Tips to stay productive when working from home

Working from home sounds like a dream until it isn’t.

Sure, you can work in your pajamas and skip the commute, but staying focused, motivated, and productive in the same space where you sleep, eat, and relax isn’t always easy. Distractions, lack of structure, and the temptation to overwork can quickly turn a productive day into a frustrating one. I’ve learned the hard way that productivity at home isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter. If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed or stuck, here are some tried-and-true tips to help you stay on track while maintaining balance and sanity.

Get Ready for Work

One of the most tempting parts of working from home is the idea that you can roll out of bed and hop straight into work. But here’s the truth: your brain still associates pajamas with rest (at least mine does). That’s why getting ready for work, even if it’s as simple as putting on a fresh outfit, putting on some make up (or just washing + skincare), or making a cup of coffee, is key to signalling that it’s time to be productive. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just create a mini morning routine that shifts you out of “home mode” and into “work mode.”

Don’t Push Yourself Too Hard

When you work from home, it’s easy to blur the boundaries between your work life and personal life, leading to overwork. I’ve fallen into the trap of thinking, I’m at home, so I should be doing more. But productivity isn’t about how much you do; it’s about doing what matters. Schedule regular breaks throughout the day and remind yourself that rest is part of the process. Burnout doesn’t lead to better results, and pushing yourself too hard can be counterproductive in the long run.

Change Your Environment

Staring at the same four walls day in and day out can make your motivation fizzle fast. Refreshing my environment or changing it up will often give my mind the boost it needs to refocus. Try working from a different room, rearranging your desk, or even heading to a local coffee shop or co-working space. Changing your surroundings can help break the monotony and bring new energy to your workday.

Try to Do 3 Healthy Habits Daily

Productivity isn’t just about what you get done—it’s about how well you take care of yourself while doing it. I’ve found that incorporating just three simple habits into my day has a big impact on my focus and mental clarity (yours can be different):

• Mindfulness: Take a few minutes to breathe deeply or meditate before diving into work. Mindfulness helps reset your mind and reduce stress.
• Moving Your Body: Whether it’s a 10-minute walk, a quick stretch, or a workout, movement helps release tension and boost energy levels.
• Digital Detox: Set time aside during the day to step away from screens. This could be during lunch or for 15-minute intervals between tasks. Disconnecting helps reduce mental fatigue and restore focus.

Pick One Goal or Task to Accomplish Today

There’s something about working from home that makes me way more likely to multi-task. But for me, tackling too many tasks always leads to unfinished projects and added frustration. Instead, start your day by choosing one goal or task that you want to accomplish. Keep it manageable and specific, like writing a report, finishing a presentation, or organizing your inbox. Once you’ve completed that task, you’ll build momentum for the rest of your day.

Get Out of the House

Working from home doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all day. In fact, staying cooped up can make you feel more drained and isolated. Make it a priority to step outside at least once, whether it’s for a walk, grabbing a coffee, or just sitting on your porch for some fresh air. Nature has a way of recharging you, and taking a mental break from your workspace can help you return with renewed focus and energy.

Staying productive when working from home isn’t about squeezing more into your day—it’s about creating sustainable habits that support your focus, energy, and overall well-being. Some days will be better than others, and that’s totally okay. By making small adjustments like getting ready for work, setting realistic goals, and taking care of your mind and body, you’ll be able to maintain productivity without sacrificing balance.

What do you struggle with the most when it comes to working from home?