4 Tips for Setting Up a Successful Workstation

Many of us have a dedicated workstation located somewhere in our home. These workstations can vary in setup, room location and use of space. To create an effective workstation, you should minimize distractions, utilize your wall space, sit comfortably, and personalize your area. In doing so, you can create long-lasting changes that will help you succeed. Here are four tips to set up a workstation that will maximize your efficiency and productivity.

Minimize Distractions

Working from home can be great, but for many people, the number of distractions you encounter can be challenging. While it is not possible to eliminate all distractions, there are methods to help minimize them. One way to limit distractions is to invest in noise-cancelling headphones to block out annoying sounds. You might also find it helpful to turn off notifications on your cell phone during work hours. Another way to minimize distractions is to know your habits and use them to your advantage. For example, if you’re a morning person, use that time (when you’re the most focused) to work on your difficult tasks or projects.

Utilize Wall Space

The amount of desk or table space you have at your workstation may be limited. To prevent running out of space and becoming overwhelmed, work your way up instead of out. Hang shelves, dry erase boards, hanging baskets, or pinboards above your table or desk. As a result, you can see your items more clearly and stay organized.

Sit Comfortably

An important part of setting up your workstation is ensuring that it’s ergonomically correct. To do so, place your monitor about 30 inches away from your eyes. The top of the monitor should be level with or below your eyes. Next, adjust your desk and chair height so that your feet are flat on the floor and your arms run parallel with your desk. Finally, make sure that, when you type, your wrists are flat or slightly angled down. If you find yourself with lower back pain from sitting in your desk chair for long periods of time, it may be helpful to do daily stretches, invest in a new chair, or purchase a lumbar support cushion.

Personalize Your Area

Did you know that having a plant in your office space can boost your productivity by as much as 15%? Personalizing your area isn’t just fun: it can have lasting effects on your productivity and mood. So, design the space to fit your style and choose office colors carefully. Green is easiest on the eyes, yellow inspires confidence, and blue stimulates focus. Natural light can also be uplifting and improve your concentration, so try leaving your blinds up and curtains open while you work. Consider keeping a few motivational quotes or family photos in your workspace to stay energized throughout the day. However you choose to personalize your area, make sure it fits your own work and personal style.

If you spend long periods of time at your workstation, even the smallest improvements can give you a mental boost. Now, with roughly 42% of Americans working from home full-time, your office space is even more integral to success. A few of these simple design changes can make a big impact and lead you to more productive days.