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7 expert tips to be more productive in your home office

Working from home can be both convenient and comfortable, but it can also present challenges to staying productive.

Between potential distractions and the difficulty of separating work from personal life, it's important to find effective strategies to encourage productivity within your home office. Fortunately, experts have shared their for working smarter, not harder.

1. Adopt a morning routine to boost your motivation

Workplace productivity coach Rocco Del Greco says that morning motivation is essential for overall productivity. He advises finding morning rituals that help you feel energized and inspired. This could be a brisk walk outside, writing in a journal about your goals or eating a nutritious breakfast while reading the news. In addition, Del Greco recommends tackling one of the tasks you usually dread right away, so you can stay motivated throughout your working day.

2. Take advantage of natural light to boost your productivity

Studies have shown that spending more time in natural light boosts productivity and alertness. So it's a good idea to place your desk near a window. “Natural light reduces eyestrain and also improves your mood,” explains interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. By controlling your circadian rhythm, natural light also promotes better and productivity. Note, however, that if you're easily distracted by outside activity, it may be preferable not to have your desk facing a window.

3. Create a dedicated workspace to establish clear boundaries

Blurred boundaries between work and personal life can be a real problem when working from home. So it's essential to have a space dedicated solely to work, to create a mental boundary between the two. Even if you don't have a whole room for an office, it's a good idea to have at least one dedicated space. You can install a room divider in your living room, dining room or wherever you choose to work, to eliminate distractions and give you the feeling of having a real office. Avoid placing your workspace in your bedroom, however, so as not to associate it with relaxation rather than work.

4. Try a standing desk to improve your energy and concentration

A 2011 study showed that people using standing desks experienced less stress and fatigue than those who remained seated during their working hours. In fact, 87% of standing desk users reported an increase in energy throughout the day. According to chief interior designer Devin Shaffer, this is due to better blood circulation, including to the brain, which promotes clearer thinking and better concentration. If you don't like the idea of a standing desk, you can also try getting up and taking a short walk every hour or two to improve blood circulation. There are also height-adjustable desks that allow you to sit and stand as required.

5. Keep all essential tools close at hand

To maintain your productivity, it's important to have all the necessary tools at hand. Nicole Gabai, founder of B. Organisé, recommends keeping the tools you use every day, such as a calculator or planner, close to your desk. This will avoid having to constantly interrupt your work to look for something you need. Tools used less frequently can be placed in other areas of your workspace.

6. Identify your “focus window” for maximum productivity

Everyone has a time of day when they're most productive, so it's important to find that “focus window” and take advantage of it. If you're more focused in the morning, organize your most important or demanding tasks during this period. On the other hand, if you tend to be more energetic in the afternoon, start with easier tasks before tackling those requiring deeper thought. It's also advisable to take breaks during the day to relax, run errands, meditate or exercise, in order to maintain your productivity throughout the day.

7. Set a start and end time to maintain structure

When you work from home, it can be tempting not to stick to a strict schedule, starting and stopping when it suits you. However, experts don't recommend this approach, as it can lead to a lack of discipline and disrupt your work-life . It's advisable to set regular start and finish times to maintain optimum structure and productivity.

By applying these simple tips, you can improve your productivity while working from home. Adopt a morning routine to boost your motivation, take advantage of natural light, create a dedicated workspace, try a standing desk, keep essential tools close at hand, identify your “focus window” and set regular working hours. By implementing these strategies, you'll be able to work smarter and achieve your professional goals while enjoying the benefits of telecommuting.

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