Minimalism has been around for decades, but it’s gaining momentum now more than ever. More people are interested in reading and watching content involving minimalism to improve their way of life. It’s transcended beyond home decor as the concept is even trending in graphic design, whether it’s for physical store banner stands or e-commerce websites.
Why are more people deciding to ditch their clutter and own fewer possessions for a more minimalist lifestyle? There are numerous reasons for this. The most popular one being they experience less stress and anxiety while increasing productivity.
In line with this, more are discovering how a minimalist office setup can improve the way they work. Considering how studies have shown the negative effects clutter has on the human brain and how it inhibits productivity, the minimalist principles have inspired people to make decluttering a habit at work.
Ergonomic minimalist desk setups have become all the rage in today’s growing remote working environment. It inspires good working habits and boosts productivity as well.
So what is a minimalist desk setup? In the most basic sense, it’s a design where you only have your laptop or your desktop computer on your desk throughout your working hours – with other items that you need to be stored out of view.
Here are some tips that can help you create an ergonomic minimalist desk setup:
1. List the thing you need for work
What are your work essentials? These are stuff you can’t work without. Some people can work with just their laptops or computers. Others may need to have an external keyboard, a paper notebook or an iPad for taking notes, a wireless charger, and a hub to connect the wires.
For other things like printers, notebooks that you don’t always need, pens, and extra storage, you can store them in a drawer so that they’re not on your desk.
Speaking of things that should be out of your sight, you also have to plan how you’re going to properly set aside and hide your wires.
2. Clean the area around your workspace
Before you set up your new workspace or offer, you have to tidy up your area first. Your area should be distinctly for work. No matter how small or big it is. It’s important to associate it with work so that when you enter that space, your mind and body are immediately conditioned to work. This also makes you less stressed because you also associate areas outside of that space as a no-work zone. This form of conditioning will boost your work productivity and work-life balance.
3. Get a minimalist desk and chair
Get a clean-looking desk and a chair that’s comfortable for you to sit in for long periods of time. As a rule of thumb, your eye level should be about two to three inches below the top of your monitor, with it an arm’s length away. Your elbows should be bent at 90 degrees or more and your wrists should be flat at the keyboard. Get a desk that will enable you to properly position yourself for work.
Opt for a standing desk as a healthier option. Standing desks are a great way to incorporate an active lifestyle to static working conditions. The set up reportedly lowers your risk of heart disease, prevents weight gain and improves your energy level. Ultimately boosting productivity.
4. Good lightning
Sitting for hours in front of the computer screen can lead to eye strain. In order to combat this, good lighting is important. Natural lighting is ideal because it’s also a great source of vitamin D, thus giving you more energy. However, if your area doesn’t allow for natural light to seep through then you can use lamps or a detachable monitor light.
Either way, good lighting will enhance your mood and contribute greatly to your sense of well-being.
5. Add items that help you relax
The whole point of minimalism is to declutter and relax your mind. So it’s important to have items that will help you relax. These can be oil diffusers, a potted plant or even a white featherin an acrylic box. You can also get some great-sounding speakers or noise-canceling headphones so that you can listen to music while you work or decide to clear your head.
Your set up will always evolve with your needs. You should have fun with it and make it a point to allocate time for breaks. Also, don’t sit for long periods. Stand up after an hour or two (this is where a standing desk comes in handy), drink some water, and refresh. Setting up your dream workspace that will also boost your productivity will take a bit of trial and error, just be patient with it and have fun creating your workspace.
Check out a standing desk or a standing desk converter for your office at home or work. Standing desks are a great way to incorporate an active lifestyle to static working conditions. The set up reportedly lowers your risk of heart disease, prevents weight gain and improves your energy level. Ultimately boosting productivity.
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