The times have definitely changed regarding how we work and that doesn’t look like it’s going to change anytime soon. Have you been cooped up in an uninspiring basement or corner with your laptop while constantly fumbling for your office supplies? Maybe you have a small spot set up but can’t quite seem to make it as efficient and ecstatically pleasing as you’d like. For some the transition to a home-based office has been relatively easy, but for many this has brought lots of difficulties and challenges.
If you’re working from home and struggling with an office space, this guide will help you find some easy and creative ways to make the workday at home a little less challenging and a little more enjoyable.
Clear the Clutter
If you want your home office to run at maximum efficiency and keep your stress to a minimum, a clean, clutter free office is a must have.
If you’re overwhelmed with papers and items that have no proper place to call home, take some time and put all your things in one central place like the floor or a bed. First put away anything that has a designated spot. Then move onto things you need to keep but don’t have a home for like stacks of papers. Make a spot for them like a basket, storage bin, or box until you can properly sort them out, file them away or recycle/shred them.
Items you don’t use you can donate or gift to a friend/family member. Keeping a bin in your basement, garage or closet for all your household donation items until you can get to a donation center is a good way to keep organized.
Have a look at what’s left and ask yourself if you really need it or love it. If it’s a keeper, then find a permanent home for it.
Carve Out a Space
Get creative and turn an unused closet into your home office by attaching some brackets with a board and making a computer desk.
If you have a space under the stairs, you can add an office desk, some lighting and home office furniture to make the most out of an otherwise unused area.
Installing some brackets and a shelf under a window ledge would be a great way to have a small home office set up.
A corner in your bedroom or living room would also be a great spot to put freestanding office desks.
If you’re fortunate enough to have a spare room the possibilities could be endless with built in bookcases, computer desks and all the amenities.
Inspiration board
Create a space to brainstorm and get creative. This can be a simple cork board, wire rack, magnetic board or an upholstered panel. It can also be a great spot to tuck notes and reminders instead of having little snips of paper scattered all over your desk and getting easily lost or forgotten.
Comfortable seating
There’s so many great options on the market now for desk chairs that resemble furniture pieces instead of a utilitarian office chair. If you have your home office space joined with a living room or just want to make the office a little more designed, these are great items to invest in while keeping you properly positioned in style at your workstation. If you need time to purchase a sweet new office chair, check your home and see if you can find a chair that has a straight back. If it doesn’t have a soft seat, you can add a cushion for extra comfort.
Good Lighting
Make it easier on your eyes and have some good task lighting. If your desk area is short on space opt for clip on lights that fasten to the side of your desk or a hanging pendant to illuminate you from above. If zoom meetings are a part of your day, make sure the light is positioned in front of you instead of from behind. If possible, opt for creating a work from home space that’s close to natural light as this will decrease stress levels, improve productivity and make for an overall happier day. If you don’t have a window in your home office space, choose a white LED daylight bulb.
Ample Space for Storage and Organizing
Get creative and repurpose what you already have. Everyday items like mugs, pots, even empty cans can make perfect receptacles for pens, pencils rulers etc. Rolling carts can be utilized for organizing all your home office must haves, as can pretty paper bags, baskets and boxes with lids. Consider adding a peg board with hooks to hang items you need or smaller storage containers.
Don’t Overlook Physical, Mental and Emotional Health
Things like essential oils, plants, fresh flowers, candles, deep breathing, soothing music, and stretching or walking breaks increase your focus, energy levels, and productivity as well as decrease stress levels and anxiety so be sure to infuse these into your home office environment as well!
