With most of the world working from home, there’s been a rise of misconceptions about WFH productivity. From the “benefits” of working in pyjamas to the claims that it’s “way easier than working in an office”, we debunk 3 of the biggest WFH productivity myths out there.
Myth #1 Working in my pyjamas helps with productivity
The WFH productivity myth: Working in my pyjamas is a great way to boost productivity. When I’m in my pyjamas, I feel more relaxed and that means I should be able to work better… right?
The reality: Working from home in your pyjamas is completely not advisable. It makes it difficult for you to differentiate rest time from working hours, which could lead to you slacking off at work or being stressed during your down-time. Both scenarios are equally unfortunate. Additionally, getting dressed for the day helps inject a sense of normalcy and routine in your life. It’ll make you look good and feel good, while signposting to your body that a new day has arrived.
Myth #2 It’s okay to be flexible with my schedule
The WFH productivity myth: Working from home means that my boss doesn’t have to hover over my shoulder all day. I’ll be able to work with a more flexible schedule and that will make me more productive.
The reality: Working from home could boost your productivity due to the decrease in stress that arises from having a boss directly monitoring you. However, the flexibility that comes with working from home depends on your discipline. If you can plan your schedule such that it is flexible and allows you to complete your work on time, then working from home could indeed boost your productivity. However, if you use the freedom to binge Netflix, bake a cake in the middle of the day or take a nap, then working from home could significantly decrease your productivity. This not only reduces your efficiency, but also makes it more likely that you won’t be able to complete essential tasks at work on time.
If you want to try balancing flexibility with productivity, try using a smart time management tool like a Timeqube. Timeqube’s Home Office Edition helps you stay on track using a timer that changes colour with the passing of time. It’s an unobtrusive WFH productivity tool that helps you manage work and relaxation time. Find out more here.
Myth #3 It’s easier than working at an office
The WFH productivity myth: Working from home makes me more productive than working at an office. It’s much easier and I can get more done.
The reality: Once again, the accuracy of this idea depends on how you use your time. But in general, most people actually find it more difficult to keep up their productivity while working from home. Firstly, the change in lifestyle from working in an office to working from home results in a break in habit that could hinder productivity. Additionally, without the professional expectations that are present in an office, it could be difficult to stay productive while working from home. There are plenty of temptations — from your bed, to your fridge and even your TV — that could distract you from work. This, coupled with the psychological effect of being cooped up at home, could make working from home much more difficult than going to an office.
Learn more and be more productive
Improving your WFH productivity comes with time and practice. Take some time to see if you’ve been led on by these productivity myths and correct your perceptions. Following this, take small steps to change your actions and boost your productivity. That’s all it takes for a more productive work from home experience.
