8 Tips for Staying Motivated When Staying at Home
It’s been over a month since quarantine began and I think we’re all starting to feel it. When the chaos began everyone seemed to be discussing methods of successfully working from home. As time goes on, however, motivation is becoming much more difficult to maintain, not to mention cabin fever is likely beginning to set in for many of us as well. Although many of those reading this likely do school from home already (wink, wink) not being able to go out at all is still potentially taking its toll. This week we want to re-motivate you to work hard and stay focused. Hopefully some of these tips will inspire you.
Plan Your Day Beforehand
Setting up a game plan before you approach the day can transform any overwhelmed feelings you may have into motivation to take on the to-do list. It will also enable you to visualize how much time you have available, allowing you to utilize that time more effectively. Check out our post titled “5 Reasons to Have a Daily Planner” for more information on the benefits of daily planning in general.
Actually Get Ready
Getting ready for the day can be really motivating. Taking time to look professional and nice will boost your confidence and encourage you to work harder and be more focused. When you know you won’t be leaving the house, it can be difficult to feel much of a desire to get ready. However, when you put forth the effort it will be worth it.
Get Exercise in the Morning
Working out will get your blood pumping, increasing your energy. Along with the increased physical energy, chemicals in your brain will also activate, improving your mood and making you more prepared to take on the day.
Remove All Distractions
This can be difficult to do, particularly if you have other people living with you. Do what you can to minimize distractions, such as turning off your phone, using an app that blocks certain apps/websites for a period of time, or finding an out of the way place where you can better focus on your work.
Start with Small Goals
Take your plans and projects one step at a time. Break it down into easily digestible pieces that will be easy to complete. This will allow you to feel less overwhelmed and get more accomplished by the end of the day.
Find Balance with Some Fun
Plan some time in your schedule for fun. Whether that be fifteen-minute breaks during which you eat a snack or scroll through Instagram, or time for a reward of your choice at the end of the day, doing something fun will make work feel much less overwhelming and make life at home more bearable.
Go Outside
Get outside for at least a few minutes a day. This is a great way to battle any growing cabin fever you may be feeling, particularly if you are able to take a walk. Not only will it allow you to get out, research has shown that simply being outside can improve focus and motivation as well. So, plan it into your schedule. Even if it’s only for a few minutes, you’ll likely notice a difference.
End at a Specified Time
If you don’t have one already, have a specific time at which work is over and your evening can begin. When working at home, it can be easy to get so focused on what you’re doing that you lose track of time. Working all day can cause burn-out, negating the amount you may have been able to get done during that time. To maintain motivation, give yourself a “closing time”.