Overview

Working from home can be challenging for many reasons. There might be noise, people, kids, pets, and other things that make it hard to focus. But there are things you can do to separate those two areas of your life.

You can work from home, feel productive, and still have a balanced life by creating a work schedule that fits your lifestyle. Here are some ideas that may help.

• Schedule a beginning and end to each day.

  Resist the temptation to roll out of bed and go right to work. The time you used to spend commuting could be used as a transition to start your day. Get some fresh air, exercise, do some stretching, or meditate. And wrap up your day the same way. Doing this will help you turn your focus away from work.

• Do your best to keep your new hours consistent or predictable each day.

  After you set your schedule, try to stick with it. That will help others learn when you are available for work or at home.

• Let people know your office hours.

  Try adding your new work hours to your email signature. And tell others in your life when you're working. Be clear about your work schedule by making a sign with your home office hours. Post your hours so others can see them. This lets people know when you need time to focus on work. You might also tell people in your home when you have break periods and you are available for them.

• Build breaks into your schedule.

  A short break will help you refresh. Try scheduling 10-minute breaks throughout the day. Use the time to stretch, go for a walk, or check in with family or friends. Or when you need to take a break, try going someplace where you can close a door for a few minutes of quiet time. For example, go into a bathroom or a bedroom.

• Plan ahead, but be ready to pivot.

  When things disrupt your scheduled work time, it doesn't have to derail your day. Make a list of things that must be done right away. Move tasks that can wait to another day.