More people have found themselves working from home nowadays. I started working from home as a project manager the past year and a half and wanted to share what works for me. The adjustment can be challenging because most homes are not set up with a proper work space. Below are 10 products I recommend to create an effective work area and keep you productive during your transition from office to home. (Paid links below and may earn commission)
1) LED monitor
Let’s start with the basics. If you’ve been thinking of getting an LED Monitor, you should. You won’t regret it. Getting a bigger monitor is a game-changing upgrade from working on a tiny laptop screen or a great addition to an existing desktop. An extra monitor makes it easy to review reports side by side and have multiple windows up. No more digging through buried windows.
Here is a link to the Apple Multiport Adapter I use to connect my MacBook Pro to my monitor, which still allows me to charge and plug an additional USB.
2) Wireless keyboard and mouse
Don’t get tied down by wires. Go wireless. You can move around more freely with a Wireless Keyboard and Wireless Mouse if you need to switch up your workspace; or if you want to temporarily move to another location in your house (or possibly outside on your patio. Hello, sunshine and fresh air!)
3) Mousepad or deskpad
For a while, I was in denial about using a Mousepad, but learned it is necessary to protect your surfaces and mouse from scratches or dirt. Mice function a lot better on a smoother surface. I suggest getting one customized with your favorite pictures, pattern, or quote to personalize your space. I ordered my Mousepad through Shutterfly and designed one that fit my esthetic. To add a larger work surface and bring some color or pattern to your desk, you can get a Desk Pad.
4) Laptop stand or Monitor Stand
Tired of crouching over your laptop and keyboard? A Laptop stand and Monitor Stand will help improve your posture by placing your laptop or monitor at a more eye-level position while you tackle emails. With the laptop stand, I suggest placing your wireless keyboard in the space underneath so your arms are at a more comfortable 90 degree angle. With a Monitor Stand, get one with shelving or drawers to help keep your area organized, and serves a multifunctional purpose. Who can beat better posture and a clean desk?
5) Lap desk
If you don’t have a desk to sit at, a Lap Desk can serve as a possible solution. It prevents your laptop from heating up your lap, making it feel like it’s on fire haha. It provides a stable surface, and BONUS – it has a cup holder for your water, coffee, tea or whatever drink that helps you get through the day!
6) Portable Laptop Desk
This adjustable Portable Laptop Desk Tray is an alternative to purchasing a standing desk. It allows you to stand up from time to time throughout the day when you need a break from sitting. The height is adjustable and folds away when it’s not in use.
7) Gel Seat Cushion
Since you’re probably sitting a lot more than usual, a gel seat cushion can bring you some relief. It provides comfort and support on your tailbone and tushy. It will make sitting in front of your computer for long periods much more tolerable.
8) Headphones
Headphones are handy when you’re sharing your workspace and don’t want to disturb those around you. The added benefit is being hands free during any web conferences or phone calls, so you can multitask or type any notes. My go-to is my Apple headphones because they feel the most comfortable in my ears; and I’ve never come across any issues.
9) Phone stand
A Phone Stand serves as a home for your phone (thank you, Konmari!) to keep your space tidy, and makes it difficult to lose your phone. It positions your phone, so you can see any notifications, alerts, texts, etc that come up during your day. It also props your phone up to view videos or Facetime with your peeps for a mini social break. Another neat thing is that it has slots where you can place your charging cable to keep it from falling onto the floor.
10) Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Protect those peepers. Staring at a screen for long periods can be harmful to your eyes. Now there are fashionable Blue Light Blocking Glasses (non-prescription) you can wear to protect your eyes and not compromise your style. There are so many affordable frames to choose from to fit your look.
I hope you found this list helpful and brings you closer to feeling more comfortable working from home. I would love to read any products you recommend that are not listed here. Please comment below.
Check out my other post (add link and post title – tips on how to stay productive while working from home). Pretty soon you will find your own rhythm and routine that works best for you.
-Elle
*Miss Elle Laney website only links to and recommends products that Elle truly believes in based on positive first-hand experience, which include quality, comfort, or other positive traits and may earn advertising fees or other compensation by linking to online retailers.
