How To Optimize A Home-Work Space For Your Family

For many of us, COVID-19 has created an unideal situation for how we work, forcing us out of the office to working at home. For parents this means that you also need to juggle kids and school into the mix, making it more important than ever to create a relaxing space that allows you to work efficiently at home. The good news is that there are things you can do to promote a good work-life balance with your kids when all of this is happening under the same roof! 

1. Get Organized

You’ll work smarter when you declutter and get organized. Getting things in order will help you keep a clear head when your job and kids are pulling you in two different directions.

2. Have A Separate Work Space

If possible, separate your work area from your living space. This allows you to shut the door on your job at the end of the day so you can focus on family.

3. Boost Your Mood With Natural Lighting

Not only will natural light boost your mood, it will also make you more productive. Setting up your workspace next to a window will not only help you get more done it also comes with health benefits such as balancing your circadian rhythm and combating Seasonal Affective Disorder.

4. Keep It Green

Let your kids become indoor gardeners. Adding plants to your home is proven to improve your mood and keep you connected to the outdoors when you’re spending more time inside during the pandemic. 

5. Work With A View

Try to make your workspace cheerful by giving yourself a good view. Face your desk out the window so you can see what’s going on in nature. If your desk has to face a wall, hang up family photos and artwork from the kids.

6. Bring Nature Inside

Another way for you and your family to interact with nature is by bringing it indoors. Listen to a soundtrack of birds or waterfalls for a peaceful atmosphere. Or use a diffuser with an essential oil that has the scent of the outdoors, such as eucalyptus and rosemary.

7. Self-Care

Don’t forget to take care of yourself and make time each day for both your mental and physical health. Whether it’s a walk, meditation, or a hot bath, making time for healthy self-care habits will help you better manage stress and improve your well-being and overall health.

Check out the visual below for more tips to optimize your living and workspace for you and your family based on the six factors of overall health (courtesy of Rocket Mortgage):