Are you one of the many people who put off creating a designated home office because you thought you’d be returning to work much sooner than you realized? You’re not alone. Luckily, it’s not too late to put together the perfect home office. Even if a return to work is in your future, it’s still beneficial to have a designated workspace at home. You’ll be able to ease into remote work at any given time, and you’ll even have space for side projects.
Here are five tips on how to create a comfy and effective home office.
Claim your own space.
It is essential to find, or create, an area that is quiet and somewhat secluded. If you’re integrating your office into an already established space, this might be a challenge, but you can certainly do it! Consider taking over a designated corner or positioning yourself so that your back is to the rest of the room. Both orientations will help minimize distractions and maximize productivity.
Seek multiple light sources – and don’t forget the window treatments!
If possible, stage your at-home office by a door or window that allows natural light to pour in. Being close to a light source will help lift your mood and motivate you to get through your to-do list. Natural light, however, is not always an option, so make sure you have additional task lighting options like decorative lamps or hanging fixtures available when you need it. Where natural light is available, a custom window treatment goes a long way to bring a focused, uplifting atmosphere to your home office year-round, as well as maintaining a comfortable temperature!
Mindfully select your desk.
One of the perks of decorating your home office is that you get to choose your desk. Your company probably provides you with a standard desk at the office, but you can select one that helps you stay physically and mentally organized at home. No matter what type of desk you choose, be sure it has compartments or drawers where you can stow everything away. One of the hardest parts of remote work is stopping whatever you might be doing once your “shift” ends. A desk with storage options allows your work items to be out of sight and mind once you log off.
Consider a variety of seating options.
While standard seating is always available, explore alternatives that can improve both your health and your productivity. One well-known option is the exercise ball. Balancing on the ball’s round surface forces you to use core muscles to support your back and, in effect, helps to improve your posture. It also prompts the body to send signals to the mind, making you more likely to stay alert and on task. Another option is not a seat at all but rather a standing desk. While it might be challenging to use for eight consecutive hours, consider utilizing the desk intermittently as it has proven to have a wealth of health benefits. If space allows, you should also consider adding a chaise or lounge chair. This type of seating will enable you to stretch out, take a break, or do a brainstorm in style.
Incorporate something that motivates you.
Be sure to include at least one personal touch that reminds you of why you do what you do. This item might be a framed picture of loved ones, a motivational quote, or a self-help book that guides you through what you do. Whatever it may be, add it to your new home office to remember your “why.”
Creating the ideal home office can be a true labor of love, but Decorating Den is here to help! Contact us today at (513)-304-9105 to start creating the space you need and deserve, and decorate BEAUTIFULLY with Erika Lee!
