With working from home becoming the new norm for most individuals, it’s crucial to have a designated workspace that allows you to switch off after work hours. However, without the correct setup, it’s easy to get distracted. To achieve maximum productivity, it’s essential to have a dedicated workspace with minimal distractions. But if your household is usually chaotic, creating a peaceful workspace can be challenging. If you need assistance in setting up an ideal workspace, stay tuned as we guide you through the 10 crucial steps to follow.
Find a Dedicated Space
If you’re fortunate enough to have a spare room, converting it into an office is an easy option. However, most of us don’t have that luxury and had to make do with working from the sofa or kitchen table during the early days of the pandemic. Regardless of the limited space you have, it’s essential to find an area dedicated solely to work and move away from it once your working day is over. Whatever you do, avoid working from your bed. It’s crucial to get up and prepare for the day as if you were heading into an actual office.
Keep Your Essentials Close By
Just like you would do in the office, make sure to have all your necessary items close to your working area at home. This could include your notebook and pen, water bottle, and any other office supplies that you frequently use throughout your workday. By having these items nearby, you can avoid wasting time searching for them and stay focused on your tasks.
Use Two Screens
Having two screens at your disposal can be a game-changer when working from home. With one screen, you can quickly browse for information while keeping all your files open and easily accessible on the other. It can help you work faster, increase your productivity, and save time by having all the necessary information in front of you. You don’t need a full-size monitor for this setup, as you can also use a tablet or an iPad and sync it with your computer through airplay or an Android app.
Switch Your Phone Off
If your work doesn’t require you to use a phone, it’s best to keep it switched off or away from your workspace to avoid getting distracted. You can schedule in some breaks when you can use it for personal purposes, such as checking social media or texting friends about plans after work.
Fill Your Space with Natural Light
If you want to feel more alert and awake during the day, natural light can really help. It’s one of the benefits of working in an office setting. Plus, natural light is easier on your eyes than staring at a screen all day. So, try to choose a workspace that has plenty of natural light available.
Keep Your Space Organised
It’s crucial to maintain an organized workspace, as a cluttered desk can easily divert your attention from your work. If you deal with a lot of paperwork, it’s recommended to have a filing cabinet to keep everything in order. Only keep the necessary items on your desk that you’ll need throughout the day, and make sure to tidy it up at the end of each working day, so you start the next day with a clean and clear workspace.
Invest in a Comfortable Chair
It’s important to prioritize comfort when choosing furniture for your home office. A good office chair with proper back support and height adjustment is essential to avoid discomfort during long hours of sitting. Using a kitchen chair is not recommended, as it may not provide adequate support. If you prefer to stand while working, consider investing in a standing desk.
Add Plants
Plants are not just aesthetically pleasing but also beneficial to your workspace by providing fresh air. If your work area feels stuffy, adding a beautiful plant can enhance its freshness and appeal. Even if you’re not particularly good at taking care of plants, you can still choose a low-maintenance option such as a cactus or money plant.
Use Scents
Introducing pleasant scents to your workplace can give an instant boost to your productivity. Essential oils like peppermint can provide an energy boost, rosemary can aid concentration and improve efficiency, and sweet orange can help alleviate anxiety. However, it’s important to use these scents in moderation to avoid any overpowering effects.
Get The Necessary Equipment
When working from home, having a fast internet connection is crucial, but it’s not the only thing you need to be productive. Consider investing in some extra gear, like Bluetooth computer accessories, noise-canceling headphones, or an extra monitor, depending on your needs. With the right equipment and workspace setup, you can have a productive workday from the comfort of your own home.