Chances are good you or someone you know works from home. The pandemic left a permanent mark on American society with many employees forced to work remotely, and now doing so happily, and voluntarily. But working from home has its drawbacks. One – it can become monotonous when you’re stuck in the same space for hours on end.
- Improving your mood
- Improving energy levels
- Relieving stress
- Resting your eyes and brain
- Enhancing memory
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Set up an Outdoor Office
Consider setting up an outdoor office space where you can work in the fresh air and natural light. Invest in a sturdy outdoor table and chair set, and make sure you have access to a power source if you need it. If you’re worried about the elements, invest in a sunshade or outdoor umbrella to provide some shade.
But what could you do with an outdoor workspace?
- Take calls and host coaching sessions
- Check emails
- Laptop work
- Writing and editing
Create a Cozy Seating Area
If you have a patio or deck, add some comfortable outdoor furniture, like a sectional, lounge chairs, or even a hammock, to create a cozy seating area. You can also add a fire pit or outdoor heater to keep you warm during chilly days or nights. This will create a relaxing atmosphere and provide a change of scenery from your indoor workspace.
- Create a “thinkery” for meditation and brainstorming
- Invite your coworkers for a meeting or lunch
- Entertain and socialize after hours
Install an Outdoor Kitchen
Take your lunch outside! Consider installing an outdoor kitchen, which can include a grill, sink, and storage space. Cooking outside can provide a break from indoor cooking, and it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors. You can also add a bar area and outdoor refrigerator to make your outdoor space feel like a second living room. Enjoy the fresh air, a more enjoyable break, and an easier cleanup.
Create a Garden Space
Supercharge your creativity and productivity. Creating a garden space is a great way to transform your backyard into an oasis. A variety of plants and flowers adds color and texture to your outdoor space, and your mindset. You can also add a small vegetable garden or herb garden, which can provide fresh produce for your meals. Being surrounded by greenery and nature can also help you feel more relaxed and refreshed. Which is proven to improve productivity. We work best when we’re less stressed!
Aromas like Jasmine, Rose, Geranium, and Lavender, in addition to many others, can go a long way to refresh your mind and arrest body fatigue.
Add some water features
Adding a water feature, like a fountain, pond, or small waterfall, can create a relaxing atmosphere and provide a soothing sound. Water features can also attract birds and other wildlife, which can be a great distraction from work. Just make sure to maintain and clean the water feature regularly to prevent any unwanted pests or bacteria.
What can you really get done outside?
- Phone calls (use your earbuds to help with ambient noise)
- Host meetings or brainstorming sessions
- Write or draw
- Anything you do on a laptop
- Make a plan: whiteboard + stand = mobile planning station
- Take a break!
Transforming your backyard into an outdoor living space can provide a much-needed break from the monotony of working and living in the same place. By creating a cozy seating area, installing an outdoor kitchen, creating a garden space, setting up an outdoor office, and adding some water features, you can create an oasis that will help you feel more relaxed and refreshed and be more productive.
Contact us here to get on our calendar for your complimentary landscape design consultation today. It’s that time of year, space fills up quickly!
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