5 Ways to Create a Space to Work from Home

I have so many friends that have moved from an office to working from home in the last few weeks.  For someone who is used to leaving home and working at a workplace, I understand this can be stressful.  I have been working from home for the past 10 years, so I thought I’d share some tips on things I’ve learned.  Here are 5 ways to create a space to work from home.

1. Set aside a designated “work space”.

Whether it is an entire room or a corner of a room, you want to have a designated work area.  This in NOT your couch or your bed.  If you are sitting on the couch, you’ll end up watching TV or getting distracted.  You don’t want your work space to be SO cozy that you never leave it.

2. Leave your space clutter free.

I think better when my desk is clear of papers and clutter.  Usually clutter is a pile of things I need to do.  So eliminating clutter keeps me in check.  You also want to make sure the things in your workspace only pertain to work.  Keep things clean, and you will be more productive.

3. Choose a room without a TV.

I know, I know.  But seriously.  You don’t want to work all day when you are going into the office, so why would you want to work all day at home?  When I am home working, I do not have the TV on.  It makes me distracted, and I don’t concentrate on work.  I do listen to quiet music when I’m working.

4. Make it pretty.

Don’t pretty things make you feel better?  Add a framed picture of your family or something that makes you happy.  Buy a new planner or calendar.  Last year we renovated the downstairs area of our home, and that meant creating a new office for me.  It is my favorite room in the house, so I love coming to it to work.  You want a space that makes you happy while you are working.

5. Continue your usual work hours.

I know this is the 5th tip, but it is probably the most important tip of all.  Keep your same office hours at home just as if you were going into the office.  Take a lunch and leave your space when your work day is over.