In the era of remote work, having a well-organized and comfortable home office space is crucial for maintaining productivity and focus.
I know firsthand how much my office space has changed (for the better) since the pandemic.
Now with video being so common and work from home a new norm, having an upgraded office space helps with your professionalism and productivity.
Whether you're a seasoned remote worker or new to the concept, here are some simple steps to help you create an effective home office space.
Select a quiet and dedicated area in your home for your office. Ideally, this should be away from distractions like the TV or high-traffic areas.
Natural light is a bonus, as it can positively impact mood and alertness.
I try and separate work from non-work. And that means that my office space is dedicated to work and everywhere else is dedicated to non-work.
Since you'll be spending significant time sitting, invest in a comfortable chair that supports good posture.
Pair it with a sturdy desk that provides enough space for your work essentials.
I can’t tell you how important these tools are to me. I purchased an electronic stand-up desk from Costco in Canada several years ago. It still works great and I use it to this day. It’s the Tresanti glass top electronic standing desk.
I can use it standing and as well as seated with preset buttons on the side.
I recently upgraded my chair to the one and only Herman Miller Aeron. It costs around $2500 Canadian and let me tell you, it’s worth every penny.
Dealing with low back pain has been a constant struggle for me. So I did extensive research on the best chairs out there. Never in a million years did I think I would spend over $1000 on a chair let alone over $2000.
But if your health is something you value, and you’re working from home a lot, it’s worth the investment!
Keep your workspace clutter-free by organizing your essentials.
Use storage solutions like bins, shelves, or drawers to keep stationery, documents, and other tools within arm's reach.
A tidy space can contribute to a clearer mind.
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Consider ergonomic accessories such as a keyboard and mouse to reduce the risk of discomfort or strain.
Adjust the height of your chair and monitor to ensure your eyes are level with the screen.
I love my Logitech mouse and keyboard. I also use a 27” widescreen Asus monitor that helps me with my productivity.
Add personal touches to make your home office inviting.
Plants, artwork, or inspiring quotes can create a positive and motivating atmosphere.
However, be mindful not to overdo it to maintain a productive environment.
It’s also worthy noting that having a setup behind you for your camera and what other people see online is important.
Have a space that looks clean and professional when on any calls.
Set regular working hours to create a sense of structure.
This helps separate work life from personal life, maintaining a healthy balance.
Take breaks and step away from your desk periodically to refresh your mind.
Good lighting is crucial for reducing eye strain and maintaining focus.
Position your desk near a natural light source.
If not, invest in quality artificial lighting to illuminate your workspace effectively.
It’s also important to have good lighting on yourself for video calls.
I highly recommend investing in a small to medium size key light. I use the Neewer GL1-Pro and love it.
Tangled cables can be both an eyesore and a hazard.
Use cable organizers or clips to keep them neat and prevent tripping.
This not only enhances the aesthetics but also contributes to a safer workspace.
Identify potential distractions and find ways to minimize them.
Whether it's turning off non-essential notifications or using noise-cancelling headphones, creating a focused environment is key to productivity.
I tend to turn my phone on do not disturb mode when I want to focus as well as putting on my Sony XM4 noise cancelling headphones.
This helps me to focus on the task at hand.
As your work needs evolve, so should your home office space.
Regularly assess what's working and what needs improvement.
Adjustments may include furniture rearrangements, additional storage solutions, or new equipment.
By following these simple steps, you can transform your home office into a productive haven that supports your professional endeavours while maintaining comfort and balance.
A well-designed workspace not only boosts productivity but also enhances your overall work-from-home experience.
Having an office space you are proud of will help you to work more effectively and be proud of doing what you do.
While you don’t need the best of everything you can start with a lower budget and improve things as you go.
Chris M Wilson
Chris Wilson is a keynote speaker, CTI coach, and entrepreneur. Through his Hover to Fly framework, he aims to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.
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