Working from home has become the new normal for many of us. And while there are some definite benefits to trading in your commute for a walk down the hall, creating a productive workspace at home can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to create a productive workspace at home that can be applied regardless of the industry you’re in.
Choose the right space.
The first step to setting up a productive workspace at home is to choose the right space. If you have the luxury of a dedicated office, great! But if you don’t, that’s OK too. The important thing is to find a space in your home that feels separate from the rest of your living space. That way, when you’re in your workspace, you’re in work mode. And when you’re out of your workspace, you can relax and enjoy your personal time without feeling like you’re still on the clock. It’s also important to make sure your workspace is comfortable, so be sure to pick a spot with good lighting and ventilation.
One way to create separation is with physical barriers like doors or partitions. But if that’s not possible or practical in your space, try using visual cues like floor mats or area rugs to delineate your workspace. And if you’re working in a shared space, make sure to designate some storage for all of your work-related materials so they’re not taking up space in the rest of your home.
Make the Space YOURS.
Once you’ve chosen your workspace, it’s time to start making it productive. The first step is to create an environment that supports focus and concentration. That means keeping distractions to a minimum and ensuring that the temperature, lighting, and noise levels are all comfortable for you. If you can’t control the temperature or lighting in your space, try using lamps or desk fans to create a more comfortable environment. And if noise is an issue, consider investing in a pair of noise-canceling headphones or earplugs.
It’s also important to make sure your workspace is ergonomic and comfortable. If you’ll be spending hours sitting at a desk, be sure to invest in a quality chair that supports your back and posture. And if you’ll be standing for long periods of time, consider investing in a standing desk or anti-fatigue mat. A little bit of upfront investment will go a long way toward preventing discomfort and pain later on down the road.
Eliminate Distractions.
Another key to creating a productive workspace at home is eliminating distractions. This means no TV, no social media, and no browsing the internet unless it’s absolutely necessary for your work. If possible, it’s also a good idea to set up your workspace away from high-traffic areas in your home so you’re not constantly interrupted by family members or pets.
Take Breaks Often.
It’s important to take breaks often when you’re working from home, especially if you find yourself getting bogged down or losing focus. Getting up and moving around for even just five minutes can help you clear your head and come back refreshed and ready to work. If you live by your calendar, schedule breaks for lunch, short walks or anything you can do to reset your mind for 5 minutes throughout the day.
Working from home can be challenging, but it is possible to create a productive workspace. Start by creating a dedicated workspace in your home, make it yours, eliminate distractions by turning off the TV and setting up away from high-traffic areas. And, finally, don’t forget to take breaks often so you can come back refreshed and ready to work. Following these tips, you’ll be able to create a productive workspace at home in no time!
