STEPS AND WAYS TO STAY EFFICIENT WHILE WORKING FROM HOME

As we become ever more connected, we're able to work smarter and more flexibly. For many, that means working from home. And these days, technology gives us the advantage of working from remote locations. But you need rules to help you stay productive. Here's a look at steps and ways to stay efficient while working from home.

1. WAKING UP ON TIME

Get up early to ensure a long and productive day ahead.Don't press that snooze button. Early birds have the advantage of finishing their work on time and spending quality time with family thereafter.

2. HAVE A HEALTHY BREAKFAST

Other than providing much-needed energy to kick-start your body system, it would also reduce the urge to take frequent breaks to binge on snacks. So start your day with a fulfilling breakfast.

3. DRESS LIKE YOU ARE GOING TO WORK

Dressing in office wear provides a psychological impetus to be serious about the work you do.Avoid dressing in pajamas; they do make you feel relaxed, but remember that you are working from home.

4. KEEP YOUR WORKSTATION CLUTTER FREE

An orderly workstation not only looks good, but also keeps you focused and boosts your productivity.Don't let bundles of work-related paper pile up on your desk.

5. WORK FROM A SEPARATE ROOM

Try not to work from a couch or a bed. Instead, allot a quiet corner in the house where you can easily get into a working "frame of mind."

6. SIT ON A COMFORTABLE CHAIR

An uncomfortable chair or bad posture might give your body ache — taking your mind off the job at hand.Invest in a comfortable mesh-backed or leather-backed chair for sitting.

7. SET BOUNDARIES

Setting boundaries for kids, pets, and your spouse or roommates is important to stay focused on the work at hand.

8. KEEP DRINKING WATER HANDY

Save yourself some time by having a bottle of water close to you when you sit down for work.

9. TAKE REGULAR BREAKS

Take small breaks after every hour or so.Don't lock yourself up in a room all the time. Grab some coffee or fresh fruit and catch some fresh air — this will rejuvenate your brain to work better.

10. LISTENING TO MUSIC

Your work playlist can help you ward off those mood swings that make you sleepy and unmotivated. Listening to music is a widely practiced therapy to get into a positive frame of mind.

11. DON'T LET YOUR MOBILE DISTRACT YOU

With the availability of numerous gadgets and chatting apps, it's easy to get distracted. Keep your cell phone on silent mode and do not get tempted to log on to social networking sites during working hours.

12.  KNOW WHEN TO STOP

Just because you are working from home doesn't mean that you'll be available for 24 hours. If you're a freelancer, tell your clients to contact you within a stipulated time frame. This way you can devote time to yourself and your family.

That's it. Got any queries? Please write back to me.