As 2015 draws to a close, now’s the perfect time to start thinking about how you’d like to welcome 2016. With the rising freelance economy and more people working from home, the home office has become the new norm. If towards the end of the year, your filing system went out the window, your office scissors became kitchen ones or the kids claimed all your note books, you might want to consider an office makeover. Create a stress-free home office where your space is your own and supplies stay strictly in bounds.
Here’s 5 ways to start your overhaul.
1. Clear The Clutter
Mess does little for inspiration and can add to inefficiency. The thought of typing away amidst a pile of clutter will only cause you unnecessary stress. Working in a clean and clear space may help mimic your mind frame to produce clarity in your thoughts. Start the year fresh by spring cleaning your office space. Be ruthless and dump anything that’s broken and sell/give away anything that’s unused. Your home office should mirror that of a professional environment, so keep your kids’ toys and any entertainment out of sight. Use bits and pieces around the house to help you organise what’s remaining, such as cardboard to divide sheets of paper and mason jars to house pens and highlighters.
2. Let There Be Light
Working in a dimly lit room is not a good way to activate inspiration. If you’re setting up a home office make sure there is plenty of light, preferably natural. If we’re speaking Feng Shui it is important to face the space that you are occupying and not to have your back to the door, which rejects positive energy from coming in. It is also good to have the light come from behind you to illuminate your work rather than have sun glaring into your face. Being in light helps to improve alertness and therefore promotes productivity. If your current home office set up isn’t working in the light’s favour, don’t be afraid to get creative and rearrange the layout.
3. Don’t Skimp On The Home Office Necessities
There’s nothing worse than having an ancient printer that fails on you far too often or takes 10 minutes to print a few pieces of paper. Avoid the stress that comes from dodgy technology and invest in good quality home office equipment for long term convenience. Tailor products to your everyday professional needs. If you’re a creative designer, then a speedy colour laser printer is a must. If you’re always running out to meet clients, mobile technology and a multifunction all-in-one printer will be the most efficient option. Having an all-in-one will also help to claim just one space in your office rather than having lots of bits and pieces that take up too much room.
4. Establish Smart Storage
Once you’ve had your spring clean, it’s time to think smart storage options so that your home office stays clutter and stress free. Shop around for multipurpose storage shelves and cabinets that also doubles as a decorative feature aesthetically. Make use of the space you have and take advantage of corners and empty wall spaces.
5. Get Organised Creatively
A home office affords unparalleled freedom and flexibility however, it can also encourage distractions and procrastination. As part of your overhaul, look into
aesthetically pleasing organisation tools like monthly paper calendars, diaries and mood boards for post it notes. These can be used to enhance your office space from an aesthetics point of view and can also help with goal setting to boost productivity. Now’s also the time to top up on your stationary supplies so that you start 2016 fresh and organised.
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