Crafting a Home Workstation: Balancing Work and Academic Pursuits
As remote work and academic pursuits intertwine within the sanctity of our homes, creating a thoughtful workspace becomes not just practical, but essential. Having a dedicated space is crucial for fostering productivity and concentration. A well-planned home workstation effectively harmonizes professional tasks and academic endeavors, ensuring a smooth transition between work and study sessions.
Productivity is not just about getting things done, but creating an environment where inspiration meets execution seamlessly
I’d like to share my journey of building a workstation and some key things to focus on while creating one. During the pandemic, I worked from home and set up my first workstation in my hometown, featuring an ergonomic electronic stand-up desk. Now that I’ve moved to the city for a hybrid work model, I have a second workstation here, which is still a work in progress. On top of my job, I’m also doing a part-time Ph.D., which means I spend a lot of time on my PC for research and reading. So, my current setup has to serve both work and study needs.
Though everyone’s preferences and styles are different, there are a few common factors to consider when setting up your workstation. Let’s explore how you can start and create a sleek, productive space that works for both your job and academic pursuits.
Factors to Consider for Workstation Build
Ergonomics
Taking care of your physical comfort is crucial when setting up your workstation. It’s about creating a setup that supports your body and reduces strain during long work hours. Here are some practical tips:
- Chair: Look for a chair that offers good lower back (lumbar) support and allows you to adjust its height, armrests, and tilt. This helps maintain a natural posture and prevents discomfort.
- Desk: Opt for a desk that accommodates your height and allows you to sit with your feet flat on the floor and your arms at a comfortable angle for typing. Adjustable desks are great for switching between sitting and standing, promoting better circulation and reducing fatigue.
- Monitor: Position your monitor directly at eye level to avoid tilting your head up or down. This helps prevent neck strain. Use a monitor stand or arm to achieve the right height and angle.
- Keyboard and Mouse: Choose ergonomic designs that support your wrists and hands in a neutral position. Ergonomic keyboards often have split or curved designs to reduce strain, while ergonomic mice fit comfortably in your hand, reducing repetitive strain injuries.
- Footrest: If your chair and desk setup doesn’t allow your feet to rest flat on the floor, consider using a footrest to support your feet and maintain proper posture.
Technology
Selecting the right technology for your workstation enhances productivity and efficiency:
- Computer or Laptop: Invest in a computer or laptop with sufficient processing power, memory, and storage to handle your workload smoothly. Consider your future needs and opt for a device that can be easily upgraded.
- Monitor: Choose a high-resolution display that suits your work requirements. The size and type of monitor (such as IPS for better color accuracy or TN for faster response times) depend on your tasks.
- Peripherals: Select ergonomic keyboards and mice that feel comfortable to use for extended periods. Wireless options reduce clutter and offer flexibility in positioning.
- Docking Stations or Hubs: Simplify connectivity with docking stations or USB hubs, especially if you use multiple devices or peripherals. This minimizes cable clutter and makes it easy to connect and disconnect devices as needed.
- Aesthetics: Creating a workspace that feels good and inspires creativity can positively impact your mood and productivity:
Decor and Lighting
Personalize your workspace with items that motivate you, such as plants, artwork, or meaningful objects. Consider using adjustable lighting to create a comfortable and well-lit environment.
- Color Scheme: Choose colors that promote a sense of calm and focus. Soft blues, greens, and neutrals are often recommended for their soothing effects, but personalize it to what inspires you.
Organization: Keep your workspace tidy and organized to minimize distractions: - Use desk organizers, trays, and bins to store essential items like stationery, documents, and personal belongings.
- Implement cable management solutions to keep wires neat and out of the way. Cable ties, clips, or raceways can help manage cables effectively.
- Regularly declutter your workspace by removing unnecessary items and maintaining a clean, clutter-free environment.
My Workstation Journey
My journey with workstations dates back to the early 2000s when I was a kid hanging around my father’s PC, a Windows Millennium Edition. Back then, we had bulky screens and noisy CPUs with a dial-up modem that barely reached 2kbps. My dad kept his setup in the living room since we didn’t have a lot of space. Despite that, I always enjoyed helping my mom set up the PC desk. We often rearranged the setup, shifting the CPU to the left or right, and we also had peripherals like a scanner and an early inkjet printer.
My mother, although not from a tech background, impressed me with her efficiency in using the computer for management-related activities as a company secretary. Her remarkable typing speed and command over applications like Word and Excel left a lasting impression on me, sparking my interest in computers. Meanwhile, my father purchased the desktop specifically for his CAD drawings as a freelance civil engineer. As their needs changed, he eventually transitioned to an HP laptop (formerly a Compaq Presario), passing down the desktop to me.
As technology continued to evolve, we experimented with integrating a TV tuner card into our computer (specifically a Pinnacle TV tuner). It was a defining moment of my childhood, witnessing our simple desk transform into a multifunctional workstation.
Moving Back home due to the Pandemic
Years later, during my college years, I restarted my journey with workstation setups. Although it wasn’t detailed, I had a dedicated desk with a high-performance gaming PC connected to a 32-inch LG LCD TV around 2014. This setup supported both my academic pursuits in computer science and my freelance graphic design work. Later on, I moved to Bangalore to pursue my master’s degree and had to adapt to a laptop-only setup for two years. Despite this, I ensured my desk was organized and ergonomic. For me, having a proper setup is essential for maximizing productivity and maintaining focus. After graduating and moving into an apartment, I brought my desktop from home along with a 24-inch Dell screen. As the pandemic struck, I had to return home as everything shut down across the country. Unable to set up my workstation, I found myself uncertain about how long the situation would last. Consequently, I ended up working from my bed or occasionally on my dining table or the old table I had used for my setup back in 2014. Since I wasn’t sure how long I would be working from home, like many others, I initially worked from my bed. Eventually, due to productivity concerns, I had to leave my bed and find a more suitable place to work. Although I had a desk, it was cluttered with unnecessary items, including my desktop. I ended up choosing my dining table as my primary workspace.
My entire desk was a mess as I juggled between office work, entertainment (mostly watching anime), and preparing for PhD entrance exams along with other upskilling activities. Despite the chaos, I managed to secure a new job. Since I needed a temporary solution until the company could send their laptop, I had to purchase a laptop. My old HP laptop struggled with disk issues causing workload troubles, and I avoided using my desktop due to potential power failures. I decided to purchase MSI’s gaming laptop for its potential as a heavy-duty performer, crucial for high performance, and a cornerstone of my workstation setup. Meanwhile, my old LG LCD TV, which had served as my desktop screen, unexpectedly stopped working. This prompted me to invest in a high-quality 32-inch monitor, similar to the size I was accustomed to with my previous setup. I always prefer LG monitors for their high refresh rate and excellent color depth they provide.
Although my initial workstation setup was ready after adding a screen and clearing away unnecessary items from the desk, dealing with the tangled wires of peripherals became a source of frustration, impacting my productivity. To resolve this, I opted for wireless options for my keyboard and mouse. Additionally, I incorporated a podcast microphone for two main reasons: first, to manage the stress of 5 to 6 hours of calls at my job, where relying on headphone mics or the laptop’s built-in microphone proved unreliable due to the distance from my mouth caused by the dual-screen setup. Secondly, the podcast microphone also served well for gaming purposes, particularly for multiplayer games like PUBG PC and Fortnite.
Though my setup was productive overall, there were some drawbacks. Spending long hours on calls and working continuously (sometimes 12 to 14 hours without leaving the desk which used to be the new normal) led to backaches that eventually developed into Sciatica. Most likely, this was due to my sitting posture and the desk not being ergonomic. The sciatica problems were severe, affecting my ability to sit, stand, or sleep properly. I had to take longer breaks than usual, and this coincided with receiving my PhD admission. Overall, my work-life balance was heavily disrupted. One of my colleagues suggested that investing in a standing desk would be beneficial, considering the uncertain future of remote work and the indefinite duration of the work-from-home scenario. That’s how I ended up getting my electronically operated standing desk.
The standing desk helped alleviate some of my issues, complementing my medical treatment. To enhance the workspace ambiance, I introduced a jade plant and reorganized my existing accessories. Implementing cable management accessories and tags significantly reduced visible wires. Additionally, I streamlined connectivity with a C-type docking hub for all USB devices and the screen. This setup allowed hassle-free connection and disconnection directly from the laptop’s C port, consolidating multiple cables into just one C-type and the laptop charger.
Everything was finally in place, and I was content with my entire work setup. However, fate had other plans for me as remote work shifted to a hybrid model, requiring me to visit the office twice a week. I had no choice but to leave my current setup unchanged. When I packed my bags to return to Bangalore, I initially considered bringing my setup with me. However, due to logistical reasons, I ultimately decided to create a new setup in Bangalore instead.
Returning to Base Location
So, when I returned to the city this year for work, I had to start from scratch because I didn’t have any of my previous setups. I decided to purchase a DIY table from Amazon, thinking it would be sufficient for my entire workstation setup. However, after it was delivered, I quickly realized there wasn’t even enough space to comfortably set up my workspace. Though the table was good for a single laptop and a nearby write pad, it felt way too congested and non-productive for my needs.
Later, I replaced it with a proper work desk, but I decided to go with a smaller one than what I had back in my hometown. I was unsure about my place of stay since I might be moving out of my current rented apartment. If the new place didn’t have enough space, a wider table wouldn’t fit. So, I opted for a 120cm wide table instead.
The decision was practical for my situation. The smaller desk was more versatile and could easily fit into a variety of spaces. While I missed the expansive surface area of my old desk, I found that this more compact setup forced me to be more organized and efficient with the space I had. I carefully arranged my laptop, monitor, and essential peripherals, making sure everything had its place without feeling cramped.
This new arrangement, though smaller, ended up being quite effective. It reminded me that sometimes less can be more, and a well-thought-out, smaller setup can be just as productive and comfortable as a larger one, especially when you need to adapt to uncertain living situations.
So, I brought a few items from my old setup, like my action figure, joystick, and mouse. Later, I added a 3.5mm speaker powered by USB for better sound quality and a wireless keyboard to complete the setup. Lastly, I purchased a laptop stand to adjust the eye level. This was a crucial addition, as it allowed me to align my laptop screen with my eye level, reducing neck strain and improving my posture. Since the lighting wasn’t great initially, I positioned the table and my setup directly under the room’s light. However, this arrangement didn’t create a productive space. One by one, more things found their way onto the desk. First, I added a desk lamp to provide better lighting specifically focused on my workspace. This made a huge difference in reducing eye strain and creating a more inviting environment.
Later, I purchased a 27-inch LG screen to upgrade my setup. This new screen provided a larger, clearer display, making it easier to multitask and work on more detailed projects. The improved screen real estate significantly enhanced my productivity and made my workflow smoother. Each addition was thoughtfully chosen to enhance both functionality and aesthetics, gradually transforming my workspace into a more efficient and pleasant place to work.
To further enhance my setup, I added a desk spread and an under-table riser for a more organized space. These additions helped maximize the desk area, providing more room for my essentials and keeping everything neat. I also got a second-hand Echo Show 5-inch, which was a handy addition for quick information, reminders, and even some background music. I’m still exploring ways to make the Echo Show more useful in my setup. Along with a few odd items like an agarbatti stand for a pleasant smell and an emergency lamp for those unexpected power outages, my workspace was becoming more functional and comfortable.
My journey in building and refining my home workstation has been a process of continuous improvement and adaptation. From navigating the challenges of space constraints to optimizing ergonomics and functionality, each addition and adjustment has been aimed at creating a workspace that supports both productivity and personal comfort.
Below are the details of the items I purchased to enhance my workstation setup. From the ergonomic desk spread and under-table riser for better organization to the second-hand Echo Show 5-inch that adds functionality with quick information and background music, each addition has contributed to creating a more productive and comfortable workspace.
Amazon WishList containing all the items below — Link
I plan to continue upgrading and refining this list over time as my needs evolve and new technologies become available. Please have a look at the below picture for further reference.
Along the way, I’ve learned the importance of ergonomic furniture, efficient cable management, and the impact of ambient elements like lighting and pleasant scents.
While my setup continues to evolve with new additions like a standing desk for better posture and organizational tools for a clutter-free environment, the journey itself has been enriching. It’s not just about the physical components but also about the mindset of creating a space that inspires creativity and fosters focus. Building a workstation isn’t just about assembling furniture and gadgets — it’s about creating an environment where work becomes a productive and enjoyable part of everyday life.
