Raise your hand if there’s some small part of you—even if it’s the size of a No.2 pencil eraser—that misses that back-to-school feeling. You know what I’m talking about: The anticipation of a new year, a new classroom, and of course, a few new school supplies.
Though our days of recess, after-school activities, and report cards have long since been replaced by “adult things” like get-togethers with friends, appointments, and bills, who says you can’t treat yourself to a few new “school” supplies?
For the solopreneur who can’t turn down a good back-to-school deal, this roundup is for you.
Public school teachers spend an average of $479 on school supplies (yes, that’s an out-of-pocket expense)
Before we dive in, it’s important to recognize that there’s a severe lack of funding for schools across the nation. In fact, 94% of United States teachers spend their own money on school supplies for their students, with public school teachers spending an average of $479 on supplies.
Want to help? There are tons of ways to support schools near and far from your home office. Here are a few excellent ways to help teachers and students all over the world:
- #ClearTheLists
- Adopt a Classroom
- Kids in Need Foundation
- Operation Backpack, Volunteers of America
- Girl Rising and the Global Education Fund
- Room to Read
1. Rocketbook, The Reusable Smart Notebook
For those of you who prefer to take notes with a good old-fashioned pen and paper, this reusable smart notebook by Rocketbook will definitely impress. Use the reusable pages to jot down meeting notes and business ideas, wait 15 seconds for the ink to set, and upload your notes to Google Drive, Dropbox, or another cloud-based platform.
Best of all? You can wipe pages clean and say goodbye to excessive paper use for good.
2. Bose Soundlink Color Bluetooth Speaker II
Bose is a reliable brand that makes high-quality products. This Soundlink Color Bluetooth Speaker is no exception.
Not only is this speaker waterproof, but it also packs a punch in terms of sound quality despite its compact size. This speaker is perfect for wherever you choose to work from, whether it be your home office, a park, or a beach.
3. Essential Oil Diffuser by URPOWER
Essential oils are a self-care ritual that’s taken the wellness movement by storm. It seems like there is an essential oil blend for every ailment like stress, fatigue, and lack of focus.
This essential oil diffuser is compact and quiet—perfect for a home office. I like to diffuse lavender or citrus whenever I’m prepping for a day of deep work, and I swear by it.
4. Canon IVY Mobile Mini Printer
This one may not advance your career or grow your business, but it’s a great way to add flair to your home office.
This mobile printer by Canon makes it easy to print quality photos right from your device. The peel-and-stick backing on the photo paper is great for decorating your home office.
5. Stainless Steel Bento Lunch Box
Who says lunch boxes are just for kids? Take your meals with you no matter where you set up to work for the day.
This three-piece stainless steel set is large enough to pack a total of six cups of food, which is larger than similar lunch box sets.
6. Herschel Retreat Backpack
Backpacks aren’t just for kids, either. Having a reliable backpack to organize your stuff in makes traveling or working from anywhere much easier.
Herschel makes a variety of high-quality backpacks and bags fit for every style and need. I personally love this particular one for its laptop sleeve and front pocket. It also comes in a few colors.
7. Paper Mate Flair Pens
I don’t know about you, but these pens remind me so much of my school days. These smear-proof pens are great for marking up drafts, taking notes, or whatever else you may need a pen for.
8. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Candles
If candles are a regular part of your workflow, you’re going to want to stock up on these soy-based candles by Mrs. Meyer’s.
If the 35 hours of burn time isn’t enough, these candles are made with essential oils and plant-derived ingredients. Long-lasting and great-smelling; these candles are a great addition to a home office.
9. Jerry & Maggie Desktop Organizer
If you feel like you’re in a constant battle to keep your desk organized, this is a great solution.
This compact, adjustable wooden shelf system from Jerry & Maggie will keep your desk tidy and clutter-free. Plus, it won’t take up too much space on your desk.
Want more solopreneur advice and best practices? Tune in to the latest episode of the Unemployable podcast, subscribe to the Unemployable newsletter, and join the Unemployable Initiative.
