Whether you’re new to working from home or you’re a seasoned veteran, staying productive and focused can be a challenge. Building positive routines and habits can minimize distractions not only in a work setting, but in your personal life. Here are five effective tactics that you can fold into your daily life while working in your Camden apartment.

Create a Dedicated Workspace:

Your workspace will be the largest factor in your ability to focus. Having a dedicated area will help you to separate personal from productivity. Our Camden apartment homes have so many options for you to choose from! Camden Carolinian offers den/flex space to give you complete separation from your surroundings. Camden Town Square has solarium spaces for those looking for an open concept. Find a space that is free from daily distractions, such as a pile of laundry or a sink full of dishes. By keeping your workspace clean and organized, over time, your brain and body will understand the signals that it’s time to work!

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Build a Vision Board:

A vision board is a visual representation of your goals, displayed together. If you would prefer a physical board, gather a large posterboard, scissors, and glue. Use images, quotes, affirmations, etc. Anything that will motivate and inspire you when you look at it! If you’re limited on space, create a vision board online and save it to your desktop. Make sure it is easily accessible whenever you need a little pick me up.

Exercise Regularly:

Sitting for long periods of time can be hard on your body. Try incorporating light stretches throughout the day to keep your body active and mind sharp. Consider investing in a walking pad and a standing desk. This will allow you to adjust your posture or take short walks while working. If a few coworkers have walking-pads of their own, hold one another accountable! Track the distance or minutes each of you walked and total it at the end of the work week. You’ll notice a difference in your attention once you’ve got blood flowing!

Listen to Non-Verbal Music or Podcasts:

If you miss the background office noise, or the silence is too distracting, find something to fill the quiet. Audio can be distracting, so if you prefer music, try instrumental. Transport your mind to a quaint café with coffee-shop jazz. If a podcast doesn’t demand too much attention, find one that will keep you engaged yet focused. You may even decide to dabble in creating a podcast yourself!

Take Short Breaks:

Working non-stop will lead to burnout, resulting in insufficiency. Be kind to yourself and take regular breaks to recharge. A recommended workflow is 90/15: 90 minutes of, followed by a 15-minute break. Step away from your screen and find a quiet area outside. Camden North Quarter has a relaxing Zen garden with greenery to help you reset. Or if you need a jolt, Camden Music Row has a professional-grade coffee machine that will grind & brew you a fresh cup each use.

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Being productive is not about working harder, or faster-it’s about working smarter. Create the best environment for yourself and start building lasting habits. Gradually incorporate them into your daily routine, and you will notice a difference in your productivity and overall wellness.

If you’re ready to get out there and find a new space outside of your work and home environment, check out this blog on Finding a Third Space!