5 Tools That Make You Work

Chloe Hayes, author

Blury picture of fidget toy — @vnebetemnosinem

You wake up pumped, your to-do list is beautifully organized, and you're ready to slay the day. But then... reality hits. Not because you're procrastinating, but because your body's throwing a tantrum. An uncomfortable chair, a screen that's too low, achy wrists, or eyes that feel like they've run a marathon—sound familiar?

Your body's not a spreadsheet you can rearrange with a click. Ignore its complaints, and your dream of a smooth, focused workday ends up in the same junk drawer as your "I'll start tomorrow" resolutions.

So ask yourself: Is my workspace even comfy enough to let me do my best work? Here's a handful of real, tangible things that don't just make work nicer, they make your brain, eyes, back, and focus happier and more effective.

1. Laptop Stand: Your Neck's New BFF

Why it's awesome
Staring down at your laptop screen all day is like asking your neck to carry a bowling ball. A 2014 study by Dr. Kenneth Hansraj found that tilting your head just 15 degrees adds up to 12 kilos of pressure on your spine. Yikes! A laptop stand lifts your screen to eye level, saving you from that hunchback vibe.

What you get

Less neck and eye strain.
Better posture (hello, confidence!)

Bonus
You're less likely to get distracted by random scrolling when your screen's at the right height.

2. Pomodoro Timer: Your Focus Wingman

Why it's awesome
Ever heard of the Pomodoro technique? Back in the '80s, an Italian student named Francesco Cirillo figured out that working in 25-minute bursts with 5-minute breaks keeps your brain sharp. A 2011 University of Illinois study backs this up—short breaks help you stay focused way better than grinding nonstop.

What you get

Your day feels less overwhelming, broken into bite-sized chunks
Laser-like concentration
A little thrill of progress every time you check off a session

Pro move
Grab a cute tomato-shaped timer or just use an app—whatever vibes with you.

3. External Keyboard & Mouse: Save Your Wrists, Save Your Career

Why it's awesome
Typing on a laptop keyboard often twists your arms into weird angles. An external keyboard and mouse let your elbows chill at a comfy 90 degrees, keeping your wrists happy and neutral. This setup isn't just cozy—it helps dodge pain and even carpal tunnel down the road. Microsoft research says ergonomic keyboards cut muscle strain by 25–35%. Not too shabby!

What you get

Faster, smoother typing and clicking
Healthier hands and wrists for the long haul

Bonus
A legit "I've got my life together" desk setup.

4. Fidget Toy: Your Anxiety's Off-Ramp

Why it's awesome
Fidget cubes, rings, or spinners aren't just trendy—they're like a pressure valve for restless energy. A 2020 NYU study found that these tiny movements can sharpen your focus and clear mental fog, especially if you're neurodivergent. It's like giving your brain a mini-vacation without leaving your desk.

What you get

Better attention and less stress
No batteries, no Wi-Fi, just pure focus fuel

Heads-up
Pick something that helps you zone in, not a toy that steals the spotlight.

5. Desk Lamp with Adjustable Light: Set the Mood for Winning

Why it's awesome
Lighting isn't just about seeing—it's about feeling. Cool white light (4000–6500K) wakes up your brain for daytime hustle, while warm tones help you unwind at night. The Lighting Research Center says good lighting can boost productivity by 8–10%. Plus, it's easier on your eyes and mood.

What you get