Working from home can be significant. You can take breaks whenever you want, work in your pajamas, and make your schedule. According to a study by FlexJobs, the number of people working from home has increased by 115% in the past decade. It is likely due to the boom in digital work, as remote work options are becoming more and more prevalent. As a result, many people are starting to see the benefits of working from home and are taking advantage of this trend.
As a result, people are changing their homes to make way for home offices. It can be a great way to improve work-life balance and increase productivity. However, creating a comfortable and conducive space for productivity is essential. Here are some tips for improving your home office.
Taking Advantage of Natural Lighting
The benefits of natural lighting for people are well-known. It helps to regulate our circadian rhythms, improve moods, and increase productivity. It is why it is so essential to design home office windows properly. You want to make sure that your office gets plenty of natural light.
One way to do this is by using light-colored curtains or blinds. You can also position your desk so that it faces a window. If you have the option, try to choose a room with southern exposure, as this will get the most sunlight. If you can’t get a lot of natural light in your office, consider using a light therapy lamp.
However, you might not want the sunlight directly affecting you for a prolonged period. If you wish, plantation shutters can be a great way to get the benefits of natural light without being blinded by the sun. You can have the window style installed outside your house to get the perfect amount of light and privacy.
Removing Yourself from Distractions
When you work from home, it can be easy to get distracted by things happening in your house. These distractions can quickly take away productivity, whether it’s the dog barking or the TV in the next room. That’s why creating a space free from as many distractions as possible is essential.
If you live with other people, let them know when you will be working and ask them not to disturb you during those hours. If you have kids, arrange for childcare so that you can focus on work. You should also ensure your office is in a quiet part of the house.
In addition to removing physical distractions, it’s also important to remove digital distractions. If you constantly check social media or email, try using a website blocker to limit your access to these sites while working.
Making Your Office Comfortable
If you’re spending a lot of time in your office, it’s vital to ensure it’s comfortable. Otherwise, you will quickly start to dread being in your space.
First, consider the furniture in your office. Make sure your chair is comfortable and supportive. You might also want to invest in a standing desk if you sit for long periods.
In addition to comfort, you also want to make sure your office is an inviting space. Add personal touches like pictures or art to make it feel your own. It would help if you also considered the color scheme of your office. Studies have shown that specific colors can increase productivity, making it necessary to choose wisely.
Ergonomics are also essential in ensuring comfort in your office. Your furniture should be at the proper height, and your computer should be at eye level. You might also want to invest in a wireless keyboard and mouse to reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Reminding Yourself of the Time
Unfortunately, working from home has a few disadvantages. One of the main ones is that it can be easy to forget what time it is. As a result, you might find yourself working long hours and not taking enough breaks.
To avoid this, try to stick to a strict schedule. Set specific hours for work and take regular breaks. It can also be helpful to set a timer to remind you when it’s time to take a break or stop working for the day.
If you struggle with time management, plenty of apps and programs can help. Remember, your goal is to create a healthy work-life balance, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
Final Thoughts
Creating a space that promotes productivity is essential if you’re working from home. The house usually has designs catered to relaxation and not work. However, making a few adjustments can turn any room into a home office.
Use these tips to design an inviting and comfortable space to help you get the most out of your workday. And don’t forget to take breaks to avoid burnout!
