Some of us are headed back to work after a long few months of uncertainty following the COVID-19 pandemic. But some of us, a lucky few dare I say, are still working remotely from home for the time being.
Working from home is not a foreign concept for me. I’ve been working remotely for the past 2 years in order to stay available for modeling gigs (which usually tend to come up pretty last-minute). I love working from home. I find that I am way more productive because I’m in my comfort zone and can optimize concentration when needed, and take a comfortable break when needed. Anyway, I thought I’d write a post to share my work-from-home essentials that have made the past couple of years possible, comfortable, and productive for me!
Disclaimer: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means that if you choose to take my suggestions and make a purchase, I will make a little money so I can keep up these super cool blog posts.
COFFEE!
I know that I’m not alone when I say that coffee (and lots of it) is an absolute necessity for a busy day of work. I’ve never really loved the taste of Keurig coffee (and I’m way too cheap to buy the Nespresso machine of my dreams), so I went with a basic coffee pot that brewed a few cups at a time, but didn’t take up much space on the counter top (big deal for a small NYC apartment). I’m obsessed with my little Black + Decker coffee pot (I got it as a gift, but definitely an affordable buy at only $25). I buy coffee grounds in bulk and it’s a super cheap, super delicious option for any coffee addict, like me.
I just discovered this coffee company called Wildcrafter Botanicals that makes botanically infused coffee. Their infused coffee benefits range from sustainable energy and enhanced focus to finding calm and immune defense. How cool is that? Identifying your needs and addressing them (with a delicious beverage!) will definitely help optimize your work-from-home attitude.
Wireless Laptop Mouse
I have back and wrist problems (I know, I’m elderly), so an ergonomic setup was definitely necessary for me–unfortunately, it took me a couple months of sitting on the couch and messing up my neck to realize this. I got this super cheap wireless laptop mouse on Amazon, which works decently enough. The wireless connection gets disconnected every once in a while, but that may just be because I’ve been using it all day every day for years. Either way, having a wireless mouse has made me a lot more productive, and quicker. Also, it’s a great tool to have if you are editing photos or doing anything artistic that requires precision!
Posture Corrector
This is so lame, but because of my aforementioned physical problems (and strong encouragement from my agent, who has always chastised my bad posture), I finally gave in and got this posture corrector. Honestly, it’s super uncomfortable, and I don’t love wearing it. But I have also noticed that after wearing it for at least half the day, my back and neck don’t hurt as badly. It’s also helped remind me to sit up straight, because the only time it is uncomfortable is when I’m slouching (yeah…that’s the point, right?). At some point, I will probably take the plunge and get something more effective and high-tech like this.
The lingerie company, Leonisa actually has posture-correcting bras, which is SO cool. I have yet to try them, but I am itching to try one out! Check it out, below…
Blue Light Blocking Glasses
I am totally obsessed with these super cute blue light blocking glasses. I wish had gotten them sooner, as I immediately noticed my eyes felt less tired by the end of the day. They give your eyes a much needed break when in front of the computer all day. Plus, (this is embarrassing to admit) but they kind of make me focus more and make me feel smarter… LOL. No shame.
Energy Drinks/Refreshers
I’m not a huge fan of energy drinks like Red Bull, but I absolutely love the Starbucks refresher drinks. They are great for when your morning cup(s) of coffee didn’t do the trick and you need a little 3pm pick-me-up. I got this Pureboost Clean Energy Drink Mix as a substitute for the expensive, sugar-heavy Starbucks Refreshers. It definitely doesn’t taste as good as the Refreshers, but I love that this mix has immune system support, and it’s so much cheaper than a daily Starbucks run. It’s not a super intense energy boost, but definitely keeps me going through the end of the day!
Here are some some other options:
- 8GREENS dissolving tablets (made from real greens, providing B vitamins to boost energy)
- CELSIUS Cranberry Lemon On-the-Go Powder Stick Packs
Comfy Clothes
This is an obvious one, but when the “shelter-in-place” restriction was a thing, it was PJs 24/7. When you’re spending all day every day in your apartment, it’s hard to “start your day” when all that means is rolling out of bed. I found that getting up, washing my face, and changing my clothes (not real clothes of course, but one step above PJs) helps my brain wake up and get the day started. One thing that I love wearing when working from home is workout clothes. A cute, matching leggings & sports bra set is comfortable, but also doesn’t make you feel like you’re an immobile, pajama-wearing hermit. These sets can get pretty pricey, but I got these leggings and matching sports bra on sale from Old Navy, and I absolutely love wearing them! (One word of caution: “shaping” or “compression” leggings fit a bit tighter than normal leggings, so if you’re looking for comfort, size up.) I also just got this adorable set from Sincere Sally, which I’m obsessed with. I also became an ambassador for the brand, so you can use my discount code, KARIX25 for a 25% discount on the website!
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