Work From Home [ WFH ]

The first step: locate the WFH spot where you'll be the most productive. If you live in a tiny apartment, you may not have many options, but in a larger home, you'll want to choose an area that's out of the way. Ideally, you'll want to select a spot that's both away from potential distractions (whether that's a TV or all the snacks) and that receives good natural light.

If you have kids at home: depending upon their ages and the level of supervision they need, you may have to coordinate your workspace so it's near where they'll be doing "distance learning." For example, you may want to set up at the kitchen counter, while your kids work at the dining table nearby

To reduce eyestrain, you'll want to set up sufficient lighting in your workspace. Choosing a sunny spot near a window helps. If you need to supplement overhead lighting, consider borrowing a floor lamp or table lamp from another room to create a well-lit desk. If after the first day working in your new space your eyes feel overly tired, it's a sign to update the lighting. Try adding another source of light or adjust the position of the current lighting.

If suddenly working from home came as a surprise to you, you may not be set up with an ergonomic office chair, but you can still find the next best solution. Shop your home to try to match up a chair and table or other surface that lets you work at your computer or laptop without hunching over. A chair that's comfortable yet provides back support is ideal. A cushion or draped blanket can help with the comfy factor. Another option: consider devising your own "standing desk" out of a kitchen counter. You may need to prop your laptop up on books to create the right height. Whether you're sitting or standing, attempt to create a setup that keeps your back in alignment, so you're not bending down to see the screen.

Make sure your workspace is conveniently located near a power outlet, or look for a multi-plug extension cord so you can plug in everything you'll need—computer, phone, printer—at the same time. If you're going to be doing a lot of video calls, test out a mock call in your new workspace to see how it looks. A plain wall that isn't too distracting is a good backdrop, and proper lighting (see above) will make the video quality better. While you're at it, test out the WiFi signal in that area of the house to make sure it is strong.

Stay Home. Stay safe.

Free consultation for your WFH needs.
IDr. Marilyn Mirandilla, piid | interior designer
0917 896 6358 | marilyn.p.mirandilla@gmail.com