Lately, almost twice as many employees in the US work from home compared to those who work on business premises.
For some, it can seem like a dream. It cuts off commuting time and can cut down on expenses such as travel and food. It also means you don’t need to get up as early!
Working from home can come with some unexpected difficulties, however. When setting up your modern home office, you may have the basics such as a good chair, desk, and computer, but it still might be hard to focus or locate the resources you’re used to having at work.
The key to a good office is to go that extra mile and make sure you have everything you could possibly need.
Read on to find out what you may have missed that might change the game entirely!
1. Alarm Clock
Every phone is equipped with an alarm clock these days, so you may not have thought of having a separate one. The issue is that some people are easily distracted so looking at their phone between tasks isn’t a good idea.
If you’re one of those people, you might find yourself reaching to turn off the alarm and ending up on Facebook!
By purchasing a separate alarm device, you can set up that corner of your home environment to be distraction-free.
You can opt to have a basic alarm clock, or you could purchase a device such as the Amazon Echo to set a timer and let you know when to move onto another task — or even better when work is done completely!
2. A Good Air Filter
If you’re spending a lot of time in your office, you’re going to want to invest in a good quality air filter for that room.
A build-up of dust, pollen, and other things can cause air quality to decrease in the room. Those with respiratory conditions and allergies are particularly sensitive to this so if you’re one of those people, it’s time to make sure you aren’t damaging yourself in your home office.
Whether it’s a good 20x20x1 air filter you require or a size that’s less standard, it’s worth seeking out to make yourself as comfortable as possible. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time in that office.
3. Mini-Fridge
Office privacy can be an issue at home if you live with family members or roommates. You might walk into the kitchen to get a drink or snack and find yourself drawn into conversation, even when you’ve asked to be left alone during working hours.
Most people don’t think to have a mini-fridge in their office, but they can be a great idea! They’re generally under $100 and can hold a few drinks and snacks for the day.
That way, when you need refreshments, you don’t have to leave the room and be drawn into a conversation. Problem solved!
4. Power Strip
You never know how many outlets you’re going to need when it comes to working. Home office lighting and work devices are all likely to require their own outlet, so you’re going to want to make sure you have as many as possible.
This is where a power strip comes in handy! It’s one of those home office essentials you should always have on hand.
Even if you don’t need it right now, one day you might forget to charge your phone and need it during work, or even your laptop. By having a power strip, outlets are always available.
5. A Standing Desk Converter
A standing desk converter is far better than a regular desk. Sitting down for eight or more hours a day can do a number on your spine and joints, even if you have the most comfortable chair ever.
It’s important to get up and walk during working hours, but what if you could multitask?
Standing desk converters allow you to switch between sitting and standing while you work, so you can get up and stretch without having to walk away from your computer. These are especially handy if you have a demanding job that doesn’t allow for a lot of breaks.
6. A Dry-Erase Board
A dry-erase board is also handy for those who don’t like to look at their personal devices during working hours. You can have it on the wall and keep a to-do list for the day or week there, easily wiping it clean and replacing it with the next few tasks whenever required!
Sometimes it’s nice and even handy to have something a little old-fashioned.
It will also cut down the time you’re staring at a screen — even if it’s only for a few minutes each day!
7. A Pet-Friendly Flap
Some people prefer to keep their pets out of the office entirely when they’re working, which is understandable.
Some people, however, don’t mind them being in the office, but it can be a conundrum. Your dog or cat will whine at the door if it’s closed, but opening it invites the noise from the rest of the house and makes it impossible to concentrate or is disruptive to Zoom meetings.
Why not install a pet-friendly flap in the door so your cat or small dog can come in and out as they please? No whining and scratching at the door, but no intrusive noise from the rest of the house!
Your Modern Home Office Will Thrive With These Things!
Your modern home office probably already has the basics — a chair to keep you comfortable, a nice desk, some good lighting. However, to maximize your comfort and productivity, there’s always more you can add like you can decorate your office table and cover chair with stylish materials to transform any occasion.
After all, if you’re spending a lot of time there, it should be the best it can be!
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