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7 Tips To Make Your Home Conducive For Work

7 Tips To Make Your Home Conducive For Work

Lifestyle
By Viroon on 30 Apr 2020
Senior Creative Editor
Passionate about fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Junk Food Junkie | When she’s not writing, you can find her at the pantry munching on snacks.

Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) major companies are asking their people to WFH to keep their workforce safe and productive. Although studies have shown that flexible work arrangements can raise employee productivity, it might vary for different people. Having a proper workspace is one of the keys to boosting productivity at home. Here are seven tips to make your home conducive for work.

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#1 Proper Room Temperature

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Studies have shown that increasing the temperatures to about 68 to 77 degrees drastically improved productivity. Keep in mind that your ideal temperature may defer. For instance, women tend to get colder more easily than men. The conclusion is to find a temperature that it is comfortable to work in but not too comfortable until you feel like sleeping.

#2 Let Natural Light In

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Natural light can help to create a fresh working environment, whereas dark areas are gloomy, bringing your mood and energy levels down. Chances are, you'll start to feel sleepy and distracted in a dim space, hindering your ability to get any work done. Some studies prove that natural lighting promotes productivity, improves your health, and can have positive effects on your behaviour and mood.

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#3 Sufficient Lighting 

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Likewise, bring the brightness into the night. Some of us may be self-confessed night owls, so having a well-lit workspace will definitely aid your productivity while you burn the midnight oil.

Opt for warm, yellow lights that are calming and more inviting, compared to harsh, white lights that may increase anxiety and reduce your attention span.

#4 Aromatherapy

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Beyond adding a pleasant smell to your workspace, certain essential oils have proven effects that could help you get your work done. Scents like peppermint and lemon stimulate the brain, whilst research has shown that rosemary improves speed and accuracy when doing demanding mental tasks.

#5 Play Some Background Music

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You don’t need dead silence to focus while working. Playing some background music might actually aid in your productivity. But do take note to play songs without lyrics so that your mind doesn’t focus on the words instead of on the task at hand.

#6 Declutter Your Desk

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What do you really NEED at work?
Having too many items on your desk or desktop can make you more distracted than productive. Have only what you need around you. If your work environment is too messy, it can be hard to find things when needed. Even a desk can be covered in documents and unrelated items that prevent you from getting a task done in a timely manner.

#7 Add Plants

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Studies show that putting plants in a workplace increased productivity by up to 15%. Plants have been proven to create a more positive environment by refreshing the air and uplifting moods in an office setting. The colour green helps to reduce eye strain, so take a break and look at the plants to relax. 

#Bonus Tip: Be Comfortable

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Not so comfortable you're napping more than working! But it's hard to be a focus when you're constantly straining to see your computer screen or rubbing your aching back. It is more important to be comfortable and find yourself in a position that maintains good posture. Sitting for a long period can cause much discomfort. Either invest in a good chair or incorporating a scheduled break time and stretching periodically.

Create a functional workspace with the tips shared here to boost your productivity. Check out our post on time management to help you to work less and play more!

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Text by: GirlStyle SG