We all know that having a comfortable workspace is important for a lot of reasons. For one, you are going to get more done during the day if you remain comfortable. Second, you are going to look forward to work if you have an inviting workspace… which means a lot when it is time to start your day. And third, it is much easier to stay focused when your space is comfortable and attractive, as opposed to uncomfortable and unattractive.

Since keeping your office comfortable and inviting is so important, here are some tips that will help you along the way. Having worked from home for a number of years, I definitely know how important it is so move in this direction, and I hope that these tips will help you figure out how you can make your home office even better than it is now!

1. Watch Where You Sit

   Something that we often do not think of when it comes to the office is our chair. We spend more time in our chair than we do standing up in most cases, so why don’t we think about the quality of our chair? Make sure that your chair is of high quality, is padded, and is adjustable. It is also a good idea to have a chair that reclines so that you can take small breaks during the day in a reclined position. Wheels are optional, but recommended as they make it easier to reach things a bit out of arm’s length, which is hard on your back and makes for a long day!

2. Examine Your Desk

   If you commonly suffer from neck or back discomfort while working, you might want to examine the height of your desk. If your desk is too low, you will find that you have to slouch to work. This is bad for you for several reasons. For one, it is hard on your lower back and will eventually cause a backache. Even if you have a high quality chair, it will be for nothing if you slouch all day long. Second, it can cause a tension headache if you sit a certain way. Tension headaches are surprisingly common among people who spend a lot of time on the computer, mostly because looking at a screen from the wrong angle can really wreak havoc with the muscles and nerves in the neck and upper back.

   If the desk is set too high, however, you will find that it is uncomfortable to raise your hands up to access the keyboard. You will no doubt acquire some arm stiffness and you might even develop sore wrists if you have to bend them to make up for the elevation of the keyboard. One thing that you can do to fix a desk that is too high is to install a keyboard tray underneath it, thereby lowering the keyboard and usually solving the problem.

   A proper desk height will allow your forearms to be parallel to the floor as you work, and will allow your elbows to hang freely at your sides.

3. Rest Your Wrists

   Everyone uses a mousepad, right? Well, believe it or not, even using a mousepad the right way can result in wrist and hand fatigue. Instead, try a mousepad with a wrist support. This can be really help to avoid any strain and can also cut down on the chances of you developing carpal tunnel pain down the road.

4. Are You Viewing Your Monitor Correctly?

   Just because computer monitors can sit wherever you want them to does not mean that they are in the right place. You should place your monitor so that the top of the screen is directly in your line of vision. It should also be no more than 3 feet away from your face.

5. Decorate to Your Own Taste

   Decorations can play a huge part in making your office more inviting. Are you tired of the same old pictures, rugs, lamps, and furniture? Well, take a day to redecorate! Buy some furnishings that you really like. This will get you excited about your office again, and will really help you to reignite the joy of showing up for work… even if your office is in your own home!

6. Paint it Up

   Do you like the color of your office, or do you think the walls are bland and dull? Do you wish that it looked more contemporary, modern, or even extravagant? Then paint them! It will take a day or two and cost a little bit to buy the paint and supplies, but you will find that it will pay for itself by helping you to love your office again!

7. Chiropractors are Not Dangerous

   Just because you work in an office all day does not mean that you will never need some professional help to stay comfortable. When you twist your back or develop neck pain or neck injury, chiropractors can really be your best friend! Don’t be afraid to make an appointment to get things “straightened out.” To find the right chiropractor for you, visit websites like http://westbendchiropractor.com. Finding the perfect body worker could save you a lot of time and really help you to be more comfortable.

8. Enjoy Your Space

   When doing anything to make your office space better, it is important to keep in mind a few basic ideas:

   • This is YOUR office
   • YOU should be as comfortable as possible in it
   • It is YOUR responsibility to keep it inviting and positive
   • YOU deserve a workspace that keeps you feeling good about what you do

Regardless of what you decide to change about your office, remember that it is for you and that bettering your surroundings is never a bad decision or something that you do not deserve! You work hard, so design an office that will work hard to keep you comfortable and productive.

Photo by lauratrevey/Flickr