7 Home Office Essentials Every WAHM Needs

I’ve been at this work-from-home gig for a couple years now, and I gotta say, I’m loving it! It’s seriously a dream come true to be able to work flexible hours that allow me to spend time with my family while also doing something that brings me fulfillment. But, it’s not always easy to stay focused. When you work from home, you’ve got to be organized and disciplined. Sometimes this is easier said than done. But if you make your home office a place that is just as professional as your desk would be in a business office, you’ll be able to work from home more efficiently. So, if you’re new to this WAHM thing, or you’re considering giving it a whirl, make sure you have these home office essentials so that you’ll be as productive as possible.

1. Daily Planner

One of the best things you can do when you work from home is create a daily schedule. Even if you don’t jot down the exact time you’re going to do every task, listing your daily duties will remind you of what needs to be accomplished each day. Of course, having a planner is also a great way to keep track of important meetings, phone calls, and appointments.

2. Pen & Paper

Even though I do most of my work on the computer, I always keep a pen and paper next to me while I work. You never know when a great idea will come up, or when you’ll need to write down a phone number or other important information. Maybe you think of something that you want to mention to your boss. Or you come across an inspiring article that you want to send to a co-worker. Having a pen and paper around will allow you to scribble down quick notes when you’re too busy to do something at that moment, but don’t want to forget about it later.

3. Calculator

Not every work-at-home job requires number crunching. In fact, the only time I need a calculator is when I’m submitting invoices. However, it’s really important that I send invoices that are accurate and free of mathematical errors. Whether your job entails a lot of math or not, a calculator will definitely come in handy at some point.

4. Phone Charger

If you have a landline phone, you won’t need to worry about this. But if you’re like me and the only phones you have are cellular, you’ll want to make sure yours is fully charged. I use mine for work on occasion, but I also like knowing that it’s there in case of an emergency. If your job requires a lot of phone calls, making a phone charger part of your home office setup is crucial.

5. Desk Clock

Depending on what you do for work, you may need to track your hours. I use an app on the computer to track mine, but I also have to watch the time so that I don’t miss picking my children up from school. Or missing an important work meeting. Having a clock at your desk can make the days feel longer sometimes, but it will help keep you on schedule.

6. Drink Coaster

Even workaholics need a break sometimes. And if you refuse to leave your seat to take that break, I hope you at least have a drink to keep you hydrated as you work. Whether it’s coffee, water, juice or lemonade, your brain and body need nourishment throughout the workday. Keep your drink on a cute little coaster to protect your desk, and act as a reminder of the importance of taking beverage breaks.

7. Idea Board

You don’t need anything fancy, but having an idea board of some kind will keep you motivated. Whether you compile a list of ideas you find on Pinterest, display interesting photos that you come across, or stick up inspiring quotes that you read, an idea board is a great way to store all of your ideas so you can refer to them when you need to. This can also spark creativity in your personal life and contribute to your growth as a woman and mother.

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Leena Kollar

Contributing Writer at Life As Mama

I'm a wife, mother and everything else associated with domestic life. I can often be found hiding from my kids to sneak treats (especially ice cream). I love rainbows and naps, and I find any excuse to go to Target. When I actually make it out of the house in real clothes, I document my outfits on my fashion blog, Leather & Lip Gloss. My love for fashion also inspired me to start my own comprehensive style website, The Style Spectrum.