How to Be Productive From Anywhere
When trying to get into “the zone” or that ideal state for maximal productivity it’s best to have minimal distractions. Whether you work in a co-working space, work office or a coffee shop, distractions are everywhere so we’re going to share with you some simple tips on how to maximise your focus and minimise any distractions that come along.
The first and probably the most obvious one is to wear head phones, if you’re allowed to. Some work places prefer their employees not to do this but many do and if you’re a freelancer then you get to choose. Some headphones can just be noise cancellation headphones while others can be set up to play relaxing music. There are various apps which you can use to set up a playlist of effective music that helps you concentrate.
The next tip is to pick a space that you can occupy for the duration of your task, or the whole working day preferably. There’s nothing worse for disrupting your flow than constantly having to relocate. Most co-working spaces and hot desking facilities cater to this but double check when you sign up. Coffee shops and public spaces are harder to navigate but try and pick a quieter shop and choose a spot tucked away in the corner away from the flow of foot traffic.
Next, think about comfort. Make sure the space is a comfortable temperature. You don’t want to be sat in a draft but equally you don’t want to be too hot and sweating. Both of these situations will be very distracting. Also think about the ergonomics of the desk you’ll be working at. Ensure seats are comfortable and supportive and if you’re working from a laptop ask if the facility provides a laptop stand or bring your own from home.
Always make sure there’s good internet connection. Most professional co-working spaces should be very reliable but double check their internet speeds before you sign up. Public spaces such as coffee shops are a bit more hit and miss so a bit of trial and error is suggested. If you find a reliable place then stick with it to ensure maximum productivity.
And finally, turn off e-mail notifications, social media distractions or anything else that is going to break your flow. Set specific times throughout your day to check these in order to make sure you’re not missing anything important.
So there you have it, some simple tips to avoid distractions in any workplace which will help you remain in “the flow” and avoid any unnecessary distractions. Try some (or all) of these as soon as you get the chance and reap the benefits they’ll bring.