From setting your own schedule to cutting down on your commute time, working from home has many advantages. To maximize your productivity, it’s important to strike a work-life balance that lets you get the job done despite distractions around your house. Here are some quick ideas about how to separate work from pleasure and ensure optimal efficiency.
Create a Dedicated Space
Find a space in your house to transform into your own personal work oasis. Make sure it’s in a comfortable location without too many distractions. A bright, open kitchen that’s close to the coffeemaker might seem like a good idea, but it’s often the most popular room in the house. You also want to avoid squeezing your desk into a small, stuffy space such as a closet.
A spare bedroom is a perfect choice, but if it’s not an option for you, consider converting your garage into your home office instead. Another great idea is to build a small studio in your backyard. For the best results, you might need to install a separate heating, cooling, and ventilation (HVAC) system to make sure your space is always the perfect temperature.
Install Proper Lighting
Try to include as much natural light as possible in your home office. Natural light brings many health benefits, including improved mental health, visual acuity, and sleep quality. If possible, place your desk in front of a window.
If natural light isn’t available, choose artificial lighting that makes the most of your space and adds to the ambiance. Dimmable spotlights, a small desk lamp, or a space-saving pendant light that hangs above your desk are great options. Whichever one you choose, equip each light with full-spectrum bulbs to simulate many of the benefits of natural light.
Make Room for Storage
Most of the work people do at home takes place online, reducing the need for lofty file cabinets and large storage spaces. But, you will likely have a few printed materials and supplies that require storage. Papers pile up quickly if you don’t have a space set aside for them.
Invest in a desk with built-in drawers where you can toss odds and ends, such as notebooks and pens that you don’t want to clutter your desk. Another good option is to buy a few small storage boxes you can place on a shelf or inside a cupboard.
Add Personal Touches
It’s important to have a practical workspace that helps you get the job done. But, it’s also important to include personal touches that inspire you throughout the day. Frame a few of your favorite photos to sit on your desk or hang on the wall. Add life to the workspace with a small plant or terrarium. Even a pop of color or a few cherished knickknacks can bring a bit of whimsy to your home office and give it your own personal touch.
If you work from home, it’s important to create a space that helps you separate the job from your personal life. This quick guide to creating a home office provides some easy tips for making your workspace both functional and fun.
