If your home office is looking a little drab and clinical, it might be time to make a few changes. The good news is it’s super easy to personalise and decorate your home office so you stay energised, motivated and productive. Check out our top tips below to help you get started.
Create a dedicated space
While you may be tempted to work from your bed, avoid it. Working in your bedroom breaks down the barrier between work and life and you may start to feel like you’re always at work. Furthermore, establishing good sleep habits is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and working in the same space you sleep could negatively impact that.
Rid yourself of clutter
A survey conducted by OfficeMax found that clutter had a negative impact on productivity (77%), state of mind (65%) and motivation (53%). Toss anything you don’t need, digitise your documents where possible and invest in storage options, such as filing cabinets, drawers or organisers for loose items.
Add some greenery
Consider adding a vase of fresh flowers or a potted plant in your home office. Plants and flowers can help:
- Boost your mood
- Improve your general wellbeing
- Increase productivity and creativity
- Improve concentration levels
- Reduce stress levels
- Eliminate airborne toxins
In addition to the many health benefits, plants can brighten up any room and they look beautiful.
Personalise your space
Is your workspace a little devoid of personality? If so, consider adding some personal touches to your home office to make it more inviting. Add a small plant or vase of flowers to add some colour, trade that plain desk calendar for one with a little more flair. Get some neon paperclips or use a personalised mug to turn your bland, sterile desk into a motivating one.
Add colour
Colour can impact our mood and creativity. For example, calming blue can increase productivity and focus, while a splash of vibrant yellow can spark creativity.
If you don’t have time to paint your walls, don’t fret! Use coloured file folders or a neon mouse pad. Add a splash of colour to your desk with a lamp, mug, notebook or stapler.
Listen to music
Keep yourself focused and relaxed with some background music, nature sounds or white noise.
Natural light
Harsh fluorescent lighting or dim lighting can cause eye strain and headaches. If possible, position your desk near a window to take advantage of the view and natural light. It’s easier on your eyes and will make your work environment more enjoyable and productive. Avoid glare by ensuring that natural light is in front of, or next to your work desk and computer screen.
Get a lamp
If you’re not blessed with ample natural light, consider getting a desk lamp that will illuminate your workspace, without creating undue glare and contrast.
Choose a lamp that is fitted with a yellow-toned bulb, rather than a bright white one, as this will help keep you focused and minimise eye fatigue. Consider a lamp with a flexible arm – it will allow you to direct the light where you need it most and avoid casting shadows.
Energising scents
While your co-workers might not appreciate you filling the office with your favourite scented oil, don’t be afraid to do so at home! Light a scented candle or fill an essential oil diffuser to help you feel more energised and positive and reduce stress and tension.
Try peppermint and rosemary to boost concentration, or lavender to calm and soothe.
Ready to get started?
We hope these tips will help make your home office a more stylish space to work in. The trick is to not go overboard – you want your home office dedicated to work, while making it a more positive space to work in.