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Do you ever stop for a breather while working hard in your
home office, take a look around, and feel closed in or frustrated by your
surroundings? Has it been a while since you evaluated your office environment
and made improvements? Perhaps the beginning of summer is the perfect time to
freshen up your office and even increase productivity.
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to make your home office a successful
and productive working atmosphere. Here are a few tips that can improve your
at-home surroundings and help you work at a higher level:
Open it up. Does your computer face a corner or blank wall?
Sometimes simply improving your view can help you feel less claustrophobic and
more energized. If you can, change your daily focal point by either making your
desk face out and away from the wall, or have it face a window.
Shed new light. Receiving natural light into your office can
help your mood and your level of productivity. Try to keep your windows free
from obstruction. If you don’t have access to a window, consult a lighting
expert for better options in lamps or overhead fixtures.
Add some color. A fresh layer of paint can do wonders for a
tired space that needs a new lift. Some colors can actually fool your eyes into
thinking that your space is larger than it is. Your local paint store employee
can help you identify the right shades for this result. Also, keep in mind that
cool colors, like green and blue, can be calming, while bright and vibrant
colors like yellows and oranges can help you feel energized.
Consider rearranging. Take a good look at where your
printer, fax and other work surfaces are placed. Does the current placement
encourage traffic flow and efficiency? And are your desks arranged in an order
that helps good communication without distraction? Ask a colleague or friend for
input. Sometimes a fresh set of eyes can help you see ways to rearrange your
workspace for a more efficient, pleasant set up.
Think ergonomics. Make sure that your phones, cabinets and
other furniture are arranged in an efficient and body-friendly manner. Perhaps
an update in seating, key boards or mouse pads would help you or your workers
feel better while at work. There are hundreds of sources on the Internet or at
your local bookstore that can help you find ergonomic business supplies to
promote health and wellness in your office environment. | 
