8 Tips for Setting Up a Productive Work From Home Office

8 Tips for Setting Up a Productive Work From Home Office

But that industry standard is based on writing on paper, not using a keyboard and mouse. That’s why keyboard trays pull out from below the work surface and are typically an inch or two lower than the desk or table height. If you have space for a keyboard-and-mouse tray (it must be wide enough for both!), get one. If not, consider lowering your desk to the tray height; if you also write on paper, you can get a writing surface for pen-and-paper work. I don’t know about you, but by the end of the week, my home office space tends to get a bit messy. A cluttered space can be distracting and even increase your stress levels. It can be difficult to keep the space bright without natural light.

What do you need for a home office setup?

When setting up your home office, you need:

Ergonomic furniture such as chairs, tables, and storage units Electronic devices such as a laptop, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and headsetOrganizers, stands, lamps, office supplies, plants, etc.

The next step in home office organization is to designate different areas for different tasks. For example, complete everyday work tasks at your desk, and dedicate a different area to seasonal tasks or tasks that require equipment that’s a pain to put away. Decluttering your space is a great way to minimize or remove any distractions in the environment where you will be working from. For instance, you can remove technology or entertainment such as a TV in your bedroom, or you may also face your workspace away from your sight. If you find it hard to focus when working outside the office, try painting the walls in a soothing, grounding matte black like this home workspace from Leclair Decor. This under-stair alcove home office from Marie Flanigan Interiors has built-in open shelves on the left side that keep the above-desk area free for a wall sconce and a painting while providing easy access storage. A vintage-style bar cart is located just around the corner for after-work drinks.

Home Office Tips

You could use wired or wireless earbuds instead of a headset, but the in-ear variety can be uncomfortable, even painful with long-term use for many people. (By contrast, a headset rests over your ear on a cushioned pad.) Also, wireless earbuds typically have poorer audio quality in their mics, making you harder to understand in meetings. Earbuds are fine in a pitch, but if you are on meetings for hours a day, use a headset or the computer’s audio instead.

  • We interviewed some of their designers for their top tips when designing a home office worthy of the 9 to 5.
  • Instead, opt for a natural, sun-lit look with warm-hued light bulbs.
  • (Foldable bed tables work well too.) Be sure to find one that is not too thick when folded, so it fits in your luggage.
  • Try using these tricks to creatively transform your place of relaxation into a functional office and enjoy working from home.
  • But you can engineer an environment that helps you find success.

There are plenty of spaces that can convert to an office with a little bit of creativity. Choose a location with some natural light and a view if possible. Position your desk to face the windows or in a location where your computer screen will not be affected. Of course, one of the best ways to incorporate natural home office tips elements is to add plants to your home office space. Sometimes the contrast of green, lush life can balance electronics . A pretty stone pot, detailed woodwork, or artwork that depicts the outdoors can infuse the space with nature. Light, fresh colors, and earth tones help create an organic feel too.

Click Play for Small Home Office Ideas That Are Surprisingly Stylish

If you’re a freelancer or setting up your office for personal use, you could add a desktop computer to your home office setup. Set up a dedicated home office in the quietest area of your home, which is away from the bustle of everyday life. If a private office is not possible for you, consider purchasing a room divider or shoji screen to cut out the distractions at your home. Ensure family members respect your private time by using a visual cue, such as a “Do Not Disturb” sign, especially when participating on audio and video calls.

When it comes to productivity and creativity, there’s a fine line between creating a stress-free and relaxed environment, but still maintaining a level of professionalism. For everything it has to offer, ECWID is incredibly easy to set up. If your family members aren’t used to you working at home, ask them not to disturb you. You can put some sign on your door to let your family know when you’re on an important task or call. Also, avoid working in the sitting room and similar areas to minimize distractions. It’s hard to get work done when you’re using the same computer for creating spreadsheets as you do for playing video games or watching Netflix.