While working from home seems to be a luxury for many an office worker, choosing this path does not come without some drawbacks. Initial planning is probably the key ingredient in determining your productivity. As being able to work at home means juggling your personal and professional life in one setting, it is important to assert new practices in dealing with these two priorities.

Planning a space in the house to set up, what to buy, and what other equipments to install may seem a bit tricky and stressful for some. But these will ultimately determine your productivity and the quality of work that you put through. Begin planning with these solutions to setup a workable home office.

1. Choose a space

This area will be where you will spend most of your time in. It is important to figure out how much space you need for your office and the equipment that comes with it. Refrain from using the dining table or your bedroom as this tends to provide distractions such as eating and foot traffic. Choose a room with less outside disturbance and if possible, a room with a view and free-flowing air.

2. Consider your visitors

If you are planning to take clients at home, plan your work space so as for them to avoid walking past different private areas of your home. Consider a space with direct access to the outside or a separate entrance from the main house. It is important to keep it professional and as much as possible keep clients away from the bustle of the house.

3. Recycle

Chances are there are lots of supplies lying around in your home that can be used in your home office. Instead of going out to buy for new supplies, consider using old baskets as paper bins or a funky mug to stack your pens. You will need the extra money for ordering other large office devices.

4. Get the Right Equipments

Avoid shopping online for desks as this prohibits you from testing them prior to purchase. A desk with drawers for storage is a good way to save space and store documents. Consider hooking up your own telephone, internet, fax machine and printer. This will enable you to function smoothly and effectively without having to go out of the office to use your home printer or use the phone to call someone.

5. Invest in a Comfortable Chair

It may seem like a superfluous investment to some, but having a sturdy and comfortable chair actually helps you focus more on your work and increase your productivity. Due to long hours of sitting, it pays to buy a chair with the proper height and lumbar support.

6. Proper Lighting

Prevent headaches and eye strain by installing proper lighting in your home office. Install lighting behind the computer so as to reduce the glare. Consider compact fluorescent light bulbs which lasts longer and are more energy-efficient, and a desk lamp for added lighting.

7. Avoid Clutter

Store extra papers, pens and other equipment and leave only a few stacks in your office. Sort through your office equipment and store less frequently used items in another place. Work out a filing system for your mail, bills and other important documents. It is easier to be productive in a clean and efficient work place.