Like most people, you probably spend at least some of your work day at home. The pandemic has made working from home more of a norm than ever before. And even though you may not be in an office, that doesn’t mean you can’t be productive.
If you’re not careful, working from home can be less productive than going to the office. Here are a few tips to help set up a home office that will help you get more done.
1. Find a dedicated space for your office.
It doesn’t have to be a whole room, but you should have a specific area where you work. This will help you stay focused and avoid distractions. A good office space should have good lighting and be free from clutter. If possible, try to find an area with a door you can close when you need to concentrate.
You also want to find an area away from high-traffic areas in your home. This will help reduce distractions and noise levels. Some people find it helpful to set up their office in a spare bedroom or basement so they can “leave” work at the end of the day.
2. Open windows and let in natural light.
Natural light can help improve your mood and make you more productive. You should try positioning your office desk near a window to receive some natural light. If you don’t have a lot of natural light in your home, try using a desk lamp with a full-spectrum light bulb.
You also want to open your windows to let in the fresh air. This will help you avoid feeling stagnant and can improve your concentration. But if you live in the city, like a BGC condo in Taguig, you must check the traffic noise and air pollution outside. If the pollution is terrible, you can close the windows and use an air purifier instead.
3. Invest in comfortable office furniture.
You’ll be spending a lot of time in your home office, so you want to ensure it’s comfortable. Invest in a good-quality desk and chair that offers support. If you can, adjust the height of your desk and chair, so you’re not hunched over while you work.
If you have the space, you may also want to invest in a standing desk or a treadmill desk. These can help you stay active while you work and reduce the risk of health problems associated with sitting for long periods. Some people also find that using a standing desk helps them focus and be more productive.
4. Make sure you have the right technology.
If you’re going to be working from home, you need to have the right technology. This includes a reliable computer, a high-speed internet connection, and a good printer. You may also want to invest in a separate phone line for your office so you can avoid personal calls during work hours.
Technology can be a great tool to help you stay connected and productive. But it can also be a significant distraction. If you constantly check your email or social media, try using a program like Freedom to block these sites while you’re working.
This kind of software can also be helpful if you need to focus on a specific task. For example, if you’re writing a report, you can block all other programs and websites so you can’t be distracted while working.
5. Keep your office space clean and organized.
Clutter can be a significant distraction, so keeping your office space clean and organized is essential. Take the time to declutter your desk at the end of each day. It would be best if you also had a place for everything so you can easily find what you need.
A tidy office will help you focus and be more productive. It will also make it easier to find things when you need them. Try using storage containers, baskets, and shelves to help organize your office space.
6. Take breaks and move around.
Sitting in the same position for long periods can harm your health. Make sure you take breaks throughout the day to move around and stretch. Walking outside can also help you clear your head and return to work feeling refreshed.
Longer breaks can also be helpful. If you can, take a few minutes each day to step away from your desk and do something completely unrelated to work. This can help you avoid burnout and come back to work feeling refreshed.
If you’re working from home, setting up your office space for productivity is essential. Follow these tips to create a space that will help you focus and be more productive. And remember to take breaks throughout the day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
