Going to work has changed significantly over the past year. For a lot of people, a long commute has changed to a short walk into another room.

It doesn’t appear that everyone will be heading back to the office five days a week after the coronavirus pandemic either, with 74 per cent of company directors planning to continue increased home-working for the long term.

The lack of face-to-face interaction that comes with working from home can adversely affect your mental health and how much you enjoy your job.

If you feel like you need a boost while working from home, there are a few small changes that could provide the impact you need.

Listen to music

Having music on can really help you focus, with research showing that workers listening to music complete tasks quicker and have better ideas.

If you’ve discovered the joys of vinyl, use your work time as a chance to get a record on your turntables and really get in the zone.

Plus, if you’re alone in your home office, you don’t have to listen to what other people want and you can turn it up as loud as you want!

Get some sunshine

Even just moving your desk can have a significant impact on your overall mood and health.

If you’re tucked away in a corner facing a wall, consider relocating your workstation so that you’re closer to a window.

Exposure to sunlight is thought to increase the levels of serotonin in your system, boosting your mood and helping you stay calm and focused.

Green up your space

While it’s good to make your workspace as uncluttered as possible, there are some additions that can have a beneficial effect.

Bring the outside in by getting a few houseplants. Seeing greenery can help you feel relaxed, and as well as looking good they can also help purify the air in your room.

Not sure where to start? Try ones that have been shown to purify air in research by NASA.

Make the most of your breaks

Do everything you can to avoid spending your break in the same room as the one you work in.

Moving to a different part of your property can provide the separation you need to switch off for a bit, but if that’s not possible then head outside for a bit.

Whether you go for a walk, do some stretches or just sit down, getting some fresh air can help you feel rejuvenated and ready to continue working when your break is over.