Having an office at home can be a great way of working. There’s no commute, it’s flexible and it may mean you’ll have more time to spend with the family. But with the many distractions in a usual household, being productive can be challenging. Here are six things you can do to make working from home a lot easier.
1. Set up your own space
A dedicated area as your workspace – that’s separate from your living space – will allow you to get into the working frame of mind. Depending on your space, choose a room or area in your house that isn’t frequently used and will give you enough privacy. Give yourself storage to keep your space clean and tidy and choose a comfortable office chair and desk to make your time spent sitting more enjoyable. Depending on your job responsibilities you may want to choose a stand up desk to relieve back tension and keep you focused.
2. Let there be light
Take the strain away from your eyes by letting natural light into your work space. If you don’t have a window close by, use multiple high-quality desk lights that can replicate daylight. A yellow-cast light is best, as it’s not so harsh as a white beam. Make sure there’s no light reflecting off the computer screen – this will stop you from squinting and allow you to work more safely.
3. Embrace technology
From the right office space to up to date software for accounting and design, getting the right equipment is essential. As most people connect online, make sure you have a fast Wi-Fi connection to support all the software you have. Separate personal from business and have a professional phone to use for communication, only during work hours. Avoid getting tangled in cables and go wireless should you need to print documents. There are fantastic compact wireless printers on the market with affordable ink and laser technology – a wireless printer simply means you can store it away, out of sight, when it's not in use.
4. Enjoy the flexibility
One of the best things about working from home is you can tailor your work schedule to suit your day. Although most businesses will have the 9 to 5 schedule in place, do set your own business hours around your lifestyle and enjoy the freedom that comes with working from the comfort of your home. Perhaps an earlier start means an earlier finish – so you can pick the kids up from school or get jobs done around the house.
5. Get rid of distractions
Your home is full of distractions. Switch off your personal mobile, leave the television in the living room and turn down the radio. When in your workspace make sure any electronics that can distract you are turned off and well out of sight. Ask for privacy from your loved ones and distract your fluffy pets. Although, do remember to take regular screen breaks as this will help with productivity and wellbeing.
6. Get in the right mindset
Set yourself up for success each morning by getting yourself ready for work, just like you would if you were heading into the office. Have breakfast, get yourself dressed out of your pyjamas and turn off all distractions. If you follow a routine each day you’ll find adjusting to working from home easy, more enjoyable and more productive.
