Revamp Your Workspace, Articles, living

Revamp Your Workspace

by Myreille Simard
published December 26, 2007

rating: (87 Ratings)

Though it’s an area that is often neglected, your workspace is the spot in which you spend the majority of your day. It is there that you must be efficient, professional, organized, and productive. But it is possible to feel comfortable too: it’s just a matter of personalizing your office environment. Follow these 6 steps to create a workspace that‘s sure to become the hottest topic at the water cooler.

Step 1

Tidy up

If your desk is a mess, any efforts to make your office space more pleasant and inviting will be futile. Start by filing and organizing all loose papers; toss out or recycle some if you have to. Not only will your desk look more presentable, you’ll also find things much faster. Put away all other knickknacks that are hanging around; a clutter-free area will instantly calm you.

Step 2

Ready Set Paint

Colour greatly influences mood and productivity. Warm colours (especially yellows) are recommended since they create a comfortable atmosphere that also stimulates the brain. But beware, moderation is key; always balance strong colours with neutral tones. If you can’t paint your office walls, add some oomph to your workspace by picking colourful accessories.

Step 3

Personal Effects

The best way to feel at home in your office space is by personalizing it. Bring some objects from home; a few frames with pictures of family members or friends, the cool paperweight you bought on vacation, etc. A quick glace at these objects and you’ll feel reenergized, even during the most challenging workday.

Step 4

Add some green

Having a plant or two at your desk—and keeping them alive—shows that you are reliable and responsible, two attributes that are essential in the workplace. In addition to making you seem like a model employee, plants work to purify the air, add a homey feel and have even been shown to reduce stress. Opt for a spider or aloe plant; they’re easy to maintain and are great for clearing certain toxins from the air.

Step 5

Lighten-up

Typical office lighting is often insufficient and is usually the cause of fatigued eyes, body and mind. Add a pretty desk-lamp to brighten-up your workspace and watch your concentration and productivity increase.

Step 6

The final touch

Selecting an original desktop background image is a discreet, yet effective way of personalizing your space and of reducing your stress level. We stare at our computer screens often throughout the day; why not select a background picture that evokes feelings of happiness and relaxation?