As Promotional Consultant Today shared in yesterday's post, there are plenty of advantages to working from home—no commute, a flexible schedule and fewer distractions, to name just a few. That's why one out of every five workers in the U.S. now works out of their home.

But if you've ever been home based, you know how easy it is to—let's say—lose focus. There's the pile of laundry, your tempting social media notifications and the click of the TV remote. Before you know it, your attention is diverted from the work that needs to get done.

So how do you stay motivated when working remotely? PCT shares these tips from Business Insider reporter Richard Feloni.

1. Set a schedule. Operating without any structure can seriously hurt your productivity. Divide your workday into three sessions: a "catch up" time to go through emails and read the news, a "collaboration" period when you work with coworkers on projects or talk about planning with your manager, and a "serious work" time when you get through the most difficult assignments of the day. At some point in between each session, take a break.

2. Dress for work. This doesn't mean you need to put on a suit or dress, but take a shower and put on decent clothes, especially if you could potentially be on a video conference or Google Hangout with co-workers during the day. This sets clear boundaries between work and relaxation. When you're done working, put the yoga pants or shorts back on.

3. Have separate means of communication for work. Keep your work phone, computer and email account separate from your personal accounts. If they are not available, it is at least worth creating a separate email address and instant messenger screen name to maintain focus.

4. Get a change of scenery. If a mid-afternoon nap becomes too tempting, consider moving your work elsewhere. Go to the local Starbucks or another public location. I personally like to go to the public library. Or, if you simply need a break to be productive, take a quick walk around the block before you tackle work again.

5. Make the most of conference calls. If someone on the call isn't coming in clearly, then let that person know. Be sure to fully participate; don't fade into the background. Also, if time allows, use the first few minutes of the call to make small talk with team members before getting down to business. It gives you a chance to get to know them or catch up.

6. Grab lunch with coworkers. If you work from home and don't live too far from the office, try to meet for one-on-one lunch dates with coworkers every now and then. Talk about work for five to 10 minutes, and then spend the rest of the hour talking about your family, upcoming vacation and other personal stuff. Use the opportunity to make personal connections when you can.

7. Visit the office and attend special events. Regularly schedule in-person interaction with your co-workers. Plan visits to the home office and be sure to attend key events, like community service days, all-hands meetings and company parties.

Follow these tips and you'll be successful at work and at home.

Source: Richard Feloni is a senior staff writer covering management strategy and entrepreneurship for Business Insider. He has written for publications in Boston and produced videos for The Wall Street Journal.