With working from home for almost a year now, I’ve finally been able to complete my desk setup! I’ve also been able to develop some good habits to ensure I have work life balance. Below are a list of my top essentials to stay sane during this prolonged work from home situation.
Technology
Laptop Stand
I never thought I would be a person to use a laptop stand. However, once I was constantly sitting at my desk and staring at my laptop, I realized just how bad my posture was and it was starting to affect my back. I saw how beneficial a laptop stand could be and figured it was time to invest in one. It has honestly changed my life! Now my eye-line goes straight across to my laptop screen instead of down, like before. This one that I got from Amazon is sleek and a great space saver!
Keyboard
Using a laptop stand, I realized that it would be easier on my posture to use an external keyboard too. When picking out a keyboard, you should look at your typing style and what keyboards you feel comfortable with. Some like the ones that are more “clicky” and have more depth, while others want the opposite. It’s definitely hard now with the pandemic, but if possible, test out a few (or buy and return) some before settling on one! I love this one from Logitech! It has just enough depth to feel like I’m pressing down, but not too much that I feel like my fingers are tired after typing a long email. It’s also gorgeous, which I know is not a huge factor, but it does matter a bit to me!
Mouse
On that same note, I realized how crucial it is to have a mouse. With my Macbook, I always felt like I didn’t need to use a mouse since the trackpad was so smooth and user-friendly. However, once I started doing graphic design work, I realized that having a mouse would make it a lot easier, especially when creating intricate designs. Similar to keyboards, everyone’s mouse preferences are different. There are also ergonomic mouses with different shapes depending on what you like! Mine is another Logitech one that matches my keyboard with a simple design.
Second Monitor
When my mom started working from home, she was able to have a double monitor setup that her work provided. Seeing her use two screens made me a little envious and I realized what a game changer it would be to have two screens while working. I grabbed an old monitor that I had in my basement and hooked it up as a second monitor. It has made my workflow so much smoother and even my recreational computer use to be more productive.
Blue Light Glasses
Last but not least, my screen time has definitely increased over this past year. My blue light glasses a huge help to combat the strain on my eyes with this. These lenses block out the blue light that we get from our screens and makes it easier on your eyes. As someone who used to get frequent headaches from staring at screens too much (literally I wouldn’t be able to watch more than 2 movies in a row), these have changed the game. Now, I don’t experience as many headaches and my prescription has also stabilized while wearing these glasses.
Health & Fitness
Energizing Snacks
Now onto the fun stuff! It’s definitely a lot easier to be lazy and less mindful when it comes to what we’re putting into our bodies when we work from home. I noticed that when I was feeding my body junk, I was feeling sluggish and overall, not good. Then, I started putting more thought into what kinds of snacks I was keeping by my desk. I switched over to less processed and higher protein snacks which helped me feel energized throughout the day. Some of my favourites are fruits (apples, grapes, berries) and beef jerky!
Cute Water Bottle
While sitting at a desk all day, it’s definitely hard to remember to drink water. I would get so engrossed in my work and forget to take a sip of water. Before I knew it, I would start to feel those dehydration headaches in the afternoon. What motivated me to drink more water was just having a cute water bottle with a straw. I always say, whatever gets you to drink water easier is the key. Using a straw makes it so much easier to take a quick sip if I’m in a meeting or to gulp down a bunch of water if I’ve forgotten. Mine is the standard Starbucks tumblr but I recently got this cute pink one from Simple Human too!
Workout Routine or Video
Not necessarily work from home focused, but having a good exercise routine has been incredible for my mental health. Even just knowing that I will be moving my body later on in the day has made me feel a lot better physically and mentally. I know working out at home is not ideal for everyone, but I encourage you to find something to implement on a regular basis, even if it’s something small like a walk. Having movement in your day will re-energize you and give your eyes a break as well. I’ve been loving Sydney Cummings’ workouts but I also love a good walk when it’s warm out.
Wellness
Fresh Air
On the topic of going for a walk when it’s nice out, fresh air is another game changer! Being stuck at home for long periods of time has put a damper on my mood and going outside really helps. Just being closer to nature and feeling the sun on your face has a way of lifting my spirits and putting me in a good mood. Try to go out for a walk during your lunch break or after work for a little pick me up!
Journal
I think during these times, there could be a lot of emotions going through your head that you may not even have time to process. Journalling has helped me get a better understanding of my feelings. Often times, I find myself feeling relieved after a journalling session and just lighter overall. It doesn’t have to be a long essay either, it could be a brain dump, or even just something like a gratitude journal, or the 5 minute journal.
Media That Brings You Joy
Finally, when we need to relax and shut our brains off, having some sort of medium that you enjoy is so crucial! Whether this is a book, movie, or TV show, it’s important to take time for yourself to relax and take your mind off of the stressful things in life. I’ve been loving the books from Colleen Hoover and recently been binging WandaVision!
Conclusion
Overall, these are my favourite items/habits that I’ve grown to love in my work from home routine! Implementing these things have changed how I view working from home and I don’t think I would have survived a whole year without these. Let me know if any of these items are your favourites and what your WFH necessities are through the comments, email or Instagram DMs!
