Especially for those of us who work from home, it is imperative to have an effective, functional workspace to maximize productivity. So how do you make that happen?
Think, plan and then act. What do you use most? What do you rarely every touch? How is most of your work day spent? What do you need right at your fingertips? What can go into the cabinets or storage that is a little more out of reach but you know where it is when you need it? Can you set up a space for your desk and computer work, a reading corner or anything else to segregate tasks and organize? To make this happen, if you need to invest in a good desk, filing cabinet, bookcase, wall shelving, a bulletin/whiteboard, desk caddy, and stackable trays, a garbage bin, paper shredder, and a good chair – do it. You and your business are worth it.
Keep it Neat! An unorganized or cluttered workspace degrades productivity, and increases tension and frustration as well. So now that you’ve determined what you use most often, sometimes, and rarely – get rid of the clutter. Trash what you don’t need, and file away papers and files that do not need to be all over the desk. Do not mix personal space with your professional workspace. Sure, have a photo of the family hanging on the wall, but other than that – no personal items that will distract your attention from your work. So yeah, leave the hair brush, nail file and tinker toys in the other room!
Less is More! Arrange the tools that you need daily to be right within reach. Your computer and monitor positioned ergonomically correct, your to-do list, a couple of pens (you don’t need 75!), 1 notebook, the telephone, video recorder and microphone if you do recordings and these types of items within your reach and in the same place every day. Over by the printer you keep printing supplies such as paper, labels and ink.
Light the Way! Natural light brings energy into your space and also makes the best lighting for videos so if your office space is near, or can be near a window – let the sun shine in! No fluorescent lighting allowed! It’s too harsh, and straining on the eyes. To reduce eye strain, have soft lighting over your reading area, over the computer, and behind you so that there’s no reflection off the computer monitor.
Add Your Touch! Add some fresh plants, a waterfall, or some music to make your work atmosphere as positive, effective, inspirational yet comfortable as possible. Your workspace needs to help create your productivity, not distract from it. Make it work for you!