Get All Access for $5/mo

How to Stay Productive While Working From Home Try this productivity tip to improve focus and motivation.

By Ben Angel

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

While some people prefer remote work to going into an office, many of us struggle with productivity when working from home. In this video, Ben Angel describes a motivation technique that can help you stay on-task and reduce stress.

Angel explains how researchers found that leveraging the internal reward systems of test subjects resulted in productivity gains. To trigger your internal reward system, Angel recommends rewarding yourself for completing projects, big or small.

Start by identifying and writing out your goals. Angel recommends keeping a journal or using task management software to list your projects and due dates. Next to each, list a reward you'll enjoy when you complete the project.

A few examples of rewards you could give yourself:

  • Clocking out of work an hour early to spend time with family
  • Ordering takeout food
  • Watching a movie you have not had time to see

Don't reward yourself until you've completed each project. If necessary, keep yourself accountable by enlisting the help of friends or family or by posting to social media. But do celebrate daily successes to maintain momentum and stay motivated.

Angel also recommends organizing your day before you start work, breaking the workday into 30- or 60-minute increments to compartmentalize projects and reduce stress.

Less stress and proper nutrition, Angel says, will help fuel the brain, keep feelings of overwhelm in check and improve productivity.

Want to become unstoppable in business and in life? Take this 60-second quiz now to find out what's really holding you back, and be sure to grab a copy of Angel's new book, Unstoppable, today.

Related: Why You're Having Vivid Dreams, and How Some Sleep Supplements Can Trigger Nightmares

Ben Angel

Entrepreneur Network Contributor

Tackle AI's toughest questions with Ben Angel, mapping the business terrain for 20 years. Master the AI landscape and reach peak productivity and profits with insights from his latest work, "The Wolf is at The Door — How to Survive and Thrive in an AI-Driven World." Click here to download your 'Free AI Success Kit' and get your free chapter from his latest book today.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

More from Ben Angel

Unleash Unshakable Confidence in 7 Days: The Neuroscience-Backed Blueprint

How to Start a 'Million Dollar' Morning Routine

Alarming New Data: 75% of Workers Say AI Is Hurting Productivity. Here's Why and What to Do About It.

Leadership

Why Your AI Strategy Will Fail Without the Right Talent in Place

Using fractional AI experts through specialized platforms allows companies to access top talent cost-effectively, drive innovation and scale agile strategies for growth.

Business News

Here's What the CPI Report Means for Your Wallet, According to JPMorgan and EY Experts

Most experts agree that there will be another rate cut next week.

Productivity

6 Habits That Help Successful People Maximize Their Time

There aren't enough hours in the day, but these tips will make them feel slightly more productive.

Business News

These Companies Offer the Best Work-Life Balance, According to Employees

The ranking is based on Glassdoor ratings and reviews.

Science & Technology

Use This Framework to Successfully Integrate AI Into Your Business Operations

Here's how to ensure both innovation and compliance when using AI in your organization.