Working from home nowadays has become less of an exception and more of the norm. Even without the social distancing rule over the world, working from home is becoming more common.
Working from home is becoming more popular because of the continuous development of technology in a way that allows a lot of businesses to operate remotely.
But despite its popularity, working from home has its own set of challenges.
To be able to work and be productive while at home, you need to have self-discipline. You also need to make sure that you have all of the right equipment that you’ll need. Aside from that, you also want you to create a productive workspace while working from home.
If you get into the habit of doing your work while lying down on the bed or the sofa, you are more likely to get distracted. Thus, there comes the need for a productive workspace inside your home.
If you’re working on creating a sufficient workspace while at home, continue reading, here are several tips on creating a compelling and productive workspace at home.
Create a dedicated space
One of the most significant upsides to working from home is that you have a lot more flexibility when it comes to your work arrangements. The flip side of this flexibility is that people tend to overextend their flexible work arrangements.
People make poor use of their flexible work arrangements when they work in different areas of the house instead of sticking to one area.
If you do your work in the same place where you relax, your subconscious will be confused about whether it’s time to work or time to chill.
If you want to have a productive workspace at home, you need to create a separate space dedicated to your professional pursuits.
You don’t need to have an entire room in order to work. What’s important is that you have your own desk where you can place your belongings. That way, whenever you’re in this space, you get to condition yourself and shift your mindset to work mode.
Cut out the clutter
There are already a lot of sources of distraction around your home. Since there are already multiple sources of entertainment all over you, you shouldn’t bring those distractions to your workspace.
Therefore, before any workday, your first step would be to clear out your workspace of any unrelated clutter. Get rid of unnecessary books, used cutleries, excess stationeries, and more around your workspace. You should also try and put your phone out of your reach so that you don’t get distracted by notifications during work hours.
It would be best to cut down on the work items that you have available on your workspace.
If you’re going to include any work items, make sure that they are something you need for your current workday. Otherwise, they’re just in the way of you getting your job done.
Try aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is something that a few people consider to make a big difference when it comes to boosting someone’s productivity.
If aromatherapy is something that you might be interested in, then you should invest in a diffuser and some high-quality essential oils.
The essential oil that you use for your diffuser is critical. It’s vital because if you don’t like the smell, it’s just going to distract you instead of making you more productive.
Set up the best lighting
If your workspace is too bright, you’re going to have to fight against your screen’s glare to be able to see your work. On the other hand, if it’s too dim, you’re going to have to adjust so that you can see what you’re doing.
In both of these cases, your eyes can get fatigued fast. Therefore, you want to ensure that neither happens to you.
Set up the best lighting situation that’s not too dark nor too bright. That way, your eyes won’t get tired out, and you’ll be able to work consistently for longer.
Make it ergonomic
Make sure that your work arrangement is as ergonomic as possible.
Being in a comfortable position while working will ensure that your body doesn’t exhaust itself.
Investing in a reliable office chair is one way you can be ergonomic. You want to have reliable back support so that you won’t have an aching back after working all day. You should also be more conscious of your sitting posture so that you don’t tire out.
Create a filing system
If you’re going to be storing work documents at home, you need to start creating an organized filing system. You also need to have separate storage for work documents that you aren’t using.
Make sure that you leave all things properly so that you know where everything is.
Decorate your space
You’re free to decorate your workspace at home, but you have to be more deliberate with the decor that you choose.
If you add too much decoration, it can translate into clutter. Therefore, when you are decorating your workspace, make sure that you keep it minimal.
For example, indoor plants and succulents are a great way to decorate any workspace. Not to mention that it allows you to improve your indoor air, too.
Working from home can be enjoyable and productive if you have the self-discipline to manage yourself. It’s also going to be a lot more fruitful if you have a dedicated workspace at home. With the tips listed above, you will be on your way to creating a solid foundation for your dedicated workspace at home.
About the Author:
Raymond Chiu is the Director of Operations for Maid Sailors, an NYC office cleaning
provider. Maid Sailors offers its customers unrivaled office cleaning services that can
address even the toughest cleaning needs. Matched with affordable prices, Maid Sailors is
your best partner in helping you turn your office into a work-friendly workplace.
