I love working from home but the distractions are killer at times. Finding the home/work balance is always a struggle but creating my own space has helped tremendously. Here are my top home office tips so you can create a productive workspace.
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Being my most productive self is and always has been very important to me. Now that I am my own boss, I have not strayed from this feeling. In fact, I think the drive to be my most productive self is now amplified.
I actually feel guilty when I slack on work…and I have no one to answer to. Literally, no one.
Creating a productive workspace is essential whether you work at home or in another setting. Having the proper place to work all you to focus during your time and work smarter not harder.
Sometimes this is easier said than done, but when you create a productive workspace you are already taking steps in the right direction.
Home Office Tips
I was not always organized. If you look in my current purse, you might even question if I am an organized person at all!
But one day, as I searched for yet another thing lost on my cluttered desk, I realized the amount of time I wasted daily just searching for things.
It was then that I made the decision to organize my space and life and create a productive workspace that inspires instead of hampering my workflow.
Not only was being unorganized wasting my time; I was also being consumed by overwhelm.
Of course, my perfect (and organized) workspace may not be your cup of tea…taste and needs come into play here. Nevertheless, I think some of my tips, tools, tricks, hacks (use your word of choice) can work for anyone.
Pick Your Perfect Home Office Space
I guess I’ll use the phrase “easier said than done.”
Picking your perfect space may not be an option because
- You are assigned an office
- You don’t have the room
When I first started working from home, I was on the side of not having room so I tried working anywhere and everywhere.
This wasn’t the best option for me but I discovered my new best working friend is noise-canceling headphones and THESE
Although I now have a home office, there are times I still use my headphones to completely focus on my work. You’d be amazed how much more I get done when I block out the world.
I’m able to keep my focus as the world continues spinning around me and if I do choose to work away from home, they give everyone an undeniable HINT that I am in do not disturb mode!
Even if you don’t have an office in your home, you can create a space that you equate with working. This will help put your mind in work mode and help you focus. Set up a corner desk or an area in your bedroom that is just yours. This home office tip is a must.
Good Lighting is a Necessity
I need a bright, well-lit area to keep me productive for a few reasons. First, I just love having natural light and am more productive and cheery. Second, who wants to damage their eyes adjusting to low lighting? And working with a computer screen all day is really a strain on these baby blues.
If you don’t have a dedicated space with great lighting, opt for this minimal multi-angle desk lamp
Some of the benefits of this lamp are the four lighting modes and that it folds away easily after use. But I would have to say my favorite feature is the built-in USB port! You know we are all always looking for those!
And while we are talking about staring at a computer screen, I want to throw in my favorite blue light blocking glasses
Declutter and Organize Your Workspace
Having a clean and clear workspace is a must! Creating dedicated spaces and storage for office supplies, paperwork, notes, etc. will help you not only keep your desk uncluttered but will also keep your mind uncluttered.
Keeping a messy workspace can be a distraction. My unorganized and cluttered workspace caused a black hole of search time.
Taking an extra moment to properly pick up your work will save you loads of time down the road.
Properly Equip Your Office Space
Far too many of us sit behind our desk and computers for most of the day!
Most people will tell you to invest in an ergonomic chair to alleviate the possible back pain this may cause…Although I do believe in a good chair, I suggest standing at least 15 minutes every hour.
Many years ago, I was in a terrible car accident involving an 18 wheeler (a story for another day). This accident has left me with many lingering back and neck issues.
Standing at my desk is such a lifesaver at times. I wouldn’t have believed it before I tried it, but boy am I grateful that I have found this trick.
Standing desks provide so many health, mood, and energy benefits, but are not always in the budget. Trust me, I get it!
But I have found a perfect solution with this portable standing desk option
Organize Your Time
You can have a perfect workspace and still fail at productivity if your time isn’t organized.
I am a firm believer in time blocking and have written about it multiple times. You can read my most popular time blocking post HERE.
Working from home is very rewarding for so many reasons but finding the work/life balance can be challenging. When you create the perfect workspace solution using these home office tips you will thank me.
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