Working from home might seem like a dream to most people but that doesn't mean it's always easy. When you work from home, you’re immersed in distraction. It's harder to maintain a healthy work ethic when nobody is around to make you stick to your schedule. If you’ve requested a work from home arrangement or have been ordered to work from home due to COVID-19, you have to hold yourself accountable and these tips will help you do so. 

1. Get Dressed for Work 

While working in your pajamas may seem like a great benefit to working at home, it can actually hinder productivity. The process of getting ready to start your day is essential in shifting your attention to your work. When you're in your loungewear, that is exactly what you're going to want to do: lounge. Even if you won't be seeing anyone all day, dressing as though you have places to go will put your brain in work mode. 

2. Have a Dedicated Work Space

On a lazy morning, it may be tempting to grab your laptop and start writing from bed but don't do it. Working in a space where you relax is going to inhibit your focus. You don't need an entire room as a work space though, a desk should suffice as long as you don't also use that desk for gaming or other leisure activities. Even when you don't have an office space, you need to set a clear boundary between your work life and home life. 

3. Set Clear Work Hours

Even though you work remotely, that doesn't mean you don't need to have a consistent work schedule. Be sure your family knows your block of time during the day where you only work so you can minimize distractions. During your work hours you cannot browse your phone, you cannot do household chores, your focus needs to be entirely on work. 

4. Take Scheduled Breaks 

Just as you should schedule your work hours, you should schedule your breaks. Even though you can eat whenever you'd like, having a scheduled lunch break as you would at work will keep you on track. If you need five minute breaks during your work hours, make alarms for them. Sticking to the same schedule daily will be immensely helpful in separating your work and home life. 

Working from home is going to require extra effort on your part. Take your job at home as seriously as you would in an organized workplace. Organization and accountability are key to staying productive.