Having a well designed workspace has a big impact on your focus, efficiency and the way each workday will feel, when you work from home.
Small details like the layout, lighting, comfort and organization can all have an effect on your concentration levels and your energy levels.
You want to create an environment which will support clear thinking and consistent output, to make your workspace work better for you.
Start With A Clear And Practical Layout
Having a clear and practical layout will work best without lots of distractions. Set up the room by defining zones, with one for focused work, one for quick reference materials, and another for short planning or review.
Having this kind of set-up will keep everything within reach, and remove everything else from your immediate field of view.
Make sure your main work surface has good natural lighting without having glare on your screen. Angle your desk or monitor so daylight comes from the side, but not directly in front or behind.
Keep ergonomics in mind for the placement of your keyboard, mouse and monitor, keeping the focus on the layout and not the furniture details.
Reduce clutter by using docking stations, mounted power strips and a single charging area, keeping everything within easy access.
Choose Furniture That Supports Long Working Hours
Choose furniture pieces which will keep you comfortable and focused for hours.
Start with an ergonomic chair that will support your lower back, keep your feet flat and allow your shoulders to relax. If your chair makes you lean forward or twist, you’ll tire quickly and lose concentration.
Pair your chair with an adjustable desk, so you can switch between sitting and standing. Make sure you set the height so your elbows rest at about a 90 degree angle, and your screen sits at eye level.
For your lighting, use a mix of overhead lights and a focused desk lamp, to reduce any eye strain and shadows on your working space.
Ensure you have good storage options to keep everything organized and clutter free.
Cut Down On Distractions In Your Work Area
Having ergonomic furniture will help you physically, but it is your working environment that affects how long you can stay locked in and focused.
Protect your focus from sound distractions by using noise-canceling headphones or play a white-noise playlist, to help you block chatter, traffic or household noise.
You will also want to clear any visual clutter and digital clutter. Close unused tabs, uninstall any distracting apps and tidy your desktop into a few purposeful folders.
Use time management apps that will block social media, batch notifications and structure in deep-work blocks.
Adjust your space with ambient lighting that will minimize glare on your screens, as well as harsh contrast. Having warm and indirect light will reduce any potential eye strain, as well as keeping your brain calmer than using bright overhead bulbs.
You can also work on training your attention. Having short mindfulness practices, like taking 3 deep breaths before you open your inbox will help you notice any urges to multitask, and return to doing just one task at a time without distractions. Over time, this will help your workspace become a cue for focus, and not distractions.
Hi, my name is Gemma, and I’m the owner of MakeupMuddle.com. I’m a true beauty obsessive, and love writing about anything to do with beauty – I have been a beauty writer since 2012.