If you work at home even part of the time, you know how important it is to have a home office that’s efficient, organized, comfortable, and distraction-free. Even if you’re on a tight budget, you may need to commit some funds to the project of transforming your home office into a workspace where you can really get things accomplished.
Your Desk
Begin with your desk. You spend hours sitting in front of it, so set it up to fit your needs exactly. First, make sure your desk is large enough to hold your computer setup. If you use multiple monitors, for instance, you need a bigger desk. Leave room for a work surface on your desktop, and consider purchasing an L-shaped desk or one with extra shelves for storage. If you can’t afford to purchase a regular desk, consider getting a long, sturdy table instead.
Your Office Chair
Your office chair is another extremely important piece of furniture for your workspace. Don’t skimp on this one. You need a chair that provides you with the maximum level of comfort and support. Look for a chair that’s the right size for you, adjusts in height, and offers lumbar support. If possible, try out a chair before you buy it, noting how well it supports your back and contributes to good posture.
Your Air Conditioning
During the summer months, temperatures can quickly become unbearable, making it difficult to focus on work. Air conditioning is essential for creating a comfortable work environment. It helps to remove the heat and humidity from the air, making it easier to concentrate. In addition, air conditioning can also help to reduce dust and pollen levels, which can be a major problem for allergy sufferers.
If you have a poorly functioning window air conditioner, carefully consider whether you should have it repaired or purchase a new one. If the repairs are minor, you can find a local repair technician for a portable air conditioner, but if the fan motor or compressor is broken, it’s more cost-effective to buy a new unit.
Your Organization
Even if you do most of your work online, you’re still bound to have papers and supplies that need to be stored. To do this most efficiently, you may want to purchase shelving and/or file cabinets to help you stay organized. Also, buy some boxes to hold your smaller supplies, trays to use as in-boxes and out-boxes, and even a large calendar and whiteboard, so you can see your schedule and make notes. Be sure to label your boxes, files, and shelves so that you can find everything quickly and easily.
Your Equipment
Of course, you can’t neglect your office equipment if you want to create the most efficient workspace. Make sure your computer is up to the tasks you require of it, and if it’s not, consider upgrading to a faster machine with more memory.
Also, examine the state of your printer. You may need to replace that, too, if it’s getting older and can’t handle the level of printing you need. If you require a scanner, decide if it’s best to get a standalone model or a printer-scanner combination. Think about your phone, webcam, speakers, and tablet, and see if they need replacement, too.
Your Decor
Finally, don’t neglect your home office decor. Paint your walls a light, cheerful color, for instance. Hang up some artwork, and set up some of your favorite knickknacks and family photos. Add some extra lighting to brighten up your space, and even include a plant or two to boost your mood.
Your Improved Home Office
Since you spend so much time in your workspace, make it a place that functions efficiently for your work but also provides you with some comfort and cheer.
