Workspace 101: Setting Up a Successful Workspace in 8 Steps
Are you struggling with online school? Don’t worry - you’re not alone! One of the best things I ever found to help me learn at home was setting up my workspace for success. This doesn’t necessarily always mean you need to have a formal desk and chair as long as you find a comfortable, quiet space.
Here are my top 8 tips to help set up your workspace for success at online school.
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1) Create a Dedicated Workspace
Whether you have a formal desk and chair or if you work just as well on your bed, it’s imperative that you set up a space that will tell your brain “whenever I’m here, I need you in work mode”. By creating a study haven, you will have a place to come to so you (and everyone else around you, for that matter) know you’re in work mode when you need to be.
If you tend to work in a place that’s also used for something else (for example, your bed), change something about your set up for work mode. Even something as simple as changing the direction you face can trick your brain into thinking you’re in a different environment.
2) Don’t Face a Blank Wall
If you face a blank wall all day, your brain will think you’ve been banished to the corner and it will struggle to focus. Windows are great if the option’s there, but if not, try to face your desk away from the wall if possible. If facing the wall is the only option, put up some pictures to break up the solid wall.
3) Quiet is Key
A lot of noise can be supremely distracting. If a quiet place to work isn’t an option, try using headphones to help keep your mind on your studies. If you ARE listing to music, opt for something without lyrics so it will continue to help instead of distract.
4) Turn off Any Unnecessary Notifications
Turn off notifications from anything that will buzz, beep or ding that doesn’t HAVE to be dealt with asap. If your school is online-based, it’s totally possible that you will need some form of e-mail or chat open while you’re working. Aim to keep distractions to a minimum, though, so turn off anything unnecessary.
5) Have a “Distractions” Notepad Handy
Even if you have the best intentions, it’s super easy to get distracted. Some of these things are even important to remember, so you’re going to be tempted to veer off course and do them while they’re on your mind. Resist the urge!
Unless you absolutely HAVE to do something right at that moment, use your notepad to jot down anything that comes into your head that you need to deal with, and come back to it later. It’s best to dub certain times of the day (such as every hour on the hour) as your “catch up on the random things on the distractions notepad” times.
6) Find A Second and Third Place to Study
Once you have your principle study place established, find a couple of other places where you can set up shop. This will bring some variety into your studying and will give your brain the boost it needs whenever you’re sitting down for a long, focused reading session.
7) Place Something You Love in Glance-Able Range
We’ve all been there - you keep reading the same paragraph over and over and it STILL doesn’t make sense. Instead of ripping your hair out at the follicles EVERY time, place something nearby that’s sure to make you smile. For some people this is a photo of a best friend, for others, it may be a favourite toy or a trophy. Have something that you can look at without moving from your workspace that will make you smile in your time of angst.
8) Keep Things Organized
It’s easy for things to get out of hand when all of your subjects are studied from the same desk. Do yourself a favour and put things away when you’re not using them. This will not only keep your area tidy, but putting things away and taking new things out will also signal your brain that you’re moving onto another subject.
Tadaa! 8 simple tips that will help you set up your workspace for online school success.
If you found this useful and would like more tips and tricks, check out my book below. I went in and out of the distance learning model myself many times, and I picked up a lot of helpful skills along the way. If you’re struggling with transitioning your schooling to being from home, let me help you make things easier!