Feeling like this sloth? Well you’re not alone!
For many of us working remotely has become the new standard way to work. We have adjusted to the comfortability of being able to carry out tasks in our own environment, but with this comfortability motivation levels can easily begin to drop. You may have found yourself procrastinating more than usual, in your bed longer than you should be, or maybe you’re binge watching your favourite Netflix series instead of working.
If one or more of these describe you, then you may be experiencing a lack of motivation.
So what are some ways you can stay motivated when working from home?
1. Create your own office 🖥️
Setting up your own version of an office will help you to create a much needed separation between your work and home life. This doesn't have to be anything fancy, just a spot away from where you sleep. Once you’ve done this you’ll be able to focus and lessen your distractions as you’ve created your own personal designated workspace.
2. Schedule your tasks 📋
A lack of motivation can sometimes come from poor organisation, you can schedule your tasks by creating a list of your weekly to-do’s in order of priority. Once you’ve created your list, tick off everything upon completion, this will allow you to gain a visual representation of what’s done and what needs to be done.
3. Take breaks when necessary 🧘🏾
Working for a long duration of time without taking breaks can cause burnout and in turn lead to a loss of motivation. The Pomodoro technique is a useful way to manage the time you spend working. This technique means that you break your tasks up into 25 minute intervals, and take 5 minute breaks in between, a process you can repeat until your work day is done. You can change this time frame depending on what you feel best suits your way of working.
P.S this does not include your lunch break so make sure you take a minimum of 30 minutes for it.
4. Incorporate a fake commute into your work day 🚶🏽♀️
A fake commute can almost trick your brain into thinking that you are actually travelling to go to work. You can also use this journey as an opportunity to get dressed into something other than pyjamas so that you feel physically and mentally prepared for your working day. Metro recently came out with an article encouraging people to try this ‘fake commute’ and the results speak for themselves!
5. Treat yourself 🍬
What better way to motivate yourself than to have something to look forward to at the end of your working day. This can be as small as going to your favourite coffee shop or treating yourself to a tasty meal. Whatever it is that brings you happiness and satisfaction, use it as an incentive to get the job done.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been experiencing a lack of motivation, don’t be discouraged. This is a natural experience that comes and goes depending on how you may be feeling. When it seems that all hope is lost, use these tips to get you back on track so that you’ll be ready and motivated for whatever task comes your way.
