I’ve been working from home for the past 7 years in all types of workspace setups. No matter whether I’m using my bedroom, the kitchen table or an actual dedicated office space, productivity is always my #1 concern.  So I’m sharing my best tips! Here are 5 practical things you can do to boost productivity in your home office space. 

*Thank you Boise Paper for sponsoring today’s post! #Dare2Compare #BoisePaper

5 Ways To Boost Productivity In Your Home Office

Create a work playlist

If you work from home you’re going to need to create music playlists. Why? Because music has the ability to boost your mood, motivate and help foster creativity.  So, if you have the type of job that doesn’t require you to be constantly on the phone with clients/customers you need to have a few good playlists ready to go. 

I find that when I’m writing at my best or turning things in well before a deadline, 9 times out of 10 it was because I was listening to a nice playlist while working. I recommend using music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music. 

Make sure your workspace is comfortable & makes sense to how you work

My advice is to find a spot that works best for you and make sure it’s equipped with practical things nearby such as outlets, good lighting, plant-life, and comfortable seating.

At various points, in my work from home life, I’ve used my kitchen table, portable laptop tables and even my bedroom as an office.

I now have a “real-life” office space but I find myself using it sporadically because of my uncomfortable office chair (I sold a few days ago using Facebook Marketplace btw). 

In the meantime, while I research and price a new one, I drift to other areas of my home that are more conducive to my creativity and productivity. 

Like my favorite spot on the sofa. 

Don’t skimp on office supplies

Inexpensive supplies could cost you more in the end. More time, more money and possible frustration.

So I pay attention to the quality of my yearly/monthly planners, writing tools, binders and printer paper.

I’ve gone the route of buying low-quality paper for my home office in the past and I’ve always had to pay dearly for my mistake. I admit, during those times I was 100% focused on cost.  I didn’t factor in things like quality, color bleeding, paper jams or even the environment. 

I just wanted to grab my paper quickly so I could get back to what I needed to do. But, did you know that low-quality paper can actually cause printer jams? Excess paper dust and paper, which can cause jams, are tell-tale signs of inferior paper. I know I don’t have time for that.

Now I realize the importance of measuring all of those factors plus the cost. That’s why I like using Boise^® ASPEN^® Recycled Copy Paper, because they have a great 99.99% Jam-Free® Performance Guarantee!

My print jobs come out vibrant and I haven’t had to deal with any paper jams.  The icing on the cake is that I’m also doing something good for the environment by using it. 

Take breaks

I shouldn’t have to say this because it seems obvious. But the reality is when you work from home it’s so easy to get caught up in your work and forget to take breaks. 

I recommend setting a few short breaks throughout your workday to give your mind a rest.  Get up and stretch.  Refresh your drink or snack. Or, find a nice 5-10 minute distraction that can take your mind off of work.  

Schedule your workweek in advance

I like to set aside some time on Sunday nights to plan out my work week and set reminders for upcoming tasks. My schedule has become a bit crazy recently due to both of my kids being in school and other family changes.  So, planning ahead is mandatory if I want to stay productive during the week.

If your schedule tends to get out of hand at times weekly planning may be the best move for you. 

Dare 2 Compare

If you currently use recycled printer paper, I dare you to compare your brand to the Boise Aspen recycled papers.  Does your brand offer these?

• 5 varieties to choose from to suit your project needs
• Made in the USA by trusted and sustainable sources
• You can “do good” for the environment
• Boise ASPEN paper is made by using sources from partners who use responsible practices and support the natural eco-system 
• 99.99% jam-free performance guarantee
• Exceptional quality, brightness, and smooth texture

Got any productivity tips you’d like to add?