Working from home isn’t a new trend. However, before the COVID-19 pandemic, many employers hadn’t considered it an option. But now that it is, a number of workers are calling it a necessity.
The Shift Towards Remote Work
There’s been a shift in work culture since the pandemic started. Many employees have gotten used to the perks of working from home. So much so, that some vow to never return to the office.
The Pew Research Center surveyed 5,889 workers who have the option to work onsite. But out of those, a whopping 61 percent say they’re working from home because they want to, not because they have to.
And we understand why. There are plenty of benefits to working from home, whether you’re a student, employee, or business owner.
The Importance Of A Home Office
Working from home requires a dedicated workspace to work comfortably. For some, their home office is a small desk and a lamp. For others, theirs is an entire room filled with electronics and office supplies. Either way, designating a quiet area in your home where you can work comfortably is important for productivity.
Another way to increase productivity is by having some helpful office supplies. Things like sticky notes, bookmarks, calendars, and notepads are useful for managing your workload more effectively. They can help remind you of upcoming meetings and appointments or keep your space clean and organized.
Where To Shop For Office Supplies Near Me?
There are a number of office supply stores that you can find in your area. And some of the most popular ones, like Staples or Office Depot, are located throughout the country.
But there are a lot of Black-owned businesses that carry office supplies, too. And when you support them, you’re giving small or lesser known businesses a seat at the table. So here are six cute home office supplies from Black-owned companies that you can purchase right now:
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When working from home, you might have to deal with distractions that make it hard to maintain your focus.
If you’re a working mom, your little ones can pull you away from your work. Or maybe you hear a knock at the door and have to step away from your desk for a bit.
When this happens, jot down your thoughts with this “Bright Ideas Notepad” from Copper and Grass Paper Goods. You can use it to take notes during a meeting or brainstorm ideas for an upcoming project.
Whatever you decide to use it for, this cute and colorful notepad makes keeping it together much easier.
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If you’re an avid reader, indulging in a good book may be a fun hobby. But for students or those whose work requires studying, it can feel like more of a chore. And nothing is worse than coming back to a 500-page book and realizing you lost your place.
But part of managing your workload is keeping things well organized. Organization is important because it can make your work day run more smoothly. And with the help of some useful home office supplies, you can do just that.
Keep tabs on your reading progress with KLigg Co.‘s “Black Girl Magic” bookmark set, each with an empowering message. The bookmark is the perfect way to ensure you can pick up where you left off to avoid losing valuable time.
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The Everyday Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds with Microphone
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Working from home provides many benefits. One draw to working from home is that you can manage household tasks while working. You might run the dishwasher while you work or run an errand during your lunch break.
You can also take an important call or attend a phone meeting with “The Everyday Earbuds” from Raycon. These Bluetooth-enabled, wireless earbuds allow you to be present even when you’re away from your desk. And because they’re hands-free, you can do a load of laundry or start dinner while you speak to your clients. They’re a great way to maximize your time at home AND work.
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As a working woman, it’s important to take time to relax and unwind at the end of the day. Part of maintaining your mental health is to practice self-care. And while being a hard worker is an admirable trait, overworking yourself isn’t healthy.
A good way to promote a healthy mind is by journaling. Many women journal before bed to reduce overthinking during bedtime. Others journal in the morning for a productive start to the day.
You can practice self-care with helpful office supplies like this “Faces Lined Journal” from Page Eleven Paper Goods. This adorable journal with Black and white faces provides plenty of blank space for you to let your thoughts run wild.
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One of the best parts about working from home is not having to worry about bundling up in a cold office. Having a home office means you can set the temperature as high or as low as you’d like.
Still, cozying up in a blanket isn’t always about staying warm. For some, it provides comfort that can ease work-related stress and tension. Blank can also offer some security and support when you’re anxious at work.
Wrap up in this lightweight throw blanket from Johanna Howard. Made from quality wool and cotton materials, it’s perfect for keeping you warm and cozy while you work.
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If you can’t start your day without a cup of coffee, you’re not alone.
According to a Bloomberg report, 66 percent of Americans have a daily cup of coffee. For many, the high levels of caffeine in coffee help give them the boost they need to be productive throughout the day.
If this sounds like you, try these intricately-designed “Binta Coasters” from Expedition Subsahara. They’re a stylish way to keep your coffee and other beverages from leaking onto your desk. The last thing you need is for liquid spills to ruin expensive work equipment. These sturdy coasters can keep your cups and glass in place to help protect your work space and office supplies.