Must Have Items to Improve Your Work from Home Office Space

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we work. Now, instead of suiting up and heading to the office, many of us can start the workday in our PJs thanks to a cultural shift that has made remote work possible for more employees than ever before. But this shift also means you need a home office space that is efficient and comfortable. We’ve compiled a list of must-have items to help you create an optimal workspace.

Helpful Desktop Devices

Let’s start with what’s most critical—your workspace and everything that’s on it. Here are some key ingredients to making your desk user-friendly and ergonomically correct:

1) Choose a large desk or workspace to offer plenty of space to work and avoid clutter.

2) Purchase a fast-performing computer, preferably a lightweight laptop so it’s portable for days you need to go into the office, and make sure you have high-speed Wi-Fi available.

3) Pick a desk lamp that provides adequate lighting.

4) Select a keyboard that meets your criteria, whether a numeric keypad, a backlit keyboard, or an ergonomic option. Some products feature a split keyboard to match your natural arm and hand positions.

5) Purchase a wireless phone charger that provides a charging pad or stand to keep your mobile phone fully juiced and cord-free if you need to grab it quickly.

6) Consider a multi-angle tablet stand if you use your iPad regularly. This will create a more organized desktop, and you won’t have to fumble with your device while you’re working.

7) Buy a flexible phone holder so you can talk or video chat while still typing. This is also a great tool for video recording.

8) Get a Post-It dispenser to prevent you from scrambling for a piece of paper when you need it. 

9) Incorporate a laptop cooling unit, so you can safeguard your computer from severe damage due to overheating.

Advantageous Accessories

These additional items can make your office space more enjoyable by providing organization, comfort, and style:

1) Shop for ergonomic extras, such as a laptop stand, adjustable standing desk converter, and a supportive mousepad and office chair to keep you comfortable and minimize harsh physical effects from stationary office work.

2) Consider noise-canceling headphones if your home office is adjacent to a busy street or you have kids at home. 

3) Install data backup services to ensure your files are safe and secure in the event of a nasty virus or computer crash.

4) Purchase blue light-blocking glasses to minimize eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, and blurry vision caused by working on a computer, tablet, or cell phone for long periods.

5) Buy a timer to manage your breaks. Ever think “I’ll just check Facebook for a minute,” and 30 minutes later, find yourself still watching funny cat videos? When you need a time out, set your timer for ten, so you don’t get distracted.

6) Choose a filing cabinet or decorative bins to organize your documents.

7) Organize a focus-music playlist that includes calming, but uplifting songs you can play through your computer, Bluetooth speakers, or Alexa device. Search YouTube for ambient music videos with a variety of themes, or create a Spotify playlist.

8) Select inspirational and calming decor to personalize your space. Paintings, inspirational word art, a houseplant, a scented candle, or a fragrance diffuser can help you sustain focus and energy throughout the day. 

9) An armchair with an ottoman provides a change of scenery from your desk as well as a comfortable brainstorming space. (It’s also heavenly for a mid-afternoon power nap!)

With these home office tools, you’ll be more productive in no time. Plus, you’ll have a motivating space in which to work.

Whether your office is located in your current home or you’re preparing to purchase a new property with dedicated home office space, OVM Financial offers a variety of loan and mortgage services accompanied by excellent customer support. Visit our website to find out more about home and property loans, refinancing, or to locate an agent near you.