Maximize Your Productivity When Integrating Workspace Hacks by CaptainFI (An Early Retiree)

When it comes to optimizing personal space, there are a few simple hacks that can help you maximize your efficiency without compromising the aesthetics of your home or office. Whether you’re working remotely or out of a traditional office space, these hacks will help you get more done and feel more comfortable while doing so.

One way to make sure your workspace is as efficient as possible is to declutter. This means getting rid of any items that are not necessary for work-related tasks, such as knick knacks that don’t really serve a purpose in space. Take some time to go through your desk drawers and shelves and decide what should stay and what should be passed on to someone else or donated. Doing this can give you a sense of control over your workspace and help you focus on the tasks at hand.

Another great hack is to incorporate good lighting into your space. Natural light is best, but if that isn’t an option (due to office layout or natural sunlight availability), then make sure you have adequate task lighting such as desk lamps or overhead lights. This will help with productivity and also keep eye strain from happening after long periods at the computer. I personally prefer a softer (warmer) lighting, as harsh blue lights put me on edge. Some people find the brighter, bluer lights may keep them more alert and productive, but I personally value comfort and reduced eye strain more.
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You can also create a cozy environment with items like wall art, plants, and comfortable furniture. Wall art doesn’t have to be expensive and can be anything from family photos to inspirational quotes. Plants are great for boosting moods while providing air filtering capabilities as well; and comfortable furniture can help you stay productive as you don’t want to be constantly shifting due to an uncomfortable chair or desk.

Understanding ergonomics and applying this to your workspace is also critically important to long term sustainable productivity. This means setting your desk up correctly such that your neck or back isn’t strained, that your computer monitor is at eye height, and that your arms rest naturally at approximately 90 degrees when using a keyboard.

Finally, make sure you have a few items in your workspace that represent who you are and what drives you. Whether it’s a photo of family, framed awards from past accomplishments, some favorite books or anything else that inspires and motivates you, having visual reminders of what matters most will remind us why we’re doing all this work in the first place.
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Personally, I like to use a goal visualization board. I have this divided into quadrants: Finance and business, physical and mental health, personal (relationships) and personal development. On the goal board I have photos, quotes and sayings, milestones of things I would like to achieve. For example I have a photo of a permaculture farm which is a reminder to me of the lifestyle I am working towards achieving with my business.

By following these simple hacks for house, office and workspace optimization; you’ll be able to maximize your efficiency without compromising comfort. With the right decluttering techniques, lighting solutions, décor ideas, ergonomic set up and personal items; your space can become a productive oasis that you love working from. Lastly, if you haven’t used a dual screen monitor — get one! It will change your life! (Especially if you need to research and write, or perform any kind of coding)

Meet Our Contributor — CaptainFI
CaptainFI is a blog, podcast and community site created by an entrepreneur and investor with one mission: to help people achieve financial independence. Captain FI is a retired transport pilot and financial independence enthusiast. In 2017 he began blogging about FIRE and his experience earning, saving and investing into index funds, property and websites towards his goal of reaching financial independence, enabling him to retire early from transport operations in 2022 at age 30.