Working from home is a dream many strive to achieve. Pretty soon, though, it can turn into a nightmare – the space becomes tight, there are plenty of distractions, you constantly feel desk-bound, and you realize that your work-private life balance has been disturbed. That is why you need to make yourself at home at your home office. When people are comfortable at work, they are more productive, and their morale is also on the rise. Here are 6 tips on how to bring the positive vibes into your office.
Lighting really matters
Dim light tires your eyes. Consequently, it is harder for you to focus and it reflects on productivity. If you don’t have enough windows in the room, or if you’re often working late, make sure to use overhead light, as well as lamps.
Choose furniture smartly
All-natural materials furniture brings good mood, so choose the furniture made of wood, natural fiber, or stone. Do not just take any available chair that is lying around the house, or “borrow” it from your kitchen table. Buy a proper office chair. One of those ergonometric, ultra-comfy chairs, preferably with arm, neck and foot rests. This is no time to be cheap, because that chair will be your best companion for the better part of the day.
Take regular breaks
Ever since you’ve started working from home, your lifestyle has probably become quite sedentary. Set an alarm to remind you to take a brake every two hours or so. Go for a quick stroll down the street, or just prepare yourself a meal.
If you are short on ideas, ask a friend, a family member, or a professional office organizer for help, or search for more tips and tricks online. Take a look at the examples of office design by In One Project, for instance.
Make it personal
Opt for décor that gives the room your personal touch. This includes photos, souvenirs from a family vacation, or a painting that you like. Artwork stimulates visually. However, do not exaggerate with colors and shapes, or you’ll just add more distractions. Rugs and other floor coverings make the space feel better. If you like plants, find them a spot in your office. Not only are they a natural air filter, but they also bring life into the room.
Tidy up
Clean up at the end of the day, and keep it tidy. Declutter your desk by devising an efficient system to organize documentation, and make the most of your space. Use your office as a single-purpose room, do not bring things that are not work related, nor take work outside that room. You want to keep an eye on that work-life balance.
Adjust temperature
Temperature affects how we feel. If you are too hot or too cold, you cannot concentrate. Make sure you are prepared for all seasons and weathers. You can choose between wall-mounted air conditioner, or a portable fan or heater.
Authors Bio: Lana Hawkins is an Architecture student and a food lover from Sydney, Australia. Also, she contributes regularly to Smooth Decorator and loves reading about Green Architecture. She enjoys cooking, cycling and traveling.
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