The two biggest challenges of working from home are undoubtedly concentration and organization. It is far too easy to become distracted by family demands, the beckoning view out the window, or the nearby refrigerator. And there are days when laundry duty seems more appealing than completing a long-overdue project.
The secret comes down to structuring your work-at-home environment in a way that makes you more focused and most productive. Here are some tips to help you design your perfect setup.
Make the best of what you’ve got
Create a convenient workspace complete with everything you would have in an outside office: a desk, comfortable office chair, file cabinets, good lighting and proper equipment. Whether you work from your spare bedroom, basement or garage, size does not matter. Last year I sold my house and moved into an 800-square-foot boathouse in Mount Dora, Florida. Although it was small, I managed to operate my office while watching the boats and the wildlife go by on Lake Dora. I was pleasantly surprised that all I really needed was a small writing desk and some inspiration to keep my business going.
Enjoy the view
It doesn’t do much for your creative side to be stuck in a dreary, windowless space, considering that you may spend most of the day (and night) in your office. If possible, select a space with a view outside. The natural light will invigorate you, as well as provide a restful scene to relax your eyes after staring at a computer screen for a long period of time. If you want to create a Feng-Shui-friendly space, avoid having your back to the door and try not to face a wall. Facing a wall can make it seem as though you…