Work From Home Best Practices: 20 Tips for Success

Key takeaways:

• Set boundaries and stick to a schedule to stay focused and balanced.
• Keep learning and acquiring new skills to boost efficiency and grow in your role.
• Stay healthy and productive by taking breaks, setting limits, and knowing when to unplug.

Remote work is here to stay, and it’s only getting bigger. By 2025, it’s estimated that one in five Americans will be working from home. The pandemic demonstrated that remote work is feasible for many roles and for millions of workers, it’s become the preferred way to work. Even after COVID, about 22 million Americans continue to work from home full-time.

No commute, flexible hours, and more time to tackle personal stuff… what’s not to like? But here’s the catch: when your office is just a few steps away from your couch, finding a balance can get tricky. The lines between work and home life can easily blur.

In this article, we’ll dive into work from home best practices to help you stay productive, keep your mental health in check, and make the most of this awesome way of working.

1. Create a dedicated workspace

One of the biggest challenges of working from home is separating work from personal life. The solution? A dedicated workspace. Whether it’s a separate room, a corner, or even a cubicle, having a space just for work helps you stay focused and productive.

One advantage with setting up home offices is that you can make it as comfortable as you want and personalize it to match your style. Having a designated spot helps reduce distractions and creates a clear boundary between “work mode” and downtime.

Consider adding ergonomic furniture and keeping your equipment within easy reach. A little setup goes a long way in helping you feel comfortable and stay on track throughout the day.

2. Stick to a schedule

Sticking to a schedule keeps you accountable. Without the structure of an office, it’s easy to lose focus. Create a to-do list and prioritize the most important things first.

There are plenty of resources to help you stay on track, like apps and tools that can keep your time organized and your productivity high. Some commonly used ones include:

• Trello. This visual tool uses boards, lists, and cards to help you stay organized, perfect for people who prefer seeing their tasks laid out.
• Todoist. This helps you prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and track progress with its simple, intuitive interface.
• Google Workspace. This is one of the best work tools you can use. With it you can plan your day, set reminders, and sync with your email to automate tasks and keep everything on track.
• RescueTime. This time management tool lets you track how long you spend on apps and websites. It lets you identify distractions and stay focused on your goals.

Using these tools can help you track your time, stay organized, and improve productivity.

3. Dress for success

Staying in your pajamas might feel comfy, but it can make you feel like you’re already winding down—even if your workday is just starting.

You don’t need to wear business casual, but changing into something comfortable like casual clothes or workout wear helps shift your mind into “work mode.” It sets a clear boundary between relaxation and productivity, helping you stay focused and motivated.

It’s less about what you wear and more about how it sets your mindset.

4. Take breaks

One of the best perks of working from home is the ability to take unlimited breaks, but the key is balance. It’s easy to overdo it, so set up a structure like the Pomodoro Technique: work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four sessions, take a longer 15 to 30-minute break.

Use your breaks to recharge. Try a quick workout, a short walk, stretching, or reading. These activities refresh your mind and help you return to work with focus and energy.

Remember, breaks should refresh you, not derail your day. Find that balance and stay on track.

5. Limit distractions

When you’re working from home, distractions are everywhere. Your phone, TV, pets, or even family can pull you away from your tasks. Setting up a home office is the best way to minimize these, but if that’s not possible, there are other things you can try.

If your phone pulls you away from work, try putting it in a drawer or another compartment. Out of sight, out of mind! You can also use timers and scheduled breaks to stay on track. However, constantly resisting distractions can leave you feeling mentally drained, so it’s best to keep them away.

6. Set boundaries with the people in your life

When you work from home, it’s easy for people to assume you’re always available. Set clear boundaries with everyone in your life.

Let your family, friends, and housemates know when you’re working and need uninterrupted time. If you share a space, set expectations about what people can and cannot do in your workspace, with your work computer, and with any other equipment. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures you can focus when you need to.

By setting these boundaries, you’ll create a balance that helps you stay productive and manage concerns and expectations. Work may not be the only priority, but it deserves your undivided attention too.

7. Maintain clear communication

Just like you set ground rules with family and friends, it’s important to do the same with your colleagues. Working from home can feel isolating, so staying connected is key to keeping things on track.

Use tools like emails, messaging apps, and video calls to keep everyone updated on your availability and priorities. Regular check-ins help prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone stays aligned. When you communicate clearly, it’s easier to manage expectations and work together as a team—even from a distance.

8. Embrace flexibility and adaptability

Remote work has its challenges, like distractions, tech glitches, or sudden changes to your schedule. The key is to stay flexible when challenges arise.

For example, if your internet drops, have a list of local cafes or co-working spaces where you can work. If you use a desktop, consider having a laptop as a backup. It’s also smart to keep important files synced to the cloud, so you can access them from anywhere, just in case.

There are tons of resources out there to help you stay flexible, from task management tools to backup plans for meetings. Embracing flexibility will help you handle whatever comes your way without stress.

9. Ask for help when needed

Working from home doesn’t mean you have to do everything on your own. If you’re struggling with a task or need clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s a colleague, manager, or even a friend, asking for support can make a big difference in your productivity and well-being.

It’s easy to get caught up in figuring things out on your own, but remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It shows you’re committed to doing your best work and staying on track.

10. Set realistic goals and priorities

With remote work, your manager and teammates won’t always see what you’re doing, so it’s important to let them know when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Set realistic goals when you can and keep your team in the loop about your job priorities.

Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and focus on the most important ones first. Be mindful of how much time you have and adjust your goals if things change unexpectedly. Setting achievable goals keeps you motivated and helps prevent burnout.

By being clear on your priorities, you’ll stay productive and avoid feeling like you’re juggling too much at once.

11. Prioritize your work data’s security

Your employer trusts you to handle sensitive data while working from home, so it’s important to take steps to protect that trust. One easy way to do this is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet connection, helping keep your files safe, especially when you’re using public Wi-Fi or working in shared spaces.

If you’re unsure how to set up a VPN, reach out to your IT department for guidance. Be sure to protect your work data on both your desktop and mobile devices as well.

12. Invest in the right tools and equipment

Working from home is more enjoyable when your space is comfortable and equipped with the right tools. Here are a few must-haves to help keep you productive:

• Desk and ergonomic chair. These are important for good posture and holding all your equipment. Make sure your chair is comfortable for long hours.
• Mouse, keyboard, and headset. You’ll be using these often, so invest in quality ones that fit your needs.
• Lighting. Good lighting reduces eye strain and makes your space feel more inviting.
• Monitor. A larger screen gives you more space to work, making everything more efficient.
• Communication tools. Apps like Microsoft Teams, Skype, or Viber offer data encryption, keeping your conversations secure.

Investing in the right equipment and tools can transform your workspace, helping you stay focused and productive throughout the day.

13. Stay organized

A cluttered space can make it harder to focus. When working from home, having everything within reach and knowing where it is can make all the difference in accomplishing your tasks.

Create a system to keep your workspace tidy. Use a bulletin board to display your schedule, pen organizers to keep your desk neat, and sticky notes for quick reminders. Set up a designated storage space for your portables when they’re not in use, so you don’t end up with extra things around. Keep your digital files organized too by using labeled folders to make finding what you need quick and easy.

Good organization helps you manage your tasks more efficiently and creates a stress-free work environment.

14. Be visible and engaged

It’s important to stay visible and engaged with your team in ways beyond just work. Take part in activities like celebrating colleagues’ birthdays or casual hangouts. These moments help you get to know your teammates better, build a stronger sense of community, and keep morale high.

While meeting in person might not always be possible, staying in touch virtually can help maintain those connections and keep the team spirit alive just as well too.

15. Take advantage of training and learning opportunities

Remote work often requires new skills or adapting to different tools. Take the chance to improve your writing, communication, and get comfortable with new tools that make your job easier.

There are tons of free resources online, as well as paid options, that can help you stay up to date. Whether it’s learning new software or finding ways to better connect with your team, investing time in learning will help you stay sharp and more effective in your role.

16. Add variety to your setup

The wonderful thing about remote work is the freedom to change your surroundings. Consider switching up your workplace every so often. It can keep things fresh and help you stay focused.

Try working from a coffee shop or a co-working space for a change of scenery. It can spark creativity and new ideas. Just make sure you have reliable Wi-Fi wherever you go. For video meetings, find a spot with good lighting and a quiet environment to keep things looking professional.

Mixing up your setup can keep your day interesting.

17. Establish a morning routine

When you work from home, it’s easy to skip the usual routine you’d have if you were heading into the office. But having a morning routine is still important to start your day on the right foot.

Take a few minutes to get ready, whether it’s having a cup of coffee, stretching, or doing something to get your mind focused. A simple routine helps signal to your brain that it’s time to work, even if you’re in the comfort of your own home.

A good morning routine sets the tone for your day, making it easier to dive into your tasks and stay productive.

18. Take care of your mental and physical health

Remote work can be rewarding, but it’s important not to overlook your health. Your mental and physical health should be your biggest investment, as it directly impacts your overall performance.

Unwinding is just as important as working hard. Take breaks to relax and recharge—whether that’s going for a walk, enjoying a good book, or even taking a nap. Encourage yourself to take regular vacations and make time for exercise to stay active. Don’t forget to enjoy a hearty meal and stay hydrated too.

By taking care of yourself, you’ll stay energized and focused, making it easier to do your best work.

19.Take sick days when needed

Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean you should skip taking sick days when you’re not feeling well. Remote work can sometimes blur the line between personal time and work time, but it’s important to listen to your body.

If you’re feeling under the weather, take a break to rest and recover. Pushing through may seem productive, but it can slow you down in the long run. Whether it’s taking a full sick day or simply stepping away for a bit to recharge, giving yourself that time helps you stay at your best when you’re back at work.

20. Recognize that productivity may vary

Productivity isn’t always consistent, and that’s okay. Some days you might feel more focused and get things done faster, while other days might be slower. It’s important to recognize that your productivity can fluctuate and to not feel discouraged by it. Instead, adjust your expectations and be kind to yourself. Focus on staying consistent in the long run, rather than stressing over daily peaks and valleys. 

Your path to remote work success starts now

Now that you have these tips, it’s time to put them into action. Don’t be discouraged if things don’t fall into place right away. Everyone has their own pace and setup, so be flexible and experiment with what works best for you.

To enhance your remote work experience, consider creating a professional email. Network Solutions can help you set up a custom email that adds credibility and helps your communications stand out.

Take the first step today—implement these tips and start building a workspace and routine that fits your needs. The sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll see the benefits!

Frequently asked questions