Let Your Workspace Work For You

Since the huge changes in our world these past few months, “working from home” and all of the challenges that come with it, has become immediately relevant & a necessary reality for many in our world today. Despite the global pandemic, many of our jobs are shifting to places outside of the traditional office. For those working in industries and sectors who don’t have the option to work from home, we are so grateful for your faithful service to our communities. All over the country, our homes have rather abruptly become our offices. This offers us incredible freedom while at the same time presenting new and unique challenges. Your home or apartment may not have a full scale office, suitable for all of your supplies and the space you need. Whether you have an entire room, a closet, a nook or just a desk- here are some suggestions to make your workspace work for you! 

RECONSIDER & PURGE

Before bringing every single item from your office into your new working situation, consider what is most necessary. Chances are, your work space may have accumulated excess items that don't really add function or beauty. Those things can go. Challenge yourself to fill a box of paper to shred or recycle. Next, identify the items that you don't "love" for your home office area (if your work from home station is temporary, consider boxing up the items that used to have function in this space). By decluttering you will free yourself up. Then you can better enjoy the pieces you keep. The decrease in clutter may create space in your mind for more creative or productive work. 

PRACTICALLY SPEAKING…

Gather the necessities to complete your unique workspace. Think through the items you need: a computer, phone, files, calculator, pens, calendar, etc. If a primarily empty desk space is important to you, consider shelves and storage under your desk. If you like to visibly see all your key tools for the work day- find a tray to contain those items or an open shelf above the desk. A few items of inspiration can allow you to not only use your space efficiently, but to enjoy it. Do you love art, books, words, or white space - incorporate it into your work area. Schedule your work from home hours to maximize your productivity. If working from home is going to be a longer term situation for you, we love the versatility and multiple ways Elfa Shelving systems can create home offices from just a blank wall. Lastly, give yourself some grace and try to speak kindly to yourself.

Overcome COMMON CHALLENGES

1. Sharing a space- Create a simple shared calendar to allow visibility of when each individual has phone calls or needs distraction free chunks of time. This will require some coordination and flexibility if lots of people are involved.

2. Cord control- Try these to keep cords in place.

3. Distractions- Enjoy a calming playlist to help increase your focus and drown out background noise. Shut the door if you’re in a space that allows.

4. Supplies galore- Use pretty baskets or containers can keep your various office supplies together. 

5. Lighting- When possible, position yourself toward a window or any natural light facing you instead of behind you. This will help others to see you better on Zoom calls and you’ll get a little vitamin D at the same time.

6. Comfort- Add a cushion to your seat if it doesn’t provide adequate support. Consider ordering a riser for your computer or a standing desk.

THESE MAY HELP

SIMPLE TIPS TO TRY

• Schedule & take breaks. Use an alarm on your phone every few hours to take a quick walk or do some stretching. When you eat your lunch, consider eating outside or just shutting the computer and getting a change of scenery in your home.

• Open the window. Let that fresh air in!

• Minimize notifications. Use the ‘do not disturb’ function of your phone or try moving all distracting apps off of your home screen. Or if you have strong will power, just flip your smart phone face down on your desk. Out of sight, out of mind!

• Establish boundaries. Just because you can technically work at all hours, doesn’t mean this is the best choice. Try to set a “stop time” for your work day. When that time comes, make a list to clear your brain of lingering tasks and ideas, that way you’re set up for tomorrow!