In Ancient Greece, people believed that inspiration happens as a direct result of a visit of goddesses known as muses. This is why creative work is so hard to predict and control. An artist or a creative worker needs to “summon the muse,” in order to achieve their optimal efficiency and this is not an easy task. The simplest way to do so is to optimize your work area (your home office) and turn it into a shrine of creativity. Here are five upgrades that will help you achieve this in no time.

1.   Additional monitor

The first improvement that you need to take into consideration is the introduction of an additional monitor into your tech arsenal. According to some surveys, this can lead to up to 40 percent increase in productivity. Pragmatically speaking, the advantages of multiple-screen setup are numerous. First of all, you get the privilege of having more work surface. Second, you get to look at your resources and your work at the same time. If you’re in the industry where the drag-and-drop method is the go-to model, multiple screens can revolutionize this activity.

2.   Dream board

Motivational posters are, beyond doubt, quite effective in some areas but they are also seen as somewhat corny or outdated by a lot of people. Instead, opt for a dream board. This is a board where you can display all your goals, dreams and aspirations. As they say, when you take a dream and put a date of completing next to it, you’ve just created a goal. Sure, some of your goals are impossible to remember but it’s always a good idea to have a dream in front of your eyes, just so that you can remember what you are fighting for.

3.   Proper flooring

An adequate flooring option for your home office is an essential upgrade for more than one reason. As a creative worker, you’re under the influence of all sorts of stimuli and senses. Tactile and audio senses are just two prominent examples. With the right floor, you can make an improvement in both of these sectors. An ergonomic office chair makes noises when sliding across the hardwood floor. This both distracts you and scratches the floor, damaging it in the process. With a well-placed plastic chair mat, this problem can be solved once and for all. Also, adding a great area rug to the room can make the entire place cozier, thus making it more stimulating.

4.   Sound-proofing the area

Sound-proofing is a method that keeps the noises from the outside at bay and noises from the inside, safely within the four walls of your room. This is incredibly important for those who live with roommates or family members. Sure, you can explain it to everyone just how important it is for them to remain quiet, yet, they might not always honor that agreement. Also, why would you have to impose these rules on them in their own home, especially if you don’t have to? By sound-proofing the place, you will get just that.

5.   A standing desk

Previously, we’ve talked about fixing the problems caused by your ergonomic chair, however, you also have the option of going with a desk-less chair, to begin with. Standing desks are a phenomenon that’s becoming more and more popular by the hour. This is due to the fact that this work form is better for your health (your posture, core and back muscles). It is also known to boost productivity, seeing as how it keeps you alert. It does, however, require an interval working model like the Pomodoro technique in order to be the most effective. This idea is definitely not for everyone but it’s something worth considering.

In conclusion

While it is true that the amount of work that you do directly depends on your own effort and commitment by optimizing your work environment you will make this a lot easier. With the adequate home office, you will find it easier to motivate yourself for work and the inspiration will come to you with a far greater reliability ratio. Keep in mind, nonetheless, that the above-listed five ideas are just a tip of the iceberg of all your options. Always be on the lookout for new ideas!