A Sight for Sore Eyes

It's not just your eyes that struggle to focus- you do, too.

Do your eyes ache by the end of the work day?  Do you have a hard time focusing as a result?  It’s probably because you stare at a screen all day, or at least the majority of the day.  Your eyes don’t blink as frequently and staring at a 3D image on a 2D screen is not easy on your eyes.  In addition, it could be that you don’t have the right reading glasses.  In fact, many people who need reading glasses for up-close work still need something else for computer screens.  For instance, a lower prescription works for this- if you need a +2.0, a +1.0 or +1.5 will allow you to read your screen without straining to see it or leaning forward for a better look.  (Your neck and back will thank you, too.)  Interestingly, a word to the wise: the higher quality lenses of designer reading glasses often reduce headaches as well as prescriptions, meaning if you use a +2.5 in the cheapie drug store brand, you may go a full step down in higher quality lenses.

Here are a few more tips for having a less straining, more productive work day in general :

• As stated above, get the right reading glasses, possibly higher quality
• Blink more intentionally and try to break up your computer-related tasks with non-computer tasks
• Consider using a lift mate to raise your monitor for less glare and a better angle
• If possible, use a desk without a glare (i.e. not glass)
• If you struggle with focus, you might also consider white noise (like this free generator) for fewer distractions and more productivity

Do what you can to keep it all in focus.