There’s no denying that home-based businesses are on the rise. Right now, it’s estimated that there are 38 million home-based businesses that generate $427 billion a year in the United States.
Perhaps you already have an idea for a home-based business—and maybe you’ve even thought through the risks as well as logistics like buying business insurance. If so, you’re probably focused on one of the more enjoyable aspects of your new enterprise: setting up your home- based business office.
Whether you have a spacious wing of your house or simply one end of your kitchen table, it’s your space. Not sure where to start? Then read on to get some tips to set up your home-based business office.
Supplies for your home-based business
- Set a budget and stick to it. Chances are you don’t have an abundance of funds if you’re just starting out. That’s why it’s important to create a budget and commit to it. Thrift stores, clearance aisles and yard sales are all great ways to score good buys if you’re on a tight budget.
- Keep your receipts. You can deduct from your taxes many items that you purchase for your home-based office.
- Think about the equipment you really need. If you’re going to use a piece of equipment on a daily basis, buy it. For equipment you use less often, a trip to a copier or office supplies store may be more economical.
- Invest in ergonomics. A chair is one thing you don’t want to buy online—go test a few to find one that’s a good fit. Also consider a standing desk—research shows that it’s not healthy to sit all day.
- Stock up. Whether it’s paper, pens, printer ink or boxes, make sure to have plenty of supplies on hand. Constantly having to buy one thing at a time cuts into your productivity—plus, you can usually pay less if you buy in bulk.
- Try to get some natural light. One of the best parts of not being cube-bound is having access to light that isn’t exclusively emitted from fluorescent bulbs. Beyond just looking nicer, natural light has many positive health benefits for office workers.
- Consider noise level. Think about the noise levels both inside and outside your home for each space you’re considering. White noise can help reduce distraction as well.
- Indulge in some aromatherapy. Scents can have a pretty big impact on your stress level and focus. Consider a room spray, potpourri or an oil diffuser. Lavender reduces stress, peppermint boosts energy and lemon is calming.
- Don’t forget colors. Like scents, colors influence you more than you think. Learn about how color affects mood before you commit to a color for your office.
- Get plants. Did you know that plants can make you 15 percent more productive? You don’t need a green thumb to enjoy the benefits of plants—varieties like succulents and bamboo are easy to care for.
- Create a separation from the rest of your house. If you don’t have a separate room in your house, try to partition part of your home. Having physical boundaries helps create mental boundaries when the temptation to work around the clock hits. Having a clock in clear view and set office hours will also help you establish a line between your personal and professional lives.