Depending on your preferences and work style, working from home can be beneficial or detrimental. Some individuals thrive when teleworking and revel in the independence it affords. For others, the isolation makes them more susceptible to burnout and lack of productivity.

For those who need accountability to maintain productivity, Focusmate may be a helpful tool. The service matches users with partners, often complete strangers, for video work sessions. Matches are not expected to collaborate on projects or engage in ongoing dialogue. Rather, in most cases, matches greet each other, discuss their work plans, and then get started on their individual efforts.

This unconventional way of increasing productivity is based, in part, on the premise that people are more productive when others see them work and when they hear others working. Having cameras on is mandatory during sessions, and unmuted mics are encouraged. However, users may opt to mute their mics if the background noise, such as music, may disturb their work partner.

When individuals are working alone at home, partnering with Focusmate may help them boost their productivity. Users receive three free 50-minute sessions every week. For $5 per month, users can upgrade to the Turbo plan, which allows unlimited access. To learn more, visit focusmate.com.