The Secret to a productive home office

A lot of us have got accustomed to working from home thanks to the pandemic and, as new guidelines send many of us back home to work once again, now is the time to really invest in your home office.

Use the following tips to create a tranquil home space that oozes productivity and creativity.

Find your peaceful place

If you’re starting from scratch, find a space in your home away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. That moon-on-a-stick goal of a work-life balance is even more important when both are encapsulated in a single space. Ideally, you’ll have your own room where, at the end of the day, you can shut the door and resume home-mode. (And, as we’ve learned from countless lockdown zoom meetings, never underestimate the importance of just having a door!) If this is a luxury you can’t afford, try and carve out a corner in a room where you won’t be disturbed wherever possible, to reduce interruptions and increase efficiency. Also, perhaps invest in some good noise-cancelling headphones.

Clean up your act

Some people thrive in cluttered spaces but, for most of us, a clear space encourages a clear mind. Remove the kids’ toys or homework from your workspace and any home-life distractions that will creep into your work time and irritate you. Even if the rest of your house is cluttered, try and keep your home office clean and tidy to improve focus.

Spruce up your space

One of the bonuses of having a home office is getting to personalise your space exactly to your specifications. Treat yourself to that fluffy office chair you’ve always wanted or upcycle your desk by sanding down the table top and replacing the desk legs for a cool and quirky work area. Transform your workspace into an area you enjoy inhabiting to make your working hours that bit more pleasurable.

Don’t underestimate the power of plants

We all know that plants in the home are great for our general wellbeing, so bring the outside in by popping a plant or two in your office. Studies actually show that plants boost work productivity so add a houseplant or terrarium on your desk or, if you’re less than green fingered, opt for a small cactus or succulent to brighten things up. As a special treat buy yourself some fresh flowers – the science says you deserve it!

Keep your home office smelling sweet

Remain calm and focussed with the aid of aromatherapy oils or candles. Opt for blends of oils that are specifically created to help de-stress or recharge your batteries depending on your current mood. Whatever you’re working on, there’s a scent that can help you. Or just treat yourself to your favourite scent because this is YOUR space.

Whether working from home is your idea of heaven or it’s your worst nightmare, it’s a reality of many of our working lives. Make the best of the situation by creating a tranquil, clear space that will keep you focussed and maximise productivity during your working hours.