Working from home is quickly becoming a popular trend. All around the world, bosses are encouraging a virtual workforce. Plus, workers like the increased flexibility. If you are working from home, there are a few basics you will need. A computer, a workspace, and a reliable internet connection are some of the most important. But you shouldn’t stop there. While they might not be pre-requisites, here are some of the optional items that can benefit those working from home.
1. Under Desk Exercise Bike
Just because you are working from home doesn’t mean that you need to give up on your fitness routine. An easy way to squeeze in more physical exercise is by putting a bike under your desk. These are compact devices, which you put your feet into. Then, when you need a quick break, you can start pedaling. This will get your blood flowing, helping inspire you to have new ideas.
2. Noise Cancelling Headphones
A key part of working from home is conference calls. However, this raises the potential issue of background noise, which can be very distracting. The easiest way to stop this is by paying a little extra for noise-canceling headphones.
3. Microphone
You will also need a microphone to participate in conference calls. Usually, there will be one included with the computer. However, the quality of this can be lacking. Because of this, you might want to purchase a microphone. These can be attached to your computer through the USB port. You can also buy microphone arms so that your mic is easily accessible without taking up prime desk real estate.
4. Coffee Mug Warmer
Coffee has an important role in any workplace. Taking a quick break to make yourself a cup of coffee is a great way to refocus and boost your energy. To make sure that the brew doesn’t go cold, you can get a coffee mug warmer. Alternatively, you can get a thermal mug. This will stop the coffee from losing its heat.
5. Candles/Fragrance Diffuser
Everyone wants to make sure that their office smells as good as possible. There are a few ways that you can do this. First, you might want to light a scented candle. This has the added benefit of having a flickering flame. On the other hand, you might want to use a fragrance dispenser. These come in stick or oil varieties.
6. Speakers
One of the best ways to improve the mood in your office is by playing some music. This can be a good way to stay focused. Some people will prefer to hook their speakers to a CD or record player. You can also connect them to your computer via Bluetooth. If you use a music subscription service, there is no limit to the amount of music that you can stream.
7. Plants
Getting fresh air is vital. Because of this, you might want to put a little greenery in the office. Having some natural elements, like plants, will be able to help you boost your mood. You don’t need to have a lot of space to implement this idea. A small pot plant on your desk can do wonders.
8. Water Bottle
When you are hard at work, it can be easy to forget about taking care of your health needs. But you still need to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Having a water bottle on your desk will make this a lot easier.
9. Comfortable Cushion
If you are going to be sitting in one position all day, you want to make sure that you are comfortable. A cushion is a great way of doing this. If you are doing this, it’s best to pick something that will offer posture control. This makes it easier for you to keep a straight spine, preventing back pain.
10. Desk Organizer
When you are working from home, you will likely have a lot of paper, pens, and notepads. The easiest way of keeping your desk clean is by using a desk organizer. This will allow you to find everything when you need it.
11. Massage Chair
Lastly, you want to find a way of rewarding yourself for a job well done. Because of this, you can put a massage chair into the office. When you need to take a break, or celebrate a victory, take a seat. Turn on the massage function and allow yourself to drift away for a while. This is a big purchase, so you want to make sure that you are making a good choice. This list of comfortable massage chairs is a good place to start your research. And if a chair is too expensive, there are great leg massagers for a much cheaper price
Conclusion
Working from home will let you set up your own workspace. So why not take the opportunity to make it a place that you love to spend time in? While optional, each of these items will let you create a productive and uplifting environment.
