadlines, and set reminders or alarms to keep you on track.

3 Communicate effectively

Working remotely can also affect your communication with your colleagues, managers, and clients. To avoid misunderstandings, delays, and conflicts, you need to communicate effectively and frequently. You should use the appropriate tools and channels for different purposes, such as email, chat, phone, or video conferencing. You should also be clear, concise, and respectful in your messages, and respond promptly and professionally. Additionally, you should update your status, availability, and progress regularly, and ask for feedback and support when needed.

4 Manage your time

Time management is another essential skill for working remotely, as you have to balance your workload, deadlines, and interruptions. To manage your time wisely, you should prioritize your most important and urgent tasks, and break them down into smaller and manageable steps. You should also use a timer or a tracker to monitor how much time you spend on each activity, and adjust your pace and schedule accordingly. Furthermore, you should avoid multitasking, as it can reduce your quality and efficiency.

5 Take breaks

Taking breaks is also crucial for working remotely, as it can help you recharge your energy, reduce stress, and improve creativity. You should schedule regular breaks throughout your workday, and use them to stretch, move, hydrate, snack, or relax. You should also avoid checking your email, phone, or social media during your breaks, as these can distract you and increase your anxiety. Instead, you should do something that makes you happy, such as reading, listening to music, or meditating.

6 Maintain connections

Finally, working remotely can also impact your social and emotional well-being, as you may feel isolated, lonely, or bored. To maintain your connections and morale, you should reach out to your co-workers, friends, and family frequently, and share your experiences, challenges, and achievements. You should also participate in virtual meetings, events, and activities that foster collaboration, learning, and fun. Additionally, you should seek professional help if you experience any signs of depression, anxiety, or burnout.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?