4 Tips for Maximizing Productivity in Your Home Office
In recent years, we’ve seen how working from home affects workplace productivity and employee contentment. Many hope this solution is the answer to managing our modern lives, which are filled with growing work, home, and family commitments.
What are the Benefits of Working from Home?
Completed well before the pandemic lit a fire under this discussion, a 2015 Harvard Business Review experiment found higher productivity rates and a lower turnover rate in employees who were offered a work from home (WFH) option. While it may not work for all industries and companies, when it makes sense, WFH can be a great option for both employers and employees.
An at-home workspace gives you the freedom to create an office that’s optimized for your personal productivity needs. Home offices can also be used for side-hustles and hobbies, or other tasks where you need a desk and computer!
Whether you WFH full-time or just complete a few tasks at home, we have four tips for making your home office work best for you:
#1. Choose a space that’s tucked away from distractions. It’s easier to stay focused when you’re in a place that’s relatively quiet and clear of things that will cause your mind to wander from the task at hand. If possible, find a space in your home that’s away from communal areas “” including the kitchen! This way, distractions can be out of sight and out of mind when you’re not on the clock.
#2. Create a space that’s comfortable. Ergonomics are important for avoiding sore muscles and fidgeting during the work day. Place your screen about arm’s length away at a height that allows your neck to remain in a natural position ““ no straining, looking up or down. Choose a chair that positions your hips parallel to your knees and lets your feet rest flat on the floor.
#3. Fill your office with light. Natural light is best for keeping your focus and allowing your eyes a break from the computer screen, but you’ll also want to include window treatments that allow you to adjust the amount of light filtering into the space.
If you don’t have a window, no problem. Look for a small desk lamp on your next Goodwill shopping trip!
#4. Eliminate the clutter. A cluttered office only adds to stress, so it’s important to clear your spaces regularly. That includes any items sitting on your desk collecting dust, like the stapler you never use! The most productive home offices are neutral and simple, with plenty of storage but few items on display.
If you’re looking for desk organization and supplies, check out your local Goodwill store before heading to a big box office store. You might find some stylish storage solutions, binders and folders, faux plants, and even cute mugs or cups to hold your pens and pencils for less.
As for office-ready wall art and frames, Goodwill has you covered there too! Choose artwork that makes you feel calm and motivated, or simply fill empty frames with family photos or quotes you love. You’ll find a wide range of affordable options at your local Goodwill thrift store.
Set Yourself Up for Success
It’s time to create your own productive home office! Start by clearing out your shelves and bookcases, and donate anything you no longer need to a Goodwill Donation Center near you.
Once you have a blank slate, shop Ohio Valley Goodwill Thrift stores for storage solutions, desk décor, wall art, and more to make your home office inviting, calming, and comfortable. Before you know it, you’ll be looking forward to Monday morning!
