Are you one of those people who have been working from home for quite some time now? If yes, then this post is for you! In this discussion we're going to examine something that is extremely important for your productivity and overall well-being - having a dedicated workspace.
Some of you may be thinking, "What's the big deal? or "I don't have a lot of space in my home!" or "I can work from my couch or my bed just as well."
But having a dedicated workspace can make a world of difference! Let's dive into why it's so important.
ESTABLISH ROUTINE
First and foremost, having a dedicated workspace helps you establish a routine. When you have a designated area for work, your brain gets into "work mode" as soon as you enter that space. Also, it sets the tone for your day and establishes a routine that your brain will come to recognize. It also gives you a clear separation between work and home life, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Establishing a routine is essential for productivity. Without the daily structure of a traditional office environment, it can be easy to slip into a lackadaisical mindset, which can lead to missed deadlines and unproductive work. In fact, a study by Buffer found that 22% of remote workers struggled with unplugging after work, while 19% reported difficulty with time management. (Source: Buffer, State of Remote Work 2019)
STAY ORGANIZED
Next up, having a dedicated workspace helps you stay organized. When you have all your work-related items in one place, you're less likely to misplace things or forget important tasks. Plus, it allows you to personalize your space and make it your own. You can add some plants, a cool lamp, or some photos of your loved ones to make your workspace feel more inviting.
Staying organized is crucial for freelancers, as it can be easy to lose track of tasks and miss important deadlines. When you have a dedicated workspace, you can keep all of your work-related items in one place, making it easier to stay organized and keep track of your tasks. In fact, a study by the University of Minnesota found that employees who were organized were more productive and less stressed than their disorganized counterparts. (Source: The Balance Careers, The Importance of Being Organized in the Workplace)
Furthermore, staying organized can save you time in the long run. By keeping all of your work-related items in one place, you can avoid wasting time searching for lost documents or tools. According to a study by the National Association of Professional Organizers, the average person spends one year of their life looking for lost items. (Source: National Association of Professional Organizers, The Cost of Disorganization)
AVOID DISTRACTIONS
Avoiding distractions is one of the biggest challenges of working from home. With the comforts of home all around you, it can be tempting to take a break to watch TV, scroll through social media, or play with your pets. However, distractions can significantly reduce productivity and lead to missed deadlines. In fact, a study by Udemy found that 34% of remote workers reported feeling distracted during their workday. (Source: Udemy, 2018 Workplace Distraction Report)
A dedicated workspace can help minimize distractions by providing a separate area for work. When you enter your workspace, your brain recognizes that it's time to focus, helping you stay on track and avoid distractions. In fact, a study by the University of Michigan found that a cluttered environment can increase distractions and reduce productivity. (Source: University of Michigan, How Clutter Affects Your Brain (and What You Can Do About It))
IMPROVE POSTURE
Improving your posture is crucial for avoiding physical discomfort and pain, which can significantly reduce productivity. When you work from your bed or couch, you're more likely to slouch or hunch over, which can lead to back and neck pain. According to a study by the American Chiropractic Association, back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide and costs Americans an estimated $50 billion annually. (Source: American Chiropractic Association, Back Pain Facts and Statistics)
A University of Iowa study found that poor posture can increase the risk of back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders. (Source: University of Iowa, Understanding Ergonomics: The Science of Workplace Safety)
HEALTHY WORK-LIFE BALANCE:
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for overall well-being, especially when working from home. Without a clear separation between work and personal life, it can be easy to overwork and burn out. In fact, a study by Gallup found that remote workers reported working an average of four more hours per week than in-office workers. (Source: Gallup, State of the American Workplace)
By creating a dedicated workspace, you establish a physical separation between work and personal life, making it easier to switch off at the end of the day. This can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. In fact, a study by the American Psychological Association found that work-life balance was a key factor in employee well-being and productivity. (Source: American Psychological Association, Work-Life Balance)
The importance of a dedicated workspace Is not just about having a desk and a chair. By setting up a routine, staying organized, avoiding distractions, improving posture, and prioritizing self-care, freelancers and remote workers can maximize their efficiency and well-being. Studies show that remote workers can be more productive than in-office workers, and that organized employees are less stressed and more productive.
So, go ahead and create your own little work oasis - your mind (and your body) will thank you!
We love to help support and inspire freelancers. Receive free, in-depth training, consulting, mentorship and community!
Become a Hubmaster with InspireHUB. Build for Free!
If you're a freelancer or agency owner looking to save more time, make more money and better serve your clients, this is the partnership for you. Our IHUB Ally program pay 20% commission on the life of any license sold.
Build an Automated Newsletter for Free! Newsletters. Only Better.
It's Time for a Disruption to Newsletters: Create a Serious Impact with an App that Automatically Delivers 195% Increased Engagement.