We asked you for working from home advice – these are your top 8 tips

If you're reading this when you should be working, you're not alone in seeking out distractions.

More than 85% of 2,000 UK employees surveyed by The HR Director publication admitted engaging in non-work-related activities while working from home in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Housework came top, followed by checking social media, online shopping, cooking and watching TV – while 1 in 5 people even admitted to sleeping on the job.

Working from home is here to stay for many of us, so we asked our social media followers for some top tips on navigating the pitfalls and ensuring we stay focused, productive and happy.

Here's what you said:

1. Keep your workspace free of distractions

Every time you stop working on a task to check your phone or social media, it takes 1,395 seconds (23+ minutes) on average to regain your focus, according to research.

Keep your workspace clutter-free – and maybe put your phone out of reach.

2. Take regular breaks to avoid burnout

Brief mental breaks will actually help you to stay focused on a task.

For those using computers, taking at least five minutes every hour to look at something other than a screen, change posture or do some stretching is recommended by the UK's Health and Safety Executive.

3. Have a routine that balances work, exercise, social time and chores

US workers surveyed in August spent more than a third of the time they save on commuting doing more work.

But most of the time savings were devoted to leisure activities, home improvement and childcare. The key is in getting the balance right.

4. Set clear boundaries between family and work time

Employees who can detach or switch off fully from work report better well-being and sleep - and are more satisfied with their lives.

This means being more mentally and emotionally present for their families.

5. Listen to music

The jury's out on whether it can boost productivity, but listening to music can definitely help your mood and might get you through those more repetitive tasks.

This two-hour Piano Music for Studying, Concentrating and Focusing Playlist has had almost 24 million views on YouTube, if you want to give it try.

6. Spend time in nature

Nature’s capacity to relieve stress is well known – but did you know it also improves cognitive performance?

If you can’t get outdoors, having plants in the home reduces stress and boosts productivity.

7. Maintain your social connections

The Zoom quiz craze might be over – but you can still keep up through group chats, lunches or even workouts.

Studies show that strong social relationships boost our physical and mental health, and can even lower our mortality risk.

8. Remain calm and present using yoga or meditation

Companies including Google have found that mindfulness at work can reduce stress, while improving focus, decision-making abilities and general well-being.

Taking time out of your day to meditate or do yoga can help you manage your time and stress levels better.