Working from home can be a dream come true for many entrepreneurs. It’s the flexibility and freedom of working when and where you want to.
The flexibility and freedom to work on your own terms can be incredibly appealing. However, with this freedom comes the challenge of creating a productive home office environment. A place where you can still be productive in a place that would otherwise call for your to let down your guard and just relax. Here are some tips for designing and organizing a home office that will help you stay focused, motivated, and productive.
ONE: Choose the Right Space
When creating a home office, it’s important to choose a space that is separate from your living area or any other area that has a different function other than work. This can be a spare bedroom – just not where you sleep, a basement – not where you torture the children or even a converted closet where your wife keeps her shoes. The key is to find a space that is quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions and thoughts that may be distractive. If possible, choose a space with a window that lets in natural light.
TWO: Invest in Comfortable and Ergonomic Furniture
Sitting for long periods of time can be tough on your body, so it’s important to invest in comfortable and ergonomic furniture. You want to be comfortable when you work. However, you also don’t want to have furniture that is so comfortable you want to relax and sleep. And so choosing a chair with good lumbar support, and a desk that is the right height for your body will be one of the best decisions you can make for your home office. A standing desk or a desk that can be adjusted for sitting and standing can also be a great option.
THREE: Keep it Organized
A cluttered workspace can be distracting and stressful, so it’s important to keep your home office organized. While working from home, you want to keep your distractions to the bare minimum. No distractions at all would be best. However, that may not always be possible. Invest in file cabinets, shelves, and storage containers to keep your paperwork and supplies in order. Use desk organizers to keep your pens, pencils, and other small items within reach.
FOUR: Use Color Psychology
The colors you choose for your home office can have a big impact on your productivity and mood. A lot of research has been done on the psychology of color and how it affects our mood, functionality and productivity. For instance, blue is known for promoting calmness and concentration, while yellow is associated with creativity and optimism. Green can help promote balance and harmony, while red can increase energy and focus. You want to use these colors to enhance your working space and boost your productivity.
FIVE: Minimize Distractions
Working from home can be full of distractions, from kids running around and screaming and pets who want your attention to household chores that never seem to get off the to-do list. Minimize these distractions by setting boundaries with family members and establishing a routine. Let your family member know your working times and working space. This can be done without necessarily stifling their movement and freedom to enjoy their home. Use noise-cancelling headphones to block out external noise, and avoid checking your phone or social media during work hours.
SIX: Let in Some Fresh Air
There is nothing like fresh air to bring a breath of clarity to your ideas and workflow. Fresh air can do wonders for your productivity and mental clarity. Open a window or use an air purifier to keep the air in your home office clean and fresh. Consider adding plants to your workspace, which can help improve air quality and reduce stress. There is nothing like a pet plant to bring some flavor to your workspace.
SEVEN: Remember to Take Breaks
Finally, it’s important to take breaks throughout the day to prevent burnout and improve productivity. As much as entrepreneurs want freedom away from the 9 to 5, many find themselves working more than the 9-5. This can be counter-productive to your success. It’s essential that you get up – from time to time, and stretch, take a walk around the block, meditate or do a quick workout to get your blood flowing. Taking breaks can help you recharge and stay focused on your work.
Put these Home Office Tips to Good Use
Creating a productive home office is essential for entrepreneurs who work from home. By choosing the right space, investing in comfortable furniture, staying organized, minimizing distractions, incorporating color psychology, letting in the fresh air, and taking breaks, you can design a home office that promotes focus, motivation, and productivity.
