“I feel more productive, less distracted and can fully focus on the task at hand, no matter how big or complex it may be. I find it easier to get things done, and as a result, I do more.” - Shaye, founder of HumbleWorks
Keep reading to discover how our founder, Shaye, realised how simply standing more at the office transformed his work ethic. He’ll offer some insight into the benefits of standing and helpful tips on how to use a standing desk.
Hi Shaye, great to have you with us! First question: what made you want to stand up at work?
I looked at myself one day and thought about how I could improve my productivity, comfort and well-being on workdays. I was tired, drained and struggling to achieve.
So I began eating better, staying hydrated and taking regular screen breaks. However, while these helped to an extent, I realised there were other small adjustments I could make to improve my situation. I soon discovered that moving from sitting to standing up at work was one of them and it brings numerous health benefits such as improved posture, weight loss and reduced risk of heart disease.
By trying the standing method and reducing how much time spent sitting, I realised that this one big change equated to several small changes, all of which made me feel better and produce more while at work. This is where my journey began, and I’ve not looked back since.
What’s it like to work while standing up?
Well, at this point, it's quite comfortable as it's become everyday normality; I'm not even aware I'm doing it anymore. Standing up at work just feels natural.
I feel more productive, and less distracted and can fully focus on the task at hand, no matter how big or complex it may be. I find it easier to get things done, and as a result, I do more.
The afternoon lull is barely noticeable anymore and I find myself to be more proactive due to the alertness I feel from standing up. No one would fall asleep standing up; well most of us wouldn't, anyway.
Great, and could you explain the transition from sitting down to standing up at work?
To be honest, the first couple of days are hard, but it does get easier, fast. Within a couple of weeks, it's like you've been standing up at work your whole life.
Initially, you feel aches and pains in places you've never had before, and it makes you feel quite tired. But it's just adjustment, that's all.
It's a matter of committing to standing and knowing that like any new habit or notion, getting used to it will be tough for the first few days. When you adopt a new habit, your mind and body take around 21 days to adapt fully, but once you do, it's all plain sailing.
Could you give us some tips to make the adjustment period easier?
Of course.
Always keep your screen at eye level and keep your elbows at 90 degrees from the angle of your hips to promote the ideal standing desk posture.
In those first few days, don't stand for prolonged periods. Building new habits can be difficult and require an element of weaning. For every two hours of sitting, perhaps try standing for one hour.
Change your foot position and the weight distribution of your feet regularly, and never view standing at work as a substitute for physical activity and a good diet.
To take those first few steps towards standing at work, visit the HumbleWorks store and see what we can do for you. Whether you work from home or in an office, whether you stay in one place or if you’re regularly on the move, we will have something just for you.
If you’d like to find out more about how to take better care of yourself at work, take a look at our blog post ‘10 Ways to reduce sitting time at work.’