Adjusting back into a working routine after the Christmas break has been a marmite experience – you’ve either found it really difficult, or leapt into the routine and structure with joy!

But whether you’ve found the adjustment a struggle or not, it’s undeniable that working from home in some form is here to stay, and if your desk or home-office is anything like ours, it could do with a new year refresh to get us back into the groove. Here’s our top tips on kick starting January and banishing the working from home blues…

Step one - get organised

A desk is naturally a place where items get stacked or accumulated. Papers, pens, and books can often find themselves thrown across your workspace and after a long day, cleaning up is the last thing on your mind. However, the easiest way to start any refresh is with two simple steps: declutter and clean.

Declutter. File away any paperwork you will need, making sure to recycle any unnecessary paper. Collect all stray stationery and office essentials and find a convenient home for them (we love using our new Maen Pot for this purpose). A cluttered workspace won’t inspire you, so making sure everything is where it should be will help keep you focused.

Clean up. Once your clutter has transitioned from chaos to calm, an early spring clean of your space is a great way to start your working week. Give your keyboard, screen, and desk a good dust and clean with anti-bacterial wipes.

Step two - light it up

If you can, position your desk facing a window to increase your exposure to natural day light for as long as possible and absorb some vitamin D. Allowing yourself to be surrounded with warm, natural light for as long as possible helps reduce SAD symptoms often associated with northern hemisphere winters.

Inevitably, we will find ourselves working through dark early mornings and evenings - so treating yourself to a new desk light will help lift your mood (and be a great topic of conversation on your next Zoom call).

Straining your eyes will hinder your work performance, so ensure your immediate workspace is well lit with a directional light source. If only specific areas or corners of your area are lacking in light, opt for a table light with a shade for beautiful directional light. However, if your entire space is calling out for enhanced illumination, an exposed bulb will suit.

Step three - everything in its place

Extra storage is always a good idea. Cleverly placed shelves can help you complete tasks swiftly and efficiently, whether they hold books to keep you inspired, or important documents, having your essentials at hand saves time panic searching.

The key to great storage is working out what you want to display. Choosing items that will inspire your creativity for your visible shelving and saving items that might distract you draws space is a helpful starting point.

If you have an unconventional home office space and, like many, are working from a dining or living area, chose adaptable or portable storage options. Pieces that can be moved around the home if your working location changes with varying daily routines will keep you in the working mindset whilst keeping you organised.

Step four - finishing touches

You’re likely spending about 40 hours a week at your desk (if you work full time) and consequently should be aiming to make the space as comfortable as possible, whilst supporting your posture. Homely touches will make your office space cosy and keep you motivated.

Add a sheepskin rug to make your day more comfortable. Perfect for warming you on those frosty mornings and cold evenings, the natural textures will also soften your office space, relaxing your mentality allowing inspiration to freely flow.

Bring the outside in. Adding greenery will help soothe any stress with natural biophilia, whilst providing you with a breath of fresh air. Plants not only look great but have been scientifically proven to enhance creativity.

Posted: 21.01.22