You're working from home and can't seem to focus. How can you minimize distractions?

I've found that creating a workspace not centered around areas that I usually relax in, is optimal for being able to work from home. Try to avoid (if possible) working from your bed/bedroom. If you have a favorite chair or couch you like to nap on, try to avoid sitting in those areas as well. Also, setting a schedule that includes a scheduled lunch break is also a good tool. Sometimes because we are home we put in a little extra time and don't allow ourselves the opportunity for a break which can leave us feeling burned out at the end of a work from home day. Make sure you schedule some time away from your workspace to refresh!

Working from home offers the benefit of increased flexibility in your hours, but it requires heightened discipline in your routine. Establishing a schedule is key to delineating boundaries between work and personal time, providing a clear roadmap for daily tasks. Strive to adhere to your schedule and communicate it to colleagues, clients, and family members. This ensures clarity on your availability, fostering a balance between professional and personal commitments.

Some days it's really hard to get into it. To start working, let alone stay focused. I find my calendar can help me significantly. Firstly, it can take on the burden of not only specifically instructing me and reminding me of what I need to do, but it can also tell me when. Secondly, it also tells me what I am putting off... what am I moving along? This gives me information I can now reflect on and devise a plan to overcome.

To minimize distractions while working from home, establish a dedicated and organized workspace that is free of clutter. Ideally, choose a separate room with the option to close the door, preventing interruptions. If a separate room is not feasible, find a quiet corner or a space with a motivating view. Ensure your workspace is equipped with all necessary tools and equipment, such as a computer, phone, charger, notebook, and pen. Maintain a tidy and clean workspace, reserving it exclusively for work activities to enhance focus and productivity.

There is something to be said about "Activity Based Working"... and rituals... I work from home most days. When I want to reflect and plan, I head over to my red chaise lounge. I do this early in the morning before the others are up and I always have a hot drink. I love this time. When I need to do work work I go to my nook. It's all set up and has great natural lighting. When I need to deliver training, I go into our office. Each area helps me get into the zone of what I need to do easier.

Or maximise noise. Did you know that for a lot uf us silence is the reason you cannot focus. Try the app Noisili and select the sound of a forrest wing, fire crackling, or a busy coffee place around you if that suits you. And if you are into music, visit the Youtube channel LoFi, trust me, it is magic :)

Managing noise is crucial for concentration when working from home. Whether it's street sounds, TV, radio, or neighbors, unwanted noise can disrupt focus. Combat this by using headphones, earplugs, or a white noise machine. Opt for relaxing or motivational music to enhance concentration and mood. Alternatively, consider working in quieter environments like a library, café, or coworking space to minimize distractions and promote a more conducive work atmosphere.

Here is a tip, an app called Fores, switches off all your notifications, you see cute trees growing and if you focus enough and grow enough trees, the app owners will plant real trees to keep the earth greener. Win-win!

In my experience my phone is my biggest distractor. I keep my phone out of sight when I am trying to focus. All notifications are muted. A great idea I recently read was from Jake Knapp who used to work as a product designer on Gmail and helped design many of the factors that vie for our attention on our smartphones is to make your phone boring. Delete (gulp) or switch off all of the apps that distract you so your phone becomes boring. He believes this had a huge impact on his ability to stay focused on big projects.

When you work from home, especially if you are a women, you are expected to do small things like taking care of your child, or cook something in the kitchen or doing small things like keeping the room clean or changing the curtains or bedspreads while at work. Either it is someone expecting you to do or you yourself would like to do. The important change you need to do is change in your mindset. If you are working in your office, even though in the back of your mind you are thinking about your kid or changing the curtains, you can't do anything about it. Create clear boundaries in your mind about working in your home. Focus on what is important and what is a priority. Make a rule: no household chores during office hours.