To say that the COVID-19 pandemic changed life as we know it is an understatement -- but it is especially true for one’s typical workday. Before March 2020, nearly half American professionals never worked outside the office and were brand new to the work-from-home lifestyle. A year and a half later, it is clear that telecommuting is here to stay. Not only are the vast majority of Americans continuing to operate remotely (approximately 71% according to Pew Research Center), but people have come to love and find immense value in the shift in work environment.

This doesn’t mean that the adjustment hasn’t come with growing pains, of course. The lack of “water cooler banter” and in-person collaboration can undoubtedly be lonely. One often ends up putting in more hours working from home than they usually would when at a dedicated office. (It was an adjustment for us, too, as the ladies of District Maven have always worked remotely and certainly weren’t used to sharing our “office” with so many people during business hours!)

Plus, the home office doesn’t come equipped with the comforts of the traditional one. The individual worker (not their employer) suddenly became primarily responsible for providing their work supplies, making it all-to-easy to overspend on unnecessary items that may look cool but don’t help one accomplish much of anything.

Being seasoned experts on the WFH lifestyle, the marketing team at District Maven is often asked how we make it through our busy days -- and most notably, what we consider the essential products for work. In response, we’ve created a round-up of our must-have home office supplies to make the transition easier for professionals who are now permanent telecommuters. Fortunately, they’re available for purchase on Amazon, and most won’t break the bank, but all are entirely worth it.