Many freelancers are having hard time staying focused and productive especially if they are working from home, where the distractions are many. Working on design projects day in and day out could be challenging and even exhausting, but we can give you a few pointers on how to organize your work, make it more interesting, and increase your productivity:

Buy the Right Hardware

While the average mouse, keyboard, and monitor are adequate for the average computer user, as a web designer or developer you would want hardware, which will maximize your productivity. A top quality LCD monitor with faster refresh rate, high native resolution, good contrast ratio, decent size, and greater viewing angle is ideal, and when coupled with good keyboard and mouse, fast computer, and top of the range video card could help you work faster and smarter.

Use the Right Tools

When it comes to web design, using the right tools is crucial. Some of the top software packs could be quite costly, but they are an investment well made. Spend adequate time on research, find out what other designer use and love, and download and use trial versions of the software whenever possible in order to evaluate it before buying. Do not be tempted to download and test every single software tool that comes out, even if it is a freeware – staying up-to-date on the latest tools is great, but cluttering your computer with countless programs that you would never use is unproductive.

Go to Work Every Day

Even if you work from home, you need to get into the work habit. It is always best to have a dedicated home office, where there is no TV or any other distractions and where you can focus on your projects.

Have a Schedule

Most specialists recommend that every 45 minutes behind the computer are followed by 10 to 15 minutes break. This would help you avoid straining your eyes, putting too much pressure on your spine, and even avoid back injuries. If you find yourself glued to the monitor for hours, then you might want to set your alarm clock to go off every time it is time to take a break. Having a routine and keeping “office hours” would help you get more work done in less amount of time.

Take a Day Off

You should have one or two days of per week. While there is no golden rule as to whether you should work five or six days per week, you need to have days off, which days would give you adequate rest. During your breaks, you should turn the computer and your phones off and spend quality time with your family and friends.

Avoid Procrastination

People often procrastinate when they work on something boring and repetitive. While taking on different, exciting, and challenging projects all the time might sound like fun, it is not always possible, and often you would find yourself having to work on similar projects over and over. One way to stay focused when this happens is to break them down into smaller pieces since completing every step of the project will give you a sense of achievement and will keep you focused and motivated.

Perfection is Your Enemy

Trying to perfect even the smallest details is a mistake, which many beginners make. While delivering top quality design for your customers is crucial for your success, if you find yourself tweaking every little detail and working days on a simple project, then you need to re-think your approach.

Reward Yourself

Just like most organizations keep their top performing employees motivated by giving them bonuses, you can keep yourself motivated and productive by rewarding yourself for a job well done. Every time you achieve your goals, reward yourself with a great night out with your family, new pair of jeans, new book, or another treat that would help you stay motivated.

These tips will get you started on a path to being more productive, which will lead to being more successful. If you have a productivity tip of your own please share them with us in the commnents.