Do you perform office work from home on a part-time or full-time basis? If so, be mindful of where you place the desk, as this decision could have a huge impact on your health and productivity.
Vincent Iachetta Jr., president of Peppermonkey Media, explains how the right location can preserve your well-being while making you ten times more effective.
1. Take Advantage Of Natural Light
Vincent says, ‘If your desk faces a window that catches the sunrise, you’ll start the day with plenty of natural light, meaning you’ll be awake and ready to go!’
Sunlight contains Vitamin D, which will improve your mood, and minimizes blurred vision, headaches, and eyestrain. Natural light can also reduce stress and increase output.
2. Catch The Breeze
If you sit where there’s good airflow, the room won’t feel stuffy and you’ll avoid that annoying 2 pm slump.
Open windows (weather permitting) to reduce indoor pollution. Additionally, air-purifying plants can enhance oxygen levels and filter out pollutants.
3. Face The Right Direction
According to the ancient principles of Feng Shui, you should face the door, as this puts you in a commanding position where you can view the entire room, and greet anyone who enters.
Practically this also means you won’t miss anyone trying to get your attention from the door if you’re working with headphones on.
Vincent adds, ‘Looking through a window occasionally will rest your eyes as you focus on distant objects. Pleasing views can also enhance work performance – just don’t get distracted and start daydreaming!’ Don’t sit with a window behind you or you’ll experience screen glare.
4. Sit Close To Essential Items
It’s healthy to move around the room, but you’ll save time if things you regularly need are within easy reach. Vincent says, ‘To avoid back strain or RSIs (Repetitive Strain Injuries), make sure you don’t need to stretch for things at awkward angles. It’s also a good idea to position your desk for optimal Wi-Fi signal strength.’
5. Banish Distractions
If you sit too near the door it’ll bang against your chair if someone enters, and you’ll hear all the noise from the rest of the house.
To reduce visual distractions, use a desk with built-in storage, plus shelves and office cabinets, so everything in your vision is focused on work.
Don’t sit near wires and floor cables because, as well as being trip hazards, they make rooms look cluttered, which is known to subconsciously increase stress.
Vincent says, ‘You need clear pathways for easy movement, plus a colour scheme and artwork that promote serenity and productivity. In turn, your desk will be the center of operations and a place of comfort.’
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