Are you working from home? If you are, no doubt you’re enjoying the convenience and benefits that go along with working from the comfort of your own home. I know I do!
Of course, it’s not all glitter and roses… working from home offers plenty of challenges, too. Right up at the top of the list – getting organized. It takes planning and effort but will pay off big time!
As basic as it may seem, having a dedicated space for your home office will increase your productivity and result in a more satisfying day. The very fact that you are sitting in a space designated for business will make your purpose more real, your mindset professional, and actually help you focus on your intended work. Not only that, you’ll save yourself a lot of frustration if you don’t have to run all over the house searching through scattered paperwork!
Start developing your workplace management strategy by analyzing the areas in your home that could be used for office space. Not everyone is lucky enough to have an entire room for a home office. The important thing to keep in mind is to do the best you can with what you have.
You might need to set up your office in a corner of your living room, a bedroom, a walk-in closet, in the basement, on the sun porch, or even on a stair landing. You might consider using curtains to act as office walls.
The point is to create a well-defined space that will contain all your office essentials… a desk and chair, computer, files and papers, supplies, and good task lighting. By creating a real, professional office setting, you will be more productive.
This “before and after” home office makeover will get you motivated and inspired.
Add some personal touches to your workspace. Bring in a few photos of the kids and the family dog, put a vase of fresh flowers on your desk, and frame some favorite inspirational quotes. A neat and cheerful office will put you in a good mood – energized and ready to work! So go ahead and splurge a little on some special office décor.
Now that your workplace is organized and well-appointed, take a couple of minutes at the end of the day to keep it that way. Get into the habit of leaving work with a tidy desk. You will be ready to hit the ground running – off to a brisk and successful start the following morning.