Comfort Is Key
In a world where hybrid and remote work is the norm, we now have to think about what kind of space we’re making for ourselves. A home office, or even a desk in a bedroom or living room, is a space where you spend at least 8 hours a day, so it's important to think about what kind of vibe you’re curating for yourself.
1. Pick Somewhere With Sunlight
If you’re able to, going somewhere with sunlight is a great way to regulate your bodily cycle and keep you from feeling like you never see our star. This is especially important in the colder months, when sunlight and, consequently, any feeling of hope, are scarce.
2. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
If you often work in a communal space, you’ll definitely want to remove any noise from the room. Extra sounds coming from your work area and the outside world can cause distraction and agitation.
3. Comfortable Chair
If you’re sitting somewhere for 8 hours a day, you want a chair that provides the support you need. You may want to invest in a higher-quality chair, or consider one that allows you to cross your legs. You’ll be able to move around a bit more while still keeping your body comfortable.
4. Standing Desk
This is a bigger purchase that requires a decent amount of money, but it’s worthwhile if you’re looking to add some movement to your day. A standing desk will let you get any jitters out, and can help to keep you from feeling like a bump on a log.
5. Wrist Pads
Most setups require a computer, which means you’re going to spend most of your days typing away. To combat wrist fatigue, consider getting a mouse and keyboard pad, which will keep your hands in a much more neutral position.
6. Taller Monitor
Looking down at a monitor isn’t doing your neck any favors. In fact, it’s probably making it worse. Consider getting a desk stand or a taller monitor that matches your natural eye level. Your spine will thank you down the road.
7. Dual Monitor
While not strictly necessary, a dual monitor setup is a great way to increase productivity. You’re able to have messages, emails, or other forms of communication open on one screen, while your other work can take up the other screen. You’ll never miss anything again.
8. Add Some Art
You don’t want your office space to feel dull, do you? If you’re looking to warm up your area, adding art to the wall is a great way to do so. This will make you feel like a space is yours, while keeping things fresh and lively.
9. Plant Parent
Speaking of fresh and lively, adding a couple of low-maintenance plants will seriously help brighten up your space. In-home plants allow us to connect with nature, can help with air quality, and may even boost creativity.
10. Go Wireless
To save yourself from the constant battle of wire management, your best bet is to choose wireless accessories for your space. Opt for a wireless mouse, keyboard, headphones, or anything else you could need. The best part is that most of these accessories need a USB-C charger, so that you can keep one cord on standby.
11. Home Workout Options
Without needing to travel for work, you’re often left feeling a little bit stagnant. If you have the space, add a yoga mat, tension bands, or small weights to make sure you’re still getting some activity in your day.
12. Improve Your Lighting
You’re not in an office, so why are you picking harsh, fluorescent lighting? Depending on what you need to stay productive, warm, ambient lighting is often the better choice. Your eyes won’t feel strained from the double attack of blue light from in front and white light from overhead.
13. Add A Blanket
Productive doesn’t mean cozy. If you tend to get chilly, you can have a work-sanctioned blanket that you keep over your chair. Some blankets even have armholes, so you can keep your shoulders and legs covered at the same time.
Sebastian Schuster on Unsplash
14. Lumbar Support
We’ve discussed pain in your neck and shoulders, but what about your lower back? If you’re worried that you’re putting too much strain on that area, a lumbar pillow may be of use to you. Many pillows come with an elastic band, allowing you to just strap it around your chair.
15. Keep It Clean
A clean workspace is a productive workspace, so investing in storage that keeps you organized will be a huge help. This could be something as small as your desk drawers or a full-fledged filing cabinet.
16. Add Decor
Alongside the art, you can install shelving, opt for a new paint color, or pick items that mean something to you. Having your favorite colors and decor items in your workspace can help keep your mood up and remind you that you’re not chained to your desk.
17. Personalize Your Space
Going even a step further in terms of decor, you can really personalize your desk, monitors, and other accessories to fit your color scheme. Maybe you want an all-blue, green, or pink space? Maybe you want a consistent nature theme, or a theme that reflects your favorite movie. There are countless ways to make your watch space fresh and fun.
18. Add A Calming Fragrance
A soft, fresh scent can help you feel grounded and focused for the day ahead. You can opt for incense, a diffuser, or other scent-emitting options for in and around your space. Just also be wary of any furry friends you have in the home, as certain scents can irritate them.
19. Think Of Your Feet
Your legs and feet tend not to get any love when discussing a work-from-home setup, but we’re here to change that. You can get a roller pad, a stool, or something else that elevates your legs so they’re not in the same position all day. Alternatively, something with massaging capabilities will feel great on your soles and will also give you something to absentmindedly fiddle with as you work.
20. Get A Bulletin Board
Depending on what kind of work you do, a bulletin board may be more for personalization rather than for actual work. However, it can act as a sort of home base for things you need to keep track of. On a bulletin board, you can post to-dos, calendars, important numbers, or anything else of importance.
