Working at a computer shouldn’t hurt.

One of the biggest reasons anyone hates working on their laptop is how uncomfortable it can be. Maybe you’re hunched over a kitchen table or you’ve tried to find a relaxing position on the couch but it just isn’t working for you. Plus you’re there for hours and hours.

My hot take: any place you’re going to be working at for hours is a space worth investing in – and that doesn’t always mean a desk! There are ways to make your workspace both mobile and ergonomic.

The first time I heard of ergonomics, I had just moved to San Francisco, so thought it was some bougie, woo-woo thing. But it changed the way I work and now there are things I always do to make sure that working on my computer doesn’t end up being a literal pain in the neck.

  • I got laptop stand. Your screen should be positioned at eye level and in such a way that you don’t have to bend your neck to read what’s on it. My stand is lightweight and foldable, so I can easily work from another room or slip it into my bag and work elsewhere.
  • I got a separate keyboard and mouse. This isn’t surprising since your laptop is now out of reach on your fun new stand. I use a bluetooth keyboard and mouse combo because I hate having cables everywhere. You’ll even find foldable keyboards.
  • I got a footrest. This is probably just because I’m shorter than most of you, but this helps with the goal of having your elbows, knees, and hips at a 90° angle as much as possible.

At the end of the day, you’ll want to be in a position that allows you to be neutral and practically at-rest, like this guy:

Further Reading
If you’re curious to learn more about ergonomics, UVA has a whole OSHA-type department that not only talks about your workspace, but the impact that desk work can have on the body, and recommended stretches to prevent longterm injury. More here.

Leave a comment