Online jobs are now the new normal. Many businesses pivoted to online operations because of the dangers of the pandemic. Who can blame them? As of the moment, our focus is to survive and, hopefully, thrive.
But a lot are still adapting to the new normal. How can you operate effectively in this pandemic? What kind of setup can produce the results you want for your client?
One essential factor for remote workers is their workspace. Here are 14 tips for an inspiring work-from-home office!
A Dedicated Workspace
The truth is, we can work anywhere. If we just have a laptop and a stable internet connection, you can practically work on your bed, beside the beach, or even inside a karaoke bar.
But is that an ideal workplace? Not exactly. It’s best to find an ideal workspace for your remote working job. When you work at that space habitually, you will be conditioned to be productive there in the long run.
It’s best if it’s a separate room. But if you don’t have the liberty of space, a separate corner will do plus noise-cancelling headphones.
Somewhere Quiet and Distraction-free
Another consideration is the noises and distractions at that place. Don’t choose an area where people constantly move in and out. Examples are hallways, kitchens, and the living room.
Also, check the distractions. Are you really going to be productive when you work while your family watches Netflix at your side? Can you really concentrate when you’re working outside the patio with all the rooster crowing?
Please, save yourself. Find a place that’s quiet and distraction-free (or close). Or you may consider sound-proofing your room.
Consider Your Privacy
Our work might involve sensitive information like marketing campaigns or confidential reports. You don’t want to be working in a place that can compromise your data.
For example, you are having a meeting with your client; you don’t want someone in the background listening to your boss’ trade secrets. So find a place that’s secluded enough to respect your privacy.
Get Reliable Internet
The biggest source of frustrations for Filipino remote workers is the unstable internet in the Philippines. We consistently rank at the bottom half in comparison with global internet speed.
A lot of Filipinos can attest to it. I mean. Why do internet connections fluctuate when it’s raining? It’s perplexing.
So, for an ideal workspace, you need to find the best internet provider in your area. Secondly, you must have a back-up internet connection. Check this guide out for more information.
Proper Desk Height
For our working lives, we are glued to our desks most of the time. We need to find the perfect desk with the proper height. In general, it’s around 29 inches from the floor. But it would depend on your height.
According to Computerworld.com, you know that you got the correct height if, when you sit up straight, your forearms parallel to the ground. And your wrist is not bent up or down when you type.
If you can’t adjust the height of your desk, you can always adjust the height of your chair instead. Just remember that it should not strain your forearms.
Invest in an Ergonomic Chair
Speaking of chairs, we sit almost all day. Normal chairs can strain our posture and result in major problems in the future. That’s why investing in an ergonomic chair is a must.
An ergonomic chair can support your back, preserve hip and pelvis alignment, and maintain an overall good posture. Ultimately, it can give you the utmost comfort when working-from-home!
Install Good Lighting
You might think it’s trivial. But good lighting also affects productivity. In a study by the Philips system, the light present significantly affects our circadian rhythms. It directly contributes to our mental well-being because of how the sleep cycle works. With lower light, we might feel sleepy while working.
That makes good lighting an essential fixture for your workspace. It goes as far as elevating your mood, alertness, and productivity. Try installing good lighting in your home office.
Clean and Organize Your Workspace
Some thrive in chaos. But most don’t! It might be commonsensical, but not everyone realizes the importance of a clean and organized workspace, especially for productivity.
In a study published in Harvard, they concluded that a messy workspace could undermine a person’s ability to complete tasks. It became a distraction to a person’s sense of control. And you don’t want the same experience in your workspace.
You can optimize your work area by simply cleaning and organizing it!
Smart Assistant
Well, if we’re talking about the best of the best ideal workspace, why not put technology in the mix? You can get a smart assistant such as Alexa or Google Home, to do your bidding.
Want to find the best tunes for productivity? Ask Alexa. Want to have a quick search for something you need? Ask Google!
There is a movement right now for better voice searches. So, in the future, it will not be surprising when we integrate our lives with these conversant smart machines.
Well-ventilated area
Heat might be a factor when you want to be productive. According to a study published in Harvard, breathing better indoor air quality led to better concentration and decision-making. So make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.
Essential Oils, Diffusers, and Air Purifiers
To put air quality up a notch, you can use essential oils, diffusers, and air purifiers for your workspace. Certain scents like peppermint can boost your alertness and can improve your creativity.
Believe me, it’s extra, but it can boost your mood for better productivity.
Plants
The age of “Plant Parents” is in! And it can also help in your productivity. According to a study at Exeter University, the researchers concluded that there is a 15% increase in productivity when household decors and houseplants are in place.
More reasons to purchase that leafy family member of ours. Check out some useful plants for remote workers in this link.
Whiteboard or Corkboard for Ideas
Spur of the moment ideas can come at unknowing times. And if they do, they are fleeting. You have to catch them as soon as possible. So a whiteboard or corkboard can be a good tool to brainstorm your ideas.
Jot down what you’re the work improvement you want to implement. Or any ideas you want to be done. Even if the answer is not yet apparent, the fact that it’s written right in front of you can allow your subconscious to find the answer. It’s a sweet investment.
A Place that Can Inspire You
Above all things, you want a place that can give you inspiration. A workspace that can boost your drive to succeed. So! An ideal workspace can be a corner with all your dreams and goals in sight.
If you have a dream board, place it there. If you’re working for your family, put your family picture there. Or maybe, you just want that nice car. As long as it can inspire you to work harder, place it all over!
Are you inspired to create your own ideal workspace? You don’t have to get everything at first. But it’s good to take note so that you can upgrade your workspace step-by-step. Cheers!
