Best Tips to Optimize Your Workspace and Improve Productivity
As a business owner and leader, you need to be productive and efficient. The best way to achieve this is by creating an inspiring and motivating environment.
And as a life coach for entrepreneurs, I want to support you in improving all areas of your life. That is why in this article, we will discuss how you can improve your workspace.
But before we change anything, we need to examine the condition of your current workspace. Is it a safe haven or a dark and dangerous dungeon filled with cords, books, sprinkled with crumbs, and stained with coffee?
Love, why are you working in - that?
You would not want to work in a pig pen ā right?
Right?
So, why spend a day or heck, even a few hours, in a dimly lit and depressing looking office.Ā
I want you to feel good about yourself from the inside out. Productive leaders like yourself work in a fun and enjoyable environment.
Not sure if your place needs a refresh? Here are some signs your workspace desperately needs a update.
Don't turn your office into a scene from an action movie. You don't have the time to search for documents that are buried under notes and mugs filled cold coffee or tea.
7 signs your workspace needs an update
There are several signals that indicate you need to improve your workspace.Ā
1. Discomfort or Physical Strain
If you frequently experience discomfort, pain, or strain in your neck, back, wrists, or eyes while working, it may be a sign that your workspace setup needs improvement.Ā
Uncomfortable seating, poor ergonomics, or improper lighting can contribute to these issues.Ā
Unless you want to make your chiropractor rich, it is time to toss that old chair you bought from Ikea during your college days.
2. Lack of Focus and Productivity
Don’t turn your office into a scene from an action movie. You don’t have the time to search for documents that are buried under notes and mugs filled cold coffee or tea.Ā
Clutter, excessive noise, poor lighting, or an uninspiring atmosphere can all hinder your ability to focus on tasks.Ā
3. Increased Stress and Fatigue
If you feel drained or overwhelmed during work, it may be an indication that your workspace needs improvement to support your mental and physical well-being.
Nobody needs to feel stressed at the throughout the day. Not even your worst enemy.Ā
4. Reduced Creativity and Inspiration
If you find yourself lacking creativity and struggling to generate ideas, your workspace environment could be stifling your creative flow.Ā
5. Lack of Organization and Efficiency
As a child, I loved the excitement of treasure hunts. The thrill of searching under seats and behind tables for hidden toys brought a huge smile to my face. However, the thrill of playing hide and seek in your workspace is far from endearing.
If you often find yourself wasting time searching for documents, supplies, or tools in a disorganized workspace, it’s a clear indication that your office needs cleaning.Ā
6. Health Issues and Sick Days
Inadequate lighting, poor ventilation or unclean environment can contribute to breathing issues, headaches, and other health problems.
If you notice an increase in health issues or find yourself taking more sick days than usual, it could be related to your workspace.Ā
So friend: Please throw away that houseplant that is clearly rotting and not growing. And bonus points for not leaving food on your desk at the end of the day.
7. Lack of Personalization and Comfort
If your workspace lacks a personal touch, it will undoubtedly affect your overall sense of comfort. How can you find inspiration in a dull environment?Ā
If if any of the signs I mentioned makes you feel a bit sensitive, it is time for a refresh. Below are some tips to āglamā and enhance up your workspace.Ā
Productivity is not just about doing more. It is about creating more impact with less effort
8 Tips to enhance your workspace
1. Proper Lightening
Make the most of natural light by positioning your desk near windows. Natural light boosts mood and productivity. Also, add task lighting to your workspace to reduce eye strain.
2. Noise Management
Minimize distractions by managing noise levels in your workspace. Use noise-canceling headphones, white noise machines, or calming music to create a peaceful environment.Ā
3. Comfortable Temperature
Maintain a comfortable temperature in your workspace. Use fans, air conditioning, or space heaters to regulate the temperature.Ā
4. Breakout Areas
If you have the space, create non-work areas in your office. Fill it up with comfy chairs with books or magazines. You and your teammates will enjoy having a little space away from the work area.
4. Put in some potted plantsĀ
Introduce elements of nature into your workspace. Consider adding indoor plants or a small tabletop fountain.Ā I have two big palm plants inside my office. It makes feel as if I am working in an island.
5. Clean and organized electronic and physical space
Start by tidying up your workspace and removing any unnecessary items. Organize your documents, supplies, and equipment in a logical and easy to access location. A clean and clutter-free environment promotes focus and reduces distractions.
6. Regular Maintenance
Friend, please keep your workspace clean and organized. It will help you to think better. Each week, make sure to:
- Regularly dust surfaces
- File away unneeded files and folders
- Remove crumbs (use aĀ blow canĀ if needed)
- Wipe down your desk and mouse with alcoholĀ
7. Ergonomic chair and desk
Ensure that your desk, chair, and computer setup are ergonomically optimized. Adjust the height of your chair, position your monitor at eye level, and maintain proper posture to prevent strain and discomfort. Also, consider using an ergonomic keyboard, mouse, and supportive accessories.
8. Positive Art Work and StationeryĀ
There are several places where you can find positive and uplifting artwork and stationery. Here are a few options:
Local Art Stores
Visit art supply stores or boutique shops in your area that specialize in artwork and stationery. They often carry a selection of prints, posters, and uplifting-themed stationery.
Online Marketplaces
Websites like Etsy, Society6, and Redbubble offer a wide range of artwork and stationery created by independent artists. You can search for specific keywords like “positive art” or “uplifting stationery” to find relevant options.
Artist Websites
Many artists have their own websites or online portfolios where they sell their artwork directly. Browse through their collections and see if they offer prints or stationery with positive and uplifting themes.
Stationery and Gift Shops
Explore stationery and gift shops, both online and offline, that focus on curated collections. They often have a section dedicated to positive and uplifting designs.
Social Media Platforms
Follow artists, illustrators, and stationery brands on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. They often showcase their work and announce new releases. You can also find recommendations from other users who share similar interests.
Local Art Fairs and Markets
Check out local art fairs, craft markets, or pop-up events in your area. Artists and creators often participate in these events, providing an opportunity to discover unique and uplifting artwork and stationery.
Closing thoughts
Growing a business is hard enough, don’t make it worse on yourself by working in a depressing workspace. By using my tips, you will significantly improve the quality of your workspace, leading to increased productivity.
Need more help improve how you work? Consider working with me. We will examine and improve all areas of your life.
Dig deeper: Click here to listen to tips from my podcast on how to improve your time management or press the play button below.
