How to craft your perfect work from home space

Working from home can really come in handy if you feel a cold coming on or just don't want to venture into the office. However, most people who have this option find out the hard way that productivity in a nonoffice environment doesn't always come easy. What's one way to fix this? By creating a space that will help you stay focused. Here's how to do just that:

Let There Be Light
If you wake up in the morning and decide you're working from home that day, you may be tempted to do everything from your bed. Sometimes that means you can go the entire morning without even turning on the lights. According to Andrew Jensen Marketing, having proper lighting is crucial to productivity and overall mood. So set up your workspace in a room full of windows. Peel back the blinds, and let the light show through. Not only will this wake you up, but natural lighting is better for your eyesight than artificial lamps that can cause strain and headaches.

The Right Supplies
Have you ever put something off while you're working remotely because you don't have everything you need in your home office? Well, now is the time to stock up on supplies so that doesn't happen again. Invest in all the right materials, including stationary, letterheads, notepads and stamps. That way, you are providing yourself with all the tools you need to be successful.

Avoid Distractions
Just because you're in the comfort of your own home doesn't mean the television should be on. Try to treat the day as if you were in the office, even though you have plenty of devices at your disposal. The more you simulate a workplace setting, the better work you'll end up doing.

Don't Forget to Take Breaks
You probably don't forget to eat lunch when you're in the office so it should be no different at home. Give yourself a full lunch break to refuel and maybe even get outside for some fresh air. Working continuously without a break is bad for both your physical and mental health.

Get Comfortable
The physical constraints of an office desk and chair can have negative impacts on your body over time. Working from home can offer a nice break on your neck and back. Relax back in your comfiest chair, but be sure to practice good posture while doing so.

Get in Communication
The last thing you want is to go the entire day not speaking to anyone at all. Don't correspond over email, join conference calls instead having online chats. Decisions are made faster, and actual verbal communication can spur creativity.

Stay on Track
Even though you may be on your own computer, treat it as if you were at work. Limit your online web browsing; save the articles you want to read for your break. Too much web access with no one looking over your shoulder is a privilege – use it wisely.