Your Organized, Comfortable Office

An organized, comfortable home office is essential for continued success and also for simply having productive work sessions. Everyone's needs are different depending on profession and preferences, but basic organization and comfort can be achieved by using the following tips:

1) Keep ergonomics in mind. Be sure the chair you sit in to do work is comfortable and supports your back. Ideally, you should be able to adjust the height so you can sit in the perfect position for typing or doing paperwork. Likewise, your computer monitor should be positioned at the most comfortable distance for reading. Typing and keyboarding can cause discomfort in hands and wrists, and sometimes can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Use of a hand rest that helps to position your hands at the correct level can be helpful. Some people use wrist braces that hold the wrist in a stationary position, thus relieving discomfort. If you are on the phone a lot, consider using a headset, which will free up your hands and keep you from developing pain in the neck and shoulders from cradling your phone by scrunching up your shoulder.

2) Keep bins and trays handy for sorting paperwork and keeping necessary tools nearby. Fight the urge to throw everything into a pile and use trays to separate papers. File folders are handy for keeping things together. Get a small file cabinet and label the folders neatly so that the contents are easily located.

3) Make sure you have enough space to work. You need a place to store things, a place to do paperwork, and a place for your computer and peripheral equipment. You also need room to actually move.

4) Have a small area for your coffee cup and a small snack plate, if you are the type to nibble while working. Keep the area clean of crumbs and spills. Don't bring more dishes into the area, rather, wash your coffee cup and plate and put them back for the next work session.

5) Make a spot for diplomas, certificates, and special photos. Yes, this is your home office, but it's still your office. Put your accomplishments and other important things on display. Even if you don't consciously stare at them everyday, they will serve as a happy reminder of why you do what you do.

6) If you are inclined, add a pleasant candle, or small work of art for an especially personal touch. Plants in the area are good for lending a feeling of life.

A comfortable and organized home office will invite you to be more productive, and in turn more successful.

Posted:Friday, September 07, 2007