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Whether you work from home or in an office, you probably spend the vast majority of your time at a desk or designated workspace. The way that your workspace is set up plays a major role in your mood and overall productivity. According to a study from the University of Exeter, an organized workspace improves productivity, as well as health, and happiness. Participants who had a well-designed and organized home office reported a 32% increase in productivity.
If you work from home permanently or if you occasionally work from your home office, these science-backed tips will help you create a productive home office space. Here are 4 ways to set up a home office for maximum productivity.
Most people spend around 7-8 hours a day in their home office, so it is important to create a space that you enjoy working in. Research by Dr. Katharine H. Greenaway found that people experience increased productivity when they work in a personalized space. Additionally, Dr. Greenaway’s research found that “the physical spaces we inhabit has a profound impact on psychological functioning. People generally experience positive outcomes and increased productivity in spaces that express individual identity.” Adding personal photos, quotes, candles, artwork, and other things that you enjoy to your workspace will help to personalize your space and maximize productivity.
Clutter is distracting and detrimental to brain function. When we are in a stimulus rich environment full of clutter, our brain becomes overwhelmed and productivity is quickly lost. A study conducted by Princeton University Neuroscience Institute found that “participants with constant visual reminders of disorganization had a reduced ability to stay focused on their work. When study participants cleared clutter from their work environment, they were better able to focus and process information, and their productivity increased.” To reduce clutter, organize your workspace, and store away items that you do not use regularly. Organize everyday work items in decorative baskets, file cabinets, and drawers to create a decluttered space that increases productivity.
One of the hardest parts of working from home is overcoming distractions that are right at our fingertips— children, family members, house chores, social media, and the temptation to relax by watching TV or taking a nap. According to research, workers who have a designated, defined workspace have higher levels of productivity and consistency in their work. Having a designated workspace also promotes consistency, which is something that our brain thrives on. A study conducted by The University of Nebraska found that “employees that consistently worked in the same environment had better workplace performance and well-being.” For ultimate work from home productivity create a designated workplace away free from distractions.
Research has found that natural lighting is one of the best ways to boost productivity, energy, and focus. A study conducted by Cornell University Professor, Alan Hedge, found that “optimizing the amount of natural light in an office significantly improves health and wellness among workers, leading to gains in productivity.” The study also found that “workers in office environments with natural daylight had a 84% drop in symptoms of eyestrain, headaches and blurred vision symptoms, which can detract from productivity.” If you are looking to revamp your home office consider setting your desk up by a window or natural light source invest in a light therapy lamp to mimic natural lighting.
We hope that these tips will help you set up or update your home office to achieve ultimate productivity. If you are currently searching for a contract or permanent job opportunity, visit our jobs board to view job openings.
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