Create a home office
With proper planning you could create a comfortable and productive space that you’ll look forward to working from every day. Not sure where to start? Here’s a list of tips to help you create the perfect home office no matter where you live.
Invest in a great chair
Are your wrists aching or does your neck feel pinched after hours of typing on your laptop? Your posture may have something to do with it and investing in an ergonomically designed office chair could help prevent these types of strains. Also consider a table that can adjust to different heights so you can vary your position throughout the day. Adding a second computer monitor may also enhance your comfort levels and help alleviate eye strain.
If you’re acquiring new furniture and equipment, now is a great time to reach out to your home insurer to ensure that you have the right type and amount of coverage.
Find your own space
It’s difficult to concentrate when surrounded by household noise and clutter. Not everyone has a spare room with a door, so setting up a secluded spot for virtual meetings and phone calls can be a challenge. You’ll want to set up a dedicated work area that offers some privacy.
If you have limited space, get creative: put a desk in a hallway nook or convert half of a room into a cubicle. The goal is to find a quiet area free of distractions that you can call your own.
Get creative to organize your space
Regardless of how much space we have, many of us tend to fill it with clutter. To combat this, start by adding a small trash can and recycling bin to your work area. Then consider your workflow and priorities. Ideally, everything should have a dedicated space. Not only does this keep things neat, but when you are under pressure and need to find something it will be right where you need it. If space is limited, set up wall shelving or utilize a closet for storage. An organized home office should help improve your ability to focus and your productivity.
Eliminate opportunities for distraction
If working from home is a new experience for you, the most challenging part may be eliminating distractions and creating a separation between your home and work life. Among other things, try to set aside your personal phone and other gadgets so you won’t be tempted to check on your social media accounts or the status of your online orders. Eliminating physical and mental clutter may help you stay engaged, alert and productive at work.
Bring in the light
Good lighting in your home office can be critical to your productivity and well-being. If you can, move your desk in front of a window since natural light can reduce eyestrain, headaches and blurred vision. It may also enhance your productivity. If you don’t have a window, invest in a desk or floor lamp to brighten up your office.
Make your space your own
Bring in some personal touches to make your space warm and inviting. Add photographs of loved ones or pets and hang artwork. These small touches may help motivate you to get to work. However, keep in mind that coworkers can see into your home during virtual meetings, so try and keep personal touches appropriate to your audience.
Add some plants
Adding a few plants to your home office may not only improve the air quality, but it may also improve your mood and enhance the look of your space. Check for the types of species best suited for your location and lighting limitations.
Sources
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/office/chair.html
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/09/140901090735.htm
These tips are provided for information and prevention purposes only. They are general in nature, and The Personal cannot be held liable for them. We recommend using caution and consulting an expert for comprehensive, tailored advice.