Here's How to Create a Productive Workspace—even with a House Full of Kids

Ever sit down to work on your business and find yourself instantly distracted by the clutter, noise, and chaos of everyday life? When you’re balancing work, kids, and building your dream business, your workspace becomes more than just a place to sit—it’s your productivity foundation.

The good news? You don’t need a whole office to make it work. Even if you’re working from a corner of the living room or setting up your laptop in the kitchen, you can still create a space that supports focus and creativity.

Step 1: Declutter in Stages

Let’s face it: tackling clutter all at once is overwhelming. Instead, start small.

• Day 1: Clear your desk or your work area—get rid of old papers, sticky notes, and random clutter.

• Day 2: Organize your tech—tidy up cables, chargers, and devices.

• Day 3: Add some personal touches—plants, a framed photo, or an inspiring quote.

Every small win not only makes your space more functional but also gives you that little dopamine boost of accomplishment.

Step 2: Create a Kid-Friendly Clutter Solution

If you’ve got kids running around, you know the chaos of toys, school papers, and random treasures that seem to appear everywhere. One of the best solutions? Bins or boxes for each child.

Each kid gets their own bin where their stuff goes throughout the week. Toys, books, shoes—anything that’s theirs. At the end of the week, if they’re old enough, they go through their bin and put things back where they belong. It keeps your main workspace clear and helps them learn responsibility. My kids actually look forward to organizing their bin on the weekends. It's like they are getting new toys all over again that they misplaced earlier in the week! 

Step 3: Carve Out Your Space—Even If It’s Small

Not everyone has the luxury of a separate office—and that’s okay! Even if you’re setting up at the kitchen table or in a corner of the living room, you can make it your space.

Here’s how:

• Create a Portable Workstation: Use a tray or small cart that holds your essentials—laptop, planner, notebook, and pens. Roll it out when it’s time to work, and tuck it away when you’re done.

• Add Some Calm: Place a small cactus, a candle, or a mini plant next to your laptop. It might seem small, but it signals to your brain that it’s time to focus.

• Use Noise-Canceling Headphones or White Noise Apps: If noise is a distraction, block it out with calming music or white noise.

Step 4: Focus on Lighting and Comfort

Good lighting can change everything.

• Natural light if possible—set your desk near a window.

• If not, a quality desk lamp with soft, warm light can prevent eye strain and boost mood.

And don’t forget your chair. If you’re spending hours at your desk (or kitchen table!), it needs to be comfortable. You can even grab a cushion or back support if you’re making do with a dining chair.

Step 5: Make One Change at a Time

You don’t need to overhaul your whole workspace in one day. Pick one change per week:

• Week 1: Clear your desk or workspace.

• Week 2: Get bins for the kids’ stuff.

• Week 3: Create your portable workstation.

• Week 4: Upgrade your lighting.

Small steps add up to big progress!

Step 6: Make It Yours—Even If It’s Temporary

If you’re working in a shared space, make it feel like yours—even if it’s just for a little while.

• Light a candle or set out a diffuser when you work.

• Put on a cozy sweater or wrap to make your workspace feel separate from the rest of the house.

• If you can, set up a small folding screen to create a visual boundary.

You Deserve a Space That Works for You

When your environment is organized and welcoming—even if it’s just the corner of your kitchen—your focus increases, distractions fade, and productivity soars. You’re a busy entrepreneur, a parent, and a visionary—you deserve a space that reflects that.