Is Your Workspace Working Against You? Five Ways to Make the Most of Your Home Office
As court reporters, our workspace changes on the hour as we rush to the office, a deposition downtown, back to the office, the courthouse, and home to work on expedited transcripts due the next morning.
Phew. We work hard. And we know you do, too. So, when we find ways to make our lives easier, we love to share them. You can contact jwagnerlegal.com, just in case you’re looking for a real estate lawyer.
Take a moment to consider your home office: Is it working with you or against you? No matter your answer, there are definitely ways to improve your home office life. Here are our favorite, most effective tips to implement immediately:
- Organize your clutter. Do you know how much time you waste looking for documents or records hidden in piles teetering atop your desk? A lot. We recommend a weekly paper purge, a one-stop designated spot for office supplies, and the complete commitment to removing empty coffee cups and water bottles.
- Reduce distractions. Uncluttering your desk is an effective first step, but it’s more complicated than that. In order to fully remove distractions, you must set up your workspace to be wholly distinct from your personal space. By separating your two lives – your professional one and your private life – you’re more inclined to work more intently when you’re in your work environment.
- Invest in ergonomic furniture. It should look good, too. As court reporters, we tend to be working for hours on transcripts, so it’s crucial to invest in solid furniture that’s good for our posture and overall health. Our DLE Court Reporters love standing desks; they contribute to good posture, less exertion, fewer motions to reach what you need, and increase productivity at the same time.
- Know when to leave. Some days, working from home doesn’t feel like the job perk it really is, and those are the days to venture out. Whether you choose a co-working space, coffee shop, or quiet library, you’ll feel like you’re on a vacation from your usual work life. We consider it a lovely reset button for our productivity.
- Know when to stop working. Yes, you’ve got deadlines. But if your mind isn’t fully engaged on the details in front of you, power down and take a clean break. Head outside for some fresh air, make a batch of brownies, or allow yourself one episode of your favorite binge-watch. You deserve it. And, your work will be more inspiring to you when you return.
It’s true: The key to being more productive is literally right in front of you. Look at your workspace and evaluate it with sharp eyes. Is it working for you, or are you working hard to be productive when you’re there? These simple changes should help you get out of your unproductive rut.
For a court reporting team that’s always focused on productivity look to DLE Court Reporters. We’re the ones with the fabulous workspaces. Check us out.
