The advancement of technology in the past decades led to new opportunities for people across the globe. The downside? Most of these opportunities confine workers inside an office for hours on end. With most office workers spending more time in the office than they spend at home, it is essential to adapt this space to your needs. How? Here are 8 easy ways to improve your office space.
1. Pay Attention to Lighting
The most important thing in an office is light. Artificial lighting can’t beat nature, so try to move the desk near a window if possible. Light is essential in regulating hormones such as melatonin and serotonin, both of which affect mood and wakefulness. Instead of keeping the blinds down, opt for anti-glare monitors or monitor screens. As far as artificial lighting is concerned, replace the old bulbs with modern LED lights that output light in a natural hue as opposed to clinical white or yellow.
2. Tweak the Temperature
Another thing that can make or break productivity is temperature. A too hot environment can increase the levels of stress and anxiety. A too cold environment can reduce wakefulness and make you feel more tired than you actually are. According to several studies, the perfect temperature for the workspace is around 22°C – so set the temperature to that and show the studies to whoever has the courage to argue with you.
3. Personalise with Engraved Signs
In addition to temperature, several studies show that personalising your workspace can increase productivity. There are many ways to do that, from keeping your favourite pictures framed on your desk to personalising your items such as the coffee mug, door plate, or keychain. Companies such as The Engraving People can also help you customise other office items, such as the switch sockets in your office kitchen or the signs around the workspace.
4. Adjust the Monitor Height
Sitting in front of a computer for hours on end is tiresome, but it can also be detrimental to your health if you don’t maintain the correct posture. The first thing to do before investing in ergonomic chairs and desks is to adjust the monitor height.
If you’re using a desktop PC, keep in mind that the monitor’s top edge should be at eye level when you look straight ahead. You can achieve this with a monitor stand if the monitor isn’t height-adjustable.
If you’re using a laptop, invest in a good laptop stand. Not only will it help you adjust the monitor height, but most laptop stands also help you keep your wrists in a natural position.
5. Unclutter Your Space
Clutter can jeopardise your productivity efforts; this is why you should keep it to a minimum. Start by organising the various cables and wires. Then, get rid of everything that you don’t need. Use containers and organisers to sort out the papers and writing instruments on your desk and avoid piling up unnecessary items.
6. Add a Splash of Colour
If you didn’t know it, it’s time to find out that colour can affect your mood and motivation. Sterile office spaces can decrease productivity, so try to add some hues into your work life. If painting the walls isn’t feasible, add some colourful wall art. You can also use colourful containers to keep your pens or add a red or yellow lamp to your desk.
7. Bring Nature Inside
Plants can also boost the mood, especially if your office doesn’t have sufficient windows and lacks natural light. Greenery can improve your productivity, so add some plants to your desk. Alternatively, place some pots on the office windowsill.
8. Tune It Up
Noise isn’t your friend when you’re trying to be productive, but your favourite tunes could be. In fact, listening to music at work can help you complete your tasks faster and come up with better ideas. Sure, not all music may suit your office space, and sometimes you may have to opt for instrumental music only, but nothing stops you from investing in a pair of headphones to tune up your time at work.
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