Are you ready to make your home office your favourite space in the house? Create your best work and boost your productivity in 2023 by making these 8 changes to your home office.
Working from home makes separating your job from your personal life difficult, especially if you don’t have a dedicated study. However, with a few simple adjustments to your office setup, you can create a workspace that lifts your mood, energy levels, and inspires you to give your best daily.
1. Separate your home office from the rest of the house
If your home office is an awkward nook in the corner of the living room, make it feel like a private and separate work zone using a divider or screen. Things in your home can be distracting (especially children and pets), so not being able to see what’s happening in the rest of the house will help you to focus on the task in front of you.
While it’s best for your sleep patterns and productivity to keep your office out of the bedroom, there are clever ways to make it feel like a different space if you have no other option. One method is to position your desk so that your back is facing the bed, then screen off your work zone with a stylish divider. This simple boundary separates your workspace from the area most associated with relaxing.
2. Consider your office setup
An L-shaped desk in a corner gives you plenty of room to spread out your files, documents, and office supplies. Otherwise, find yourself a rectangular table with an adjustable ergonomic desk chair so you can work in comfort.
When it comes to a productive work environment, comfort is key, so your chair should promote good posture, have padded seating, and have a backrest with lumbar support. If you can find one that fits in with the rest of your home’s style and décor, even better.
According to Sachiko Kiyooka, founder of the Montreal-based professional organizing and feng shui consultancy, Soulful Simplicity, a sit/stand desk is also a great option for a home office.
“Sit/stand desks are particularly useful for people who spend long hours in front of a screen because they allow you to stand and move around.”
– Sachiko Kiyooka
3. Let the light in
Ideally, your desk should be near a window where it can get as much natural light as possible. Sitting in a dimly lit corner is not only detrimental to your eyesight; it also affects your mood, concentration, and productivity. However, if you’re spending more time gazing out of the window than crossing off items on your to-do list, you might want to angle your desk so it faces more of the room. This way, it still gets plenty of natural light. Another option is to cover the window with a translucent curtain that masks the view but still lets light in.
It’s also important to invest in a bright lamp. It will take over when the natural light fades and make you look more professional during video calls.
4. Get rid of distractions
When do you feel more productive—when your desk is tidy and organized, or when you’re drowning in piles of documents? A chaotic and cluttered space will confuse, distract, and overwhelm you. Simple tasks will take much longer to complete as you struggle to prioritize.
Instead, schedule time every week to organize your desk and get rid of anything that isn’t essential for your work. This includes books on your bookshelf and other office supplies. You only need the items that will help you perform your job well—store, recycle, or throw out the rest.
5. Find your inspiration
Whether it’s a poem, souvenir, or a Jaws movie poster, decorate your space with items and images that inspire you or bring you joy. Framed artworks will add to the style of the room, but photos of loved ones deserve a spot here, too.
A clipboard or pegboard on the wall is a great place to hang inspirational messages, symbols of success, or reminders. It will also help to keep your desk clear and your inspiration in full view.
6. Add a diffuser
Aside from a pleasant aroma, a diffuser with essential oils on or near your desk will also give your workspace a tranquil atmosphere. Certain scents have a positive impact on your mood and stress levels, such as lavender, peppermint, orange, eucalyptus, and lemongrass, so try these fragrances for an instant boost.
7. Populate your space with indoor office plants
Another great way to bring positive energy into your work zone and boost your productivity is to populate your area with greenery. Indoor plants offer freshness, pops of colour, and a sense of calm that will inspire you to produce your best work.
EspaceProprio Tip Whether you choose foliage for its looks or because it improves the air quality of your space, a few greens will make excellent additions. Keep your desk clear by opting for hanging or wall-mounted planters—these can easily double as stylish home décor statements.
8. Introduce plenty of storage
When your desk is tidy, you will find the energy to tackle that mounting to-do list. Consider tucking a filing cabinet underneath your workstation or adding a few storage bins to the bookshelf to keep your area free of clutter. A drawer organizer for pens, flash drives, and other small items will make them easier to access when you need them.
You love our ideas but need a little help to make them happen? Visit the Useful tips section of our site.
