Working from a home office has become more commonplace in recent years.  Today you might be running your own business from a home office or working from home a day or two a week as an employee.  Regardless of your situation setting up a well organized home office will make you more efficient and successful in the long run.  We pulled together a few tips for creating a useful home work environment.

Choose a location wisely

The best option for your home office is to set it up in a room with a functioning door. If you have the luxury of a completely separate room then use it.  However, most home offices are located in a shared space.  Be mindful to choose a room that will not be used during your working hours like a bedroom or den.  Taking a corner of the kitchen or main living area should be your absolute last choice as it will make you too accessible to everyone in your house.  The distractions will keep you from being fully productive.  Kids, pets, the home phone or doorbell will all challenge your ability to focus and get things done.

Create a comfortable space

Designate a workspace, desk or table that is just for your work.  Having to rearrange or move a lot of stuff everytime you need to work is both exhausting and a time waster.  Make the investment in functional, comfortable office furniture like a desk with keyboard tray and a good chair with arm rests and back support.  Another popular new trend is the adjustable standing desk which can take up less space than a traditional desk. Balance ball chairs are also a great alternative that benefits your posture and balance while you sit.

Make good rules and follow them

Setting good rules for yourself and your family right up front will save you significant time and headache in the long run.  Your personal rules should include things like: establish and keep regular
business or working hours. And don’t answer the home phone or the doorbell during your work hours.  A good rule for your family is that when the door is closed do not come in because you are working. This is a rule you will have to work hard to enforce but take time to explain its importance to your family.

Finally, use this question as a test for absolutely everything: If I was at an office would I be doing this right now?  Apply it to things like doing laundry, washing the dishes or weeding your garden.  It really helps you stay focused and get work done.

What rules have you set for your home office?  Share your ideas in the comments below.