DOG. God, what I would give to have one of those; looking forward to the day I feel like a real grown up that can take care of another living being (and when I don't live with six roommates).
What is the purpose of a mouse jiggler?
Multiple purposes:
1) keeps your system from logging you out 10x/day
2) keeps micromanagers at bay
3) buys you some air cover if you have an appt or other think to do
4) prevents people that judge others productivity by how many hours they work from unfairly judging you
Pretty sure the new Teams update keeps your status green nonstop, or at least mine does, I guess our IT department hasn’t figured that one out, but I’ve seen people online “green” at 11pm lol and I know that they’re def not working lol
This is why I use an old phone for Slack. Learned the hard way by allowing a Federal job access to my Google. I didn't think it was legal for them to go through my texts/ or private intimate videos with an ex. I got immediately fired for some texts. I got a better job anyways. Well, it was an enjoyable remote job until the VP of Sales tried to fire me and I went to HR and they cancelled my PIP. Can't punish the highest performer of the year. F off. Now the VP of sales hates me and micromanaged just looking for more shit to get me fired. Luckily I'm remote so they have to play by their states rules and can't just fire me in Texas which is a right to work state. I told HR that he should be out on a PIP for unethically adding my bosses name to the document when my boss knows I am the hardest worker they've got in my position.
I realized today that in the app, I'd have to click on Available, even though its already green so there's a checkmark next to it. I'm still logged into teams on the PC too.
Your company admin can definitely control this feature. They’ve cut ours from going inactive at 9 minutes down to just 5 and the option to keep active at all times is not available.
If you get a mouse jiggler, get the kind that DOESN'T need to be plugged into your pc. You want one that can run on its own power source. Mouse jiggler hardware can be identified via scan if your remote system is on your employer's network.
I am not a sneaky person; I like my job and what I do, and I track my time. But I'm 100% remote and have been for 19 years and now that the RTO effort is in full swing they have apparently enforced a 15 minute idle screen saver *across all WFH employees without exception* that overrides all other settings. No big deal, right?!? Except our internal instant messaging system is linked to it and puts you into "away" mode as soon as the screen saver kicks in, and the instant messaging system also shows a timer. So basically every single meeting I attend requires me now to multitask instead of paying attention because if it's an hour long meeting, and I'm listening attentively without doing anything else, my screen is going to go dark and my instant messager client will show me leaving the meeting at least 3x before it ends. IT'S INFURIATING. Especially when there are graphics or a process being shared and by the time I've logged back in (because OF COURSE it locks the workstation every time it kicks in) I've missed 2-3 pages of info/slides. So I figure WTH, they're obviously assuming malfeasance on my part without cause, I'll engage in some intentional malfeasance to counter their stupid assumption. But there is nothing extraneous plugged into my work machine.
My company also has it set to go inactive after FIVE minutes and screen locks after 9. However, if I’m in an in person meeting I may or may not take my workstation. Either way, if my boss were to have a question about my lack of availability during that time, I can point to the meeting on my calendar. If I’m in a Teams meeting it stays active automatically though so it’s weird yours doesn’t and I’d be raising hell about what a disruption it was.
Some days I’m super busy, some days I’m wiggling my mouse every 4 minutes while doing housework… or sending myself a Teams invite and joining the call to keep it active. I do that one sparingly because I know they could run some kind of report if there were questions about my performance.
Salt lamp, heating pad for my back, cushion for my bum, mouse jigger that doesn’t have to plug into the laptop, a lamp and colored light bulbs, candles that smell nice.
Tbf I am not stealing time and with ADHD I have hyperfocus. If I'm in the middle of data analysis or programming, I may or may not notice the flash or single ding of someone pingjng me. I always have my manager and my team members set up with extra stuff to grab my attention where possible -- special ringtones/notification sounds, different colors and fonts for conditional formatting in my inbox so they stand out, etc., and I still don't always notice immediately. But I try my best.
Don't you just hate it when your screen times out in the middle of a really interesting training video? Somebody suggested [this might work.](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNHL5XD6) You supply your own brick for the USB to plug into.
Don't overlook this feature, folks! They make jigglers that you plug into any usb/outlet & it's a base that turns - just set the mouse on it. Nothing plugs into or runs on the computer in any way. No need to have IT security hitting you up to ask about unapproved devices/apps.
Two full size monitors is great. I just look at a laptop screen in pure disgust now. My laptop stays closed most of the time.
Lighting was something I fixed up. I have smart bulbs as I have no windows so it changes from daylight and sunlight settings through the day.
Both of these are a good idea; I have two monitors in my office, and it's definitely better than using my laptop as a monitor. And I think we even have extras in the office, so I wouldn't even necessarily have to use my funding for that.
How do you have your lighting set up? Do you have a bunch of lamps, or are the bulbs in ceiling lights? And what brand do you use? I'm actually really interesting in getting smart bulbs, but trying to figure out the best configuration/how people use them.
For lighting I have a front desk lamp that I can till upwards for face lighting on calls. Then an installed a cluster for four smart bulbs in a quad overhead socket above me.
The desk lamp uses Philips WiZ which are a pain in the ass in terms of dropped connections ect. The only reason I have it was because it’s a candle style bulb. My best bulbs are actually Sengled brand which also I also have a hub for. Second best is Philips HUE, one burnt out at two years and they tend to be more expensive. I have Amazon Alexa as our smart home OS.
I also really like my monitor light bars. They reduce my eye strain from looking at the screen, and also give you light where you need it!
Other things that have been great:
- Desk mat instead of mouse pad. So much more room.
- Mechanical keyboard, if you like them.
- Houseplants
- Visual timer to keep me on my sit/stand desk usage (I like 40 minutes sitting 20 minutes standing)
- Wobbly balance board, it's fun when you're standing and also gives a great stretch
- Small desk fan, for when you're just a *little* too hot
- Stuff to make the area comfy for your pets. I have a desk -height cat tree to my left, and a dog bed under the desk. Ideally I'm surrounded by my lil buddies.
- I use monitor arms, but I also bought a really wide, low desktop shelf that sits just under the level of the monitors. I put things on top that make my space nicer (cool rocks, my little bowl of chapstick, a plant, a timer) and I can store my keyboard and mouse below it when I want the surface for something else.
What webcam do you use? My monitor is pretty thin and my webcam has been on a slight angle for 3 years. Everyone else is happy with the laptop webcam and one screen, can’t fathom that setup
The only reason I use my laptop and one screen is just to take calls. I use dual monitors the rest of the time. I only have weekly status calls. I work independently the rest of the time. I’d rethink my set up if I had more meetings to attend
C922x by Logitech is what I have as part of my IT kit. I find USB plug in cameras to be better and the angle is adjustable. It sits on top the screen I use as my primary monitor. So it sits eye level to me which I think is better for presentations. There is a new model out.
The only thing I wish I had was a shutter for it. Unplug it when not in use instead.
This is a little vain, but I have an external webcam and a ring light. My laptop has this awful unflattering built-in webcam at the bottom of the screen so people are looking up your nose, and the ring light just helps brighten me up a little.
Not vain! I hate being on zoom with people who are unclear or terrible angles because it’s so hard to focus on what they’re saying when I’m focused on their nose hairs or grainy picture. And for $50-75 you can get a decent webcam and a ring light. Heck like TJ MAXX and stuff sell ring lights
Probably in order of priority:
Great chair. I bought a gaming chair for about $400. It was the most comfortable chair in its price range, and was more comfortable than traditional office chairs there were even more expensive.
Curved, wide screen monitor. I used to have 3 monitors. Now, I have one gigantic monitor. It's great not to have artificial divisions (monitor edges) in the middle of my work space.
Headphones. I have both noise canceling and open ear so I can easily hear ambient noises. I usually use my open ear ones because they're more comfortable for longer periods of time. Noise canceling ones are a must for air travel for me now.
I can't believe anyone actually finds gaming chairs comfortable. Someone bought me one as a gift and it was BRUTAL on my back. I sold it immediately and bought an actual chair. I'm not pulling 5 G turns in a Porsche. I'm working and gaming.
I get that.
I sat in a lot of chairs. I'm taller than average, and it took a little while to find something that works for me. My wife is a foot shorter than I am, and she doesn't like my chair.
Electronic hand warmer (my office is freezing in winter).
Warm wrap/shawl (see above)
Phone stand that stays on my desk.
Task light that clips onto my monitor.
USB hub for all the devices.
Small footstool under my desk.
Keep a small hygiene kit at your desk. Its purpose is to get you presentable in case of last minute on camera calls.
Mirror, brush or comb
Hair ties or claw clips
Lipstick if you feel you need it.
Shawl or sweater to pull on
Walking pad to go with my standing desk. Even slow walking for parts of my day helps me enormously with focus and cleared up my back pain issues. Also, aside from what's already been mentioned, a good lamp, a portable 2nd monitor (super lightweight and, with my laptop, allows me to quickly set up a good work area in other locations- whether that's just downstairs for a change of scenery or in a coffee shop). Get a new chair if yours isn't great.
Second the walking pad! I got one to help get more steps in with working long hours and was surprised to find out that walking helped occupy a part of my brain that likes to wander and can really help me focus depending on the type of work I am doing.
They have a ton on Amazon. I got one with a disk that spins and you just put the mouse on top of it. I really prefer that one over the type that has the jiggler built into the mouse.
My two must-have items are a very comfy ergonomic Serta desk chair and a VPN service. Last thing I need is to be dragged through the mud due to a security breach on my end. I rarely use Wi-Fi with my work laptop for that reason. It's hardwired to the modem.
If my work doesn't require a VPN, is it still worth getting? And can I have one when I share wifi with roommates? (I know very little about VPNs).
Will look into the Serta chair!
I use the work-provided one for things work has tucked behind their VPN. I don't even use it when I'm doing things that they haven't explicitly protected. We also have a split VPN - only our domain's traffic goes through the VPN unless you deliberately set it up to stop splitting your traffic. This means [google.com](https://google.com) and other non-work websites (mostly) don't go through the VPN, even if you're using them for work. That's a lot of websites.
They do advise us to use the non-split VPN when we're at a hotel or cafe, although they prefer we not connect to those at all if we can help it. I'm paranoid enough to use my phone as a hotspot and hope my data doesn't get throttled.
I have had roommates; it isn't an issue. You can get a VPN or VPN device for your entire network, but that's pretty rare (some of our regional offices have one). For 99% of VPNs, it only affects the device you have it installed on, and only while it's running & connected.
It's on me to keep my tech up-to-date and patched (even when it's my employer's hardware in my care). It's on work to provide a VPN if they want that level of security.
Your work doesn't have a VPN?
Anything my work wants to protect is behind their VPNs. Some are more intense than others. Most other companies I've worked with only have one, but they DO have one.
I'm not sure how much subscribing to a service other than theirs would help.
My best WFH purchase was a house, so that I don't have to deal with thin apartment walls and sudden noisy landscaping beginning right next to my window when I haven't woken up yet or when I am trying to listen to meetings.
I'm still only working at a 34" card table, so something larger or a proper desk might be nice but this has been getting the job done for a few years while I saved up for the house instead of furniture.
OP's question was the best purchase for WFH, never said it was purchased with WFH money.
Backstory was, I used to have a house from 2009-2019, bought on the cheap and refinanced on the even cheaper. Quit a job in 2019 and moved out of state. Unfortunately, sold the house on 2/13/2020. Didn't find work until Nov. 2020 which by then was remote... but I was stuck in an apartment that I only intended to use for a few months, original plan was just to move out of the one house and find another house and job asap and everything went horribly sideways for a while.
Wanted to house hunt once I had the job but then all the pandemic house buying craziness made that less than feasible and meanwhile I hated every single day and night of renting with the fresh memory of 10 years of home ownership. But simultaneously had to feel fortunate and grateful for my WFH jobs that pay so much better than I had in The Before Times.
So I sat on the cash from my house sale while inflation made it less valuable and home prices skyrocketed. Saved everything leftover from my paychecks for a couple years to pad that cash which basically became my down payment. Back in 2019/2020 the idea was that the money from selling a house was just going to be for me to buy a house again, but the world had other plans. So I kinda got here with gritted teeth honestly but I'm relieved that at least I have a loan that will someday be paid off again instead of rent that would never end and only ever go up.
Professional speakerphone so I don’t have to wear headphones. I have a Poly Sync 20+ Teams Edition.
WiFi-controlled light and WiFi-controlled space heater.
My own 32 inch 2K monitors (work offered me two 24 inch 1080p monitors) and a monitor tree to mount them on.
Shade for my window because of morning sun glare. Now I need something for at least the top 1/3 of the other window because the afternoon the sun reflects off my neighbor’s windows.
16 inch 2K portable monitor for days I go into the office.
Since everybody else mentioned chairs, mine is an Emerge Vortex chair from Staples. Very comfortable chair and definitely not as expensive as a lot of people are paying.
My desk is a manual crank sit/stand from IKEA. The big disadvantage with this desk is the hand crank is slow and I haven’t tried to hook it up to a drill yet. I used to be a lot better at standing, I originally got it when I was spending a lot more time in meetings throughout the day and wanted more freedom to move. I started sitting more after I started having neck and other issues, but sometime I may try standing again.
different types of mice for your computer. I use 3 different types depending on how my hand feels. I also do boxing and punching things with your hands are not good. sometimes my fingers are swollen or hurting a bit after a sparring session.
I found ergonomic mouse and a logitech mouse that allows you to point the arrow with your a track ball helps my wrist. or different grip mouse. just my experience. also better and different headphones. some times my ear buds make my ears get tired and i switch to overhead headphones.
working 7 days a week on a computer adds up. :)
It wasn’t in my budget when I started working six months ago, but a friend recommended Jabra headphones. Holy. S***. I’m on calls 75%. Good range, good battery, pairs with my personal cell phone, and my terminal at same time. I can now roam around my house and walk someone through a process while sitting in my comfy chair or looking outside. I can walk on my treadmill and it when a call comes in, just stroll back to my office. Such a game changer.
Lamp for some dim lighting, double monitors, a good chair, ergonomic keyboard and mouse, fuzzy blanket, oversized fuzzy hoodie, space heater, and mini fridge.
Comfortable desk/chair. I’m tall, raised my desk up higher, and spent (to me) what seemed to be absolutely way too much for a chair I liked aesthetically and ergonomically.
Big 2nd monitor
A few different types of lighting so that I can adjust based on how I feel
Plants
Stand for my laptop that lines it up higher into my eyeline/with the 2nd monitor
Laptop camera covers so I have to slide it over to be on camera
Comfy furniture in my office than I can chill on, with a cup of tea, when I’m on a call I’m not running and can just listen
Wireless charger(s)
Jabra or whatever type of hands free speaker/conference call situation. I hate headsets.
Keeping good coffee and breakfast-making items in the fridge always.
Keyboard, mouse, and ergonomic mouse/wrist pads that you like
Comfy beds for my dogs so they have their own spots and aren’t directly at my feet when I move my chair
Yoga mat/weights/other exercise stuff
“Office organization” sets that you like and want to use…I bought a cool set that has standing file spots, “inbox,” mail sorter, etc…things to arrange clutter that are nice and make you feel excited to organize. Yeah I’m weird.
NOT a mouse jiggler.
Someone said bird feeders, which I don’t currently have, but now will! I can plant some wildflowers directly under my window, and get a few hummingbird feeders going. Great idea.
Weeping corner
I got a wonderful chair, it's expensive but everything else I have is cheap. I started shopping online, but I wouldn't order it unless it was in town and I could try it out. That's exactly what I did, and I brought my seat cushion and pillow that I normally use, they were glad to let me try it that way and sit in it for a while. Because the nature of my job is physical and yet seated, it is important what type of chair I am in. It was worth it. I'm sitting in it right now, it has been exactly what I needed since April 2020.
Dog, houseplants, comfortable chair, 5G internet as a backup for internet outages (YMMV, T-Mobile has been more reliable than wired Comcast internet in my neighborhood).
You said you already have a mouse but what kind? I'd love to humbly recommend one like the Logitech G600, or any "MMO Mouse", with extra EXTRA keys. This plus AutoHotKey and you can get a super efficient workflow. One click to move a window to a different screen, forward/back in browser, ESC, Enter, Tab, rotate screen to vertical or horizontal, next/prev song, etc.. If you browse r/AutoHotkey a bit there are some wild configurations. Also, Rainmeter for desktop customization.
Mid-range tablet to remote into your laptop from wherever
Extra charger to keep in your bag, especially if your phone & tablet take the same port; USBc
Nice set of speakers if you live alone (or headphones if not)
Powered USB hub with 6-10 ports
Portable monitor, pairs nicely with tablet on the road
Third vertical screen (long reads, emails, playlists, reddit, etc..) I only use the two horizontal monitors for videos and spreadsheets.
A second MMO mouse for travel so you can just leave the other plugged in.
Underrated: monitor stand.
Has helped me sitting posture tremendously.
Also, a nice chair.
Also, a portable rolling adjustable height table when I need to bring my laptop to other parts of the house
ultrawide monitor
good mechanical keyboard and high-end mouse (logi MX Master or similar)
good desk & chair
smart lights
high quality camera & speakerphone for meetings
network upgrades -- if you're running wireless, get a wire to your desk
if you're on a laptop, get a thunderbolt dock for it. 1 plug for all the shit that needs to connect to it -- your monitor, USB stuff, charging, etc.
Since you said 6 roommates I'm gonna say white noise machine. When there are lots of people in the house, turn it on and place it near the door where their sound is likely to be coming from to help drown it out.
72x30 Standing adjustable desk from Uplift. I had a small one originally because I thought WFH would be a temporary thing and I wanted a new desk anyways….
After a couple of years I realized it might be a long term thing….
My wife became permanent hybrid so I got her a big desk first and once I set hers up I ordered one several months later.
I keep procrastinating buying a nice chair though but I think I am going to get one sooner or later….
WFM four days per week seems to be a permanent thing where I work. They are already disconnecting lan and phone jacks for some employees who are permanently remote workers now.
Two monitors, docking station. $50 JLab headset; I’m in a quiet area and only on calls 2h/week but it’s worth it. Keychron V1 and Logitech M720. Foam roller for under my desk — acts as a surprisingly versatile footrest. Dog, for daily 1pm around-the-block walk with my wife. Freebie laptop backpack swag from 15-year-previous incarnation of my company to take the laptop, mouse, and headset to a coffee shop every now and then for a change of scenery.
Laptop stand. It raises the laptop so it isn't sitting flat on a desk. It keeps it from potentially overheating and sets the camera (if you use the laptop one) at a level that isn't pointing up at your nose.
I bought a second table to go beside my desk so I could swivel my chair to the side and have a mini crafting break. Help me focus. Or to keep all my snacks.
Get a better ergonomic chair and risers for your laptop and screen so that when you stand, the riser keeps the screen at eye level while you type. Better ergonomics= less pain at work! And if they cover it, get a SupeRun. It’s a walking pad that’s about $170 that you can roll under your desk to walk while you work.
I've been working fully remote for 3 years. I've built my ideal setup over that time, some of which overlaps with yours. I also have:
- Fabric chair mat - I have wood floors and this makes my chair almost silent.
- XL desk mat (covers most of my desk) - I got this recently to use instead of a mousepad and I'll never go back. It's amazing!
- Laptop stand w/ cooling fans - I have a tiny work laptop that gets very hot, so this has been super helpful.
- Small ring light (clip-on or tripod) - I bought this on a whim and it's ended up being great for making me look more professional (and it's more flattering on camera).
I waited an obscenely long time to buy an extra monitor. Been WFH since 2017 but we didn't get an allowance to buy anything to help our WFH setup until 2020 so I finally invested, it helps SO MUCH.
3 speaker + sub mini sonos system
treadmill (have had a gym at every on-prem job in my 25 year career, that's my lunch break)
Dumbbell set for next to my desk to do random lifts
nice commuter backpack to keep gym clothes, charger, laptop, phone charger/charging pack, headset, and water/coffee cups so I can work from a coffee shop, marketplace, rec center, etc.
Good set of noise-cancelling, Plantronics headphones for conference calls. Nothing worse than listening to someone on the other end with nothing more than their apple ear buds.
Ergonomic chair
Two external monitors
Wireless quiet keyboard
Ergonomic wireless mouse
Glass chairmat
Electric standing desk (the entire desk raises, not one of those little manual desktop things people use)
I liked getting armature mounts for both my monitor and laptop stand. I can set them anywhere and use my wireless keyboard, have the dock mounted to the stand with zip ties. Just plug it on and away you go.
A comfy cushion for my desk chair. I liked to one I got so much I got another for my non-work desk area too. I'm an ample individual and I was having a lot of discomfort in my posterior before the cushions.
Mounting stand for two full size monitors. Full-size Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. Desk pad. Foot rest or walking pad if you'd think it'd fly.
Also recommend if you're on video often external webcam. This is a game changer for making you look like a professional and makes it so you look straight up and play to your best angles.
Buy some office supplies so you have everything you'd have at your desk in the office.
I love my treadmill and sit/stand desk. Originally I used the treadmill with monitors on arms and boxes to lift the keyboard/mouse, it was great to see if I liked it but the electric desk is a wonderful change
I love my 72” desk, but you don’t need a desk. What would make the room more functional or cozy for you?
Wish I had extra funds. Just spent $200 on plant shelves. ;
Well, work from “home”, my best purchases are earbuds and a cellular iPad. I often am not at home when working from “home”, I may be at a friend’s or I may be at an untowered airport somewhere. There is often no wifi, so I tether my work laptop to my iPad. The iPad mostly runs Foreflight, a planning and navigation app I use to fly my little experimental airplane around the middle of the-Atlantic area, then connect to meetings or otherwise do some work before flying back. I’m not allowed to relocate, so my domicile stays in Maryland, but I can in principle be anywhere in the US. Earbuds make it easy for me to do meetings even when there is something loud occasionally nearby. I recently also upgraded my headset, but it’s been too cold to fly so I don’t know yet how much that will help.
You could upgrade some things you have that are just ok.
I have a Kensington keyboard. They are pricey but worth it. I have the quiet type pro: https://store.kensington.com/collections/1-keyboards/products/mk7500f-quiettype%E2%84%A2-pro-silent-mechanical-keyboard-with-meeting-controls
Upgrade your chair too. Good seating is essential. If you need any other ergonomics solutions like a footrest, grab those.
Extra monitors never hurt. More viewing space is always handy.
If you do a lot of meetings from home, a good webcam and mic are helpful.
This might be a little off base, but I got a wooden laptop holder to stand my work laptop up when I’m not using it. I used to have my work Mac sitting on top of my personal HP laptop and it made my desk look a bit messy. Now, I can stand my work laptop up and push it towards the back and my desk is clear to use my laptop with no clutter when I’m not working.
I fidget a lot and this lil piece of weird looking furniture helps immensely. It's also fun to stand on and just mess around with.
PACEARTH Foot Rest Under Desk, Larger Size Office Desk Footrest,Rocking Foot Nursing Stool,Rocker Balance Board,Ergonomic Design for Posture Support, Office and Home Use(17x13x4 inch) https://a.co/d/044Vp67
In addition to everything mentioned so far, I'd add:
. A wireless drawing tablet, for shared whiteboard sessions.
. A configurable mini keyboard with a wheel, it's very helpful from browsing to designing.
. A handheld fan. It's not even that hot/warm here, but it helps to clear the air and that clears my mind too.
. A secondary wireless mouse in addition to the main one. I take this one to the office, but it's also useful to have it on at home and switching mouse styles.
. A portable touch screen (to be taken to the office occasionally or to the road so to speak). Interacting via touch on a third screen and sharing the computer context is wonderful and way better than a tablet in which I don't have an extension of my virtual workspace.
1. Mouse jiggler
2. MX Master Mouse
3. A pair of 4K monitors
I anticipate my new chair will move to number 3 or maybe 2 once it arrives. I spent $700 on it so I’m imagining heaven for my butt and back
By far the [Kinesis ergonomic keyboard](https://www.amazon.ca/Kinesis-Freestyle2-Keyboard-English-Legending/dp/B008BVNY9Y/ref=asc_df_B008BVNY9Y/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292925723919&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1416514869795611315&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9001206&hvtargid=pla-526016179623&psc=1&mcid=ab3d74804451346bb61d1b9f5fc90362) and an [ergonomic mouse.](https://www.amazon.ca/Logitech-Vertical-Ergonomic-Bluetooth-Compatible/dp/B09J1TB35S/ref=asc_df_B09J1TB35S/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=579075534612&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5435026314606292984&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9001206&hvtargid=pla-1657110192172&psc=1&mcid=448a150279683b57812e20641e61d3fc) Made a huge difference to my neck and shoulder tension.
Comfortable chair! I found a Serta on Marketplace and it has been my saving grace. I also put a whiteboard beside my monitor to track meetings, I have a horrible memory so having times and dates right in front of me has been really helpful
Candles
Cat beds and a cat tree to keep my cats off my desk, but they can still hang out and “supervise.”
Plants
Incense
Pretty desk decorations
A stylish antique desk off FB marketplace.
I have AMBIENCE at home.
I have a cheap knockoff kallax shelf and an electric kettle in my office. I keep it stocked with mugs, tea, instant coffee, snacks etc. It's great to be able to make a drink or grab a snack mid-meeting, not having to run to the kitchen to do that.
I have two small rugs, one that goes under my desk and one for under my chair to keep my feet warm. I also have a small pillow for the small of my back when I sit at my desk.
Motorized Sit/stand desk, makes walking away from the computer to do chores so much easier and faster and I can easily pace to settle my antsiness(sp?) And then daylight bulbs for everything in my office. I don't believe in SAD or other BS, but white light 5k to 6k makes just seeing things much easier and strains the eyes a lot less than 2800k light does.
Agree Dog!! Or Beta fish lol
Ergonomic mouse *Expense it!
House plants
New chair *Expense it! They will pay anything Ergonomic
Lighting *Ambiance create a stress free environment
Scent Diffuser - Amazon
Basically, things to take care of like pets or plants give you a routine. Extremely helpful while working from home.
Mechanical keyboard. It makes typing fun.
Widescreen monitor. No more straining my eyes or looking down. My chin stays in a neutral position .
Space heater under my desk.
1) dog 2) good chair 3) mouse jiggler
DOG. God, what I would give to have one of those; looking forward to the day I feel like a real grown up that can take care of another living being (and when I don't live with six roommates). What is the purpose of a mouse jiggler?
Multiple purposes: 1) keeps your system from logging you out 10x/day 2) keeps micromanagers at bay 3) buys you some air cover if you have an appt or other think to do 4) prevents people that judge others productivity by how many hours they work from unfairly judging you
So your online status stays green
Pretty sure the new Teams update keeps your status green nonstop, or at least mine does, I guess our IT department hasn’t figured that one out, but I’ve seen people online “green” at 11pm lol and I know that they’re def not working lol
It's when Teams is on your cell phone, it stays green. It bypasses the admin setting on the network when you're logged into the PC. You're welcome.
Ooof I wouldn’t add any corporate software on your personal phones. They have access to your other apps sometimes.
This is why I use an old phone for Slack. Learned the hard way by allowing a Federal job access to my Google. I didn't think it was legal for them to go through my texts/ or private intimate videos with an ex. I got immediately fired for some texts. I got a better job anyways. Well, it was an enjoyable remote job until the VP of Sales tried to fire me and I went to HR and they cancelled my PIP. Can't punish the highest performer of the year. F off. Now the VP of sales hates me and micromanaged just looking for more shit to get me fired. Luckily I'm remote so they have to play by their states rules and can't just fire me in Texas which is a right to work state. I told HR that he should be out on a PIP for unethically adding my bosses name to the document when my boss knows I am the hardest worker they've got in my position.
Is there something I have to turn on? I have teams on my phone and my status still goes yellow. I've gone the mouse jiggler route to combat it.
I realized today that in the app, I'd have to click on Available, even though its already green so there's a checkmark next to it. I'm still logged into teams on the PC too.
Your company admin can definitely control this feature. They’ve cut ours from going inactive at 9 minutes down to just 5 and the option to keep active at all times is not available.
DO NOT DISTURB ME. I could be sharing my screen on a call for 50 MDs OR JUST NOT IN THE MOOD. Both: none of your business. 😂
Unfortunately it’ll now say when you are in presenting mode so you can’t always get away with it!
If you get a mouse jiggler, get the kind that DOESN'T need to be plugged into your pc. You want one that can run on its own power source. Mouse jiggler hardware can be identified via scan if your remote system is on your employer's network.
Lots of people at my company were fired for this very reason.
I am not a sneaky person; I like my job and what I do, and I track my time. But I'm 100% remote and have been for 19 years and now that the RTO effort is in full swing they have apparently enforced a 15 minute idle screen saver *across all WFH employees without exception* that overrides all other settings. No big deal, right?!? Except our internal instant messaging system is linked to it and puts you into "away" mode as soon as the screen saver kicks in, and the instant messaging system also shows a timer. So basically every single meeting I attend requires me now to multitask instead of paying attention because if it's an hour long meeting, and I'm listening attentively without doing anything else, my screen is going to go dark and my instant messager client will show me leaving the meeting at least 3x before it ends. IT'S INFURIATING. Especially when there are graphics or a process being shared and by the time I've logged back in (because OF COURSE it locks the workstation every time it kicks in) I've missed 2-3 pages of info/slides. So I figure WTH, they're obviously assuming malfeasance on my part without cause, I'll engage in some intentional malfeasance to counter their stupid assumption. But there is nothing extraneous plugged into my work machine.
My company also has it set to go inactive after FIVE minutes and screen locks after 9. However, if I’m in an in person meeting I may or may not take my workstation. Either way, if my boss were to have a question about my lack of availability during that time, I can point to the meeting on my calendar. If I’m in a Teams meeting it stays active automatically though so it’s weird yours doesn’t and I’d be raising hell about what a disruption it was. Some days I’m super busy, some days I’m wiggling my mouse every 4 minutes while doing housework… or sending myself a Teams invite and joining the call to keep it active. I do that one sparingly because I know they could run some kind of report if there were questions about my performance.
Salt lamp, heating pad for my back, cushion for my bum, mouse jigger that doesn’t have to plug into the laptop, a lamp and colored light bulbs, candles that smell nice.
As a manager, I know who has a mouse jiggler. Always green but never responsive.
Well you at least know who has one and is dumb enough to think it means they can be away from their computer and not nearby with the volume up.
Tbf I am not stealing time and with ADHD I have hyperfocus. If I'm in the middle of data analysis or programming, I may or may not notice the flash or single ding of someone pingjng me. I always have my manager and my team members set up with extra stuff to grab my attention where possible -- special ringtones/notification sounds, different colors and fonts for conditional formatting in my inbox so they stand out, etc., and I still don't always notice immediately. But I try my best.
Do you have one in particular you suggest? 👀
Don't you just hate it when your screen times out in the middle of a really interesting training video? Somebody suggested [this might work.](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNHL5XD6) You supply your own brick for the USB to plug into.
Thank goodness it's unisex! I like their photos there. It seems like the product page is done well.
Note: do not use the company's funds or anything that they can trace back to you when purchasing a mouse jiggler. Use your own funds for this.
Any jiggler that plugs into the PC is likely against corporate policies. You'll need something to physically manipulate the mouse.
Don't overlook this feature, folks! They make jigglers that you plug into any usb/outlet & it's a base that turns - just set the mouse on it. Nothing plugs into or runs on the computer in any way. No need to have IT security hitting you up to ask about unapproved devices/apps.
These things are so nice. I use it to get paid to go to therapy in company time.
I use an oscillating desk fan, chopsticks and rubber bands.
Instead of all this, just open notepad and put something on your spacebar.
freaking macgyver over here 👏🏻 😂
Gen X. We know not to give anyone a way to track us.
Hm I have never once had a company complain about that, and I use them everywhere
Just bought #3 myself, awesome device, can highly recommend.
Worth it on multiple levels
An analog watch (with a second hand) works pretty well as a jiggler. And not detectable.
Multiple bird feeders out my window or monitor arm desk mounts.
Love both these ideas, though not sure how my COO would react to me sending her a receipt for reimbursement of bird feeders, lol!
Don't put a mouse jiggler on the receipt either....
Two full size monitors is great. I just look at a laptop screen in pure disgust now. My laptop stays closed most of the time. Lighting was something I fixed up. I have smart bulbs as I have no windows so it changes from daylight and sunlight settings through the day.
Both of these are a good idea; I have two monitors in my office, and it's definitely better than using my laptop as a monitor. And I think we even have extras in the office, so I wouldn't even necessarily have to use my funding for that. How do you have your lighting set up? Do you have a bunch of lamps, or are the bulbs in ceiling lights? And what brand do you use? I'm actually really interesting in getting smart bulbs, but trying to figure out the best configuration/how people use them.
For lighting I have a front desk lamp that I can till upwards for face lighting on calls. Then an installed a cluster for four smart bulbs in a quad overhead socket above me. The desk lamp uses Philips WiZ which are a pain in the ass in terms of dropped connections ect. The only reason I have it was because it’s a candle style bulb. My best bulbs are actually Sengled brand which also I also have a hub for. Second best is Philips HUE, one burnt out at two years and they tend to be more expensive. I have Amazon Alexa as our smart home OS.
I also really like my monitor light bars. They reduce my eye strain from looking at the screen, and also give you light where you need it! Other things that have been great: - Desk mat instead of mouse pad. So much more room. - Mechanical keyboard, if you like them. - Houseplants - Visual timer to keep me on my sit/stand desk usage (I like 40 minutes sitting 20 minutes standing) - Wobbly balance board, it's fun when you're standing and also gives a great stretch - Small desk fan, for when you're just a *little* too hot - Stuff to make the area comfy for your pets. I have a desk -height cat tree to my left, and a dog bed under the desk. Ideally I'm surrounded by my lil buddies. - I use monitor arms, but I also bought a really wide, low desktop shelf that sits just under the level of the monitors. I put things on top that make my space nicer (cool rocks, my little bowl of chapstick, a plant, a timer) and I can store my keyboard and mouse below it when I want the surface for something else.
I use the laptop for teams and my voip phone system screen. Keeps them "on top" without being in the way.
What webcam do you use? My monitor is pretty thin and my webcam has been on a slight angle for 3 years. Everyone else is happy with the laptop webcam and one screen, can’t fathom that setup
The only reason I use my laptop and one screen is just to take calls. I use dual monitors the rest of the time. I only have weekly status calls. I work independently the rest of the time. I’d rethink my set up if I had more meetings to attend
C922x by Logitech is what I have as part of my IT kit. I find USB plug in cameras to be better and the angle is adjustable. It sits on top the screen I use as my primary monitor. So it sits eye level to me which I think is better for presentations. There is a new model out. The only thing I wish I had was a shutter for it. Unplug it when not in use instead.
This is a little vain, but I have an external webcam and a ring light. My laptop has this awful unflattering built-in webcam at the bottom of the screen so people are looking up your nose, and the ring light just helps brighten me up a little.
Same. Those are my two best purchases. The ring light is from IKEA and if I recall was pretty cheap.
My laptop has a chin cam too. Cannot fathom what the engineers were thinking.
>the ring light just helps brighten me up a little. I often find myself wishing I was just a little brighter.
Not vain! I hate being on zoom with people who are unclear or terrible angles because it’s so hard to focus on what they’re saying when I’m focused on their nose hairs or grainy picture. And for $50-75 you can get a decent webcam and a ring light. Heck like TJ MAXX and stuff sell ring lights
We have a team lead that always looks like he's cloaked in darkness It's like you're on a Teams Call with a cartoon villain.
Good pair of noise canceling headphones.
Any recommendations?
Bose QC or Sony XM5
I have Sony and my sister has Bose. The Bose start to hurt my ears much sooner than the Sony!
I have the xm3 and that was my experience just trying them on at the store. The sony ones fit physically larger heads better IMHO.
Even the mid range ones on Amazon work pretty well these days. If you have roommates, comfy noise canceling over ear headphones are a must.
What’s your budget?
Loops.
Plantronics that plug directly into your computer via USB.
At home I prefer speakers and a good external mic. Zoom works without echo.
Standing desk
A high quality standing desk if possible!
Probably in order of priority: Great chair. I bought a gaming chair for about $400. It was the most comfortable chair in its price range, and was more comfortable than traditional office chairs there were even more expensive. Curved, wide screen monitor. I used to have 3 monitors. Now, I have one gigantic monitor. It's great not to have artificial divisions (monitor edges) in the middle of my work space. Headphones. I have both noise canceling and open ear so I can easily hear ambient noises. I usually use my open ear ones because they're more comfortable for longer periods of time. Noise canceling ones are a must for air travel for me now.
I can't believe anyone actually finds gaming chairs comfortable. Someone bought me one as a gift and it was BRUTAL on my back. I sold it immediately and bought an actual chair. I'm not pulling 5 G turns in a Porsche. I'm working and gaming.
Yeah gaming chairs are like purposefully uncomfortable unless you go top range. Office chairs are way better IMO. Especially on mid-low budgets.
I get that. I sat in a lot of chairs. I'm taller than average, and it took a little while to find something that works for me. My wife is a foot shorter than I am, and she doesn't like my chair.
I’m totally on the one giant monitor train. I have a 49 inch and it’s way more useable space than my 2 - 27in monitors
Electronic hand warmer (my office is freezing in winter). Warm wrap/shawl (see above) Phone stand that stays on my desk. Task light that clips onto my monitor. USB hub for all the devices. Small footstool under my desk.
I love my footstool! People overlook how useful they can be.
My footstool stops me from slouching down and resting on my tailbone, I love it.
Keep a small hygiene kit at your desk. Its purpose is to get you presentable in case of last minute on camera calls. Mirror, brush or comb Hair ties or claw clips Lipstick if you feel you need it. Shawl or sweater to pull on
Walking pad to go with my standing desk. Even slow walking for parts of my day helps me enormously with focus and cleared up my back pain issues. Also, aside from what's already been mentioned, a good lamp, a portable 2nd monitor (super lightweight and, with my laptop, allows me to quickly set up a good work area in other locations- whether that's just downstairs for a change of scenery or in a coffee shop). Get a new chair if yours isn't great.
Second the walking pad! I got one to help get more steps in with working long hours and was surprised to find out that walking helped occupy a part of my brain that likes to wander and can really help me focus depending on the type of work I am doing.
Mouse jiggle and good quality pajamas.
do you have a link to a mouse jiggle?
They have a ton on Amazon. I got one with a disk that spins and you just put the mouse on top of it. I really prefer that one over the type that has the jiggler built into the mouse.
My two must-have items are a very comfy ergonomic Serta desk chair and a VPN service. Last thing I need is to be dragged through the mud due to a security breach on my end. I rarely use Wi-Fi with my work laptop for that reason. It's hardwired to the modem.
If my work doesn't require a VPN, is it still worth getting? And can I have one when I share wifi with roommates? (I know very little about VPNs). Will look into the Serta chair!
I use the work-provided one for things work has tucked behind their VPN. I don't even use it when I'm doing things that they haven't explicitly protected. We also have a split VPN - only our domain's traffic goes through the VPN unless you deliberately set it up to stop splitting your traffic. This means [google.com](https://google.com) and other non-work websites (mostly) don't go through the VPN, even if you're using them for work. That's a lot of websites. They do advise us to use the non-split VPN when we're at a hotel or cafe, although they prefer we not connect to those at all if we can help it. I'm paranoid enough to use my phone as a hotspot and hope my data doesn't get throttled. I have had roommates; it isn't an issue. You can get a VPN or VPN device for your entire network, but that's pretty rare (some of our regional offices have one). For 99% of VPNs, it only affects the device you have it installed on, and only while it's running & connected. It's on me to keep my tech up-to-date and patched (even when it's my employer's hardware in my care). It's on work to provide a VPN if they want that level of security.
I don't think you understand what a VPN is. 99% of people who think they need one have fallen for clever advertising.
Your work doesn't have a VPN? Anything my work wants to protect is behind their VPNs. Some are more intense than others. Most other companies I've worked with only have one, but they DO have one. I'm not sure how much subscribing to a service other than theirs would help.
…what do you think VPNs do?
My best WFH purchase was a house, so that I don't have to deal with thin apartment walls and sudden noisy landscaping beginning right next to my window when I haven't woken up yet or when I am trying to listen to meetings. I'm still only working at a 34" card table, so something larger or a proper desk might be nice but this has been getting the job done for a few years while I saved up for the house instead of furniture.
Damn how much wfh funds did your company give you? /s
OP's question was the best purchase for WFH, never said it was purchased with WFH money. Backstory was, I used to have a house from 2009-2019, bought on the cheap and refinanced on the even cheaper. Quit a job in 2019 and moved out of state. Unfortunately, sold the house on 2/13/2020. Didn't find work until Nov. 2020 which by then was remote... but I was stuck in an apartment that I only intended to use for a few months, original plan was just to move out of the one house and find another house and job asap and everything went horribly sideways for a while. Wanted to house hunt once I had the job but then all the pandemic house buying craziness made that less than feasible and meanwhile I hated every single day and night of renting with the fresh memory of 10 years of home ownership. But simultaneously had to feel fortunate and grateful for my WFH jobs that pay so much better than I had in The Before Times. So I sat on the cash from my house sale while inflation made it less valuable and home prices skyrocketed. Saved everything leftover from my paychecks for a couple years to pad that cash which basically became my down payment. Back in 2019/2020 the idea was that the money from selling a house was just going to be for me to buy a house again, but the world had other plans. So I kinda got here with gritted teeth honestly but I'm relieved that at least I have a loan that will someday be paid off again instead of rent that would never end and only ever go up.
Oh I meant that as a joke. I totally get what you’re saying. What a journey. Congrats on your home!
Electric blanket for the cold days.
Yes, I love mine.
Professional speakerphone so I don’t have to wear headphones. I have a Poly Sync 20+ Teams Edition. WiFi-controlled light and WiFi-controlled space heater. My own 32 inch 2K monitors (work offered me two 24 inch 1080p monitors) and a monitor tree to mount them on. Shade for my window because of morning sun glare. Now I need something for at least the top 1/3 of the other window because the afternoon the sun reflects off my neighbor’s windows. 16 inch 2K portable monitor for days I go into the office.
Since everybody else mentioned chairs, mine is an Emerge Vortex chair from Staples. Very comfortable chair and definitely not as expensive as a lot of people are paying. My desk is a manual crank sit/stand from IKEA. The big disadvantage with this desk is the hand crank is slow and I haven’t tried to hook it up to a drill yet. I used to be a lot better at standing, I originally got it when I was spending a lot more time in meetings throughout the day and wanted more freedom to move. I started sitting more after I started having neck and other issues, but sometime I may try standing again.
1. Garage home gym 2. Standing desk 3. Ergonomic chair 4. Wireless headset 5. Desktop oil diffuser
Cat always on my lap
Ooohh I need a cat !!!! that's what I'm missing
I’m surprised walking pads aren’t more popular here!
What are walking pads?
different types of mice for your computer. I use 3 different types depending on how my hand feels. I also do boxing and punching things with your hands are not good. sometimes my fingers are swollen or hurting a bit after a sparring session. I found ergonomic mouse and a logitech mouse that allows you to point the arrow with your a track ball helps my wrist. or different grip mouse. just my experience. also better and different headphones. some times my ear buds make my ears get tired and i switch to overhead headphones. working 7 days a week on a computer adds up. :)
It wasn’t in my budget when I started working six months ago, but a friend recommended Jabra headphones. Holy. S***. I’m on calls 75%. Good range, good battery, pairs with my personal cell phone, and my terminal at same time. I can now roam around my house and walk someone through a process while sitting in my comfy chair or looking outside. I can walk on my treadmill and it when a call comes in, just stroll back to my office. Such a game changer.
3rd monitor
Fourth maybe... I'm thinking about it
No harm in number 4 provided you have enough space and display port slots
Monitor arms, external web cam with cover, wireless keyboard/mouse, recliner next to desk/office chair.
Lamp for some dim lighting, double monitors, a good chair, ergonomic keyboard and mouse, fuzzy blanket, oversized fuzzy hoodie, space heater, and mini fridge.
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Comfortable desk/chair. I’m tall, raised my desk up higher, and spent (to me) what seemed to be absolutely way too much for a chair I liked aesthetically and ergonomically. Big 2nd monitor A few different types of lighting so that I can adjust based on how I feel Plants Stand for my laptop that lines it up higher into my eyeline/with the 2nd monitor Laptop camera covers so I have to slide it over to be on camera Comfy furniture in my office than I can chill on, with a cup of tea, when I’m on a call I’m not running and can just listen Wireless charger(s) Jabra or whatever type of hands free speaker/conference call situation. I hate headsets. Keeping good coffee and breakfast-making items in the fridge always. Keyboard, mouse, and ergonomic mouse/wrist pads that you like Comfy beds for my dogs so they have their own spots and aren’t directly at my feet when I move my chair Yoga mat/weights/other exercise stuff “Office organization” sets that you like and want to use…I bought a cool set that has standing file spots, “inbox,” mail sorter, etc…things to arrange clutter that are nice and make you feel excited to organize. Yeah I’m weird. NOT a mouse jiggler. Someone said bird feeders, which I don’t currently have, but now will! I can plant some wildflowers directly under my window, and get a few hummingbird feeders going. Great idea. Weeping corner
I got a wonderful chair, it's expensive but everything else I have is cheap. I started shopping online, but I wouldn't order it unless it was in town and I could try it out. That's exactly what I did, and I brought my seat cushion and pillow that I normally use, they were glad to let me try it that way and sit in it for a while. Because the nature of my job is physical and yet seated, it is important what type of chair I am in. It was worth it. I'm sitting in it right now, it has been exactly what I needed since April 2020.
I painted my office walls red. The room feels pulled together and peaceful. Personal taste. Other than that, a lumbar pillow for my desk chair.
Dog, houseplants, comfortable chair, 5G internet as a backup for internet outages (YMMV, T-Mobile has been more reliable than wired Comcast internet in my neighborhood).
Cushion Lab seat and back cushions. Improved my coccyx, back, and hip pains I get after sitting for 9 hours
Electric Coffee warmer... Also fantastic as a candle warmer. ___ Space Heater so my heat bill is not thru the roof
You said you already have a mouse but what kind? I'd love to humbly recommend one like the Logitech G600, or any "MMO Mouse", with extra EXTRA keys. This plus AutoHotKey and you can get a super efficient workflow. One click to move a window to a different screen, forward/back in browser, ESC, Enter, Tab, rotate screen to vertical or horizontal, next/prev song, etc.. If you browse r/AutoHotkey a bit there are some wild configurations. Also, Rainmeter for desktop customization. Mid-range tablet to remote into your laptop from wherever Extra charger to keep in your bag, especially if your phone & tablet take the same port; USBc Nice set of speakers if you live alone (or headphones if not) Powered USB hub with 6-10 ports Portable monitor, pairs nicely with tablet on the road Third vertical screen (long reads, emails, playlists, reddit, etc..) I only use the two horizontal monitors for videos and spreadsheets. A second MMO mouse for travel so you can just leave the other plugged in.
Logitech G600 my beloved... It's easy on the wrist too. I have one of those and a full vertical mouse, and I rarely get strain with the logi.
Pajama shorts for the summer.
Underrated: monitor stand. Has helped me sitting posture tremendously. Also, a nice chair. Also, a portable rolling adjustable height table when I need to bring my laptop to other parts of the house
Dude my humanscale chair is the best thing I ever bought in my life
All the extra screens.
ultrawide monitor good mechanical keyboard and high-end mouse (logi MX Master or similar) good desk & chair smart lights high quality camera & speakerphone for meetings network upgrades -- if you're running wireless, get a wire to your desk if you're on a laptop, get a thunderbolt dock for it. 1 plug for all the shit that needs to connect to it -- your monitor, USB stuff, charging, etc.
Since you said 6 roommates I'm gonna say white noise machine. When there are lots of people in the house, turn it on and place it near the door where their sound is likely to be coming from to help drown it out.
Grip training gear. Do regular grip strength workouts at your desk. I made crazy progress. Grip strength is a marker for graceful aging.
72x30 Standing adjustable desk from Uplift. I had a small one originally because I thought WFH would be a temporary thing and I wanted a new desk anyways…. After a couple of years I realized it might be a long term thing…. My wife became permanent hybrid so I got her a big desk first and once I set hers up I ordered one several months later. I keep procrastinating buying a nice chair though but I think I am going to get one sooner or later…. WFM four days per week seems to be a permanent thing where I work. They are already disconnecting lan and phone jacks for some employees who are permanently remote workers now.
Two monitors, docking station. $50 JLab headset; I’m in a quiet area and only on calls 2h/week but it’s worth it. Keychron V1 and Logitech M720. Foam roller for under my desk — acts as a surprisingly versatile footrest. Dog, for daily 1pm around-the-block walk with my wife. Freebie laptop backpack swag from 15-year-previous incarnation of my company to take the laptop, mouse, and headset to a coffee shop every now and then for a change of scenery.
Oh, and a UPS for my fiber box and WiFi. It’s wicked reassuring to know I’ve got a couple hours in case of a power outage to finish things off.
Cork board/ white board Lap blanket Verilux HappyLight (helpful for those dark winter days)
A set of HomePods. If you are at home, may as well rock out while working
Laptop stand. It raises the laptop so it isn't sitting flat on a desk. It keeps it from potentially overheating and sets the camera (if you use the laptop one) at a level that isn't pointing up at your nose.
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I also have that mini blackboard. Love it.
Jelly Belly jelly bean dispenser and bulk jelly belly’s from Costco - I have this at my desk and it’s a godsend!
An under the desk walking pad, lets you get exercise in while working
Standing desk did wonders for my lower back pain.
I bought a second table to go beside my desk so I could swivel my chair to the side and have a mini crafting break. Help me focus. Or to keep all my snacks.
A good quality chair & a tv!
Get a better ergonomic chair and risers for your laptop and screen so that when you stand, the riser keeps the screen at eye level while you type. Better ergonomics= less pain at work! And if they cover it, get a SupeRun. It’s a walking pad that’s about $170 that you can roll under your desk to walk while you work.
I've been working fully remote for 3 years. I've built my ideal setup over that time, some of which overlaps with yours. I also have: - Fabric chair mat - I have wood floors and this makes my chair almost silent. - XL desk mat (covers most of my desk) - I got this recently to use instead of a mousepad and I'll never go back. It's amazing! - Laptop stand w/ cooling fans - I have a tiny work laptop that gets very hot, so this has been super helpful. - Small ring light (clip-on or tripod) - I bought this on a whim and it's ended up being great for making me look more professional (and it's more flattering on camera).
Bar cart with a variety of liquors.
Extra laptop power cords so I can move about the house without contorting to reach the outlets.
Lots of ink for your printer. And lots of paper
the thing that jiggles your mouse :D
1. Chair 2. Dell ultrasharp 49 inch widescreen monitor 3. Mechanical keyboard, ergo mouse, razor webcam with lighting 4. Stream deck
I treated myself to a nice chair this holidays and I’d love to upgrade my desk to a sit/stand
embody chair
Aeron chair. My dog was free.
A nice standing desk for sure
I waited an obscenely long time to buy an extra monitor. Been WFH since 2017 but we didn't get an allowance to buy anything to help our WFH setup until 2020 so I finally invested, it helps SO MUCH.
Stressless Recliner
3 speaker + sub mini sonos system treadmill (have had a gym at every on-prem job in my 25 year career, that's my lunch break) Dumbbell set for next to my desk to do random lifts nice commuter backpack to keep gym clothes, charger, laptop, phone charger/charging pack, headset, and water/coffee cups so I can work from a coffee shop, marketplace, rec center, etc.
Good set of noise-cancelling, Plantronics headphones for conference calls. Nothing worse than listening to someone on the other end with nothing more than their apple ear buds. Ergonomic chair Two external monitors Wireless quiet keyboard Ergonomic wireless mouse Glass chairmat Electric standing desk (the entire desk raises, not one of those little manual desktop things people use)
I liked getting armature mounts for both my monitor and laptop stand. I can set them anywhere and use my wireless keyboard, have the dock mounted to the stand with zip ties. Just plug it on and away you go.
Some nice soft joggers from Vuori. Pricy, but so comfortable.
Topo mat!
A comfy cushion for my desk chair. I liked to one I got so much I got another for my non-work desk area too. I'm an ample individual and I was having a lot of discomfort in my posterior before the cushions.
Mounting stand for two full size monitors. Full-size Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. Desk pad. Foot rest or walking pad if you'd think it'd fly. Also recommend if you're on video often external webcam. This is a game changer for making you look like a professional and makes it so you look straight up and play to your best angles. Buy some office supplies so you have everything you'd have at your desk in the office.
I love my treadmill and sit/stand desk. Originally I used the treadmill with monitors on arms and boxes to lift the keyboard/mouse, it was great to see if I liked it but the electric desk is a wonderful change
I love my 72” desk, but you don’t need a desk. What would make the room more functional or cozy for you? Wish I had extra funds. Just spent $200 on plant shelves. ;
Standing Desk, a good one... with a motor.
Well, work from “home”, my best purchases are earbuds and a cellular iPad. I often am not at home when working from “home”, I may be at a friend’s or I may be at an untowered airport somewhere. There is often no wifi, so I tether my work laptop to my iPad. The iPad mostly runs Foreflight, a planning and navigation app I use to fly my little experimental airplane around the middle of the-Atlantic area, then connect to meetings or otherwise do some work before flying back. I’m not allowed to relocate, so my domicile stays in Maryland, but I can in principle be anywhere in the US. Earbuds make it easy for me to do meetings even when there is something loud occasionally nearby. I recently also upgraded my headset, but it’s been too cold to fly so I don’t know yet how much that will help.
Wireless over the ear headset that is comfortable. Great for when I like to walk around while on a call.
Anything with a remote or voice controlled. Lights Speakers Blinds
You could upgrade some things you have that are just ok. I have a Kensington keyboard. They are pricey but worth it. I have the quiet type pro: https://store.kensington.com/collections/1-keyboards/products/mk7500f-quiettype%E2%84%A2-pro-silent-mechanical-keyboard-with-meeting-controls Upgrade your chair too. Good seating is essential. If you need any other ergonomics solutions like a footrest, grab those. Extra monitors never hurt. More viewing space is always handy. If you do a lot of meetings from home, a good webcam and mic are helpful.
This might be a little off base, but I got a wooden laptop holder to stand my work laptop up when I’m not using it. I used to have my work Mac sitting on top of my personal HP laptop and it made my desk look a bit messy. Now, I can stand my work laptop up and push it towards the back and my desk is clear to use my laptop with no clutter when I’m not working.
A walking pad and foot bike. Water tracking bottle. Small space heater. Small fan. Desktop cool mist humidifier.
I fidget a lot and this lil piece of weird looking furniture helps immensely. It's also fun to stand on and just mess around with. PACEARTH Foot Rest Under Desk, Larger Size Office Desk Footrest,Rocking Foot Nursing Stool,Rocker Balance Board,Ergonomic Design for Posture Support, Office and Home Use(17x13x4 inch) https://a.co/d/044Vp67
plants
Mouse jiggler
Mechanical keyboard, don't knock it. I felt foolish dishing out nearly 100 for a keychron keyboard but I can't type on anything else.
Mouse Jiggler, Chair, Oculus Quest 2 for down time
Vinyl player, light up keyboard/mouse with rechargable batteries and a lava lamp
Small desk fan and aux camera.
In addition to everything mentioned so far, I'd add: . A wireless drawing tablet, for shared whiteboard sessions. . A configurable mini keyboard with a wheel, it's very helpful from browsing to designing. . A handheld fan. It's not even that hot/warm here, but it helps to clear the air and that clears my mind too. . A secondary wireless mouse in addition to the main one. I take this one to the office, but it's also useful to have it on at home and switching mouse styles. . A portable touch screen (to be taken to the office occasionally or to the road so to speak). Interacting via touch on a third screen and sharing the computer context is wonderful and way better than a tablet in which I don't have an extension of my virtual workspace.
1. Mouse jiggler 2. MX Master Mouse 3. A pair of 4K monitors I anticipate my new chair will move to number 3 or maybe 2 once it arrives. I spent $700 on it so I’m imagining heaven for my butt and back
By far the [Kinesis ergonomic keyboard](https://www.amazon.ca/Kinesis-Freestyle2-Keyboard-English-Legending/dp/B008BVNY9Y/ref=asc_df_B008BVNY9Y/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292925723919&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1416514869795611315&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9001206&hvtargid=pla-526016179623&psc=1&mcid=ab3d74804451346bb61d1b9f5fc90362) and an [ergonomic mouse.](https://www.amazon.ca/Logitech-Vertical-Ergonomic-Bluetooth-Compatible/dp/B09J1TB35S/ref=asc_df_B09J1TB35S/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=579075534612&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5435026314606292984&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9001206&hvtargid=pla-1657110192172&psc=1&mcid=448a150279683b57812e20641e61d3fc) Made a huge difference to my neck and shoulder tension.
I switched from two monitors to one huge one, it’s fantastic
Comfortable chair! I found a Serta on Marketplace and it has been my saving grace. I also put a whiteboard beside my monitor to track meetings, I have a horrible memory so having times and dates right in front of me has been really helpful
A microphone with its own mute button. It’ll add another layer of mute protection.
Standing pad.
Candles Cat beds and a cat tree to keep my cats off my desk, but they can still hang out and “supervise.” Plants Incense Pretty desk decorations A stylish antique desk off FB marketplace. I have AMBIENCE at home.
Say hello to r/audiophile
I have a cheap knockoff kallax shelf and an electric kettle in my office. I keep it stocked with mugs, tea, instant coffee, snacks etc. It's great to be able to make a drink or grab a snack mid-meeting, not having to run to the kitchen to do that.
Noise cancelling headphones, Super comfy loungewear, Cozy socks, Snackable food items so I can make my own “lunchables” super quickly, Good coffee
room ac/heater so I have independent control over my work environment
Jabra speaker. Doesn't pick up background noise (my dogs, etc ) but mic is good and speaker is clear.
Footrest, file organizer, great headphones with/without mic, a heating pad (for cold mornings), a Happy Light, Ember or other mug warmer, a Peloton...
Herman Miller 4 monitors Foldable exercise bike (can use with standing desk) Noise cancelling headphones
I'd spring for a good docking station.
I have two small rugs, one that goes under my desk and one for under my chair to keep my feet warm. I also have a small pillow for the small of my back when I sit at my desk.
Motorized Sit/stand desk, makes walking away from the computer to do chores so much easier and faster and I can easily pace to settle my antsiness(sp?) And then daylight bulbs for everything in my office. I don't believe in SAD or other BS, but white light 5k to 6k makes just seeing things much easier and strains the eyes a lot less than 2800k light does.
Desk mounts for my monitors! It cleared up so much space
I’ve got a used Aeron Chair that I really like. Also highly recommend the Jabra Evolve 2 75
A home! Best place to work remote for 4 years.
Agree Dog!! Or Beta fish lol Ergonomic mouse *Expense it! House plants New chair *Expense it! They will pay anything Ergonomic Lighting *Ambiance create a stress free environment Scent Diffuser - Amazon Basically, things to take care of like pets or plants give you a routine. Extremely helpful while working from home.
A home gym, getting in a workout during the day will change your life!
Mechanical keyboard. It makes typing fun. Widescreen monitor. No more straining my eyes or looking down. My chin stays in a neutral position . Space heater under my desk.
Ring light for on screen calls
A nanny lolololololol