Working from the comforts of our home is one of the new trends many businesses around the world have begun to implement. Whether you’re an entry-job employee, a manager, or a business owner, this set-up may seem the most comfortable and liberating, but it also poses some challenges.

Here are some ways to help you make work-from-home efficient and favorable for you.

1. Designate your own workspace.

Find yourself a well-ventilated area or room that’s conducive for you. Set up a desk and a chair where you are far from distractions. Make sure that the internet connection, network signals, and electric outlets are accessible from your new workspace.

2. Secure the equipment you need

You may only be able to make work-from-home happen if you have all the proper equipment required for your job. Usually, you’ll need a computer or a laptop, a phone, stable Internet connection, and other means to communicate to your colleagues, clients, or business partners.

3. Set your business hours

Commit yourself to the hours when you are expected to report to your employer or work on your tasks. Make a clear and honest arrangement with your supervisor when it comes to your deadlines. If you’re a business owner or employer, set realistic expectations with your team for the deliverables.

4. Plan your day

Before you start your day, identify your priorities, and allocate the amount of time needed to finish your tasks. Make sure to also set time for breaks in between your tasks to avoid wearing yourself out. With an organized schedule in place, you will be able to be efficiently perform your job during your work hours while being able to have time for yourself and your loved ones once your tasks are done within your work schedule.

5. Communicate clearly and regularly

Since you are working remotely, communication will be a very important skill for you to have and improve. Lack of communication with your team or partners may lead to confusions and misunderstandings that may cause inefficiency and problems in your business. One way to communicate effectively is through video conferencing. Discuss your plans clearly and encourage your team to ask questions to make sure that they understood what has been talked about. Keep track of your discussions by recording the minutes of the meetings, also to provide an accessible reference to guide your colleagues or business partners. When talking to clients, be conversational and talk to them using the language they’re comfortable with.

6. Monitor your productivity

Keep track of your progress each day by monitoring the time you spend on your tasks. You may use an organizer or some online apps designed to help you improve your efficiency. Try to identify the things that easily distract you and work on managing your time well.

7. Be accountable

Talk to your business partner or colleagues when you’re struggling with maintaining productivity at home. Ask for feedback on how you can do things better and how they can help you. Sometimes, your business or job might demand longer work hours from you. Interact effectively with your team and make it your goal to help one another boost everyone’s morale. Start with words of encouragement or a humorous banter to keep your team motivated.

Working from home is definitely doable. Overcome your challenges by applying these tips to help you stay focused on your goals. To be successful in working remotely is to remain proactive and hardworking, keeping in mind your vision for your career or your business.