Improve your productivity by changing your scene

I love working from home. I love being in my own space, I love getting a jump start on dinner, I love saving money by eating at home and wearing jeans every day, I really do love it.

However, there are days when I’m just not motivated to work. Those are the days I find myself doing what I call productive procrastination. You know, folding laundry when I should be writing, creating the weekly menu plan instead of following up on potential sponsored posts. I’m working, but not working …

Sometimes I’ll just allow myself a day to move a little slowly and not get a lot done, but if it happens more than one day, I know it’s time to change my scene. I’ve discovered that to be uber productive – or just to kickstart myself into crossing off all my to-do’s, working somewhere outside of the home helps every time.

If you feel the same, but get tired of working at your local Starbucks, check out my favorite haunts – some of them might surprise you:

• A local coffee shop. This is the easy one. If I’m traveling and don’t find anything local on Yelp I’ll hit Starbucks like everyone else out there, but if it’s possible, a local coffee shop is the best. They tend to be quiet, friendly and comfortable. Plus since it’s such a common workspace, no one thinks twice if you hang out for a few hours with your computer.

Suggestions if you are in the Indianapolis area:

Hubbards & Craven; Local chain with four convenient locations.

Noble Coffee & Tea; 933 Logan St., Noblesville, IN (317) 773-0339; located right on the square

• The library. I feel like the library has gone out of fashion which is too bad as it’s such an amazing resource. If you haven’t been to yours in a while, grab your computer and head over. You’ll find secluded and quiet areas to work (some even have breakout rooms if you need to make a phone call), tons of inspiration in the form of books and magazines and it’s free! My local library is even fine with me bringing in a coffee but check with yours before you do the same.

Suggestions if you are in the Indianapolis area:

Noblesville Library; One Library Plaza; Noblesville, IN (317) 773-1384

Indianapolis Public Library Glendale Branch; 6101 N. Keystone Ave. Indianapolis, IN; (317) 275-4410 – this library branch is located in Glendale Mall, so plenty of food and shopping options available too!

• A local brewery. An interesting choice? Yes, but hear me out. Many breweries open at 11, but don’t really get busy until after 5:00 which makes them a quiet and comfortable place to set up shop. They often have delicious and affordable food and free WiFi. A handful around Indianapolis have local coffee and/or Kombucha on the menu, so you don’t even have to order a beer (although I won’t judge you if you do!). The one I go to frequently has a large outdoor patio, so if the weather is nice I sit there.

Suggestion if you are in the Indianapolis area:

Books & Brews is my Indianapolis brewery of choice for getting work done. I always work at the Broadripple location when my dog is at the groomers because the food is delicious, the servers friendly and the atmosphere cozy. Books & Brews is a local chain so if you are anywhere near Indianapolis there is probably a location close to you.

• IKEA. I know many of you don’t have this as an option, but if you are traveling you might find it a great choice. Especially during the week when the cafe is not crowded. I’ve found their WiFi to be super fast and you can’t beat drinks for $1.00. In the winter especially it’s a nice change of pace as it’s indoors and nice and warm. Plus, when you get tired of working you can wander around the store for some inspiration.

• Any Quick Service Restaurant. We call these restaurants “tweeners” – in-between fast food and sit-down. Places like Qdoba, Panera, etc. You order at the counter, but they are a little nicer than traditional fast food. Most of these restaurants have decent WiFi and plenty of comfortable seating. I find these to be great options if I’m traveling and want a bite to eat but also want to get some work done.

Next time you are on the road, or just working from home and need a change of pace, consider trying someplace new. You’ll spark your inspiration and it makes a regular workday feel like an everyday adventure!

Where is your favorite location to work?

Want to remember these ideas later? Go ahead and pin now so you won’t forget: