Edition 1 - The Modern Office

Whether we have been building empires, balancing books or attempting algebraic equations with the children, how we use our homes has significantly shifted for most of us.  With millions of us now living and working from our homes, the role that our 4 walls play has significantly changed. Adapting to our new routines and striking that fine balance between home-life and work-life has created the need to find our own little unique ways of making ourselves comfortable, and forging spaces that evoke drive and positivity. We have rounded up our top tips for introducing small changes into your abode that will reap long-term rewards when working from home.

 

STRUCTURE YOUR DAY

When you are not too familiar with working from home, approaching the day can seem daunting. Creating an hourly schedule can help to formulate the structure that you were used to at your office. Having a regular start and end, to your working day; then pencilling in a lunch break, morning and afternoon rest breaks is a good way to start planning your day. The gaps can then be filled in with your work tasks.

DRESS TO IMPRESS

Staying snuggly in your pyjamas all day may seem like the ultimate dream but bypassing the responsibility of getting dressed can have more of a detrimental effect than you may realise. Getting dressed not only contributes to structuring your day, it also elevates mood, boosts productivity and helps to keep you in a regular sleep pattern. We associate certain clothes with particular activities - pyjamas and dressing gowns are great for when we are asleep, or relaxing on the sofa on a Sunday morning, but we don't want to carry that association into our working day. Set aside a few designated outfits that are comfortable - your comfort is key when working from home so choose loose fitting clothes and light, thin layers that can be taken off and added to throughout the day.

RECLAIM YOUR LUNCH HOUR

It is easy to forget about your lunch hour, when in the comfort of your own home. The lunch hour has never been so vital. It is a chance to get out in the fresh air and rejuvenate for the afternoon ahead. When structuring your day, plan your breaks in and set a reminder on your phone. Getting outside for just 30 minutes will give you the recommended dose of sun exposure, to keep up your Vitamin D (even in Winter) and adding in a walk will contribute to the government recommended 10,000 steps per day. If you live near a field or wooded area, take your stroll off piste. Research is now showing that we need to revert to being more earth connected for our mental and physical health. Experts recommend 120 minutes a week (17 minutes a day) to improve mental health, particularly anxiety and stress. 

 

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE

Whichever room you choose to work from, at home, ensuring that it is well lit, ventilated and clean are essential factors in helping to make the most of your day. Adding a few little tweaks to your desk decor can also have a profound effect on your productivity levels, memory, concentration and focus.

Houseplants are great for our overall wellbeing, including our mental health. A particularly good idea if you live inner-city and want the benefits of a nature walk. Aloe Vera, Spider Plants and Broad Lady Palm are all widely available.

Essential oils are anti-viral and anti-bacterial, adding a little extra protection to you whilst at home. Chamomile, Lavender and Ylang Ylang are soothing and calming, which actually helps to boost productivity and concentration. Invest in a compact diffuser and enjoy the aromas.  An inspiring image can help to keep you motivated - from printed mantras to wall-art, or simply a photograph of a loved one or pet; an image that evokes a sense of joy and happiness can help to keep your spirits high throughout the day.

WHERE GOOD IDEAS START

Investing in good quality office furniture, creating your own personal workspace is essential, and a stylish, good quality desk is at the heart of the operation. The kitchen table may have served you well so far but having a more professional set up will enhance your productivity and change your mind-set. A designated workspace will also aide you in achieving that balance between home-life and work-life. We have a large range of functional, stylish desks, in a variety of sizes - from home offices to cosy apartments, we have a piece for every home.

 

Ready to find your new business partner? Here are some of our favourite home office desks from the collection.

 

AND RELAX….

As part of your new structure and routine, remember to end your day and take the time to properly relax and unwind before bed. It may be tempting to nip back to your desk to send just one more email, or flick through paperwork in bed - but keeping the workday and the rest of your day separate is vital for mental health and sleep regulation. Finish at the time you normally would, if you were back in the office, and take time to reconnect with your loved ones, prepare a proper evening meal and do the things you would usually enjoy at home. Even though WFH may seem abnormal and daunting at first, once you are in a routine you will discover the gift of time and will maximise the time you have at home - reconnecting with everything and everyone that you love and finding time to focus on yourself.