Adapting Your House to Your Remote Work Needs

Remote working is nothing new. In fact, even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, more people were on pace to work from home than ever before. Of course, the pandemic pushed that into overdrive to keep everyone safe.

Now that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, however, more businesses are choosing to stay remote. There are plenty of benefits for businesses and employees alike, including fewer expenses for a company and more flexibility for you.

So, if your employer has decided to let you work from home full-time, it might be time to start thinking about permanent changes to your workspace. If you’ve been dealing with a temporary “home office”, creating an actual separate space in your home that allows you to do your best and stay productive will ensure that you get the most out of your new remote lifestyle.

Thankfully, accommodating your house to your remote needs is easier than you might think. Let’s cover a few things you can do to set up the ideal office space at home.

Identifying the Best Place to Work

One of the most important tips to keep in mind when you’re creating a home workspace is to have a dedicated place specifically for work.

Maybe you’ve gotten by working at the kitchen table or on the sofa so far. But, if you’re going to be working remotely on a long-term basis, having an actual office space is crucial. That doesn’t mean you need to dedicate an entire room to it, especially if your space is limited. But, it should be a place that is as distraction-free as possible. It also needs to be a place that is only used during your standard work hours.

If you’re in a condo or small house, get creative with your workspace. A walk-in closet, under a staircase, or a nook in the kitchen can all work well to keep you motivated throughout the day, as long as family members or roommates understand that you can’t be bothered while you’re working. Being able to separate your work life from your home life is a crucial part of being successful as you work remotely. A designated space can make it easier.

Creating a Space for Inspiration

People who work from home are more likely to be happy and productive than those who work in an office space or traditional setting. But, productivity starts with motivation and inspiration. It’s very easy to get distracted in the comfort of your own home. That’s why it’s so essential to create a workspace that inspires productivity.

Some of the best solutions for making your office space into a productive paradise include:

• Using natural lighting whenever possible
• Utilizing the right colors
• Decluttering and making sure everything is organized
• Decorating to fit your personal taste

Making your space as comfortable as possible will make you more excited to sit down and work every day. It’s okay to have a few pieces of furniture so you can take breaks and artwork that sparks creativity. Getting “distracted” by those things for a few minutes can actually help to inspire you, rather than things like electronic devices keeping you from getting things done.

One of the best parts about creating a home workspace is that you get to make it your own. So, think about the things that truly inspire you, and be sure to include them in your plans.

Considering Your Remote Needs

The perfect office space doesn’t need to cost a lot of money or take a lot of time to put together. Before you decide to go fully remote, don’t be afraid to negotiate with your employer about your needs. That could include everything from equipment (a computer, desk, chair) to what their clear expectations are from you as you work from home.

Additionally, talk to your employer about any security issues you might be worried about. Most offices work with IT professionals who keep data as secure as possible. But, you probably don’t have that luxury from home. Make sure you understand what your work policy is when it comes to cybersecurity and keeping yourself safe. It’s estimated that nearly 20% of cybersecurity breaches are due to employee negligence, so make sure you understand basic cyber safety rules, including:

• Avoiding phishing emails
• How to spot malware
• Ignoring unapproved or unsecured websites

It’s also a good idea to consider your personal needs when you start working from home full-time. Even if you create an ideal office space, think about how it might impact your future. Certain additions can add a lot of value to your home. If you ever plan on selling, creating an office in an outdoor shed or something like an in-law suite can be a great way to boost your home’s resale value – a practical solution now and later.

Making accommodations in your house for your remote work needs will make it easier to do your job effectively. By making a few simple changes, you can get more out of the remote lifestyle, and enjoy more of the benefits. Keep these ideas in mind to transform your home, and make the most of a remote career.

About The Author: Luke Smith is a writer and researcher turned blogger. Since finishing college he is trying his hand at being a freelance writer. He enjoys writing on a variety of topics but lifestyle and home improvement topics are his favorite. When he isn’t writing you can find him traveling, hiking, or gaming.

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