In today’s world, where remote work has become normalised and everybody seems to have a side hustle, more people than ever are creating dedicated spaces inside their homes where they can work in comfort and peace. Plus, designing a home office or study allows you to create a workspace that is optimised just for you. There are lots of elements to consider, though, so here are some tips to get you started.
1. Find the Right Spot
First and foremost on your list of priorities when picking the right spot for your home office should be a lack of distractions. This means that you should choose somewhere quiet and where the TV or other people are not in your eyeline. If you have no area like this, you could create one using a room divider, curtain, or bookshelf.
It is also good to choose somewhere that benefits from plenty of natural light. Daylight is a proven mood booster, and the absence of it is one of the factors that makes traditional shared office spaces seem so depressing. It can also help prevent eye strain if you need to work on a laptop or screen for a long period of time.
2. Spend on Your Chair
Did you know that better posture can help blood flow around your body much more efficiently when you are sitting for long periods? This keeps your brain topped up with nutrients and oxygen, and it prevents you from getting lethargic. So investing in an ergonomic chair is not just about making you more comfortable – it will also help make you more productive.
An alternative investment – or one which can complement your ergonomic chair – is an adjustable desk. This lets you alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day, benefiting your health, posture, and circulation. Whether you choose one of these options or both, remember to ensure that their height is in alignment. You will want to be able to rest your arms comfortably while you work.
3. Optimise Your Laptop Setup
Laptops tend to be cheaper and take up less space than desktops. Plus, they are more than powerful enough for most people’s needs. However, they are designed for portability, not ergonomics. If you work from a laptop, set it up right by using a stand to raise it to eye level so that you do not have to strain your neck.
Using a traditional mouse and keyboard also allows your hands to be more naturally positioned and comfortable while working. There are plenty of great wireless options you can buy now that will help you do this while ensuring that your desk stays tidy. This way, you have the best of both worlds. The comfort benefits of a traditional desktop, while still using a laptop that you could take anywhere if you decide you want a change of scenery.
Conclusion
These are the three factors in the design of your home office that will have the biggest influence on your comfort and productivity. Once you have these covered, feel free to experiment with plants, art, pictures, or anything else that you think could help you to stay productive and motivated throughout the day.
