To help slow down the spread of COVID-19, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has strongly encouraged employees to work from home whenever they can.
Working remotely offers various advantages including zero commuting and flexible work schedules. However, being productive at home is not as easy as it sounds and requires maintaining an organised workspace with absolutely no room for distractions.
Here are some tips to help you create a home office you will look forward to working in every day.
Choose a private area
The most important thing about working remotely is separating your work life from your personal life. This is especially crucial if you’re living with family or roommates. As much as possible, your office should be in a quiet and private area in your house. Having a door can help reduce external noises especially when your job requires you to be on the phone frequently.
If space is minimal, a small desk may be all you need. If you’re more comfortable working from a multi-purpose area like the couch or a kitchen table, make sure you have a storage organiser nearby to ensure supplies are accessible anytime.
Have ample storage
Research shows that cluttered spaces can interfere with your ability to focus and process information. An important step to setting up your workspace is getting rid of paperwork and personal items.
Having reliable storage pieces in place can help maintain order and efficiency. Ready-to-hang cubbies, file organisers, and even simple pen holders can drastically reduce mess and give you more space.
Prioritise lighting
Aside from aesthetic benefits, lighting is critical to your wakefulness and alertness. A well-illuminated workplace helps set the right ambiance conducive to productivity and efficiency. Poor lighting, on the other hand, can cause headaches and eyestrain.
If your workspace does not have a lot of natural light, consider installing additional artificial lights. But avoid working directly under the harsh glare of overhead lights as it can cast shadows and also cause eye strain.
Illuminate the entire space instead of radiating intense light in just a single area. A lampshade can help scatter and regulate light intensity, while a floor lamp is designed to send light upwards and reflect off the ceiling. An adjustable desk lamp, on the other hand, can provide direct light exactly where you need it.
Control the temperature
Maintaining correct temperature and humidity can increase comfort and reduce sick days. While weather conditions and your home’s architecture might prevent you from controlling room temperature, you can still practice simple ways to make your room more comfortable. For example, use a space heater and always have a blanket nearby during colder days. For warmer days, keep a fan on your desk and stay hydrated. Regulating your body temperature can help sharpen your focus throughout the day.
One of the perks of working remotely is having more control over your workspace. Creating a space that addresses all your needs can maximise your productivity and speed up your pace. In addition, a personalised workspace can reduce stress levels and improve your overall well-being.