Editor’s Picks: affordable and easy to use, here are the top productivity-boosting tools helping me make the most of work-from-home oblivion. Because we need every tip, trick and hack we can get our hands on this year.
1 – Blue light glasses
Given that we’re spending 12 hours per day in front of a screen on average, it seems sensible to reduce eye strain and screen fatigue. While the jury is still out as to whether or not excessive exposure to blue light is actually harmful to the retina (some ophthalmologists point to chronic overuse of digital devices rather than the blue light rays themselves), there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence to demonstrate that blue light blocking glasses can reduce headaches, eye strain, and allow you to get work done for longer chunks of time without turning into a bloodshot, bleary-eyed monstrosity.
(For a deeper dive, I’ve written in much greater depth about the benefits and functionality of blue light glasses here.)
2 – Wrist rests for the keyboard and mousepad
I do my best work when I can concentrate on the task itself, and sore wrists pose a distraction that just won’t do. Memory foam keyboard and mousepad wrist rests help keep my wrists and forearms comfortable during long days by maintaining them in a supported, neutral position, thereby reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries (yes, you actually can hurt yourself sitting all day). I’m not exaggerating when I say I noticed the benefits immediately, and my faithful wrist cushions now accompany my laptop on all its travels across the range of flat surfaces / makeshift workspaces in my home.
Staples carries a variety of ergonomic wrist rests in an all-business color palette. For more decorative or colorful options, iLeadon offers pretty patterns and themes. Opt for a non-slip rubber base for stability, and (preferably) non-toxic, environmentally friendly materials.
3 – Reusable water bottle
You’ve heard it before: your brain is about 75% water. This hydration is essential for delivering nutrients and for removing toxins. When your brain functions on a full reserve, you can think faster, remain more focused, and experience greater clarity. (Plus, it’ll make your complexion ever so moisturized and dewy.)
With so many reusable water bottles on the market at affordable prices in a variety of colors and sizes, there’s no excuse not to stay hydrated at your desk. Forego the paper cups with high spillage risk and opt for a portable, washable, personalizable water bottle. My favorite: the 24-oz Contigo triple pack in multiple colors I snagged at Costco (also available on Amazon here). I’m a simple girl and don’t need too many bells and whistles.
4 – Notebook + pen
I know; in our tech-obsessed society we’re all using Evernote for jottings and putting our shopping lists in the Notes or Pages apps, but there’s nothing more inspiring than the possibility of the blank page. I will never not reach for a pen and paper when brainstorming, scribbling ideas, or quickly recording information I know I’ll want to access later.
Over the years, multiple studies have found that handwriting improves brain function in myriad ways and enhances our ability to remember what we write. For example, children who learn to write by hand learn to read faster and show greater creativity. They were also using more words and expressing more ideas than children who used keyboards. So if you’re after improved creative output or hoping to retain what you write down, the trusty pen and notebook combo is the way to go! Papier has beautiful personalizable lined notebooks, and VistaPrint (currently offering 25% off) also makes notebooks with custom covers featuring your photos or uploaded materials.
