Ways to Improve Productivity When Working from Home

For most Virtual Assistants, working from home becomes so much more convenient, but productivity seems to suffer when Virtual Assistants get too comfortable in their environment. You could easily say, get out of the house and work somewhere else, but where it is convenient, there the VA will stay.

Let’s not forget the first reason why Virtual Assistants are called on for help: it’s cost effective. Here are some ways you can work productively as a Virtual Assistant working from the comforts of your home.

Leave the bedroom. You might have a comfortable desk in your room, but mixing work with the area wherein you sleep could seriously be tempting. Your first step therefore should be stepping out and finding somewhere else to stay. If it means sitting down at the dining table or out on the front porch, do it.

Create a schedule. Virtual assistance is no easy task. With no one to answer to but yourself and your virtual boss, you will need to set a schedule for yourself. Make a task list and keep it where you can see it as you work. Tick each task off as you go along to give yourself that sense of urgency.

Take ample breaks. Give yourself appropriate breaks. An hour lunch break, a 15 minute walk in the afternoon, or just a few minutes to shake the residue that you’re beginning to feel seated in one position. Breaks help you think clearly and give you the inspiration you need to deliver.

Be firm about your working hours for those who live with you. Whether it’s your family or roommate, make sure you’re clear about the space you need and the hours that you will need to work productively. By asking them to respect these hours, you won’t have to worry about unnecessary distractions.

Update your playlists. Music pumps us up and affects the mood we’re in. You can’t listen to the same thing over and over again, so update your playlists and feel better about life!

What methods have you tried to work productively from home? And which ones are you willing to change?