Posted on 7th Oct 2011 @ 2:19 PM

Okay, so you plan on working on a few projects in your living space. Or maybe you're joining the millions of Americans who telecommute. Either way, you're going to need a home office that's more complex and hospitable than the kitchen table. After all, a home office is worthless if you can't get any work done in it.

Here are seven suggestions for boosting productivity in your home office.

1. Set aside space. Ideally, you want a spare bedroom or a study where you can permanently maintain your home office. If space is at a premium, pick a corner of a living room, den, or bedroom and set up bookshelves, display cases, or freestanding screens to separate it from the rest of your home.
2. Set boundaries. You need to be in a "work mindset" whenever you are inside your home office. You can help achieve this by keeping your door closed while working and/or telling other members of your household to leave you alone while you are sitting at your desk. Establishing these boundaries will enable you to better focus on your work tasks.
3. Plan a layout. Take a moment to think about exactly what you want from your home office. Do you need a larger desk or just a computer stand? Will you need a spot for a printer, fax machine, or other office equipment? What about drawers or containers for pens, paper, and other office supplies? Make sure that everything is laid out so you can reach it easily.
4. Get comfortable. If you plan on being productive (and who doesn’t?), comfort should be a top priority. Don't just settle for a folding chair, dining room chair, or even a discount office chair. Consider getting an adjustable ergonomic chair which will help reduce stress on your back, legs, and shoulders. Always try out a chair before you buy it!
5. Let there be light. Another important trait of a home office is proper lighting. You shouldn't have to squint to read papers on your desk … but there shouldn't be too much natural light so that it washes out your computer screen, either. Put in the effort to get the lighting just right so you don't have to deal with eyestrain and fatigue.
6. Get the proper storage. As you settle in to your home office, start thinking about your storage needs. You don't want to have to traipse into another room to get printer paper, power cords, or file folders. If you don't have enough drawer space, invest in a small filing cabinet or a set of shelf or desk organizers.
7. Plan "rewards." If you're actually working out of your home, don't forget why you chose that lifestyle in the first place. Throughout the day, you should treat yourself to little "rewards" like a coffee break on the patio or reading the newspaper on the sofa. And every couple of weeks or so, plan a larger "reward" -- like a long lunch, shopping trip, or movie matinee. It will spice up your work week and give you something to look forward to.

A functional and ergonomic home office can improve your efficiency and boost your work output. So take the time to do the little things to make your home office more productive.