Well we made it to the end of 2018. That was a slog wasn’t it? With everything boxed off at the end of the year, it’s time to start 2019 afresh. Now’s the time to put your plans into action, get that essential work-life balance and make sure your office is a productive place to be.

When it comes to upgrading your office for the new year, here’s where you should start.

1.       Get the right chair

We spend far too much time sitting down, but when working it’s difficult to get away from it. But that doesn’t mean that you have to make do with a chair or office furniture that doesn’t work for you.

If you make one big office investment this year, make it an ergonomic chair that is customisable and adjustable to fit with your body. Go for one with wheels too, so you can easily manoeuvre it around the room when required.

2.       Add some extra storage space

Messy desk, messy mind. When you begin working every day you need to be able to kick-start the day with a fresh and clear mind. If your desk is covered in paper, notepads and sticky notes, your mind will instantly feel cluttered.

Investing in some simple storage space and ensuring you use it at the end of each day is the perfect place to start.

3.       Get your thoughts out with a whiteboard

You need your thoughts out of your head and onto something tangible. A whiteboard is essential to help you strategize, brainstorm and turn your business aspirations and thoughts into business plans and actions.

4.       Add some colour

Getting a little colour on the walls can work wonders for your mind. Blues and greens are ideal if you want to make your office a relaxing and calming space, while deep oranges, bright yellows and reds will reinvigorate your mind and get you ready for action.

5.       Get more light in

Natural light is essential to create the right working environment. Low light conditions can make you feel drowsy and lethargic and can also cause your eyes to deteriorate over time. If you have windows, throw open the blinds during the day.

If not, you’ll need to invest in a good lamp that will bring enough light into the office space.

6.       Think how you can relax your mind

Your office shouldn’t all be about churning out the work. You’ll also need adequate time and space to think and come up with new ideas. Small items in your office can do wonders to relax your mind and give you room to think clearly.

Try a stress ball, head massager or a resistance band. Also don’t forget to get up and stretch your legs to ensure the blood is flowing around your body.

7.       Invest in an indoor plant

An indoor plant will not only add a little colour to your office, it will bring more oxygen into the space too. Maintaining it will also be a good activity for some much needed headspace.

Just opt for something that doesn’t need too much care and attention. Excellent starter choices include a Peace Lilly, Spider Plant, Snake Plant or the classic cactus.

It’s a new year, it’s time to put your best foot forward.