Working from home has become increasingly popular in recent years, and even more so since the outbreak of COVID-19. While there are many benefits to working from home, such as flexibility and lack of commute, it can also be challenging to stay motivated and productive.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 13 ways to stay motivated when working from home, and how playing solitaire can be a fun and relaxing way to take a break and recharge.
1. Create a dedicated workspace
One of the most important things you can do to stay motivated when working from home is to create a dedicated workspace. This could be a spare room, a corner of your living room, or even just a desk in your bedroom. The important thing is that it’s a space that’s dedicated to work and that you associate with productivity.
2. Set clear goals and deadlines
Another key to staying motivated when working from home is to set clear goals and deadlines for yourself. This could be a daily to-do list, a weekly schedule, or a long-term project plan. Whatever it is, make sure that it’s specific, measurable, and achievable. This will give you a sense of purpose and direction, and help you stay on track. When you need a break, taking a few minutes to play a game of solitaire can be a fun way to recharge your brain.
3. Take breaks and exercise
It’s important to take breaks and exercise regularly when working from home. Sitting at a desk all day can be draining, both physically and mentally. Taking short breaks throughout the day can help you stay energized and focused. You could try going for a walk, doing some yoga, or just stretching your legs. Playing a game of solitaire during your break can be a great way to relax and clear your mind.
Source: nbcnews.com
4. Stay connected with colleagues
Working from home can be isolating, so it’s important to stay connected with colleagues. This could be through regular video calls, instant messaging, or even just an occasional phone call. Having a support network can help you stay motivated and accountable, and can also provide a sense of camaraderie. You could even challenge your colleagues to a game of solitaire during a video call break!
5. Reward yourself
Don’t forget to reward yourself for a job well done. This could be something as simple as taking a break to watch your favorite TV show or going out for a nice dinner. Celebrating your successes can help you stay motivated and focused, and can also provide a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.
And when you want a little fun and relaxation, playing a game of solitaire can be a great way to treat yourself.
Additional ways to stay motivated when working from home include:
6. Find a routine that works for you
When working from home, it’s important to establish a routine that works for you. This means setting regular work hours and sticking to them as much as possible. It also means scheduling in time for breaks, exercise, and other activities that help you recharge. Having a routine can help you stay on track and feel more in control of your day.
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7. Invest in good equipment
Working from home often means relying on your own equipment, such as your computer, printer, and internet connection. Investing in good quality equipment can make a big difference in your productivity and motivation. Make sure your computer is up-to-date and running smoothly, and consider upgrading your internet speed if it’s slow or unreliable.
8. Keep your workspace organized
A cluttered workspace can be distracting and draining. Take the time to organize your workspace, and keep it tidy and free from clutter. This will help you stay focused and motivated, and make it easier to find what you need when you need it.
9. Stay organized
Staying organized is crucial for staying motivated and productive when working from home. This means keeping your workspace clean and tidy, keeping track of your tasks and deadlines, and managing your time effectively.
You could use a planner, a to-do list app, or a project management tool to help you stay organized. And when you need a break from all the planning and organizing, playing a game of solitaire can be a great way to relax and unwind.
Source: simplyspaced.com
10. Try different work routines
Sometimes, all you need to stay motivated is a change in routine. If you find yourself struggling to stay focused, try mixing up your work routine. For example, you could work in shorter bursts with more frequent breaks, or you could try working at different times of the day.
Experimenting with different routines can help you find what works best for you, and keep your work fresh and interesting. And when you need a quick break between routines, a game of solitaire can be a great way to reset your mind.
11. Practice self-care
Working from home can blur the line between work and personal life, which can make it difficult to practice self-care. But taking care of yourself is important for staying motivated and productive. This could mean getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and taking breaks to stretch or meditate. And when you need a little extra relaxation, playing a game of solitaire can be a great way to unwind.
12. Get outside
When you work from home, it’s easy to spend all day indoors. But getting outside can help you stay motivated and energized. Going for a walk, doing some gardening, or just sitting outside can help clear your mind and refresh your senses. And when you come back inside, a game of solitaire can be a fun way to recharge your brain.
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13. Connect with others in your field
Finally, connecting with others in your field can help you stay motivated and inspired. Joining a professional organization, attending virtual networking events, or participating in online forums can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and connect with like-minded professionals. And when you need a break from networking, playing a game of solitaire can be a fun way to unwind and clear your mind.
In conclusion, working from home can be challenging, but there are many ways to stay motivated and productive. Creating a dedicated workspace, setting clear goals and deadlines, taking breaks and exercising regularly, staying connected with colleagues, rewarding yourself, staying organized, trying different work routines, practicing self-care, getting outside, and connecting with others in your field are all effective strategies. And when you need a little fun and relaxation, playing a game of solitaire can be a great way to recharge your brain and stay motivated.
