The number of remote workers has risen by 115% over the past decade, and this trend is set to grow as younger generations enter the workforce.

However, working from home has many benefits, such as setting up your ideal workspace, fewer meetings, and increased focus, but it is not without distractions.

Seven Tips to Boost Productivity and Avoid Distractions when Working Remotely

Here are seven tips to help you boost productivity and avoid distractions when working remotely:

1. Dedicate Your Home Office to Work Only

You need to get into a work mindset when you enter your home office. This won't happen if you're sitting on the sofa—and you might hurt your back, too.

Use a dedicated computer for work tasks only. If possible, set up a separate room used exclusively as your office. You should also keep your desk tidy to avoid distractions.

According to Extra Space Storage, "If your home office is a mess, tidy it up and get organised. Working in a clean office helps clear your mind and focus on the tasks."

Create a space that contains everything you need for work. That way, whenever you sit down at your computer, your mind will be focused solely on the task at hand and won't be distracted by any other activity.

2. Establish Working Hours

It is essential to set specific working hours, especially since your office is part of your home. If you don't, it will be difficult to draw a clear line between your work and personal life. So, make sure you allocate a workspace and stick to a set schedule to maximise your productivity.

You don't have to work eight hours straight, especially if you have children. The best time for productivity is either early morning or late evening when there's a peaceful atmosphere, and you can focus well.

3. Set Clear Rules for Children

Children can be a significant distraction when working from home, so it is vital to set strict rules to help them understand that this time is for work.

Some parents close the door or hang up a sign to show they are working. Whatever method you choose, your children need to know that your office is for work and that they should only interrupt you in an emergency.

Make sure you also set aside time to leave the office and spend time with them, as they are less likely to bother you if they know you'll be playing with them later on.

You should also make it clear to friends and neighbours that just because you are home doesn't mean you can always accommodate their requests.

4. Invest in Your Workspace

Sometimes you may have to stop working to solve technical issues, go out to buy work supplies, or repair your computer, which can be frustrating and reduce productivity.

Therefore, you should equip your home office as if you were setting up your workspace in the office. Keep everything you need close by, update all software, and ensure your devices work. Not having the right equipment or dealing with outdated technology can be a significant distraction.

5. Turn Off Notifications and Focus on the Task

You might be working for a few minutes when you get an email. You rush to read it and perhaps respond quickly. However, it takes time to refocus on the task you were working on, which ultimately undermines your productivity.

You must turn off email and social media notifications to focus on the tasks. Instead, set aside specific times to read and reply to emails simultaneously, which will help you save time and focus on your work.

6. Socialise with Others

One of the main downsides of working from home is feeling isolated from working long hours without socialising with others, which can also be a distraction. So, make sure you set aside time to go out and connect with people. This could involve meeting with clients, going out with friends, or spending time with family. This will help you feel refreshed and focused when you return to work.

7. Take Breaks

It is not advisable to work for hours on end without a break. A study by DeskTime indicated that the ideal period for productivity is 52 minutes of work followed by a 17-minute break.

Of course, you don't have to set a timer for these exact times, but you should set aside time for breaks to reduce distractions and increase your productivity.

In Summary

Working from home is an excellent option for entrepreneurs, but you must create the conditions for success. Apply the tips mentioned to boost your productivity and create a home office to increase efficiency.