Home Office Hacks: 18 Ways to Boost Productivity
Andy Cakebread
13 January 2024
Ah, the home office, where the line between comfort and chaos can often blur! While working from home has its perks, it’s not without its challenges, especially when it comes to staying productive amidst cosy distractions.
The biggest battles of remote work aren’t against traffic or noisy coworkers but rather the call of an unmade bed, the allure of a Great British Bake Off marathon, and the mysterious way snacks vanish from the fridge. But don’t worry, you’re not alone!
This article presents a treasure trove of simple, effective hacks from Thankbox to boost your motivation. Whether you’re a digital novice or just looking for ways to enhance your remote nine-to-five, these 18 tips will transform your work-from-home experience. Let’s dive in!
Staying on track while working from home
Currently, more than 28% of employees have transitioned to a hybrid work model, and this number continues to grow and grow. With this in mind, try these 18 productivity tips to manage your remote tasks.
1. Encourage team connection
Working from home doesn't mean missing out on celebrating team special occasions. Use Thankbox group e-cards to acknowledge birthdays and work anniversaries or simply to say thank you. This thoughtful action lifts spirits and reinforces team connections, regardless of the physical distance.
Take your remote work to the next level!
Enhance team connection while working remotely with Thankbox, a simple and heartfelt way to celebrate milestones and express gratitude.
2. Ergonomics matter
Your chair and desk are your close companions during work hours. Invest in an ergonomic chair that supports your back and a desk at the right height. Remember, comfort equals productivity. A well-adjusted workspace prevents strains and keeps your eye-on-the-prize for longer.
3. Declutter your space
A cluttered desk can clutter your mind. Regularly organise your desk and keep essential items within reach. This refines your focus and saves time otherwise spent rummaging through mess and discarded crisp packets (we’ve all been there).
4. Natural light
Embrace the power of natural light! Position your desk near a window to improve morale and energy levels. Plus, it helps maintain your natural sleep-wake cycle, perfect for staying alert. Natural light also reduces eye strain from artificial lighting – is there anything it can’t do?
5. Indoor plants
Green up your space with some indoor plants. These leafy companions do more than decorate – they’re a natural superpower, improving air quality, reducing stress, and even helping with creativity. Adding a touch of green brings nature indoors and makes your home office more fun.
6. The power of colour
Splash your workspace with colours that work for you. Calming blues or greens can soothe, while vibrant yellows or reds stimulate energy. The right colour palette helps you stay productive even when bored, crafting a visually pleasing experience 24/7.
7. Establish a morning routine
Kickstart your day with a morning routine, just as if you were heading to the office. Set your alarm, follow your usual rituals, and dress for the day. This routine helps mentally shift your space from home to office.
8. Limit distractions
Craft strategies to minimise interruptions, especially from family members or pets (no matter how cute they are). Set clear boundaries and work hours to boost your remote working skills, use noise-cancelling headphones or hang a handmade “Do Not Disturb” sign.
9. Break time
Never underestimate the power of regular breaks. Short, frequent pauses can refresh your mind and prevent burnout. Whether it’s a quick stretch, a walk around the room, or a moment of meditation, these breaks offer a much-needed breather in your workday.
10. Invest in reliable tech
Setting up an effective home office or mobile workspace requires reliable technology. Prioritise consistent Wi-Fi and tools that amplify your job performance, like high-quality speakers for clear audio, alongside wireless keyboards and mice for flexibility.
11. Personalise your space
Make your workspace uniquely yours with personal touches. A personalised environment, filled with photos and inspirational quotes, feels more comfortable and thereby helps with your motivation. It’s also an excuse to hang your Paul Hollywood poster.
12. Time management
Unlock a new level of productivity by mastering a few simple yet powerful time management strategies. Set goals, prioritise tasks, and break your day into focused work sessions. Using digital calendars or timers keeps you on track and makes the most of your daily grind.
13. Proactively communicate with coworkers
Now’s the time to enhance your workplace communication skills. Make sure to update colleagues on your schedule and availability. It’s better to repeat this information than assume they remember. And when you complete a significant task, clearly communicate your progress.
Take your remote work to the next level!
Enhance team connection while working remotely with Thankbox, a simple and heartfelt way to celebrate milestones and express gratitude.
14. Don’t be afraid to ask
Don’t hesitate to ask for necessary items, such as monitors, chairs, or software, when you need them. Familiarise yourself with your company’s budget for home office equipment, as well as their policies on returns and upgrades, so you’re not left in the dark
15. Seek regular feedback
Regular feedback is a game-changer for productivity. Whether from colleagues, clients, or even through self-reflection, constructive feedback helps you understand your strengths and areas for improvement. More importantly, feedback keeps you aligned with your goals.
16. Set daily targets
Start your day by setting achievable targets. This practice gives you a clear focus and sense of direction. Accomplishing these goals provides a sense of achievement and keeps you on track.
17. The right spot
Finding the perfect spot for your home office shouldn’t be left up to chance. Opt for a quiet corner that’s well-lit and away from the hustle and bustle of household activities. Natural light is a bonus! This little sanctuary will be your productivity haven, helping you maintain focus.
18. End-of-day routine
Develop an end-of-day routine to signal the close of your workday – include reviewing completed tasks, preparing a to-do list for the next day, and tidying your workspace. Such a routine helps in mentally transitioning from work mode to personal time.
Take your remote work to the next level
As you can see, transforming your home office into a productivity powerhouse doesn’t require grand gestures or massive overhauls. Often, it’s the little things – like the strategic placement of your desk or a splash of color—that make all the difference.
Remember, a successful remote experience isn’t just about the physical space – it’s also about maintaining a connected team. And what better way to foster this connection than with Thankbox.
So why wait? Create a Thankbox today and strengthen your team bond, one thoughtful gesture at a time.
Images: Cover | Woman watering plants | Man with under-eye patches using a phone | Smiling woman talking via laptop in kitchen | "You Got This" lamp
