Working from Home? Here are 5 Essential Items to Boost Your Productivity
Everyone dreams of working from home, and for good reason. Skipping the morning commute and doing the filing in your slippers sounds like paradise!
There’s just one problem. As much as laboring in the place you live seems like the ideal situation, you still need a space that encourages productivity, cuts out distractions, and inspires you. The secret is to optimize your home office with the right items. You can start with these five essentials.
1. A Comfy Office Chair
Chances are you’re going to hunch over a desk for most of the day. While the time you spend tapping keeps you financially secure, that painstaking labor is hurting your back in the long run.
Picking up the right office chair not only will keep you comfortable; good lumbar support is also the secret to staving off chronic back pain and joint issues. Plus, less strain on your back means less stress, leaving you in a better mood to tackle even the most difficult tasks. Just remember to avoid stiff seating. Look for a sitter that prioritizes comfy softness above all else.
Our recommendation: Visit Andy Stern’s Office Furniture Inc. at 17th St NW. [Google Map]
2. A Robust Filing Cabinet
As much as we like to pretend we’re all in the cloud, not all of us are—and your performance is going to take a nosedive if you’re losing vital papers or missing deadlines. If this is you, the most important item in your new home office is a robust filing cabinet.
Choosing the right one boils down to a few simple rules. You want multiple compartments or drawers that you can categorize to make searching a breeze. Also, you want it to be sealed off so it’s safe from potential water risks or your toddler’s curiosity.
You can find top-quality office cabinets at Andy Stern’s, or you can check out the selection at The HON Company [Google Map].
3. A Sleek Yet Functional Desk
You may not be in a formal office, but you still need a proper desk. Standing desks and fold-down tables might be tempting, but they’re both scarce on space.
You’re not only going to want room for your laptop but also for your papers, pens, and other equipment. Desks with built-in shelves and keyboard trays are the clear winners here. One final thing—invest in quality wood. That means oak or pine, not ply.
4. A Reliable Laptop
You can skimp on many items, but your laptop isn’t one of them. This is the tool that allows you to work from home, and a bad computer is just going to slow you down.
But with so many options on the market, which one do you choose? Opt for a brand with a track record of producing high-quality components, and look for a unit with a fast processor and extra RAM.
Washington, D.C. has no shortage of options when it comes to finding a laptop, but if you’re staying in the Tenley View apartments, then Best Buy is just a two-minute walk away. Check out this Google Map for directions.
5. A Versatile Printer
One of the perks of working at the office is that you’ve got a printer, scanner and fax machine right at your fingertips. But those bulky units aren’t necessary. Most stores stock versatile printers that cover all the basic functions for a fraction of the price. Opt for a laser printer with wireless access that will let you print from any of your devices.
Not keen on dropping the cash on a unit with a built-in scanner? Your fancy smartphone has you covered. Just download a scanning app like this one.
These are the building blocks of a perfect home office. Now, it’s time to work from a home that matches your ambitions.
Take a tour of our luxury Tenley View apartments to see what a truly inspirational space looks like. This one-of-a-kind neighborhood will provide all the motivation you need to succeed. Call 202-969-8494 to find out more, or request a tour today.