Back-to-School Office Refresh: My Must-Have Supplies

Even though I’m no longer in education, there’s something magical about back-to-school time that I just can’t resist. It’s like a second New Year, a perfect opportunity to set new goals, reset your mindset, and gear up for the final stretch of the year. The sense of renewal and possibility is in the air, and it doesn’t matter if you’re not a teacher or don’t have kids heading back to school. This is the perfect time to refresh your office supplies and breathe some new life into your workspace!

Sticky Notes: My BFFs

Sticky notes are my absolute BFFs in the office. They’re so much more than just little squares of paper—they’re essential tools for capturing ideas, organizing thoughts, and adding a bit of fun to my daily routine. I always make sure to get at least one fun novelty sticky pad each year. This set with adorable animals never fails to make me smile, and it brightens up even the dullest tasks. If you’re someone who likes variety or isn’t sure which size you prefer, this variety pack is the way to go.

Have you ever used 4x6 sticky notes? If not, you’re in for a treat. They’re a game changer, especially when you’re working on a project that requires extra space for jotting down notes, brainstorming, or outlining ideas. They’re also fantastic for writing notes in a book or study guide—no more cramped writing or squishing your thoughts into tiny spaces. These are my absolute favorite, and I can’t recommend them enough.

Pens: The Ultimate Writing Experience

Now, let’s talk about pens. I’ll admit it—I’m a bit of a pen snob. I want my pens to write smoothly, feel comfortable in my hand, and add a little pop of color to my notes. Unless I’m signing an important document, I’m all about fun, vibrant ink colors. For those of you who share my passion for pens, I have a few recommendations that won’t disappoint.

For a fantastic bang for your buck, you can’t go wrong with this set from Tanmit. Unlike many gel pens that tend to skip or run out quickly, these write smoothly, last a long time, and best of all—they don’t break the bank! If you often find yourself needing to write in black, these Parkoo gel pens are fantastic. They glide effortlessly across the page, and if you’re in the mood for a bit of color, they also come in a vibrant set that’s just as fabulous.

Of course, no discussion about pens would be complete without mentioning Erin Condren. While these pens are a bit pricier, they’re worth every penny. I adore the way they write, and for gel pen lovers, this jewel-toned set is my go-to. The colors are stunning, and they make even the most mundane tasks feel a bit more special. And if you’re into dual-tip markers, you’ll love the Erin Condren collection—I have every color, and they’re perfect for adding a little flair to your notes or planner.

Mugs: Sip in Style

Everyone needs a new mug from time to time, and as a tea lover, I’m always on the lookout for the perfect one. My current favorite is this mug with an infuser—it’s an absolute game changer. I love that I can enjoy my loose-leaf tea without the hassle of keeping track of a separate infuser at the office. The convenience and simplicity make my tea breaks all the more enjoyable.

But if you prefer tea bags, I can’t recommend the Tea Forte Sampler enough. The tea bags are not only cute, but the variety of flavors keeps me coming back for more. It’s a little luxury that makes my workday feel special.

Music & Sound: Elevate Your Office Experience

Music is a must for me during the day—it keeps me focused and energized. While basic computer speakers are fine for background music, they don’t quite cut it when it comes to sound quality. Plus, if you’re participating in webinars and Zoom calls, you need a reliable speaker and mic upgrade. That’s where the Jabra Bluetooth speaker comes in. It’s super easy to connect, delivers excellent sound quality, and is a must-have for anyone who spends a lot of time on virtual meetings.

Productivity Tools: Stay on Task

Finally, let’s talk about productivity tools. My latest obsession is the Hexagon Rotating Productivity Timer with Clock. This little gadget is a powerhouse—it has built-in timers that are incredibly easy to set. All you have to do is rotate the clock, and you’re good to go! It’s not only cool and fun to use, but it also helps keep me on task and ensures I’m managing my time effectively.

Final Thoughts: What Are Your Office Essentials?

This is just a short list of my favorite office supplies, but I could go on and on! Each of these items has been a game changer in my day-to-day routine, making my work life more enjoyable and productive. What about you? What are your must-have office essentials that help you stay organized, motivated, and happy throughout the day? Share your favorites—I’m always on the lookout for new tools to try!