I am a filmmaker who currently travels for work and therefore needs to create an “office” space anywhere I go—from Airbnbs to hotels to coffee shops. Due to my lifestyle, I’ve learned to embrace this challenge by creating spaces that help me stay focused and minimize distractions that drain my brain activity.

However, like many people working from home (or on the go), I struggle with habits that hinder my productivity. Here are the challenges I face and the strategies I’m learning to implement to overcome them:

1. Getting Distracted by Social Media

Scrolling through social media is a common productivity killer.

Techniques to Overcome It:

• Set Time Blocks for Social Media: Allocate specific times in the day for social

media, e.g., during lunch or after work.

• Use Focus Apps: Apps like Forest, Focus@Will, or Freedom can block access to distracting sites and apps during work hours.

• Turn Off Notifications: Silence notifications from social media apps while working.

2. Taking Random Snack Breaks

Frequent breaks for snacks can disrupt focus and lead to inefficiency.

Techniques to Overcome It:

• Meal Prep Ahead of Time: Prepare snacks or meals in advance to avoid frequent kitchen trips.

• Set Snack Times: Stick to scheduled snack breaks to stay in control of your time.

• Stay Hydrated: Sometimes hunger is mistaken for thirst—keep water or herbal tea nearby.

3. Balancing Work and Partner Responsibilities Feeling obligated to prepare meals for your partner can interrupt your workflow.

Techniques to Overcome It:

•Communicate Clearly: Let your partner know your work hours and request

understanding during those times.

•Plan Meals Together: Create a shared schedule for cooking that works for both of you.

• Batch Cooking: Prepare meals in bulk to save time and effort.

4. Staying Productive While Visiting Friends

Being in a social environment, like a friend’s home, can make it challenging to concentrate.

Techniques to Overcome It:

• Set Boundaries: Politely let your friends know your work hours and ask for quiet time during those periods.

• Use Headphones: Noise-canceling headphones can help create a mental barrier and keep you focused.

• Find an Alternate Workspace: If it’s too distracting, consider working from a

nearby coffee shop or library.

Additional Productivity Hacks for a Filmmaker’s Home Office

• Create a Portable Work Kit: Keep essential tools (laptop, hard drives,

headphones, etc.) organized in a single bag so you’re always ready to work anywhere.

• Designate a Work Zone: In any temporary space, choose a specific area for work and avoid using it for leisure activities.

• Set Clear Goals: Write down daily tasks to stay on track and measure progress.

• Follow the Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute

break. Repeat this cycle to maintain focus without burnout.

Conclusion

Working from a “home office” that changes locations frequently presents unique challenges, but it also offers opportunities to grow and adapt. By recognizing and addressing bad habits, I’m learning to create a productive environment wherever I go. With clear boundaries, intentional planning, and the right tools, anyone can make a home office work for them—no matter where home is. A Filmmaker’s Journey to Productivity (At Home) - image 1 - student project

Yossuana Aguilar

Creative Filmmaker

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