Boost Your Home-Office Productivity with These Simple Strategies
As the trend of working from home continues to persist, many of us are left wondering how to optimize our home workspaces for maximum productivity. With 39% of Brits still working remotely in 2023 and 75% admitting their relationships with their homes have changed since transitioning to remote work, it’s clear that finding the right work-life balance at home can be a challenge. However, there are a number of strategies you can employ to enhance your productivity while working from home.
One often overlooked approach to boosting productivity is the introduction of houseplants into your workspace. According to Jenny Herbison, VP of marketing at Craft Docs, incorporating low-maintenance houseplants into your office space can increase productivity by up to 15%. In addition, plants can improve air quality, leading to an overall increase in well-being and productivity. Zara O’Hare, an expert interior designer at Land of Rugs, also suggests that exposure to nature can reduce stress levels and improve mental health, thereby increasing productivity.
Another way to improve your workspace is by maximizing natural light. O’Hare recommends using sheer or light-coloured curtains to increase light penetration and create an airy atmosphere. Removing clutter from windows and ensuring no obstructions can also help make your space feel larger and more open. Andi Morse, founder of Morse Design, adds that clear visibility is crucial for maintaining productivity. Studies have shown that natural light can improve performance and alertness.
However, creating a dedicated workspace at home is still a challenge for many. According to a recent study, over a third of UK office workers do not have a dedicated workspace at home, which can negatively impact their productivity. O’Hare suggests having a separate area with separate devices for work to create a clear distinction between work and personal life. This could mean having a specific place for work that you only use during working hours and keeping work devices in this area.
If you don’t have the luxury of a separate home office and have to work in your bedroom, try keeping your work laptop out of your room outside of work hours. This simple change can make a significant difference in preventing bedtime procrastination and improving productivity.
Another tip for enhancing productivity is to repaint your workspace with colours that lift your mood. Colour psychology can have a significant impact on your motivation and productivity levels. O’Hare suggests opting for bright and uplifting colours like yellows, greens, or blues to create a refreshing work environment.
Comfortable furniture is also essential for a productive workspace. Morse advises investing in a comfortable chair to avoid backaches and facilitate longer working hours if needed. This is where products such as the electric height adjustable standing desk or the best sit stand desk come into play. These products allow you to adjust your work setup according to your comfort, thereby enhancing your productivity.
In conclusion, whether your workspace is a dedicated home office or just a corner in your bedroom or kitchen, these tips can help you enhance your productivity while working from home. From incorporating houseplants and maximizing natural light to creating a dedicated workspace and investing in comfortable furniture, these strategies can make a significant difference in your work-from-home experience. Remember, even the smallest improvements can lead to noticeable increases in productivity.