How to Avoid Work at Home Distractions

Working from home is considered a luxury by many and a hindrance to others. Why? The distractions! They're plentiful, as is procrastination. How do you nip it in the bud? Scheduling. It seems simple, doesn't it? I agree.

This article is inspired by flylady.com and SARK's Make Your Creative Dreams Real. Both are excellent resources that should be kept at everyone's fingertips.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Daily planner
• pens or pencils
• Internet connection
• egg timer or something similar

1. In the notes section of your daily planner, make a list of anything and everything you need to accomplish throughout your work day. This includes checking email, updating web sites, five minute phone calls and snack breaks.

2. Once your list is complete, break it down into timed fragments throughout the day. You may realize that you've over-scheduled yourself. You may also realize you have time throughout the day to accomplish more than you thought. Be sure to assign a certain amount of time for each task.

3. What's the egg timer for? Good question! It's easy to get caught up in reading blogs, scanning news articles, researching a topic or chatting. Set the egg timer for each action item on your list during its designated time. As soon as the timer goes off, make note of where you left off and move on to the next task.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to schedule in breaks for both eating and resting your mind. When working for yourself, it's easy to feel like you have to put in more hours than those who are traditionally employed.
• Let your schedule guide you gently throughout the day: if you feel like you're hurrying from task to task, it's necessary to make adjustments the following day.
• Don't let mindless activities soak up your day.
• Don't let personal phone calls rule over important tasks and other important phone calls.
• Turn off the TV! This is a huge distraction that will put a damper on work days. Reserve TV watching only for breaks and after work.

[jennhollowell]

on 10/19/2007 I was trying to work that idea into the concept - thank you, mystikdiva, for letting me know I accomplished that goal! :)

[mystikdiva]

on 10/18/2007 These are all really excellent ideas -- and the cool thing is, that they can work equally as well for people who *don't* work at home!

[jennhollowell]

on 10/16/2007 You're very welcome!

[xjenavivex]

on 10/16/2007 I always need reminders about time management. Thank you.