The working from home essentials you need

Remote working has become more than a passing trend. It’s now a long-term reality for millions of people around the world. Whether you’re working full-time for an employer, running your own business from the kitchen table, or studying for a degree, your home setup plays a big part in how productive (and sane) you feel.

But creating the perfect home workspace isn’t just about plugging in a laptop and hoping for the best. It’s about designing a space that supports your professional responsibilities while also helping you maintain a sense of balance and wellbeing. You’ll need reliable internet, a comfortable workspace, and a few design touches to make it all come together.

In exciting news, I’ve been setting up my new copywriting business, The Typed Word and it really got me thinking about exactly what I need from my home setup, but also in terms of my software, tools and more. Below are some of the things I couldn’t do without when starting a business from home.

 

1. Start with a reliable internet connection

Without good internet, nothing works. From video calls to file downloads, your entire workflow hinges on a stable, high-speed internet connection.

If your current broadband is slow, patchy, or just doesn’t cut it for full-time remote work, it’s worth exploring broadband-only deals that focus on speed and reliability over extras you may not need.

I’d also suggest that you consider the location of your router, too. A poorly placed router (like in a cupboard under the stairs) can lead to frustrating dead zones. A wi-fi extender can help improve coverage, especially in larger homes. And if you’re sharing the connection with others who are also working or studying from home, bandwidth matters even more.

 

2. Invest in the right equipment

Technology doesn’t need to be fancy, but it does need to work well. A dependable laptop or desktop with decent processing power and enough memory will keep things running smoothly. Constant freezing or slow-loading software is a productivity killer and, frankly, just creates unnecessary stress.

If your work involves spreadsheets, creative software, or multitasking between several windows, an external monitor can be a game-changer. Dual screens not only improve efficiency but can also reduce eye strain from squinting at a single small display.

This is one of the best things I got for my home office. My extra large computer screen (27 inches) means I can put some things that require more attention to detail on the bigger screen, while also having my laptop as a second screen.

There are some extras that get forgotten about too, including a good set of headphones with a microphone for client calls and even a webcam if you think you’ll be video calling clients. Clear video and audio can make a big difference in how professionally you come across.

 

3. Create a comfortable, ergonomic workspace

When you’re spending hours at your desk, comfort matters. It’s tempting to work from the sofa or even your bed (I know I’ve done it), but a dedicated workspace is better for your posture, focus and mindset.

An ergonomic chair will provide good back support and encourages you to sit properly, something that is really important when you’re working for 7+ hours each day.

Adjustable features like seat height and lumbar support are important if you want to avoid back pain after long days of sitting. Investing in a good chair may feel indulgent at first, but your back will thank you later.

Next, think about your desk. It doesn’t need to be huge, but it should have enough space for your computer, notebook, a coffee cup and maybe a few small personal touches like a plant or framed photo. I’d suggest that you keep clutter to a minimum, and so investing in storage boxes or drawer units can help keep things organised.

 

Natural light is ideal, so try to set up near a window if you can. If that’s not possible, choose lighting that’s bright but not harsh. A good desk lamp can do wonders, especially during the darker months of October to March.

 

4. Manage your time

Working from home definitely gives you more control over your schedule, but that flexibility can easily lead to procrastination or burnout if not managed carefully. The lack of separation between “work” and “home” can blur boundaries and make it harder to switch off.

You should aim to set a consistent schedule that mirrors a typical workday. Perhaps you could begin at 9 and finish at 5 (or if you’re trying to avoid these ‘standard’ office hours, you could start at 10 and finish at 4). I’d also suggest that you take regular breaks and go for a short walk or a stretch every couple of hours. This has proven to not just boost your focus but also your energy too.

It also helps to start your day with a simple to-do list. You can prioritise tasks and aim to tackle the most important ones in your peak productivity hours, whether that’s early morning or after lunch.

I personally prefer to get stuck into work in the morning and organise any client calls for after lunch, when I can be a bit less productive.

 

5. Minimise distractions at home

Household chores, the TV, or chatty housemates can all pull your attention away from work. While some interruptions are unavoidable, many can be managed with a bit of planning.

If you live with others, you should try to set some boundaries around your work hours and explain when you need quiet time. Noise-cancelling headphones or even a white noise machine can come in handy if your space is noisy.

Where possible, keep your work zone separate from high-traffic areas like the kitchen or living room. If you don’t have a spare room, even a corner of the bedroom can work well with a small desk and some clever zoning.

 

6. Stay connected with others

Working remotely doesn’t mean working alone. Maintaining communication with colleagues, clients, or fellow freelancers is essential, and not just for collaboration purposes but for your own mental wellbeing.

Video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams allow you to meet virtually and don’t forget about instant messaging apps for quick check-ins or light-hearted conversations. 

If you’re a freelancer or solo business owner, consider joining online communities or networking groups in your industry. These spaces can be a source of support, inspiration and even new business opportunities.

 

7. Personalise your working space

Adding a few personal touches to your workspace can help make it a place you enjoy spending time in. Think small and intentional, like a favourite mug, a scented candle or some framed prints. Plants are another great addition and they’re proven to improve mood and reduce stress.

But try not to go overboard. Too many decorative items can clutter your space and become distracting. The goal is to create an environment that feels both motivating and calming, a place where you can focus, create and thrive.

 

Remote working certainly has its challenges, but with the right setup, it can be just as productive—if not more so—than working from a traditional office. By investing a little time and effort into your home workspace, you’re not just making life easier day to day, but you’re also setting yourself up for long-term success.