How to create a productive home office environment

I have come to learn that our environment really has a huge impact on our work productivity. I was once visiting my sister who has a six year old boy. My aim was to get my work done as per usual, but boy was I in for a big surprise! My nephew constantly disturbed my work. I ended up not getting through my to-do list that day. If you’re like me and need to get things done at home, these few tips might assist you in becoming more productive and having more control over your work environment:

1. Workspace

The first thing you need to consider is your workspace. If you’re working from home, consider using a room that is far from the TV room or lounge area. Any noise coming through to your office will likely be a distraction.

2. Equipment

The most frustrating thing is having slow internet connection or a slow computer. It can reduce your productivity significantly due to the waiting time. Ensure that you invest in good hardware and software to boost productivity.

3. Consider Feng Shui

Feng shui is “an ancient Chinese belief that the way your house is built or the way that you arrange objects affects your success, health, and happiness” (http://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/feng-shui)

Good feng shui means clearing clutter, having good air quality, having good lighting and using the right colors in your office. Consider adding a pot plant and rearranging your furniture in a way that best represents you.

You need to be comfortable in your own space. Put your favourite quote on the wall or a picture that keeps you motivated on your table. Keep it tidy and fresh at all times.

4. Spacing

Don’t have your laptop in one room and your printer down the hall. This will create a lot of distraction and reduce your productivity. In one of my previous work environments we used to have the printer in the hallway next to the kitchen. We found that employees would walk down to the printer and then lose track of time making coffee and talking to other employees. A short break is beneficial, but it is easy to get side-tracked when your resources are not all in one place.

5. Signage

Have you ever walked down a hall then saw a sign saying ’’Silence, test in progress”? What was your reaction? If you’re like me, you immediately kept quiet and made a conscious effort to keep the noise down.

Signs work. Have a polite sign at your door to remind those living with you to be conscientious that you are working.

Conclusion

If you follow these 5 tips you are on your way to getting more done in your day!

If you have any story or advice on how you have made your home environment more productive, please leave a comment below.