In this unprecedented time of social distancing, people all around the world are doing one of the most important things they can do—staying home as much as possible. To this end, many folks have found themselves unexpectedly working from home. While this temporary transition to a home office is very essential for those who are able, it also comes with its challenges. Countless people are spending hours in their new home offices, or lack thereof!

For those who are trying to cram in their day hours typing on laptops while sitting on sofas or at kitchen tables, it can be hard to concentrate and remain productive. Add in the distractions that come with home working, including kids at home from school, and it can seem downright impossible. We have some tips that can help save your productivity and sanity. Follow these steps to plan your workday and create your own home office space, whether you can commandeer a whole room or make the most out of an available corner of a shared space.

1. Set Aside Your Work Time: Ideally, you’ll keep your hours the same as they were in the office. However, you may need to make some changes to allow you to watch kids and assist with their distance learning requirements. Whether you need to wake up early and take advantage of a quiet house, trade off work hours with a spouse who is also at home, or get in some evening work, it’s important to stick to a routine as much as possible so that you, coworkers and your employer know what to expect and can reach you when needed. Take some time now to see what will work best for you and your family, as well as your employer.
2. Find a Secluded Spot: If you have your choice of rooms, it’s best to choose a home office room that’s on a separate level of your home from the most activity, or the farthest away from the main living spaces. (Think, quiet!) For most, this can be a spare bedroom on a lower level or at the end of a hallway that is temporary, or permanently, turned into a home office.
3. Separate a Shared Space: If you don’t have a separate room, you can convert part of a shared space to your home work space, such as a family room or living room. Aim for an end of room or a corner that still allows some visual separation from everyday distractions. You can also employ some design tricks to visually detach your space. An area rug placed under your desk can add some cushion for your feet, and help tie together and distinguish your office area. A chair mat can also add style to your home office area. Choose one that’s durable and has a non-skid backing so it stays put. You can also use a room divider for makeshift cubicle walls, or position a project desk, desk with shelves, or separate bookshelves to provide separation from the rest of your room. Just make sure all heavy pieces like shelves are secured properly to a wall.
4. Set up a Desk: It may be tempting to work from home on your sofa, with your feet up and a laptop on your pajama clad lap. However, this is not ideal for productivity, and it’s also not going to do your back any long-term favors. If you have a desk, clear it off and dedicate it to your work-from-home space. If you don’t have a desk, you can make do with a small table or card table.

You can also look for a home office desk for sale online and choose a store that offers free garage drop delivery to secure a comfortable desk for your important work, without breaking social distancing or quarantine. Consider the space that you have available, as well as your work and storage needs. An executive style desk or project table can provide plenty of work space and storage; while a small desk, like a writing desk, can give you the workspace you need for a laptop and tablet, and still fit well in most small or shared spaces.

1. Sit Up Like an Executive: Your comfy sofa and recliner are perfect for sitting back and using the extra evenings at home to catch up on your favorite shows. However, you need a different type of chair to support productive posture and work efficiency. In a pinch, a dining room chair can be used. Consider adding a couple of cushions to provide lumbar support. You may also want to invest in an office chair. Many home office chairs can be ordered for free garage drop delivery. Look for an ergonomic office chair that can support temporary work from home, but also be used for years to come.
2. Or Stand Up: Whether you are working in an office or from home, the hours in front of a desk can get long. A sit to stand desktop workstation can convert your existing (or new) desk to a stand-up desk, which can help you stay alert and comfortable while working from home.
3. Get Organized: Whether you are going to work from home for a couple of weeks, a few months or longer, it’s important to take some time now to get organized. A good rule of thumb is to mimic your office at your company. Put some bins and baskets on your desk to keep any paperwork organized. Take some time to grab the supplies you need, paper, pens and other office supplies, and load your drawers so you won’t be scrambling when on phone calls or trying to meet deadlines.
4. Add Lighting: Sure, your room has overhead light. However, you’d be surprised at how dedicated light can change the feel of your office space and support productivity. Even if it’s just for a short time, you will be spending long periods of the day (maybe even dark mornings and dim evenings) in your home office space. Consider moving a table lamp or floor lamp from your bedroom or another place where it can be spared. You may also choose to invest in a new table lamp that will complement the décor in the space you are in, and help keep you awake and efficient throughout your nine to five.
5. Add Décor: It may not seem like a priority right now, but it is important to add some personalized touches that will help you smile throughout these uncertain days. Try adding some artwork to the walls to suit your personal tastes, whether you gravitate towards serene landscapes, lake waterscapes, or even wall art in honor of favorite sports teams you won’t get to watch in a while. Vases for fresh flowers from your garden this spring can liven up an otherwise solemn workspace. Humorous paperweights, seasonal décor items and other pieces of décor can turn your drab home office space into a place that you enjoy being—and might just help you power through those endless spreadsheets and reports.
6. Don’t Forget Comforts: Do you have a snack drawer in the office? No judgement here! Go ahead and add some of your favorite treats to your next grocery delivery order. Make sure to stock up on coffee, and get a new water bottle to make sure you stay hydrated. Whether you need treats, or something more practical—like noise cancelling headphones—these little items can make a tough situation more tolerable for many. Additional ideas include essential oils or a candle to help you relax and destress.

While many of us are caught in an unexpected work from home situation, the fact is that the lines between home and office have been blurred for years. Putting some time and effort into creating a home office space will be invaluable in the weeks to come. However, it can also be used for years to come, whether it’s to support occasional take home work, give your teens a place to complete their homework, or provide a spot for your side hustle or hobby work.