With the increasing capabilities of internet connectivity, more and more people are embracing remote work and the digital nomad lifestyle. To optimize productivity, you can set up an office space in your home, even with limited living space. Start by considering these easy tips.
Visit Remote Control for tips and resources on how you can work or run your business remotely.
Designate a Well-Lit Area
Your priority choice for an office should be the area of your living space with the best natural lighting. Research shows that access to natural light while working improves mood, mental health, and overall well-being. This can be a corner in the living room with windows or a space in the kitchen. Choose the area that gets the most light for the longest part of the day. For example, if you prefer to work in the early morning, choose an area facing the sunrise.
Use Functional Furniture and Fixtures
Ergonomic furniture is a major trend in office decor, and using functional furniture doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your aesthetic. People who work in an office setting, even at home, sometimes deal with repetitive stress injuries. Ergonomic furniture, such as a desk, chair, or table, allows you to work without developing any injuries over time. You can typically find pieces to match the look and feel of your home as well.
Prioritize Climate Control and a Functional HVAC System
Ensuring your workspace is comfortable is an important element of optimizing productivity, and climate control is an easy way to alter how an area affects you. Have the HVAC system in your home checked for any noise issues or heating and cooling defects to ensure it is working properly. A loud unit can be a distraction, and this issue is typically a problem with the motor that you can easily fix. Find local HVAC contractors to come troubleshoot problems and get your comfort back on track.
Start Organized
Being disorganized is a common time waster when you work from home. It’s easy for things to get cluttered when you live in a small space. That is why the minimalist approach to storage and decor is the best way to optimize the space and get rid of unnecessary distractions. Start by organizing your work desk and removing anything that takes the focus from your job. Place all your stationery tools in desk drawers so they are out of view but within reach. Keeping sentimental items, such as photos, is a great way to decorate, but avoid putting them directly in front of you on the desk. Instead, designate a shelf elsewhere for such items.
Rethink Your Entire Living Space
When you simply cannot find the perfect spot, it may be time for a small home makeover. Move the couch to the darker area of the living room so you can take advantage of the light coming through the windows. Move your bedroom to the spare room closer to the street so you can turn the quieter room into your workspace. When all else fails, you can start thinking about getting rid of items to make space for your office.
Creating a definitive work space with a functioning HVAC system is the best way to keep yourself on track. If you lose motivation when things become too familiar, don’t be afraid to apply these tips to a new space in your home. Sometimes changing things up slightly can help you work more efficiently.
About the Author (Sarah Noel)
Sarah Noel and her boyfriend, both left corporate jobs to work as freelancers, chasing balance between the work they loved and the life they wanted. They’ve taught themselves how to work smarter, not harder. They’ve committed to separating work and home so that they can enjoy both. Now, with TaylorandNoel.com, they’re sharing their best practices with other freelancers, in hopes they can do the same.
Remote Control 