Revisiting the Things to Remember When Setting Up a Home Office

Are you thinking of setting up a home office (if you haven’t yet)? Whether you’re telecommuting for the first time or returning to work after maternity leave, there are a few things to keep in mind. 

Here are 10 tips to help make your home office as functional and productive as possible. But above all else, note that it’s especially important to have a reliable internet connection, so make sure you choose from the best NBN plans Sydney.

1. Set up a designated work space. 

This can be as simple as clearing off a table or desk in a spare room or setting up your laptop on the kitchen table. Try to create an environment that is separate from where you relax and watch TV. Having a specific space for work will help you mentally transition into ‘working mode.’

2. Make sure your equipment is set up properly. 

If you’re working with a computer, make sure the screen is at eye level (or close to it) so you don’t have to hunch over all day. The keyboard and mouse should also be placed within easy reach. If you’re using a phone or tablet for work, find a spot where it won’t get in the way when you’re not using it. Keeping your hands free is important!

3. Get comfortable. 

If you’re going to be sitting for long periods of time, make sure the chair fits your body type and that it provides adequate support. A small pillow behind your back will help keep your spine aligned while working at a desk or table. The same goes for when standing up on an elevated platform like stairs—a good pair of shoes helps reduce strain on joints over time.

4. Invest in quality lighting. 

Many people find themselves squinting into their computer screens all day because they don’t have proper lighting set up in their office space (or if they do, it’s pointing directly at them). Make sure that whatever type of light source you choose does not create harsh shadows or glare on your screen.

5. Create a filing system (or use an online service). 

Keeping your work materials organised is key to reducing stress and finding what you need when you need it. If you’re not sure how to get started, invest in some good file folders and label them accordingly. Alternatively, there are many online services that allow you to organise your documents electronically.

6. Set boundaries with family and friends. 

It can be difficult to maintain work-life balance when your office is in the same room as your living space. Make sure everyone in the house understands when it’s ‘off limits’ for working and try to stick to those hours as closely as possible. You may also want to consider using headphones or earplugs if your loved ones are particularly loud when they’re at home.

7. Try not to get distracted by social media or other sites that aren’t work-related. 

It’s easy for our eyes to wander from one thing on the screen to another, especially when it’s something we enjoy doing (e.g. social media, watching television shows). Keep focused and try not to let yourself be tempted into wasting time with non-work-related activities during working hours. 

8. Take breaks! 

Sitting in the same position for hours on end can be really bad for your health, so make sure you take periodic breaks to move around and stretch. Get up and walk around the house or office every so often or do some light stretching exercises if you have a private space to do so.

9. Stay organised. 

This goes hand-in-hand with creating a good filing system. Try to keep your work area as tidy as possible to avoid distraction. Having an uncluttered desk will also help reduce stress levels (which is always a plus!).

10. Use a planner/calendar to track deadlines and appointments. 

Nothing is more frustrating than forgetting about an important meeting or deadline because it wasn’t written down. Make sure you always have a way of keeping track so that nothing slips through the cracks..

If there’s anything else important that should go in this list but isn’t mentioned, feel free to add it below. All the best working from home!