How to Be Productive Working From Home | 10 Productivity Tips for Remote Workers

Key productivity & self-care tips for working from home

1. Set up a focused, comfortable workspace

   • Prioritize essentials: wireless mouse, monitor, keyboard, laptop stand
   • Use a second monitor for video calls/document sharing so you’re not blocking faces
   • Optional upgrades for comfort/clarity: monitor clamp, comfortable over-ear headphones, desk lamp/ring light
   • Consider a standing desk to reduce sitting time
   • Keep the space open/clean to support a better mental state

2. Turn your camera on during conference calls

   • Improves collaboration/productivity during working sessions
   • Helps with accountability and staying present (reduces multitasking/distraction)

3. Bring something to collaborative/brainstorming meetings

   • Arrive with a draft, plan, or framework so others can react and contribute
   • It’s easier to improve something imperfect than start from scratch

4. Use a consistent system for note-taking

   • Maintain a singular routine/place for storing notes so you can quickly find details later
   • Avoid messy accumulation (e.g., random post-its); consider organizing notes in a notebook

5. Block uninterrupted working time on your calendar

   • Schedule “working time” blocks for specific projects
   • If meetings are needed, others may request to book over your protected time
   • Completing tasks within the block becomes a built-in momentum/reward strategy

6. Use quick live communication instead of long email threads

   • Prefer phone calls / Teams / Zoom to clarify issues faster
   • Helps prevent miscommunication and “lost in translation” problems

7. Be mindful about who you invite to meetings

   • Don’t include everyone by default
   • Send an agenda and think ahead about:
     • who needs to be involved at the beginning
     • who can join later or drop off early (e.g., after the first 15 minutes)

8. Leverage collaboration tools (e.g., virtual whiteboards)

   • Use tools like MURAL to simulate a whiteboard:
     • sticky notes, images, drawing
   • Works both for team collaboration and for individual idea/note flexibility

9. Take intentional breaks away from your desk

   • Create separation by eating away from your computer
   • Step away via house chores and walks when possible
   • Link to mental health: breaks support sustained productivity

10. Switch up your work environment occasionally

    • Even fully remote workers can benefit from changing location
    • Options:
      • go to an office desk occasionally (if available)
      • work from a coffee shop or coworking space if your day has fewer calls/meetings
    • Reconfiguring the setup is okay—optimize for the day’s needs (e.g., screens when available)

Presenters / Sources

• Presenter: Kay Troy (from the video)
• Sponsored source mentioned: Squarespace
• Tools/resources mentioned (non-sponsorship claim): MURAL (virtual whiteboard)
• Communication platforms mentioned: Microsoft Teams, Zoom