Setting Up an Office for Your Home-Based Business

0
88
Setting Up an Office for Your Home-Based Business

The digital age has ushered in a new workplace. There are countless fields where you can set up your own home-based business. Since you don’t go to work anywhere, your home office is often the only office you have. It needs many of the same things you would need in a traditional office, but in this case, you will be footing the bill for outfitting it with everything you need.

That raises the question though: what do you need, exactly, to set up an office for your home-based business? Aside from the obvious online things you will need to set up, like choosing a website and a domain name, setting up social media profiles and pages, and developing a good business plan, you will need some hardware to get your office up and running. Here are just a few of the critical things you need, and how to make them work for you.

The Desk

The central piece of your home office will be your desk. This is one of the key components to your office, because not only does it make a statement about your taste in furniture and set the tone for your day, but it also needs to be functional. You need room for your computer, monitors, and any other accessories like calendars that you need to stay organized.

Not only are there several materials that desks are made of, but there are also several sizes and styles. Many modern computer desks do not have drawers, which means you need to have other places to store your pens, any paper you need, and other office supplies. Since you will probably not have a file drawer either, you need to have a place for files as well.

If you are sitting a lot at the job you do, you may also want to consider a standing desk. This is one of the keys to staying mobile and avoid being sedentary in any office working environment, and your home office is no exception.

Your Chair

A place to sit is essential, because even with a standing desk, you will need to sit sometimes. This chair should be comfortable, offer good lumbar support, and encourage good posture. You should be able to sit in it for extended periods of time comfortably. When you work from home, you need to make sure your home office is perfect. Purchasing used office furniture, instead of forking out all the money for the full price of the furniture.

You probably want a rolling chair though, and in most cases this means you should also have a mat for it to roll on so you do not tear up the carpet under your desk. Be sure the wheels are large enough to roll easily on whatever surface you have under your desk.

The chair should also be easily adjustable, and often armrests are a good choice, as they offer support when you are typing. This can also help you prevent cramps and things like carpal tunnel syndrome, common issues if you work at home and type or use a mouse a lot.

Keyboards and Mice

The input devices for your computer are really important not only for the way they function, but for your health. If you use them properly, and get the kind you need, they can help prevent common ailments and keep you comfortable all day long.

Of course, there are several types of ergonomic keyboards, trackballs, track pads, and mice to choose from. The best idea is to go to an office supply store or somewhere that carries several types, and try them out for yourself. No one solution fits everyone, so you will need to find those devices that work best for you.

Let There be Light

One of the most common office conversions is to turn a spare bedroom into an office. This is a good option, but often the lighting in the bedroom is inadequate or not ideal for an office. This means you will have to add additional, specific lighting to your desk area.

One of the best solutions is LED lamps and lighting. There are often choices of clip on desk lamps, stand lamps, and more. The choice is up to you, but you should choose something that looks tasteful, is functional, and fits well in your room space. Color matters as well, as colors that match or blend well together reduce anxiety.

Energy efficiency is also a factor. Use lighting that will not cost a lot to use, since you may be using it for large parts of the day. Soft light is not only easier on the eyes, but it takes less power most of the time. Also, use natural light to your advantage, including windows in your lighting plan.

DĂ©cor and Style

Your décor also matters, and although you want things to match your personal style, you also want to keep the purpose of the room in mind. While soft colors reduce anxiety and stress, they are often too relaxing for an office. You don’t want colors that inspire the desire to take a nap, but you also don’t want colors that are too bright.

Oranges and reds indicate warning and can make many people uneasy. Generally basic colors like whites, blacks, gray, and others mean you can change up décor easily. Then use things that indicate life and health, like green accents, plants, and even water features like aquariums.

The point is that you should never forget the psychology of color when decorating, as it can affect your mood every single day. Surround yourself with art that reminds you of your reason for doing what you do, and your determination.

Setting up your home office takes time, patience, and an eye for the right décor that sends the right message. Color matters, as does light and the furniture you choose. The right set up of your home office can make the difference between success and failure.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here