{"id":9869,"date":"2025-03-12T01:47:00","date_gmt":"2025-03-12T07:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/?p=9869"},"modified":"2026-01-31T16:22:18","modified_gmt":"2026-01-31T22:22:18","slug":"home-office-on-a-budget","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/home-office-on-a-budget\/","title":{"rendered":"Planning a home office? Check out these budget-friendly ideas"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Working from home has its perks. There\u2019s the money saved from skipping the commute, and just think about all of that time you get back by avoiding crowded freeways or public transit during rush hour. As far as workplace attire goes, few employees would trade \u201cwork-from-home casual\u201d for dress slacks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re among the many people who work from home these days, you probably know that while it affords some new freedoms, it also creates new challenges. One of your biggest tasks is to create a productive, ergonomically correct workplace in your home without breaking the bank. If this sounds familiar, you\u2019re probably asking yourself, \u201cHow can I set up a home office on a budget?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019ve always <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/budgeting-as-a-freelancer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"worked from home as a freelancer (opens in a new tab)\">worked from home as a freelancer<\/a> or started during the pandemic, these expert tips will help you get started as you design your home office on a budget: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2121\" height=\"869\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-1-INARTICLE-e1597671571533.jpg\" alt=\"A man a woman work together on assembling a desk. \" class=\"wp-image-9884\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-1-INARTICLE-e1597671571533.jpg 2121w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-1-INARTICLE-e1597671571533-300x123.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-1-INARTICLE-e1597671571533-780x320.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-1-INARTICLE-e1597671571533-768x315.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-1-INARTICLE-e1597671571533-1536x629.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-1-INARTICLE-e1597671571533-2048x839.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-1-INARTICLE-e1597671571533-730x299.jpg 730w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2121px) 100vw, 2121px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-strive-for-an-ergonomically-correct-home-office\">Strive for an ergonomically correct home office<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Being home all day creates an unexpected obstacle: pain. Many workers find that transitioning from a well-equipped office to a makeshift setup at home leads to discomfort. That\u2019s because many of them go from having a spacious desk, comfortable chair, monitor, and keyboard in their office building to working from a laptop in their living room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you suffer from neck pain or eye strain when working from home, you may be feeling the effects of poor ergonomics. Ergonomics, commonly known as the science of work, aims to optimize productivity and health in a workspace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a physical therapist with more than 25 years of experience, Karen Loesing, owner of a company that performs ergonomic evaluations for individuals and companies, knows this issue all too well. Over the years, she has seen countless clients suffering from neck, back, or other health issues due to poorly designed workspaces. But it doesn\u2019t have to be that way, Loesing says.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"mx-auto block-quote block-quote--1back bg-fixed bg-center bg-no-repeat bg-cover z-0\">\n    <div class=\"block-quote__glow\"><\/div>\n    <blockquote class=\"post--constrain-large\">\n        <p>\u201cHaving an ergonomically correct workstation enhances productivity and generally overall happiness at work.\u201d<\/p>\n                    <footer class=\"block-quote__source\">Karen Loesing, owner of a company that performs ergonomic evaluations<\/footer>\n            <\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"post__content\">\n\n\n\n<p>There are relatively easy ways to transform an ergonomic nightmare into a well-functioning home office on a budget\u2014even if you\u2019re stationed at the kitchen table, she says. And the investment is worth it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cHaving an ergonomically correct workstation enhances productivity and generally overall happiness at work,\u201d Loesing says. \u201cFor those who are able to designate a certain space in their home where they can work without distractions\u2014maybe even a window with a view and the flexibility to work at your own pace\u2014it has been proven this makes for a happier employee.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Who doesn\u2019t want to boost their health, productivity and happiness in one fell swoop? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-find-the-optimal-location-for-your-at-home-workspace\">Find the optimal location for your at-home workspace <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When setting up a home office for remote work, location should be your first decision, says design consultant Linda Varone, author of a book about home office design. Depending on your living situation, there may be an obvious answer, such as that spare room you\u2019ve always thought could become an office space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don\u2019t have a dedicated office, don\u2019t despair. While you\u2019re setting up a home office on a budget, think creatively about where it can be. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Varone once visited a client\u2019s home to help reconfigure her workspace. The client was <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/how-to-turn-your-side-hustle-into-your-dream-job\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"running a business (opens in a new tab)\">running a business<\/a> from a table in the hallway. \u201cAt the end of each workday, she had to pack everything up and store it in the closet in the guest room,\u201d Varone says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But as Varone learned, guests only stayed over two weeks a year, leaving the room empty the rest of the time. It hadn\u2019t occurred to the business owner, but turning the guest room into a home office for most of the year was the perfect solution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2121\" height=\"869\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-4-INARTICLE-e1597671710646.jpg\" alt=\"A man and a woman lift a couch together in a room. \" class=\"wp-image-9885\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-4-INARTICLE-e1597671710646.jpg 2121w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-4-INARTICLE-e1597671710646-300x123.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-4-INARTICLE-e1597671710646-780x320.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-4-INARTICLE-e1597671710646-768x315.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-4-INARTICLE-e1597671710646-1536x629.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-4-INARTICLE-e1597671710646-2048x839.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-4-INARTICLE-e1597671710646-730x299.jpg 730w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2121px) 100vw, 2121px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThere are some simple, simple ways that people can rethink their home office without a big investment and make that space really work for them,\u201d Varone says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to using a guest room, a dining or living room can also function as a home office on a budget. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-establish-the-ideal-setup-for-your-workstation\">Establish the ideal setup for your workstation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve decided on the room, determine the location for your workstation, Varone says. As you plan your home office, consider placing your desk or table near a window, allowing for natural light and an occasional glimpse of nature. Don\u2019t face directly outside; instead, aim for a line of sight that\u2019s perpendicular to the window, Varone says. That\u2019s because, even on an overcast day, you\u2019d be looking into too much bright light if you\u2019re facing the window.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWhat\u2019s happening is your eyes are adjusting back and forth between the bright sunlight that you\u2019re facing and the darker light of your computer screen,\u201d Varone says. \u201cAnd that ends up being really fatiguing for the eye.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live with others, the biggest challenge will be privacy. Try to clearly define the boundaries of your \u201coffice\u201d if you can, such as with an area rug, she says. Then ask your roommates or family members not to enter your space while you\u2019re working, apart from an emergency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2119\" height=\"868\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-5-INARTICLE-e1597671773190.jpg\" alt=\"A woman works at the kitchen table on a laptop and smart phone while a man and two children occupy space in the back of the kitchen. \" class=\"wp-image-9886\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-5-INARTICLE-e1597671773190.jpg 2119w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-5-INARTICLE-e1597671773190-300x123.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-5-INARTICLE-e1597671773190-780x320.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-5-INARTICLE-e1597671773190-768x315.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-5-INARTICLE-e1597671773190-1536x629.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-5-INARTICLE-e1597671773190-2048x839.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-5-INARTICLE-e1597671773190-730x299.jpg 730w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2119px) 100vw, 2119px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you use a multipurpose space, be sure to tidy everything up at the end of the day, Varone says. Taking the 10 minutes or so to clean up your \u201coffice\u201d will reduce clutter. Ultimately, a clutter-free space can reduce your stress and boost your productivity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThat also has a benefit of becoming a little ritual and helping you say, \u2018All right, my workday is over,\u2019\u201d Varone says. \u201c\u2018Now I can focus on my personal life.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-choose-your-furniture-wisely\">Choose your furniture wisely <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you\u2019ve found the perfect location for your home office on a budget, focus on finding the perfect work surface. Maybe it\u2019s a traditional desk. Or it could be your dining room table or kitchen counter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you do need to buy a desk or chair, don\u2019t feel like you need to spend a fortune. Try looking for a used office furniture store or liquidator in your area, Varone recommends. You could even try searching online marketplaces for a gently used model.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When planning a home office and considering your work surface, what matters most is the height. <\/p>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"w-100 mb-8 md:mb-[60px] md:mt-[30px] max-h-[400px] overflow-hidden\">\n    <picture class=\"flex w-full\">                                                             \n        <source src='https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-0-MARQUEE-scaled-991x399.jpg?v=16'  data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-6-FULL-992x400.jpg.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\" media=\"(min-width: 755px)\"><source src='https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-0-MARQUEE-scaled-991x399.jpg?v=16'  data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-6-FULL-992x400.jpg?v=4.jpg\" media=\"(min-width: 755px)\">        <source src='https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-0-MARQUEE-scaled-1199x399.jpg?v=16'  data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-6-FULL-1200x400.jpg.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\" media=\"(min-width: 992px)\"><source src='https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-0-MARQUEE-scaled-1199x399.jpg?v=16'  data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-6-FULL-1200x400.jpg?v=4.jpg\" media=\"(min-width: 992px)\">        <source src='https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-0-MARQUEE-scaled-1399x399.jpg?v=16'  data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-6-FULL-scaled-1400x400.jpg.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\" media=\"(min-width: 1200px)\"><source src='https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-0-MARQUEE-scaled-1399x399.jpg?v=16'  data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-6-FULL-scaled-1400x400.jpg?v=4.jpg\" media=\"(min-width: 1200px)\">        <img src='https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-6-FULL-scaled-754x221.jpg?v=4' style='max-width:100%;' data-src=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-6-FULL-755x222.jpg?v=4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"lazy object-cover w-full\" loading=\"lazy\" >                        \n    <\/picture>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"post__content\">\n\n\n\n<p>The average desk is 29 inches high, Loesing says. This will likely accommodate someone who\u2019s 5\u20198\u201d, she acknowledges, but for everyone else? It will take some adjusting to make it fit for them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s where your chair comes in. Most people don\u2019t need a high-end office swivel chair to work comfortably. As long as you can adjust the height of your chair to fit you and your desk, you\u2019ll have a comfortable setup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important to adjust the height of your chair to achieve a neutral position, Loesing says. If you don\u2019t have the instructions from the manufacturer on how to adjust your model, try searching for videos online, she adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One more chair takeaway from Loesing? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIf you can\u2019t spend a dime, at least get as comfortable as you can where you\u2019re sitting, and sit all the way back in your chair,\u201d Loesing says. \u201cWhen you don\u2019t sit so your back is against the backrest, you\u2019re using your back muscles all day long instead of them being at rest.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2121\" height=\"869\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-7-INARTICLE-e1597672011544.jpg\" alt=\"A woman sits at a home office and stretches at her desk. \" class=\"wp-image-9887\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-7-INARTICLE-e1597672011544.jpg 2121w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-7-INARTICLE-e1597672011544-300x123.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-7-INARTICLE-e1597672011544-780x320.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-7-INARTICLE-e1597672011544-768x315.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-7-INARTICLE-e1597672011544-1536x629.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-7-INARTICLE-e1597672011544-2048x839.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-7-INARTICLE-e1597672011544-730x299.jpg 730w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2121px) 100vw, 2121px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-adjust-your-furniture-and-equipment\">Adjust your furniture and equipment <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you continue planning a home office, you\u2019ll likely find that your computer is your most important piece of equipment. But it can also lead to neck strain. Whether it\u2019s a laptop or an external monitor, Loesing says screen placement is key. In fact, she says it\u2019s the single most important feature to address\u2014as well as the most commonly disregarded one.  <br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-while-you-plan-your-home-office-loesing-recommends-keeping-the-following-ergonomic-guidelines-in-mind-to-help-avoid-neck-strain\">While you plan your home office, Loesing recommends keeping the following ergonomic guidelines in mind to help avoid neck strain:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-align-your-monitor-so-your-eyes-are-level-with-the-screen-that-s-typically-about-4-from-the-top-of-the-monitor-place-your-feet-flat-on-the-floor-and-your-knees-at-about-a-90-degree-angle-with-the-ground-place-your-arms-at-about-a-90-degree-angle-from-the-writing-surface-so-your-shoulders-are-relaxed\"><ul><li>Align your monitor so your eyes are level with the screen. (That\u2019s typically about 4\u201d from the top of the monitor.)<\/li> <li>Place your feet flat on the floor and your knees at about a 90-degree angle with the ground.<\/li> <li>Place your arms at about a 90-degree angle from the writing surface so your shoulders are relaxed.<\/li><\/ul><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you only have a laptop, and no monitor, you still have options for raising your screen to eye-level. \u201cThere are budget-friendly laptop risers on the market,\u201d Loesing says. \u201cIf you don\u2019t want to spend any money, you can place books or reams of paper to bring the screen up to eye level.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When setting up a home office for remote work and thinking about your arm placement, note that Varone is a strong advocate for an external keyboard. If you\u2019re working at a desk that has a keyboard tray built into it, that\u2019s a great way to keep your arms at about a 90-degree angle, she says. If you don\u2019t have a built-in tray, she says you can improvise by placing your keyboard on an inexpensive laptop table situated directly under your desk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the exact adjustments will vary depending on your equipment, height and budget, the focus is on acquiring a neutral position or a position where there\u2019s no strain on anything, Loesing says. <\/p>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"mx-auto block-quote block-quote--5front bg-fixed bg-center bg-no-repeat bg-cover z-0\">\n    <div class=\"block-quote__glow\"><\/div>\n    <blockquote class=\"post--constrain-large\">\n        <p>\u201cWith the addition of standing desks, which encourage movement, employees often find they have significantly more energy at the end of the day.\u201d<\/p>\n                    <footer class=\"block-quote__source\">Karen Loesing, owner of a company that performs ergonomic evaluations<\/footer>\n            <\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"post__content\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-stand-if-it-suits-you\">Stand if it suits you<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re intrigued by the idea of a standing desk, you\u2019re not alone. Standing desk sales have soared over the last decade, buoyed by reports of the dangers of too much sitting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cStatic postures (e.g., sitting all day in front of a computer) present more fatigue than dynamic working,\u201d Loesing says. \u201cWith the addition of standing desks, which encourage movement, employees often find they have significantly more energy at the end of the day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t have to buy an official standing desk to reap the benefits when planning a home office. \u201cThe least expensive way would be to take a laptop and place it up high on a built-in high counter using a compact wireless keyboard and mouse,\u201d Loesing says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if you don\u2019t have a standing desk\u2014makeshift or otherwise\u2014you can still incorporate movement and circulation into your workday. Set a timer to remind you to stand up and stretch every 20 minutes, Loesing suggests. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For an even better boost, combine this with a popular guideline known as the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, give your eyes a break by looking out a window at something at least 20 feet away, and do so for at least 20 seconds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-don-t-forget-the-ambience-and-accessories\">Don\u2019t forget the ambience and accessories <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your desk, chair, and computer are the major players when you\u2019re setting up a home office for remote work. But there are a few additional items to consider, like lighting, plants, and sound. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2121\" height=\"869\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-9-INARTICLE-e1597672125137.jpg\" alt=\"An older man stands at a home office and sprays a potted plant with water. \" class=\"wp-image-9888\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-9-INARTICLE-e1597672125137.jpg 2121w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-9-INARTICLE-e1597672125137-300x123.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-9-INARTICLE-e1597672125137-780x320.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-9-INARTICLE-e1597672125137-768x315.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-9-INARTICLE-e1597672125137-1536x629.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-9-INARTICLE-e1597672125137-2048x839.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-9-INARTICLE-e1597672125137-730x299.jpg 730w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2121px) 100vw, 2121px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your overhead light fixture likely isn\u2019t enough, as it will create shadows and can be too weak by the time it reaches your workspace, Varone says. She recommends investing in a table lamp that creates a wider spread of light in your area. Pick one with a translucent shade that will softly diffuse the light and make it easier on your eyes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you\u2019re planning your home office, Varone also recommends incorporating a potted plant or flower into your workspace. Not only can it help purify the air and boost your mood, a natural element can contribute to a restful atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Working from home means working with home noises\u2014especially if you\u2019re in an <a aria-label=\"environment with roommates (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/how-to-split-living-costs-with-your-roommate\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">environment with roommates<\/a>, a partner, or little ones. To keep the noise down, consider noise-canceling headphones for a quieter workspace and clearer meetings. Other budget-friendly options? Try placing a towel under the door to block out noise from other rooms, Loesing says. Consider curtains instead of blinds, since they\u2019re better at blocking out sound. Even pillows or large cushions can help reduce noise, she adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After you\u2019ve taken care of the essentials and if you have the space and money, think about adding a reading chair to your home office. You can use this as a space to review documents or do some deep thinking, Varone says. It can be a welcome respite from your desk while keeping you in the office area, she adds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2121\" height=\"869\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-10-INARTICLE-e1597672250233.jpg\" alt=\"A man relaxes on a couch next to a home office desk, working on a tablet. \" class=\"wp-image-9889\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-10-INARTICLE-e1597672250233.jpg 2121w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-10-INARTICLE-e1597672250233-300x123.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-10-INARTICLE-e1597672250233-780x320.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-10-INARTICLE-e1597672250233-768x315.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-10-INARTICLE-e1597672250233-1536x629.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-10-INARTICLE-e1597672250233-2048x839.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Planning-a-Home-Office-Check-out-These-Budget-Friendly-Tips-10-INARTICLE-e1597672250233-730x299.jpg 730w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2121px) 100vw, 2121px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One last tip? Add a personal touch, whether it\u2019s a framed family photo or a souvenir from your travels. It\u2019s your home office, after all. Let your personality shine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-set-up-a-home-office-for-remote-work-that-allows-you-to-thrive\">Set up a home office for remote work that allows you to thrive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you\u2019re a pro at setting up a home office on a budget, you\u2019re ready to make a space that works well for you. Whether you\u2019re an experienced remote worker or a newbie, you can apply these expert tips to set up an office that\u2019s functional and keeps you motivated day in and day out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready to break in your new home office? Keep that motivation going by <a aria-label=\"learning how to increase your earning potential this year (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/5-ways-increase-your-earning-potential\/?ICMPGN=OS-BK-ARTCTA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">learning how to increase your earning potential this year<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"disclaimer\">Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third party or information.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"disclaimer\">The information provided herein is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as professional advice. Nothing contained in this article shall give rise to, or be construed to give rise to, any obligation or liability whatsoever on the part of Discover Bank or its affiliates.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When you\u2019re setting up a home office for remote work, keep these key principles from ergonomic experts in mind. Your body\u2014and your productivity\u2014will thank you.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":9883,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[78,86,84,80],"tags":[142,136,50,144,127,105,100],"class_list":["post-9869","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-career","category-house-home","category-life-planning","category-work","tag-career-tips","tag-frugal-living","tag-home","tag-home-projects","tag-how-to","tag-money-saving-tips","tag-quick-tips"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9869","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9869"}],"version-history":[{"count":37,"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9869\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22467,"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9869\/revisions\/22467"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9883"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9869"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9869"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9869"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}