Whether it’s done by choice or necessity, working from home has its perks, but it also comes with many challenges. If you’re working from home for the first time, you probably already noticed that staying focused and motivated are two of the biggest challenges. 

Here are some tips to help make the remote work experience more enjoyable:

Create a designated workspace

Before you choose your workspace, consider the type of work you’ll be doing and the type of work environment that’s most suitable for you. Do you need privacy, a quiet space, or a lot of desk space for example? 

If space is limited in your home, or you might need to move from one room to another, using a folding table that’s easy to store is a good option. Try to eliminate distractions by keeping your workspace organized and tidy. Distractions are a major challenge especially when house chores need to be taken care of. 

Try to avoid doing non-work related tasks while working. For example, schedule a separate time to do dishes and laundry, and if you’re working at the kitchen table and a pile of dishes is calling your attention, then schedule it as a task on your lunch break.

Add indoor plants to improve air quality and make your space lively

The benefits of keeping indoor plants goes far beyond their aesthetic value, and can directly benefit our health and wellness. Acting as natural air filters, many plants are adept at absorbing gases such as carbon dioxide through pores on the surface of their leaves. 

To reap the benefits, use plants with larger leaves such as Mass Cane, Rubber Plant and Snake Plants, which purify air quicker. Other plants like Boston Ferns can help balance humidity by absorbing moisture, while English Ivy can even remove airborne molds typically found in humid places. 

If your space is limited and you’d still like to jazz up the decor with some foliage, consider hanging Ivy and Ferns, or adding oxygen producing Succulents to your wall decor with DIY wall gardens.

Use an oil diffuser with energizing scents 

Diffusing essential oils is an easy way to enjoy aromatherapy benefits while boosting your mood with enjoyable scents. 

Diffusers are widely available in many sizes, shapes and price ranges. They work by adding water and a few drops of essential oil which when inhaled, the scent molecules travel directly to the brain and impact the emotional centre.

The benefits of essential oils differ and it’s a good idea to have a few on hand so that you can enjoy a new or different smell throughout the day. Lavender is well known for reducing anxiety and stress. Peppermint essential oil is used for improved concentration, and focus, and lemon essential oil is good for uplifting and energizing.

The quality of essential oil varies, so it’s important to buy the products from a reputable aromatherapy company that’s been around for several years.

Many of us don’t realize that our environment has a big impact on how we feel. Whether it’s poor lighting, lack of airflow, or a messy desk, we’re surrounded by conditions that affect productivity and influence our mood. A few simple tweaks can spark energy into any workday and create a more enjoyable work from home environment.