7 Tips to Organize Your Remote Office to Enhance Productivity
- June 13, 2024
The heady honeymoon phase, when we discovered the freedoms of remote work, is over. When it started, everybody was keen to demonstrate they were worthy of their employer’s trust. By now, we have proved we can deliver a full day’s work without facing the grueling daily commute.
But we’ve also learned that a full day’s work at home differs from just finishing urgent work on the couch between ominous episodes of Severance. A poorly organized home office causes mental and physical discomfort and low productivity.
Don’t treat the symptoms with a shopping spree for glam stationery and office kits. We have some other, more essential steps you can take to enhance productivity. Investing in a few small items will make your home office more practical. It will also deliver a direct personal benefit to your living space that your family can share.
1.Learn to Flip the Switch
Remember when you’ve traveled to the office every working day for years? You got used to taking your professionally groomed self off to a built-for-purpose office with formal desks, chairs, decor, and equipment. You stepped into a certain mindset and got on with your job for the next eight hours.
It’s hard to do the same when you work from home. There’s nothing that automatically flips the switch in your mind from home time to work time.
2.Invest in Ergonomic Furniture
Even if you’ve invested in new decor, you may encounter challenges. A stylish chair may look Instagram-worthy, but does it provide comfort and support for your back and arms?
Ergonomic furniture is designed to support your body, reduce strain, and prevent exhaustion. Investing in high-quality office furniture may shrink your purse a little, but it is worth the expense. Most people spend more time in their office chairs than in their beds. Ergonomic furniture is comfortable for long desk sessions, making it cost-effective in the long run.
3.Pare Down Your Devices
Have you considered slimming down your clunky laptop or desktop to a leaner and safer alternative? For example, a Chromebook is a slender laptop that runs on Chrome OS, an operating system that uses Chrome browser as its interface. Importantly, Chromebooks have several built-in security features to protect against viruses and malware.
It’s perfect as a primary device for basic tasks like writing, using web-based applications such as Microsoft Office, and storing your documents in the cloud. Also, thanks to Chromebook’s minimalistic interface, it can be a great way to reduce additional distractions. Chromebooks are lightweight, fast, have long battery life, and are highly affordable which makes them a perfect work laptop.
4.Improve Your Privacy and Cybersecurity
Secure your computer, smartphone, and all of your IoT gadgets with a Virtual Private Network (VPN). You can install a VPN on your router to ensure your fridge, doorbell, and other wireless-capable devices don’t leak your secrets. Then, make sure you install the VPN app on your smartphone and laptop. It will protect your internet connection when you travel to meetings or work on public Wi-Fi in a coffee shop.
Encrypting your connection with a VPN before accessing your company’s resources is essential. A VPN protects your company’s data, networks, and online communication between team members. Keep in mind that despite the built-in security features, a VPN for Chromebook is also a good idea. It will take care of your online security needs and protect your privacy while you browse the internet.
5.Throw Some Light on the Subject
Research abounds on the effects of lighting adjustments for mental health and boosting productivity. So maximize natural light by opening curtains in the morning. Try stepping outside for twenty minutes to get some vitamin D before starting your work day.
One of the most impactful investments you can make is automated circadian lighting. It mimics sunlight during the day and provides warmer, softer lighting after sunset. Examples are Bluetooth-enabled smart lighting with color-changing accent lights or Edison bulbs at night. They have a warm, comforting glow that will help you unwind after a day at the “office.”
6.Manage Your Screen Time
Digital eyestrain is becoming a significant problem globally. Humans stare at screens for far too long every day. It results in digital eyestrain syndrome (DES), also known as “computer vision syndrome.” Constant exposure to the harsh blue light from screens causes red or burning eyes, blurred vision, and continuous headaches. Alarmingly, it can also cause permanent eye damage.
Experts advocate a 20-20-20 rule to spare your peepers. Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen for 20 seconds and focus on something 20 feet away. If you’re apt to get lost in concentration and forget, use your Pomodoro timer to help enforce this safety measure.
7.Take a Deep Breath
Everyday activities such as cooking or boiling water for a cup of coffee can affect the air quality in your home. We only notice how stuffy the air has become once someone opens a window.
You could open your windows and risk a freezing winter draft or a paper-scattering summer breeze. However, the air quality outside in some locations may be even worse. The safer alternative is to add some carbon-monoxide-gulping house plants and an air purifier. Many options are available, from desktop smart gadgets that monitor CO2 levels to complete HVAC solutions.
The Take-Home Message
Your home office should inspire you and add joy to your daily routine. Your spirit should lift when you walk in. That’s why your office is the last place in your home to use hand-me-down furniture or worn-out accessories. Investing in your productivity and well-being always repays for itself—besides, you can share most of your new work gadgets with your family. Use our tips and start your journey to a better organized, productive, and joyful home working experience.
LUXAFOR HELPS PEOPLE TO ACHIEVE THEIR GREATEST PRODUCTIVITY LEVELS WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF OFFICE PRODUCTS. LET’S BE PRODUCTIVE TOGETHER!
