Taking online classes in my room isn’t my ideal setting. If I am going to be spending a large portion of my time in my room working, I want it to be a place where I feel comfortable. Here are eight things I have in my workspace that help my productivity and mental health:
- Indoor Plants
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It seems that almost everyone I know bought some houseplants at some point these past few months. My indoor plants give me something to take care of and they purify my air, what more could I ask for?
- Facial Spray
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Sitting at my desk for hours on end can be mind-numbing. A few spritzes of a refreshing facial spray gives me the temporary wake-up call and hydration boost I needed.
- Notes to Self
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Buy milk, book your doctor’s appointment, etc. are important notes to self. Reminders to stretch, drink water, take breaks, and be easy on yourself are just as important too.
- Study Snacks
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Trail mix, chocolate covered nuts, chips and rice cakes… Study snacks kept in a bin beside my desk make long study sessions easier to bear.
- Water Bottle
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Pair a water bottle with a hydration reminder app or extension on your laptop and avoid dehydration headaches!
- Daily/Weekly Planner
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While this may be obvious, sometimes I forget to have my planner out in the open. When I do have it out, I feel a stronger motivation to complete my tasks. I enjoy a daily tear-away planner paired with a traditional monthly/weekly planner: https://www.amazon.ca/Motivational-Calendar-Productivity-Organizer-Orientation/dp/B07KPN8HBB/ref=sr_1_58_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=sticky+notes&qid=1598128970&sr=8-58-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExNE81MlExUFc3OUxEJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMjA0MjE0MlNQVUo0WDJUWlRCUSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTMxODU1MlpWUjI0WDhaR1kzMyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2J0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
- Things to Wind Down With
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While your workspace should be a place for productivity, it is important to take breaks. During my own work breaks, I enjoy colouring, playing video games, checking in on social media, or reading a book.
- Essential oils/Scents
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I used to be skeptical about the effectiveness of essential oils and aromatherapy. If you are not allergic or sensitive to scents, though, perfume, room spray, or essential oils are a great way to refresh your workspace. I enjoy the “quick study” oil from sage: https://www.saje.com/ca/product/quick-study-000023.html
These are eight things that help me during remote classes. They may differ from what works for you, however, if you’re finding it hard to stay focused or comfortable while studying or working from home, some of these may help. Even if you don’t have your own desk or office, a few of these essentials in a tote bag or basket allows you to make any table or desk just a little more comfortable and a little more you.