Starting a business from home is one of the most empowering things you can do. It’s the first step toward financial freedom, flexibility, and creating a life that aligns with your dreams. But let’s be real—when you’re just starting, it can feel overwhelming. You might think you need the latest gadgets or the perfect setup before you can get going.
Here’s the truth: You don’t need to have it all to start. Start small, use what you have, and build as you grow. Success comes from taking action, not waiting for the stars (or your bank account) to align perfectly.
To help you kick things off, I’ve put together a list of 10 must-have tools that will make your journey smoother, but remember—get what you can now, and add to your toolkit over time.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
1. Reliable Laptop or Computer
- Why You Need It: Your business’s HQ will likely be your laptop.
- Amazon Pick: Affordable High-Performance Laptop
- Benefits: A reliable laptop keeps you connected, organized, and productive. Look for one that can handle multitasking—whether you’re creating graphics, managing orders, or hosting Zoom calls.
2. Ergonomic Office Chair
- Why You Need It: Comfort matters when you’re sitting for hours building your empire.
- Amazon Pick: Ergonomic Desk Chair
- Benefits: Back pain is no joke. An ergonomic chair supports your posture and helps you stay focused and comfortable, making those long work sessions feel like a breeze.
3. Desk Organizer Set
- Why You Need It: Clutter-free space = clutter-free mind.
- Amazon Pick: Rose Gold Desk Organizer
- Benefits: An organized desk keeps your workspace neat and helps you find what you need quickly. Plus, a cute and functional organizer can add a little personality to your home office.
4. Blue Light Blocking Glasses
- Why You Need It: Protect your eyes during screen-heavy days.
- Amazon Pick: Stylish Blue Light Blocking Glasses
- Benefits: Too much screen time can lead to headaches and fatigue. Blue light glasses reduce eye strain, helping you stay energized and focused throughout the day.
5. Ring Light and Tripod
- Why You Need It: Good lighting can level up your content.
- Amazon Pick: Adjustable LED Ring Light
- Benefits: If you’re creating videos, doing Zoom calls, or taking product photos, a ring light ensures you always look professional and polished. It’s an easy way to elevate your brand without breaking the bank.
6. Noise-Canceling Headphones
- Why You Need It: Block out distractions and focus.
- Amazon Pick: Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
- Benefits: Whether you’re working in a noisy home or need to zone in during meetings, these headphones help create a distraction-free environment.
7. Planner or Digital Calendar
- Why You Need It: Stay organized and ahead of your tasks.
- Amazon Pick: Daily Productivity Planner
- Benefits: A planner helps you map out your goals, track progress, and manage your time effectively. It’s a simple but essential tool for keeping your business (and sanity) on track.
8. External Hard Drive or Cloud Storage
- Why You Need It: Protect your files and keep backups.
- Amazon Pick: Portable External Hard Drive
- Benefits: Nothing’s worse than losing important documents or content. Regular backups protect your hard work and ensure you never have to start from scratch.
9. All-In-One Printer
- Why You Need It: Print, scan, and copy from home.
- Amazon Pick: Compact All-In-One Printer
- Benefits: Whether you’re printing labels, contracts, or invoices, a printer is a time-saver. It keeps everything within arm’s reach, streamlining your workflow.
10. Inspirational Wall Art or Vision Board
- Why You Need It: Keep your goals front and center.
- Amazon Pick: Motivational Wall Art Set
- Benefits: Surround yourself with inspiration. Wall art or a vision board helps you stay motivated and reminds you why you started, even when the days feel long.
Starting Small and Building as You Grow
Listen, sis—don’t let the fact that you don’t have every tool on this list stop you. Start with what you can. Use your dining table as a desk. Borrow a chair from another room. Use natural light for your videos until you can snag that ring light. The most important thing is to start.
Every successful entrepreneur started with less than they have now. The key is to focus on progress, not perfection. As your business grows, you can invest in more tools to make life easier.