4 Tips for Creating a Work-From-Home Space—and 2 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here's how to set up a functional at-home office—without buying anything new.

Setting up a work-from-home space? One of the first orders of business: creating a home office that's as functional and comfortable (and calming!) as possible. And you'll ideally want to create this workstation using things you have around your house. The good news: You likely already have everything you need, as long as you get creative.

Below are some guidelines for picking out the most productive WFH spot, lighting it properly, and finding a desk and chair combo that will keep you comfortable. Keep these four tips—and two common mistakes—in mind to build a better workspace.

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Pick the Right Spot

Locate the WFH spot where you'll be the most productive. If you live in a tiny apartment, you may not have many options, but in a larger home, choose an out-of-the-way area. Ideally, select a spot that's away from potential distractions (a TV or all the snacks) and that receives good natural light.

If you have kids at home, depending upon their ages and the level of supervision they need, you may have to coordinate your workspace so you can keep an eye on them. For example, you may want to set up at the kitchen counter, while your kids work at the dining table nearby.

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Set up Proper Lighting

To reduce eye strain, set up sufficient lighting in your workspace. Choosing a sunny spot near a window helps. If you need to supplement overhead lighting, consider borrowing a floor lamp or table lamp from another room to create a well-lit desk.

If after the first day working in your new space your eyes feel overly tired, it's a sign to update the lighting. Add another source of light or adjust the position of the current lighting.

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Make It as Ergonomic as Possible

You may not own an ergonomic office chair, but you can still find the next best solution. Shop your home to try to match up a chair and table or another surface that lets you work at your computer or laptop without hunching over. A chair that's comfortable yet provides back support is ideal. A cushion or draped blanket can help with the comfy factor.

Another option: Consider devising your own standing desk out of a kitchen counter. You may need to prop your laptop up on books to create the right height. Whether you're sitting or standing, attempt to create a setup that keeps your back in alignment, so you're not bending down to see the screen.

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Get Connected

Make sure your workspace is conveniently located near a power outlet, or look for a multi-plug extension cord so you can plug in everything you'll need—computer, phone, printer—at the same time.

If you do a lot of video calls, test out a mock call in your new workspace to see how it looks. A plain wall that isn't too distracting is a good backdrop, and proper lighting (see above) will improve the video quality. While you're at it, test out the WiFi signal in that area of the house to make sure it is strong.

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Don't Work From Your Bed or Couch

It may sound cozy, but it's best to avoid working in your bed. Otherwise, you'll begin to associate your bed with work and may have trouble falling asleep at night.

And if you work from your sofa, sitting in the same spot after work for a Netflix binge-watching session will feel less relaxing. Even in a small home, try to create a workspace that's separate from your relaxation zone to create some mental distance.

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Don't Forget to Decorate

Adding a little personality to your work area will make it a more pleasant spot to spend time. Pull in a houseplant from another room or borrow a favorite piece of art from another space.

Trying to create calm vibes? Add an aromatherapy diffuser to your desk or try playing some soft, non-distracting music—embrace those work-from-home perks.

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