While Moms and Dads everywhere are working from home, their kids are schooling from home as well. So, each family member needs a workspace. And since most homes don’t have an endless supply of enclosed offices, creativity and resourcefulness is king.
- Scout out a dedicated, uncluttered workspace for each family member.
- Build a workspace in a quiet, less traveled room such as a study or bedroom.
- Locate workspaces in community rooms – family room, dining room, kitchen – thereby making them multi-purpose rooms.
- Repurpose a closet or space under a stairwell into a workspace; install shelving at various heights that operate as the desk surface, bookshelves and the like.
- Tip: Set up the space so at day’s end each family member may literally or figuratively “close” the office door.
A good friend recently shared how delighted she was to see her college kids make their inaugural use of desks purchased as part of their bedroom furniture sets over a decade ago. 😊
2. Make workspaces desirable places to spend the lion share of the day.
- Set up workspace that it is ergonomically friendly – desk surface, comfortable seating, etc.
- Make use of natural and artificial lighting for fueling energy and avoiding eye strain.
- Shore up the right mix of tools and electronic devices which vary person to person.
- Individualize the space with personal items, preferred colors, scents, greenery, etc.
- Consider storage needs so the workspace remains uncluttered.
- For portable workspaces, like the kitchen table, dedicate space for its overnight storage.
3. Get agreement from all family members on “office hours” or quiet, uninterrupted time.
This is especially important for those with workspaces located in multi-purpose rooms.
Also consider dedicating a community room that is accessible by all for breaks anytime during office hours.
Until next time, I wish you good health, quality time with your loved ones, and pride in continuing the flow of contributions made to your organization.
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