Hoping this post finds you well, Fabulistas! In an unprecedented era when most of us find ourselves spending more time at home than ever, the very definition of the word “home” has changed. It continues to adapt and flex to fit our modern lives, embracing change with each new curveball. Today, it may take on the new meaning of acting as a work space, but with a whirlwind of distractions in every direction – spouses, children, laundry, and of course, the refrigerator! – I know it can be challenging to stay on task. By designating zones, making it your own, and setting intentions to surround yourself with positive energy you’ll find it is possible to thrive while you #WFH (Work From Home)!

Designate Zones

If you do not already have a home office or find it a bit crowded at the moment, you’ll first want to designate an area as your “work zone”. Claiming a consistent spot will encourage you to focus on work while you’re there and decompress when you step away, which is key to #WFH success. Identify a personal space in your home that is both functional and conducive to your working style by asking yourself a few questions:

  • – Is there enough light, be it natural or artificial?
  • – How much space do I need to feel organized?
  • – Am I able to get the privacy I need?

You might think these questions limit your options, but now it’s time to get creative! Wherever you’ve selected within your home – be it a windowsill, guest room or dining table – it can easily be transformed into a professional and practical work space. Look at your lighting in your new workspace and add a desk lamp that is both useful as well as beautiful.

  1. Stone & Beam Round Ceramic Table Lamp
  2. SOTTAE Modern Ceramic irregular Geometric Table Lamp
  3. Popilion Modern Brass Base Table Lamp

When I say to be creative, think about what you need physically, practically and emotionally. This is a good time to splurge on a decorative “Do Not Disturb” sign that you can put up in your new workspace when you need a few precious moments to yourself. You might even want to use it at home even when you go back to work in your office!

  1. Meijiafei Shhh… Do Not Disturb Sign
  2. Honey Dew Gifts Do Not Disturb Sign
  3. Prim and Proper Two-Sided Sign

It’s also a good idea to try to select a position in which you are facing the entry of the room. If that is not possible, use a mirror on your desk to reflect the doorway from your point of view to adopt the “commanding position” symbolizing the fabulista that you are. This feng shui technique is intended to expand energy and bring balance to a space!

  1. Wood Frame Small Round Table Mirror
  2. SEHAMANO Vintage Foldable Embossed Makeup Table Mirror
  3. The Gaonnuri White Round Wood Frame Makeup Table Mirror

Most of us find ourselves joining video conference calls. Arrange your backdrop by clearing any unnecessary clutter, consider hanging or leaning a work of art behind you or eliminate distractions to give yourself a blank canvas. Feel empowered to create your own stage! Pro tip! If possible, choose a space outside of the bedroom. That space should remain your dedicated sanctuary for restoration. Om!

Make It Your Own

By creating a beautiful, inviting space you’ll find yourself actually wanting to “go to work” everyday. Now for the fun part… decorating! This step will truly connect you to your space and should reflect your unique personality. Place fresh flowers or plants nearby. Not only do they add beauty, but the practice of Biophilia – the innate human need to connect with nature – is proven to boost your mood! If fresh flowers aren’t an option during this time, there are some beautiful silk flower arrangements you can find to order online.

  1. Nearly Natural Phalaenopsis Silk Orchid Flower Arrangement
  2. Azoco Artificial Flowers with Vase Fake Flowers in Pot
  3. Bluecho Small Artificial Plants

Why sacrifice style for function when you can have it all? Staying organized is important to keep you on task and in a good mood, so define your workspace with desk accessories that reflect your personal aesthetic and help you stay organized. An assortment of trays, baskets, and file holders, accented with stylish tools like a statement stapler will turn any tabletop into an instant “desk”.

  1. Gold Desk Organizer
  2. UNIQOOO 5 Count Super Thick Clear Acrylic Gold Finish Stationery Set
  3. Blu Monaco 5 Piece Cute Office Supplies Gold Desk Organizer Set

Being comfortable is just as important as being organized, so consider adding a laptop stand or a sit-stand desk converter to your table or desk. They can make the world of difference for your productivity and comfort!

  1. Vertical Laptop Stand and Holder
  2. Standing Desk Sit-Stand Desk Converter Height Adjustable, Large Surface Area

Seating! Seating! Seating! An important element of any interior, but especially true when you’ll be spending much of your day at your new “desk”. Select a comfortable chair, adjusted to the height of your surface, and accessorize it with a lumbar-supporting pillow. Tres chic!

  1. JAZ Office Chair
  2. Ivory Distressed Side Chair
  3. FAY Office Chair, Bristol Charcoal

With a completed space, adorned with thoughtful elements to enhance your new, make-shift “work zone”, you are setting yourself up for productivity, effectiveness and professional satisfaction. Pro tip! Consider color and its powerful influence on mood and atmosphere. Blue is a favorite for its ability to create a sense of tranquility, while green symbolizes money and therefore success! Feeling extra bold? Incorporating yellow stimulates creativity, optimism and confidence! Try adding pops of color with accessories, accents, art, or paint if the temporary space becomes more permanent.

  1. Poppin 10 Piece Set Fresh Start Desk Collection
  2. Moroccan & Moorish Art Inspired Desktop Pen & Pencil Holder
  3. MEI YI TIAN Paperclips Holder with Built-in Magnetic Ring Dispenser

  1. Uttermost 2-Pc Decorative Box Set in Emerald Green
  2. Modern Day Accents Peral Verde, Pear
  3. TYEERDEC Foldable Storage Bins 2 Pack Storage Boxes with Lids and Handles

  1. Waltz&F Crystal Apple Paperweight
  2. ARAD Hand Cup Pen/Pencil Holder
  3. Zoogamo Yellow Diamond Shaped Glass Crystal Paperweight

Set Intentions

Start each day by setting an intention to achieve your professional accomplishments by choosing your mindset. As tempting as it may be to stay in your pajamas all day when “telecommuting” – as chic as they may be – the habitual act of getting dressed for work in the morning can be subconsciously motivating. Stay on task by writing down your daily to do list, crossing off each action as it’s accomplished is a victory and oh so satisfying! In a time when we may find ourselves more stressed than usual, I find it’s helpful to compartmentalize activities. Set working hours and try to stick to them, but be kind to yourself if it’s not feasible every day. Gift yourself breaks throughout the day where you physically step away from your work environment to meditate, enjoy meals with your family, call a loved one, get fresh air or just breathe. Inhale…2…3. Exhale…2…3…4. With your new workspace identified and accessorized, your intentions realized and set, you are ready for success. Brava! Take pride in your accomplishment and find joy in the home within a home you’ve built. Positivity radiates in well-designed spaces, may it fill your fabulous dwelling with peace while you #WFH and beyond. xoxo, Robin