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Make a space

159 days ago

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It’s been a month since the UK Government asked everyone to work from home where possible, with the Republic of Ireland following closely. Since then, many employees have been working in their home environment and learning to adapt to the change.

Whether it’s the kitchen table, a corner desk, spare bedroom or even the shed - spaces that were not originally designed for working have now become makeshift offices. And home office space is often shared, creating challenges of it’s own!

Whilst we are advised to stay home unless necessary for work, shopping for food, medical care or daily exercise, there are still some quick and easy ideas we can put in to place to improve our daily working space:

Designate a space for work and creativity – whether this is a room, or simply a spot which is framed by a few framed photos or objects, a set space will tell your brain that it’s time to work. Using objects to frame a space is called creating a 'regimen of space' and means you don’t necessarily need to have a whole room spare to work from!
Apply the same checks you would to an office based workstation – could you support your legs and back better by using a different chair? Where can you work that puts the least strain on your head and neck? Are you taking regular screen breaks and focusing your eyes elsewhere? Are you getting up and moving around once an hour?
The ‘office plant’ is not to be overlooked, even if it’s plastic – as well as heightening self-reported concentration levels and making us feel calmer, plants improve perceived air quality. With a reduction in outdoor exposure at the moment, they truly bring the outdoors in.
Consider the sounds around you – (and by this we don’t mean the constant repetition of the word ‘Mummy’ or ‘Daddy’). To help everyone sharing your space, or just you, try some instrumental background music, open the windows to hear bird song, or simply close a door for five minutes a day and enjoy those golden moments of silence.
Remove clutter – put things away that normally occupy the space, reducing trip hazards and making the space less visually distracting.

It is equally as important for those who are continuing to work in their usual environment or who have been redeployed to have a space to come back to which works for them.

Have you got any top tips on making the most of your workspace at home?

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