How to Create an Ideal Home Office for Writers and authors

Guest post from Dean Burgess: Working from home as a writer can be a joy and a challenge. Having a productive office is key to success. The following are important aspects to focus on when setting up your workspace.
 
Furniture and Equipment

The furniture and equipment you use during your workday have a major impact on your health and comfort level. Choose a chair that is comfortable and supportive. Make sure the lighting in the area is bright enough to prevent eye strain but not harsh or headache-inducing. An ergonomic keyboard can make long periods of typing easier on your wrists. Consider investing in a standing desk. There are numerous health benefits associated with these devices, including:

Increased energy 
Increased productivity 
Improved mood 
Decreased back pain 
Decreased chances of diabetes and heart disease 

Climate Control

An office that is too hot or too cold is not conducive to productivity. In many climates, an HVAC system is an ideal way to keep indoor temperatures within a comfortable range. Additionally, there are other benefits of an upgraded HVAC system that may help you be more productive during the workday. Newer systems are often quieter, minimizing distractions. An HVAC system can remove dust and other allergens from the air, allowing you to feel your best while you work. If your system is making odd noises or not keeping the temperature in the right range, it could be overworked or low on coolant. Have it serviced by an established HVAC professional to keep it in good condition. Find one in your area online, and make sure to compare several providers’ reviews, quotes, inclusions, etc.
 
Noise Level

Background noises compete for your brain's focus and can be quite distracting when you’re trying to work. For many individuals, soundproofing the workspace is essential for productivity. There are many different ways to go about this. Consider hanging thick blankets or quilts on the wall or installing acoustic panels to absorb noise. If your office door is hollow, replace it with a solid one. Invest in a white noise machine to drown out extraneous sounds. Even a box fan can prove helpful in this situation.

Organization

Studies show that an organized workspace saves both time and money. This makes sense when you consider the amount of time spent looking for misplaced documents and money spent replacing lost supplies in a messy office. When organizing your workspace, remove items that don’t belong. Throw away old papers. Store documents in labeled folders. If you have a lot of folders, sort them alphabetically. If you only have a few, you may be able to sort them according to how frequently you use them. Choose the system that works best for you. Find a home for every item, and make sure to return items after use. Keep frequently used items in easy-to-access locations.
 
Technology

There are many innovations that make work easier for writers. There are services available that allow book writers to outsource cover design, as well as apps and software that turn spoken word into text, check grammar, and perform other helpful tasks. Make sure your office is stocked with the technology most helpful to you and store the contact information for helpful services in digital form so that they are easy to reach.

A home office is an important aspect of any writer’s success. Focus on increasing comfort with an HVAC system and other upgrades, minimizing distractions, and incorporating helpful technology to get the most out of your workspace.