Around 64% of employees would consider quitting their job if forced to go back to the office full-time. Because of these figures, it makes sense that employers are embracing remote work.
If you’re getting more work from home opportunities, it’s important that you make the most out of each flexible workday. This means setting up a WFH office that keeps you on track. Read on to learn how you can set up an office that works for your needs.
Choose a Specific Location for Work
When the home becomes the workplace, it’s important to set boundaries with yourself. If you get used to working in bed, you won’t be able to relax later. If you try to work in an area meant for relaxation, you may not be able to get in the zone.
That’s why it’s important to designate a specific area of your home for work. Make sure that it’s a place far from distractions. An entire room meant just for work is ideal, but if you don’t have that kind of space, you can get creative.
Get a curtain and some rods and section off a corner of your living room. Only let yourself leave that area during pre-determined break times. Make sure that this area is in a room that’s free from distracting noises from pets, children, and nearby highways or parks.
Create a Home Office Plan
Once you know where you’re going to set up your home office, it’s important that you plan out what it’s going to look like. Set a budget and determine what you’ll need to have in your office space.
Sketch out where you’ll want to put your desk and chair. This is a good place to start because you’ll be using these for the entire workday. Make sure that they’re near power outlets so that your electronics don’t die while you’re working.
Add features like appropriate light fixtures around your desk. Choose window coverings that let you control the lighting within the area.
Once that’s done, map out what you want on the surface of your desk. A special phone for business is a good choice. You’ll also need drawers for physical files, organizers for office supplies, and a calendar or wall planner so that you can map out each day.
Get Ergonomic Furniture
Ergonomic furniture is a type of furniture that’s comfortable and ensures that you can maintain your health while using it.
The design of these pieces reduces discomfort and pain both during the workday and after hours. They can prevent long-term problems like carpal tunnel, lower back pain, and eye strain – all issues that are commonly associated with office work.
Make sure to invest in ergonomic office chairs that reduce strain on your back and glutes. You also will want a desk that puts your computer at eye level so you don’t develop a stiff neck. Pads that elevate your wrists above your keyboard can combat wrist pain and carpal tunnel.
Invest in Quality Home Office Lighting
Appropriate office lighting is also essential for preventing eye strain. Make sure to put a lamp above your desk in the area where you spend most of your time typing or writing. This will make it easier for you to see the keyboard or words on a page so that you do not damage your vision.
It also is necessary if you’re looking to stave off depression and other mental health issues. Since you will be in your office for 6-8 hours each day (or more), it’s important that you invest in top-notch lighting for the sake of your holistic wellness.
Try to position your office in an area with a window if possible. This gives you a good amount of Vitamin D so that you can focus on your work rather than trying to scramble for the sake of your mental well-being. Blinds are a good idea so that you can control the flow of light.
However, in some cases, it isn’t possible to set up your office space near a window. In these situations, position a sun lamp that simulates natural light in your office. This will help to stave off Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and keep you physically and mentally fit.
Add Color and Energy
Studies show that color affects how we feel. Some hues like blue can ease our minds and create a sense of calm. Others like orange increase energy levels so that you can get energized and be more productive.
This makes orange a great color to decorate home offices with. However, it isn’t the only option.
Yellow also is a cheerful hue that puts us in a good mood by stimulating our nerves. Positivity means higher productivity and a better can-do attitude.
Red is one of the best hues for home office decor because it stimulates both the body and mind. It also can increase circulation to ensure that your brain has as much oxygen and blood flow as possible. You’ll be able to focus better and think more clearly.
Have All Necessary Supplies
At this point, you’ll have set up a home office space that keeps you productive and healthy. All that’s left is to make sure that you have everything you need in order to succeed. Your office should include:
- Your laptop/tablet
- Chargers for all electronics
- Pens and pencils
- A calendar/planner
- To-do lists
- Index cards
- Highlighters
- A notebook to jot down physical notes in
- Space for a water bottle/coffee mug/tea cup (so you don’t get dehydrated)
Make sure that you give your space a personal touch. A Funko pop of a favorite character or a family photo is a good way to make your office comfortable. Just make sure that you don’t add so many personal effects that it becomes a distraction.
Work From Home the Right Way
While it can be challenging to be productive when you work from home, it’s worth the effort. You’ll get to set your own schedule, operate in the best possible environment, and make money fast.
The Mad Dev’s website is full of information that can help you make the most of each day. Check out our posts about productivity and explore the rest of our blog.