In the past couple of years, many workers have received an impromptu crash course in working from home. And the trend of turning nooks of your space into productive work zones doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. But whether you’re continuing to work from home due to company policy or choice, it’s important to evaluate your home workspace to ensure it’s organized and encourages productivity.
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An ergonomic office chair to give your back some love
Stop me if this sounds familiar – you’re slumped over at your desk, your neck craned over, and what was previously an annoying ache in your lower back has turned into something that’s affecting your work and well-being. Walking around and stretching only provides temporary relief. A comfortable ergonomic chair, designed for maximum lumbar support, will help minimize back pain and let you focus. Science backs it up — a 2003 ergonomics study found that employees who were given an ergonomic chair reported fewer negative symptoms throughout the day and a total increase in productivity of 17.7%.
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Quality speakers to bump productive tunes
Music can help you relax and get energized. It can also improve your productivity. According to a study by the University of Miami’s music therapy department, test subjects who listened to music while working were able to complete their tasks with superior quality and speed than the study group without the sweet tunes. Having a nice Bluetooth speaker in your work environment allows you to fill your space with your favorite mood music and wash out any ambient distractions to improve your focus. So cue up a playlist of your ideal mood music (simple chord progressions, instrumentals, and catchy rhythms often work best) and check out some of these office-ready speakers, which can improve your experience with your favourite games.
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Soft light desk lamp for your optic and mental health
Another hallmark of a happy, productive work environment is a simple soft light desk lamp. A soft glow gives your work environment that warm, cozy feeling that may contribute to a mellower and less stressful home office. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light during the day has positive effects on our mental and physical health, too, so open those blinds and let that light in — your brain will thank you for it. On the flip side, working in dimly lit environments where screens are the main light source strains the eyes, which can lead to fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision.
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A smart assistant to save you precious time
If there’s one thing that will serve up a giant red flag to potential clients and customers, it’s missing meetings, calls, or deadlines. It can be stressful to stay on top of all the little things while also trying to get important things done. That’s why offices have administrative assistants and executives have personal assistants.
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A yoga/stretching mat to counteract hours hunched over the computer
Like most knowledge workers, you’re bound to a desk and a computer. Unfortunately, the seated position isn’t the healthiest, but you’re required to put in your 8+ hours. One of the best things you can do to combat poor posture and a sedentary desk life is to get an office yoga mat.
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An ergonomic keyboard to give your wrists a break
After a focused work session, the last thing you want to deal with is wrist and hand strain from craning your hands onto a keyboard. Don’t put up with it either — the more you do, the higher your risk is of being diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Going the ergonomic way can reduce wrist strain, increase comfort, and keep you focused on the task at hand.
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