Working from home is basically everyone’s dream. However, sometimes your workspace is proving less than ideal. You find yourself ensconced on the couch or working on the kitchen table and your energy and motivation start to dissipate. You find yourself escaping your workplace and you clearly see that your ‘’working from home’’ is starting to fall apart. Don’t worry because with a little creativity and elbow grease you will be able to create a small apartment office with limited space. It sounds difficult, but don’t worry it’s entirely doable.
By creating a stylish small office where you feel comfortable you will surely increase your productivity.
1. Location
The first thing that always comes to your mind is to locate your workspace in an area that is a safeguard from other areas of your home. Typically it would be an oversized closet or a small room that is not near your guest bedroom, entertainment area or breakfast room. However, these small spaces can make you feel cramped and unhappy which will, in the end, have a bad impact on your overall productivity and creativity. So, when you’re choosing a spot for your workplace look for an area that invites you in and will prepare you for the day ahead. A popular option is to split your bedroom in half. One part of the room contains a bed and the other part contains a functional desk and an ergonomic chair. This might not work for you but if you don’t have a spare room, make do with what you have and get creative. If you have unused corners maybe consider installing a corner desk. Also, consider getting a coffee table with a lift top. and add it to your living room. This is really practical because you gain a coffee table that can instantly be transformed into a workspace. If you like natural light, then maybe set up a narrow table and a barstool.
2. Quality chair
One of the most important things to consider when creating a home office is the quality of your chair. Your body needs to feel comfortable with proper lumbar support especially if you’re going to be working extended periods of time. Never buy a cheap chair you see and also avoid choosing style over comfort. When you’re searching to buy a chair, perform actual sit tests. Look for chairs that are supportive, padded and comfortable. Quality chairs will allow you to sit comfortably for long periods of time while boosting creativity. If you get up frequently from your chair then consider getting a chair that swivels, They are great for easier maneuvering from behind the desk. Another important thing is to make sure that your feet are resting on the floor in order not to create extra strain on your back.
3. Desk
Before you go out and buy a desk, think carefully about the work you’ll be doing in your workspace. If your work includes a lot of paper then you will need space to spread out. Also if your work includes drawing or any similar type of creation then you will also require a decent amount of space. If a laptop is all you need then consider buying a smaller desk in order not to overwhelm the room. Some desks come with additional organization space such as drawers and cubbies. This additional space can help improve your organization and efficiency. Keep in mind that your desk and chair height are complimentary. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle when you’re working on your computer because this will allow your wrists to remain straight.
4. Natural light
When you’re searching for a good location in your home for your workspace remember to consider lightning. Natural light is known to do wonders for your productivity, so locating your workspace next to a window should be a priority. Keep in mind that not every day offers clear skies. So, when that day comes, be sure you installed smart bulbs and switches. They can be installed in any space or workspace and are known to have a lot of advantages. For example,
Smart lights in your bedroom can be set on a schedule so you can wake up with comfortable lightning every morning.
5. Zen zone
If the size of your workplace allows you then you might be able to create a zen zone If your workspace is located in your living room or bedroom don’t worry because you can still find a cozy spot where you can think and dream. What you need to do is to examine what you already have(furniture) and then add some pillows, blankets, and a table in order to make your room both cozy and productive. Simply be creative and add or change anything because it is your personal thinking space.
6. High-speed internet and technological tools
Once you’ve established your workplace then it’s time to build-up with high-speed internet. If your product or services rely on the digital realm the high-speed is almost mandatory in order to complete projects as fast as possible. If your line of work involves creating physical goods then you will still need high-quality internet to stay in touch with partners, vendors, and customers.
Also, add some technological tools to your internet investment. Explore high-quality head-sets that improve sound quality and web cameras that guarantee high definition pictures. Installing a dual-band router might also be a good way to go because it will help with internet reliability and speed. Many of these improvements can be purchased from office-supply stores such as Staples and Office Depot or online. You can also find some great credit card offers that will give you cash back for shopping at many of these establishments so it’s more or less a win-win situation.
7. Right tools
Sometimes we get used to low-speed computers, jammed staplers, leaky pens and forget that we might be more productive without them. So, if you’ve decided to boost your effectiveness and creativity just get rid of the old tools and get new ones. When you’re buying new tools try not to skimp because we all know that we get what we paid for. If you feel your workplace isn’t well organized then get a filing cabinet and you will see the difference. The right supplies will save you time in the long run and basically everything you need is easily found in nearby stores.
8. Use your wall-space
We all know the feeling of a cluttered workspace. It can be very irritating and also has a bad impact on your productivity. To keep your workspace clutter-free consider using wall-space. Most people forget about walls, only considering them a place for bookshelves and prints. In reality, you can use them for adding calendars, whiteboards, floating shelves, and other storage units.
9. Find an apartment with a business center
Although working from home is a more comfortable option, it can often get tedious and boring. Also, if you still don’t have the time and money to set up your dream office apartment then maybe consider finding an apartment community with a business center. This can be a great way to get out of your home and enjoy the office space that is already available.
As you can see there are a lot of ways to increase your productivity while working from home. Try to be creative and you will surely find a way that suits you and your job.