How to Set Up a Productive Work Space at Home

Studies have shown that remote workers often experience a boost in productivity, but the fantasy of working from home is usually quieter, and simpler than reality. Despite the many distractions lurking beneath your own roof, you can achieve a lot if you take the time to set yourself up for success. Where and how you work at home will impact your workflow. So, here are a few tips on how to set up your work at home space for productivity.

Location, Location, Location

The first rule of working from home is that you must dedicate your workspace to working alone. This will be the most significant factor driving your productivity, so take your time and choose wisely. Choose a space that offers some soundproofing from outside noises. Noise is one of the most significant distractions remote workers complain about. 

If you happen to have a screened in porch or suitable outdoor area, consider working there. If not, don’t forget the importance of taking time to get outdoors during your day. A space that has glass doors that allow you to see other parts of the house or a window that looks out onto the yard will help you to feel less isolated. It also lets you keep an eye on things– especially helpful if you’ve got kids. Despite having visual access, you want a workspace that's away from heavily-trafficked areas. Few things are more distracting than having others walking through your workspace. 

Guard Against Distractions

This one is a no-brainer, but still challenging for many. Remove anything from your workspace that isn’t directly related to work. Set your phone on the airplane setting to minimize digital distractions. Suggest friends and family send you an email instead of calling. Keep your space tidy, and don’t let stacks of paperwork or dishes accumulate. Under no circumstances should you have a TV within eye or earshot of your desk. And no matter how much you love your pets, if they find a way of always being underfoot, on your lap or sneaking onto your work surface, you must give them the boot.

Invest in Your Workspace

When you purchase a real desk and a comfortable chair, you're investing in yourself, and managing your own quality control. An ergonomic chair can help extend your working hours. If you're working from a laptop, you may want to seriously consider a laptop stand and wireless keyboard. The more comfortable you are, the more you're likely to work without interruption. Physical comfort aside, a desk makes you feel as if you're reporting to work, which is enough of a psychological shift to increase your productivity. Best of all, walking away from your desk, you know your work is done.

Maintain Strong Boundaries

Most workspaces benefit from some physical thresholds, but sometimes the boundaries you must reinforce are more complicated. Friends and family may not understand that when you're home working, you're actually at work. Be firm when explaining that when you're in your workspace, you need quiet time to focus away from interruptions. Set working hours, or put a sign on the door to let people know when not to disturb you. Get everyone on the same page regarding which situations need your attention, and what sorts of things can wait until you’ve “clocked out.” 

Consider a Virtual Office

To keep up and maintain a professional presence for your business, consider using Davinci Virtual Offices. With a wide range of locations across the globe, Davinci will have an address perfect for you to take your business to the next level. You can receive mail and forward mail, get added to their lobby directory listing and keep your personal address private. 

As is often the case, a little planning goes a long way when it comes to working from home. Once you’ve got a good routine established in your work at home space, you'll be amazed at how much you can accomplish without leaving the house.

About Francesca Singer

Francesca Singer is a freelance writer and DIY enthusiast who splits her time between Texas and rural France. When not writing or wrangling a toddler, she can be found wielding power tools or working in the garden.