10 Work From Home Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed
Let’s address the elephant in the room, shall we? Given recent health concerns and developments
around the coronavirus outbreak, many of us now find ourselves working
from home. And while taking these necessary precautions to keep you and
your community safe is a wonderful thing, working remotely is definitely
an adjustment, and your space may not feel as office-ready as you might
like.
But I’m here to help. As a full-time remote employee, I know a thing or two about making your home feel conducive for an 8-hour workday. And while a desk and comfy office chair are great places to start, it may not be worth the splurge if this is a temporary solution for you—or if you live in a tiny city apartment. Instead, scroll on for the top 10 work from home essentials that have helped me stay motivated, focused, and comfortable all day—and can do the same for you.
If you live in an
apartment, you may not have room to fit a spare desk. Despite not
necessarily having the space, I’ve still found it helpful to carve out a
little spot that’s solely reserved for work—which is why I love this lap desk.
The innovative design provides a dedicated spot for your laptop, phone,
and mousepad while allowing you to work from the comfort of your couch
or bed. Plus, the under-$30 find is a great travel companion for future
work trips (it comes with a carrying handle for easy transport!).
Available at amazon.com, $30 (was $35)
If you do plan on
working from your kitchen table, might I suggest some added comfort?
Kitchen chairs are notoriously stiff and uncomfortable, and clocking
8-plus hours sitting on one will do your spine no favors. This lumbar support pillow
is made of 100 percent pure memory foam and has a contoured structure
to help support your back and lower spine. The adjustable straps move to
fit your needs and can be secured tightly to any chair that calls for a
little extra support.
Available at amazon.com, from $25
Want to know the
biggest pro—and con—of working from home? No one is there to micromanage
you. I find I can actually be much more efficient while I’m working
from home, but only if I set myself up for success—which is why I love my productivity planner.
This planner allows you to get focused, rate your tasks by importance,
and stay mindful of your goals—so by the time you shut your laptop at
night, you’llfeel like you made the most of your day.
Available at amazon.com, $25
Typically, office
buildings have high ceilings, large windows, and plenty of natural
sunlight. The same can not always be said of homes and apartments. To
combat the drowsiness or laziness you may feel when working at home, opt for a light therapy lamp
that mimics outdoor sunshine. Not only will it illuminate your space
with its glare-free white light, but it can also help boost your energy
and mood so you can feel more productive.
Available at amazon.com, $47 (was $70)
But I’m here to help. As a full-time remote employee, I know a thing or two about making your home feel conducive for an 8-hour workday. And while a desk and comfy office chair are great places to start, it may not be worth the splurge if this is a temporary solution for you—or if you live in a tiny city apartment. Instead, scroll on for the top 10 work from home essentials that have helped me stay motivated, focused, and comfortable all day—and can do the same for you.
LapGear Home Office Lap Desk
Available at amazon.com, $30 (was $35)
Everlasting Comfort Lumbar Support
Available at amazon.com, from $25
Intelligent Change Productivity Planner
Available at amazon.com, $25
Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp
Available at amazon.com, $47 (was $70)