Are you working at home? Working in your apartment has many benefits, but it also comes with a set of temptations.

Yes, we're talking about the lure of watching your favorite TV show while relaxing on the sofa!

It doesn't matter if you have set hours or are self-employed. It's essential to have clear working guidelines. If you don't, you won't be nearly as productive as you could be.

And, if you're in charge of your schedule, you could end up sleeping in till lunchtime! Whoops!

Besides setting up a schedule, there are nine other ways to make working at home more productive (and fun)!

So, get ready to throw a dance party. You're going to rock at working from home (and being productive too)!

1. Get Comfortable

It's hard to be productive if you're not comfortable.

Make sure you have a supportive chair — something that is ergonomic. The reason why people love ergonomic chairs is that they improve posture and can reduce back pain.

You should also have a designated office area where you'll get a lot done.

It's impossible to be 100% away from distractions. But finding a spot where you can concentrate the best is preferable.

If you're in a comfortable spot with a supportive chair, you're bound to accomplish more!

2. Create a Schedule

While it may be tempting to lay in bed until 11 am — resist this urge.

Creating a schedule and sticking with it will help you stay on task.

You can set up your work hours on a calendar and stick to it. Also, be sure to include a few breaks in there as well.

If you're working for a company and not for yourself, you may not have the option to sleep past a particular hour. Even if that's the case, when you're not working, stick to a schedule.

Having your day planned out will help you stay more productive. And, remember, you don't have to be productive 24/7.

You can weave in some relaxation time as well!

3. Make Use of Technology

Indeed, you're not physically in an office. Even so, that doesn't mean you can't effectively communicate with team members.

Use a video platform such as Zoom to stay productive and have a little bit of fun, too!

If your team isn't fond of video communications, try easing them into it.

Improving your daily work functions is never easier than with technology!

4. Listen to Music

If you haven't been listening to music because it's distracting, that's understandable. But if there are some simpler tasks, why not turn on some tunes once in a while?

According to a study by Dr. Teresa Lesiuk, music improves productivity. It also can help you be more creative!

If you decide to listen to some music, be thoughtful of what type you select. Studies show that relaxing, non-repetitive music is best.

So, find a balance. Listen to music that spurs productivity without allowing it to distract you.

5. Keep a Pad of Paper Nearby

Having a notepad in your office area is a good idea. If it’s close by, you can quickly jot down thoughts.

If you think of a job that needs completing, you can write it down before you forget about it.

Using a pad of paper to keep track of your to do’s has benefits. You won’t always be trying to think of what you needed to get done (and forgot to do).

6. Snack Smarter

Working at home makes it easier to access the fridge. And, we all know that’s not always a good thing.

Eating sugary food is only going to give you a sugar crash. When you overeat sugar, this will result in you getting less done.

Instead of snacking on food with a lot of sugar, reach for healthy snacks such as cheese, carrots, fruit, or nuts.

They’ll give you more energy and help you stay productive.

7. Take a Long Walk

While taking your dog out for a bathroom break, why not extend it?

Soak up some vitamin D and take your “co-worker” on a long walk around the block.

You’ll feel refreshed after stretching your legs. And, your fur child will be super thankful you spent extra time with them outdoors!

Don’t have a dog? Put on an audiobook, music, or a podcast and just take yourself out for some fresh air.

8. Stay Connected

Working at home can make you feel lonely and unproductive at times. It’s understandable if you should feel this way, especially if you live alone.

Staying in close contact with your co-workers should help. Don’t forget about self-care as well as it will help improve your mental health.

Another thing to do when you’re not working is to check-in with friends and family. Chatting with those you love is a great way to bring happiness into your life!

9. Don’t Pick Up Work After Work

Setting up a schedule means you should stick to your work time boundaries. Being self-employed makes it challenging to take breaks and stop working.

Try your best not to pick up work in the evening, but rather, do something else. That way, you won’t get burned out.

Instead of continuing to work, get out, and enjoy some nature or read a good book!

By taking some time away, you’ll be a lot more likely to get more done when you are working.

In Conclusion

Working at home is both fun and trying at times. It’s harder to create boundaries and stay productive. But, if you create a schedule, that’ll keep you on task.

Stick to a schedule while applying the right techniques. Doing this will result in a fun work environment!

If at any time you’re waning in productivity, try something new.

Get up and work out in the morning to give yourself a boost of energy. Or, if you’re staying up too late — get to bed earlier.

Continue to “troubleshoot” solutions while you’re working at home. Finding techniques that work for you will lead to ultimate productivity. You can do it!

[Client bio]

Amber Smith is the Leasing Manager at Catalyst Houston. With over seven years of experience at luxury apartment communities, this Houston native has true pride in her city and understands why Catalyst is the perfect place to call home.