The modern workplace has evolved greatly since the days of wall to ceiling grey, cubicles, and water coolers. Offices have become colourful, and vibrant, and overall a much more enjoyable place. Today, nearly half of working persons work in some sort of open-space environment, and 34% of employees in favour of workplace health benefits (like sit-stand desks, ergonomic chairs, wellness rooms, etc).

Yes, the modern professional is much more aware of their wellness while at work, does this apply to the at-home employee?

The emphasis in workplace wellness seems to disappear when it comes to remote workers, with people reportedly unable to unplug after work, struggling with loneliness, and staying motivated (State of remote work 2020).

At-home employees deserve the same workplace wellness benefits, as their on-site counterparts, and now it can be easier and more affordable than ever before.

Here are 4 affordable ways to improve your home office.

1. Plants and Decorations

As mentioned earlier, offices are becoming more vibrant and colourful. Why not apply this to your home office.

Plants are perfect for adding colour to any workspace, and very accessible (you can find them in any grocery store!). From succulents to ferns, adding some sort of greenery will not just add a aesthetic piece, but also purify the air, regulate humidity, and reduce stress.

While green is a beautiful colour to have, there's room for more. Consider adding some prints to your home workspace. It's a great way to support local artists, while boosting your mood. You can find some excellent prints via Instagram, Etsy, or your local community group.

2. Move closer to a window.

This tip is absolutely free, but requires a little bit of elbow grease!

Placing your work space closer or right beside the window can help boost mood while working at home. Being able to see other people, and hear other people could curb that feeling of loneliness, common while working from home.

Working near a window can also be a tool for productivity. Being near a window is helpful for our circadian rhythm (internal clock). Seeing light tells our bodies its time for work, and seeing the darkness tells our bodies its time to shut off.

3. Whiteboard, and Paper Organizer

Your home office may not have a wealth of space, but that doesn't mean it can't be organized. Declutter with paper holders and a whiteboard, and clear up your desk.

Adding something to hold all your loose papers (like contracts, documents, notes, or mail) and adding a white board to organize your thoughts and dates, can help you declutter. Clutter has already been shown to cause stress, fatigue, and depression, not to mention the smaller space of your home office, your small pile or papers can look like a mountain.

Adding a whiteboard to your wall, or a paper holder or drawer, will not require a whole lot of space, but properly organizing your space and mind will reduce stress and boost mood while working from home.

4. Using ergonomic office furniture.

According to one survey, when employees were asked what they needed to be productive, 22% said a comfortable desk or chair.

Ergonomic office furniture is not just reserved for the big fancy office. The at-home employee can also have access to proper working supplies.

Having the correct equipment for work is crucial for being productive and for long-term health. Having an ergonomic chair creates a better posture, and allows you to change positions with ease; all things important for reducing discomfort, or even injury.

Learn more about how Domum can help you create an affordable and comfortable home-office. Contact our team for more info.