WFH and Falling Behind? Try These 8 Methods to Stay on Track

Remote work sounds amazing until you realise you’re 10 TikToks deep and still haven’t started that project due tomorrow. With constant notifications, comfy couches, and the fridge just steps away, it’s way too easy to slip into procrastination mode. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some killer tips and legit tools to help you kick procrastination to the curb. Let’s turn WFH into work-that-actually-gets-done.

1. Identify and Track Your Procrastination Patterns

The first step is getting real with yourself. What’s making you stall? Are you overwhelmed, tired, or just uninspired? Tools like RescueTime and Focus@Will give you data on how you spend your time. RescueTime provides weekly reports on which apps and sites are eating up your day, helping you spot and eliminate distractions. Focus@Will adds a bonus by curating productivity-enhancing music to keep you in the zone.

• Tool Suggestions: RescueTime, Focus@Will, Freedom Journal (a digital or physical journal to track productivity and procrastination trends)​
  

2. Design a Dedicated, Distraction-Free Workspace

Setting up a focused workspace does wonders for your mindset. Beyond the usual setup, adding a few tools can optimise this space. Try Serene, a minimalist productivity tool that plays focus sounds and blocks distracting sites during work hours. If you’re a fan of visual aids, RoomSketcher can help you lay out your workspace, ensuring everything you need is within reach.

• Tool Suggestions: Serene, RoomSketcher, Noise-canceling headphones to keep external noise at bay​.

3. Implement a High-Energy Routine with Habit-Forming Tools

Create a routine that sets you up for a productive day. If you struggle with consistency, habit-tracking apps like Streaks or Habitica (a gamified app) can motivate you by rewarding routine-building actions. Habitica turns your productivity into an RPG game where you earn rewards for checking off tasks—perfect for making routines feel a bit more engaging.

• Tool Suggestions: Streaks, Habitica, Fabulous (an app with science-backed routines to boost energy and focus)​
  

4. Use Advanced Time-Blocking Techniques

Time-blocking can turn a vague to-do list into a laser-focused schedule. Clockify and Sunsama are next-level time management tools for blocking time down to the minute. Clockify offers deep insights into where your time goes, while Sunsama acts like a digital personal assistant, helping you prioritise tasks and integrate them with calendars and project tools.

• Tool Suggestions: Clockify, Sunsama, SkedPal (integrates with your calendar to automate time-blocking)​
  

5. Tame Digital Distractions with Powerful Blocking Tools

Instead of just avoiding your phone, use tools that actively help block distractions. Cold Turkey and StayFocusd let you block distracting websites and apps during work hours, while FocusMe even limits specific sites, apps, or content based on personalised schedules. Pair these with noise-cancelling headphones and you’ve got a fortress against distractions.

• Tool Suggestions: Cold Turkey, StayFocusd, FocusMe​.

6. Boost Self-Accountability with Peer Support

Sometimes, a little peer pressure can work wonders. Tools like Focusmate let you work alongside a virtual coworker in timed sessions, providing the external accountability you might lack at home. Pact is another app that encourages self-accountability by putting your own money on the line if you miss a commitment.

• Tool Suggestions: Focusmate, Coach.me (connects you with productivity coaches if you want expert guidance)​
  

7. Master Task Breakdown with Visual Tools

Turning overwhelming tasks into manageable steps can help cut down procrastination. Milanote and MindNode offer visual task breakdowns—perfect if you’re a visual thinker. Milanote allows you to storyboard your tasks, while MindNode helps map out complex projects, making them easier to tackle in small increments.

• Tool Suggestions: Milanote, MindNode, Trello (its Kanban board layout is great for visual task management)
  

8. Reward Yourself (And Actually Follow Through)

When you’ve worked hard, a reward system is a great motivator. But here’s a twist—use tools that turn productivity into a game. Forest grows virtual trees when you stay focused, while BeeMinder literally stings you by charging a fee if you don’t hit your goals. These apps add a unique twist, ensuring you actually follow through on those rewards.

• Tool Suggestions: Forest, BeeMinder, Taskade (a visually engaging app that rewards you with positive feedback when you complete tasks)​
  

Overcoming procrastination isn’t about instantly becoming a productivity powerhouse. Staying focused and moving forward is key. Working from home can be a challenge, but with the right tools and tips, you can definitely stay one step ahead. Finding your groove while working from home is all about trial and error, it will take time to discover the techniques that really click for you. But once you do, you can create a routine that makes you feel unstoppable!

Feeling a bit lost on where to start? No worries, you’re not alone. Mentoria offers personalised coaching and resources tailored to your goals, helping you not only conquer procrastination but also enhance your work-from-home strategies, manage stress, and plan your next career step.