I have a rubber mat that I stand on in front of my bench, it is quite thick and squishy. It removes stress on the joints and bones and allows you to perform free from fatigue. It sounds a little silly but it is a serious piece of equipment and make you more efficient and comfortable.
My workbench is a traditional woodworkers bench. It has two vises and a center trough for shavings, I built two sets of drawers underneath that hold thing I use often. The bench is the hub of the wheel and everything radiates from there. Make sure your bench is the optimum height for you, everyone is different. Plan your work area carefully and after you have spent time using it, take a step away and evaluate what works and what does not.
My best purchase this year was a single fluorescent light fixture. I had a poorly lit area and this small purchase makes the space more user friendly and enjoyable. Why did I wait so long? It's easy to "make do" but you need to evaluate your area and look for ways to improve.
If you want excellent results in your work, you need excellent tools, equipment, components and a work area commensurate with the end product. It is a reflection of you as an artisan.