At the start of the first set of lockdown restrictions, many businesses had to adapt to a new way of working. With employees being asked to work from home for an extended period of time, people quickly fell into the new normal. Whilst working from home definitely makes it easier to achieve that work-life balance, it can definitely come with its downfalls. One of those downfalls is that the focus of your team can wane.
Evidence-based strategies for improving focus, such as eliminating distractions, getting exercise, and practicing time management, can help you stay productive and empower you as a remote professional.
To help improve the focus of your employees whilst working from home, take a look at these tips.
Curate a work station
Visuals that engage you
Visual distractions out of your line of sight
Ergonomic comfort (including desk chair, monitors at the right height and tilt)
Music or sounds that sustain focus
Get help with any slow or lagging devices
Get in the right mindset
Identify when you work best
Give tasks your full attention
Embrace routines and systems
Create a daily to-do list
Know what to do when your attention is spiralling
Block technological distractions
Websites that steal your attention (Social media sites, news sites)
Auditory and/or visual notifications for email, Teams etc.
Checking your phone every time you have the urge
Prioritise healthy habits
Give yourself breaks
Stay active throughout the day
Hydrate and eat healthy
Conclusion
Learning how to improve your focus while working from home is tough, but doable. Take time to review the points mentioned above. There is no need to go 'cold turkey'. It might be that only addressing one of the above improves your focus. But, even if that isn't the case, take small steps each day and you'll soon be on your way to being highly efficient.