When most people started to work from home, the dining room table did the trick. Some people are lucky enough to have a guestroom that could be reworked into a quiet space and others had to get creative with closets and corners. But no matter where your workspace is, getting organized is the key to being productive. The advantage to doing this now is that you know exactly what you need. Do you have to be close to the kids so that you can see what they are doing for school? Is it okay to work in a busy area or do you need loads of quiet time for conference calls? By now you should have the answers and can get started on creating a workspace that will take you through the next several months and beyond.
Creating a sanctuary for productivity starts with a cleaned-up space.
It is essential to keep your remote workspace organized. Start by going through your area and remove items that you will not use during the week. That means cleaning out the drawers where you keep old plugs and instruction manuals that are available online. Get rid of old papers that you haven’t looked at in years. Separate documents and put important papers in a separate file, then find a box, label it, and store those documents properly. Find a mug that you like and keep only the pens and pencils that work. It’s surprising how often a container full of pens yields only one with ink! Store or donate furniture that you do not use and cramps your area. Consider adding a shelf within reach of your desk for notebooks and a small plant.
Create a separate space to work.
In a small apartment or home, it can be challenging to find a spot that is used only for work. Some searching on Pinterest reveals clever spaces created in retrofitted closets, fold down desks that take up little room, or work areas created in a corner. The idea is that you create an area that is for work that can stay organized. Once the day is over you can turn off your computer and at least attempt to have a work-life balance.
Design your desk area.
The more you like your work area, the more likely you are to sit down and get it all done! Gamers have always liked desk mats and there are companies that have designed stunning collections that are sure to improve your workspace style while saving the wood or glass of your desk. A favorite of many is by Love Desk Mats which uses neoprene that is super soft, easy to clean and has a non-skid natural rubber backing. So, ditch the mouse pad and opt for something bold and beautiful. The mats also make thoughtful and useful gifts.
Get motivated with accessories that you love.
Often people will multitask on their computer and tablet. It’s a great way to get extra desk real estate, especially if you use a clip that keeps the tablet off your workspace. When you’re done for the day, keep dust and fingerprints off your table or iPad with a sustainable and handcrafted Tech Sleeve from Gale & Hayes. Available in several colors, it is fully handstitched using genuine vegetable tanned leather and is made in the USA.
Do double duty.
A great organization tip is to use a tote bag to store files that you use all of the time. By having files and papers next to you in a tote, there will be more space on your desk, and you will feel less overwhelmed. At the end of the day, you can put the tote under your desk or in a closet. Out of sight, out of mind…until the next workday! A popular recommendation from the organizing obsessed, is the Lifetime Leather Classic Tote. It’s a minimalist tote bag that is handcrafted in the brand’s Arizona workshop with the finest full grain leather. It is built to last and backed by the company’s guarantee.
Make sure you have proper lighting.
When the sun is shining, it is sure to improve your mood. Try and find a spot that is next to a window or at the very least, use lamps and lights to prevent eye strains while you are working. Overhead lighting is good start, but keep in mind that layering light is also good because you can adjust the level of light based on the time of day and season. When done correctly, it will help your mood and productivity!
