Recently, the concept of having a home office setup has become common, and it’s no longer just a temporary situation for many people. It has become a permanent arrangement for workers around the world. Remote work is here to stay. A recent survey from Promoleaf found that 18% of Gen Z workers believe a flexible schedule consisting of remote and in-person work increases productivity. 

A designated and functional office space is necessary for your success if you work from home. The right home office will help you stay focused and create a healthy work-life balance. Before you design your work-from-home space, there are many things to consider, including choosing the right furniture and technology and staying organized to maximize productivity.

You don’t need to break the bank to update or set up your home office. Anyone can enjoy a beautiful, functional home office space with the right tips and tools. Once you’ve created your new home office, include a few tweaks to increase your productivity, boost your creativity levels, and give it a fresh look. 

Ergonomic office setup tips

You’re likely working at a computer or sitting at a desk all day, so it’s important to ensure you get the support you need to prevent pain and injury.

Here are some ergonomic tips to help you keep good posture while you work.

  • A proper desk: Make sure your desk is at the right height for your chair and seated position. It should offer the appropriate height where your arms can rest directly in front of you and where your hands and wrists will be supported. An ergonomic home office desk setup can also accomplish this. An ergonomic mouse and keyboard are recommended to help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. Also, look for a mouse and keyboard pad that includes wrist support.
  • The right chair: Your desk chair is one of the most essential items in the office. Be sure to choose a chair that supports your posture and aligns your neck, back and shoulders. If you need additional support, add a back or lumbar pillow. Your feet should be at a 90-degree angle directly under your desk. A sturdy footrest can help keep your legs and feet in the proper position while seated. Chairs with features like an adjustable headrest, height, tilt back, and arms will allow you to find your perfect position while you work.
  • Raise your monitor or laptop: Looking down for hours can cause severe strain on your neck and shoulders. Ideally, your computer monitor or laptop should always be at eye level or higher. You can use a laptop or monitor stand to raise it to the appropriate level or stack some sturdy hardback books under it until you find the right height. You can also invest in a tabletop stand, as it will help with your range of vision while working.
  • A stand-up desk: Too much sitting can cause issues with circulation and may cause excess strain on your body. Consider getting a stand-up desk so you can work while standing up. Most stand-up desks are adjustable, so you can raise or lower them whenever you prefer to sit down.
  • Invest in some office exercise equipment: If you can, consider purchasing a stationary bike or treadmill to hold your laptop securely. When you exercise while you work, you’ll feel better, get fit, and improve blood flow, enhancing your ability to focus.
  • Take breaks: Always remember to take frequent breaks while you’re working from home. Whether you get up for a cup of coffee or go for a walk, it’s important to keep moving during the day to prevent fatigue and muscle strain. If you enjoy yoga, keep a yoga mat handy in your office to take short breaks for stretching or meditation.

Upgrade your technology

The right technology and remote work tools will set you up for success.

  • A large or external monitor: A large computer monitor makes it easier to see as you type or do your daily tasks. If you have a laptop, consider adding an external monitor for working. This can help you see things more clearly and increase productivity.
  • Speakers and headphones: Listening to music or a podcast during work can boost productivity and cancel outside noise. Invest in a quality set of speakers and headphones to help you focus.
  • Smart home system: A smart home system is like a “personal assistant” while you’re at work. These devices are voice-activated and can turn the lights on and off, give you the weather, activate security cameras, and more.
  • Chargers: Make sure that you have the correct chargers for your laptop, smartphone, PC, and all of your other work-related devices so you can stay connected all day.
  • Computer or laptop maintenance: A virus can wreak havoc on your computer and cause serious problems. Be sure you have a quality antivirus program installed, or use a reliable online virus scanner. The program should also regularly check and clean the hard drive and all software. Make sure that your computer has enough memory, too. The more RAM and ROM memory you have, the faster your computer will run and the more data it can store.
  • Gadgets to boost your productivity: Get more value for your working day by adding a helpful gadget (or even more) to help you stay on track while juggling different products and assignments and boost your productivity. Apps such as task managers, note-taking tools, and time trackers keep you organized and focused.

Safeguarding your home office

Your home office is a space where productivity flourishes and innovation thrives. As you invest in the latest technology, ergonomic furniture, and other essential equipment, it’s important to protect these valuable assets. Home insurance safeguards your home office equipment, protecting against potential risks and unforeseen circumstances.

  1. Equipment coverage: Home insurance policies typically cover personal property, including office equipment such as computers, printers, scanners, and office furniture. This coverage can be invaluable in case of theft, damage due to fire, or other covered perils.
  2. Liability protection: Running a home-based business or using a designated workspace at home might have liability implications. Home insurance can provide coverage if a client or visitor is injured on your property, protecting you from potential legal claims.
  3. Recovery assistance: In the event of an unfortunate incident, such as a fire or water damage, home insurance can aid in the repair or replacement of your office equipment. This support ensures minimal disruption to your work routine and financial stability.
  4. Customizable coverage: You can often tailor your home insurance policy to include specific coverage for business equipment. This customization ensures that your high-value, specialized office tools are adequately protected.
  5. Peace of mind: Knowing that your home office equipment is covered under an insurance policy brings peace of mind. It allows you to focus on your work without worrying about the financial implications of potential damage or loss.

As remote work becomes more prevalent, home insurance for your home office is a practical investment. Discuss your specific needs and the scope of coverage with insurance providers to ensure your workspace and equipment are adequately protected.

Lighting is key

Lighting is key to staying focused and productive, and choosing the right lighting can intensify your ability to work effectively in your home office.

Choose lighting that works for you: Try a few different lighting options, including task lighting like floor or table lamps to augment overhead lights. Depending on where your office is positioned, try warm or soft lighting, which can help you see better on cloudy days.

Position your desk correctly: Avoid placing your desk directly behind a window. The sunlight streaming in will create glare that makes it difficult to see. Instead, position your desk and computer facing the window or parallel to it so you can enjoy the view and adjust your blinds and curtains as needed.

Organize and declutter

A cluttered, disorganized office can cause stress and reduce focus. These tips can help you stay organized and productive. 

  • Go minimalist: Consider adopting a minimalist style in your office. This will prevent clutter, and you’ll only have the things you need around you.
  • Tidy up your cables: Corral unruly cables use cable ties or special devices to keep them contained. This is particularly important if you have pets or younger children, as it can be a trip hazard and cause a risk of electrical shock.
  • Custom cabinets: If you have many office accessories, add custom cabinets for a perfect fit. They can hold your items neatly while keeping everything hidden and looking attractive.
  • Create a file system: Important work documents should be filed properly. If you deal with confidential information, purchase a locking file cabinet to keep everything secure. Another great tip is to keep your action papers in an open file box on your work surface.
  • Make space: Declutter your office, and be sure you have plenty of space to move around. The right flow will make the office feel cleaner and help your mind stay open and relaxed as you work.

Your office decor is everything

The right office décor will boost your mood and make the space personal. Remember that the goal is to create a functional remote workspace for you, so try these tips to put your spin on it.

  • Select the right colors: Color affects our mood and can impact productivity. Choose wall and floor colors that will make you feel relaxed without feeling sleepy. Blues and greens are productive colors that calm the mind while encouraging healthy focus.
  • Add a signature scent: Essential oils or scented candles will create a pleasant fragrance while you work. Scents like lavender and citrus help improve focus and concentration. A humidifier is a great way to keep your home office smelling great and maintain a comfortable level of moisture in the air.
  • Bean bag: Add a comfy bean bag chair to your office to chill out whenever you take breaks or want to relax.
  • Modern furniture: Invest in modern furniture that will keep you comfortable and inspire creativity.
  • Curtains or blinds: Ensure you have the right window coverings to prevent glare and give you privacy. Mini blinds are affordable and easy to adjust, while curtains will add a nice look to the office.
  • Wall décor: Bring personality to your office with decorations like artwork, a lovely mirror, or some family photos in nice frames. A corkboard or whiteboard is perfect for helping you take notes or keep track of your to-do list.
  • Plants: Beautiful plants add greenery and freshness to an office. The power of being surrounded by nature has incredible impacts on boosting productivity and lowering stress levels.
  • Zen: Find other creative ways to weave in a little zen throughout the day. You may consider occasionally working from the garden or a shed or taking mindfulness breaks.

Designate Zones for Kids and Pets

One advantage of working from home is being closer to our loved ones. If you have kids or pets, create a designated spot for them in your home office. 

A place for kids: Provide your younger children with an area in the office where they can color, work on homework, or spend time with you.

A spot for pets: Add a few toys for your cat or dog and a nice, comfy bed somewhere in the room so they can keep you company during the day. 

Improve productivity: what to avoid

There are many useful techniques and online tools to improve productivity. The resources are endless, but the first thing we need to program is our brains!

If you want to stay productive, there are also some things you should try to avoid, including:

  • Avoid the bedroom office: While it can be tempting to put your desk in your bedroom or work from bed, this can make it difficult to separate work from rest and interfere with your ability to get a good night’s sleep.
  • Meetings: Building a great meeting agenda can make your work more productive by organizing meetings with topics and activities to discuss during your calls.
  • Morning routine: Avoid neglecting to set up a morning routine. Always get up, shower, and get dressed every morning to stay motivated. Research has shown that even putting on shoes instead of slippers or flip-flops impacts our productivity.
  • Dress for the part: Don’t work in your pajamas. Instead, dress as you normally would when going to the office. Try setting up your outfit the night before and leaving it ready, so you have more time in the morning.
  • Meals: Try not to eat your breakfast and lunch at your desk. Taking breaks in another room or outside will help reset your mind and give you a mental break between tasks.
  • Snacks: Having healthy snacks on hand to energize you is a great way to boost productivity. Keep a water bottle with a lid near you to prevent spills on your computer keyboard, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Music: Avoid listening to music that distracts you, and listen to calming music that will boost your mood. Endless playlists are available online and designed to improve concentration and keep you focused.
  • Relaxation aids: Having distractions around you will cause you to lose focus. You can keep things like a stress ball or your zen sand garden near you, but never directly in front of you while working.
  • Routine: Remember to set up a routine when working from home. Find your own pace, whether checking your email or tackling larger projects first. Find out how you can work from home successfully.

Additional recommendations

Location

Make sure that you place your office in a neutral spot. What do we mean by neutral? Well, it might surprise you, but you will need a place that is comfortable, but not too comfortable. While working from your bed might sound cozy, it’s easier to doze off. On the other hand, when we are completely uncomfortable, this place becomes a nightmare working spot in which we need to take breaks to focus again and try to feel pleasant to be able to perform. You can use your garage or shed and transform it!

Fatigue and burnout

Fatigue and burnout are a common problem for those working from home. Finding the balance between our work and home life can be challenging but not impossible. Our body needs food, water, and rest. Even when you do what you love to do, your productivity will be affected if you don’t pay attention to your needs. Organize your time so you give your body what it needs. Please pay attention to details, no matter how small you may think they are. It’s easy to get wrapped up in work and ignore when we’re hungry, thirsty, or tired. 

Motivation

Working from home offers a unique blend of freedom and responsibility, and finding motivation in this setting is key to staying productive. Set clear goals for yourself each day and break them down into manageable tasks to maintain focus. Take regular breaks to recharge to avoid burnout, whether it’s a quick walk around the block or a coffee break with a friend. Remember to celebrate your accomplishments, big or small, to keep that momentum going. And don’t hesitate to reach out to colleagues or friends for support and encouragement. While working from home can be isolating, many organizations are finding innovative ways to engage with remote employees. There are engagement activities that employees can use to maintain relationships while working from home.

With a positive mindset and a few simple strategies, staying motivated while working from home can become second nature.

Sustainability

We can agree that commuting to the office every day has an impact on the environment. However, remote working is not necessarily as good for the environment as it seems. It also involves spending a lot of energy on lighting, heating or air conditioning, electronic equipment, and many other resources needed to work comfortably from home. Growing environmental awareness has pushed people to develop new habits at home in recent years, such as avoiding waste or reducing energy consumption. For remote work to be more environmentally friendly than office work, these habits must continue when home becomes the office.

When you work from home, it’s your chance to design an office that’s all yours. So be sure to make it unique to you. Remember these tips when choosing the right furniture and technology, but most importantly, do whatever works best for you and create the perfect home office that best suits you. Eventually, you’ll establish a nice daily routine and enjoy working in an office that is special and motivating to help you accomplish any task.