Working from home two days a week is both a blessing and a challenge. On one hand, less commute means more time with family (and a little more sleep!). On the other, if you don’t have a proper workspace, it’s easy to feel distracted, unproductive, and worst of all—sakit ng likod, leeg, at mata.
I learned this the hard way. For months, I was working from the dining table noong nakatira pa kami sa London. It worked—until it didn’t. I found myself slouching, my laptop heating up, and my kids thinking my “office” was their snack station. That’s when I realized I needed to invest in a proper home office setup, not just for productivity but also for health especially I have a lower back problem since Singapore days.
Let me walk you through my current setup and why each piece matters.
Dual-Screen Setup = Game Changer
The first upgrade I made was adding a monitor to pair with my laptop. Having two screens means I can join meetings on one and keep my work open on the other. No more switching windows every 10 seconds. Simple upgrade, huge impact.
👉 Get something like this:Check dual monitors on Amazon
Laptop Stand = Neck & Space Saver
To go with that, I added a laptop stand. This keeps my screen at eye level and helps me sit straighter—goodbye neck and back pain. Plus, the space underneath doubles as storage for small items.
✅ Why it matters: Prevents neck strain + frees up desk space underneath for documents or small gadgets.
✅ My take: Small tool, big impact on comfort.
👉 Similar product here: Adjustable Laptop Stand
Ergonomic Keyboard & Mouse = Wrist Protection
Typing all day on a laptop keyboard is torture, so I invested in a wireless ergonomic keyboard and mouse. The wrist rest on the keyboard? A lifesaver. It keeps me comfortable even on long workdays.
✅ Why it matters: Prevents long-term wrist pain and fatigue (a must if you work daily on a computer).
✅ My take: This is one of those “I should’ve bought this sooner” upgrades.
👉 Shop here: Ergonomic Keyboard and Mouse Set
Monitor Light Bar = Eye-Friendly Must-Have
One of the best small purchases I’ve made is a monitor light bar. It lights up the desk without causing screen glare. Perfect for late-night reports, blog writing, or even just browsing.
✅ Why it matters: Helps reduce eye strain during long work sessions, especially at night.
✅ My take: Makes my desk feel premium, plus my eyes feel less tired at the end of the day.
👉 Get yours here: Monitor Light Bar
Noise-Cancelling Headset = Call Confidence
Working from home = non-stop Teams/Zoom calls. My headset helps me block out background noise (yes, even the chaos of toddlers), while keeping my voice clear to colleagues.
✅ Why it matters: Clear communication is everything when you’re remote.
✅ My take: Worth every penny. It’s also perfect for focus playlists when I need deep work time.
👉 Similar headset here: Noise Cancelling Headset
Notebook & Pen = Old-School Power
As much as I love apps, I still rely on my notebook for quick notes and to-do lists. There’s just something satisfying about crossing things off manually.
✅ Why it matters: Sometimes analog is faster than digital.
✅ My take: Adds a personal touch to an otherwise tech-heavy setup.
Standing Desk = The Real MVP
Now for the star of my setup: my standing desk. This is easily my favorite piece. Being able to adjust between sitting and standing has been a game-changer for my health and energy levels.
On long workdays, standing helps me avoid that sluggish, post-lunch slump. And when I need to focus, just adjusting the desk gives me a mental reset. It’s sturdy, spacious enough for my monitor + laptop, and fits perfectly in my home office corner.
✅ Why it matters: Improves posture, reduces back pain, and helps you stay alert during long hours.
✅ My take: If you only invest in one big item, let it be this. Your body will thank you.
👉 Highly recommended: Electric Standing Desk
Final Thoughts
Building a home office isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space where you can actually thrive. With two little kids at home, I need every bit of focus I can get. This setup helps me work smarter, stay healthier, and at the end of the day, shift back to Dad mode without feeling drained.
If you’re working from home, start small: a second monitor, a good keyboard, or even just a laptop stand. Then, when you’re ready, upgrade to a standing desk. Believe me, you’ll feel the difference.
Question for you: What’s the one item in your work setup you can’t live without?
#DadBuhay
DadBuhay 
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