Getting a new furry friend is all fun and games until work comes knocking. Pets might be cute but they could also be huge hindrances to your productivity while you work from home — kind of like kids! In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to stay productive when you have a new pet.
Why you should get a new furry friend
Pets have been all the rage during the pandemic period, especially for those living alone. Adoptions of dogs and cats are through the roof, and it’s not just the pets who benefit. Owning a pet does wonders for owners. Having a furry friend is a great way to give you purpose, boost your responsibility, and give you some company.
Productivity challenge
While it can be argued that the psychological benefit of having a pet boosts productivity, pets can sometimes be productivity hindrances as well. Younger pets need to be trained and typically require a lot of attention. It can also be tough to focus on work when your cuddly pet is quite literally giving you puppy eyes.
How to stay productive when you have a new pet
Worried that you might be losing steam because of your new pet? Check out our top tips to balance productivity at work with pet time.
1) Plan out your time
Just like kids, pets require frequent love and attention. Instead of breaking yourself out of a train of thought to spend time with them, set aside designated pet times. Whether it involves training your puppy or just lazing around with your cat, schedule these moments so as to avoid being distracted. In fact, you could plan these pet playtimes to coincide with when you take breaks at work. When you feel yourself getting tired from staring at a screen for hours, take a much-needed break and spend it with your new furry friend. This not only makes you feel good but also boosts your productivity as you return to work with a clearer mind.
Worried that your break might go on for too long? Use a Timeqube to get the best results. For example, you can try popular time management techniques like the Pomodoro Rule to plan your work and pet playtime. You can then time your breaks using our mindful timer, which indicates the passing of time using a gentle change in color. This way, you can stick to your schedule without scaring your pet with loud buzzing or blaring alarms.
2) Keep your pet busy
So you’ve schedule pet playtime versus work time. But how do you keep your pet busy until you’re ready to give them attention? Some popular ideas are interactive toys, cozy beds, or hidden treats.
3) Establish boundaries and discipline
There are few things worse than having to discipline your pets, but this is an essential part of being a pet owner. Establish boundaries and train your pets to respect your personal time and space. Use treats and scheduled exercises to help them acclimatise to your work schedule. It might be tough in the beginning, but this is an important tip that will go a long way!
