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How To Break These Common Work From Home Habits

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Jan. 27 2025, Published 8:10 a.m. ET

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For many professionals, the work-from-home model has shifted from a temporary solution to a permanent fixture. While this transition offers unparalleled flexibility and comfort, it also invites a range of unproductive or even harmful habits. The absence of traditional office structures can blur boundaries, leading to behaviors that compromise efficiency and focus. 

Unchecked, these habits can subtly chip away at your performance, setting the stage for unsatisfactory outcomes during performance reviews. As the mid-year review approaches, it’s an ideal time to scrutinize and rectify any disruptive routines that have crept into your daily work life.

“Addressing these habits now can significantly bolster your productivity, so that your professional image remains polished and positive,” suggests Tim Brown, founder of digital marketing firm, Hook Agency. Breaking free from unproductive work-from-home habits improves your day-to-day efficiency and sets you up for success in your evaluations. Here, we spoke with Tim to share seven common work-from-home habits to break, with solutions to help you make positive changes.

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Smiling young female entrepreneur going through paperwork while working on a laptop at her dining room table at home

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1. Being Late To Virtual Meetings

Punctuality is vital, even in a remote setting. To avoid being late, set an alarm or calendar reminder ten minutes before each meeting. This gives you ample time to settle in and address any technical glitches. Being prompt demonstrates reliability and respect for others’ time, which, in turn, reinforces your professionalism.

2. Working In An Unprofessional Setup

Working from bed or in pajamas can blur the lines between personal and professional time and impact productivity. “Dedicate a specific area in your home as your workspace, and dress comfortably but appropriately,” suggests Tim. “This distinction can mentally prepare you for work and increase focus and efficiency.”

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3. Excessive Multitasking

Juggling too many tasks at once can dilute focus and quality of work. Prioritize tasks and tackle them individually using tools like the Pomodoro Technique, which breaks work into focused intervals. Concentrated efforts yield better results and lead to satisfaction when tasks are completed.

4. Ignoring Health And Ergonomics

Poor posture and unhealthy snacks are common pitfalls. Invest in ergonomic furniture and keep nutritious snacks at hand. “Regular exercise, even brief stretches, can also combat the physical strain of prolonged sitting, resulting in improved physical wellbeing and mental sharpness,” recommends Tim. 

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5. Ignoring Professional Development

Without a structured office setting, it can be easy to sideline personal growth. Dedicate time for online courses, webinars, or reading industry materials. Continuous learning and skill development keep you competitive and engaged.

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6. Not Having A Clear End To The Workday

Without a commute, you might find it hard to ‘clock out.’ Signal the end of your workday by shutting down your computer and engaging in a post-work ritual, like an evening walk. This creates a mental switch, helping you relax and focus on your personal life.

7. Neglecting Social Interaction

Remote work can be isolating, leading to motivation dips. Schedule regular virtual coffee chats or team check-ins. Staying connected develops a sense of community, support, and shared purpose, which are important for morale and motivation.

“Breaking these habits increases productivity, fortifies professional image, and sustains work-life balance. Resist the urge to take advantage of your work-from-home setting because there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. 

“Start making changes today; the longer you hold onto unproductive habits, the harder they become to break. You’ll pave the way for long-term success and satisfaction by cultivating a disciplined and mindful work-from-home approach.”

This article originally appeared on Your Coffee Break.

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