There is such a strong emphasis nowadays on health and well-being. It’s the beginning of the year, and everyone is scrambling to keep their New Year’s resolutions. Aside from exercising and eating clean, it’s also important to ensure you’re working in a comfortable, functional environment. If you want to get the best work out of yourself, treating yourself as a top priority is an excellent incentive. Since so many of us now work from home full-time or at least a couple days a week, having a home office that is is comfortable and ergonomic is essential to your productivity and creativity. These tips on optimizing your workspace will be a boost to your productivity.
Choosing the Right Furniture
Setting up an efficient, clutter-free, ergonomic home office is an excellent way to start. A great office can have a far-reaching impact on your productivity at home. Many successful companies—such as Google and Seattle City Light—have mastered the creation of ergonomic, enriched workspaces that free their employees to think creatively.
Your home office belongs to you alone, so make it a personal, unique fit! Choosing the right furniture is important and makes a big difference. Make sure your furniture is comfortable and functional. Don’t hesitate to customize the style and color to your taste as well.
Finding Your Favorite Chair
If your job is desk-based or sedentary, you likely spend a lot of time on your chair. For example, sitting for 5 hours a day every working week means that you’re on your chair for almost 50 days a year. Being seated for extended periods can have negative effects on your body, so it’s important to take breaks and keep moving regularly.
Of course, finding the right chair is also essential because one chair doesn’t fit everyone in the same way. There are ways you can adjust the height of your chair and seating position so that you can lessen the negative effects of sitting down.
When choosing armchairs for work or play, carefully consider features such as armrests and the height of the backrest. You may need a higher or lower backrest, depending on how much lumbar support is required. Don’t forget to check the four-star base for stability and ease of movement.
Check that the upholstery is made from quality fabric and in the color of your choice. Also see whether there are different models with foam padding layers to maximize comfort for longer periods of sitting. Knowing that your chair is good for your well-being can do wonders for your productivity!
Consider a standing desk or stand-up desk if your back, posture, or concentration levels often suffer when you sit for long periods of time. Along with the obvious benefit of being able to stretch freely and stand up straight, many people also find that they have greater productivity when using a standing workstation. You can also use specially-designed mats to help your joints and feet stay comfortable while you work standing up.
Installing the Right Type of Window Coverings
Having to work on a computer in the glare of the sun is a nuisance and a major problem we face in the home and office. At the same time, many people also enjoy big windows to see the view outside and not feel as though they are trapped and confined within four walls.
Blinds can transform the mood and feel of your home office. The ability to filter or block out sunlight can instantly change the atmosphere of a room into an efficient working environment.
Look for affordable window blind options that will transform your home office and allow you to control the amount of sunlight coming into the room. Sunscreen roller blinds are a great option, as they can be lowered during afternoon glare and can be drawn up again later so you can enjoy the natural light and view. This flexibility will provide comfort in your home office, and in turn, productivity.
Keeping Your Workspace Clutter-Free
Keeping tidy is easier said than done. Nothing is worse than dreading to enter your office because it is in an absolute state of chaos. Always keep things in order, even during busy times. File papers regularly, or use neatly archived digital records instead. Other ideas include a recycling bin, labels for your drawers, and taking your coffee mugs to the dishwasher. You’ll thank yourself later!
Guest Author: Johanna Cider, from Musings of Johanna