Where you spend a lot of your time can have an impact on how you feel. The environment around us can create an inspiring, positive vibe or if you’re not careful, it could create a draining space. Close your eyes for a moment. Imagine what your ideal working space would look like, feel like and even smell like. If your current office is far from your ideal, what can you do to move a bit closer?
My husband’s office is the perfect example of creating a space that inspires him. He has a home office and has gradually created a space that is free of distractions and is inspiring to him. It all started with his desk. After using an old hand-me-down desk for many years, he decided to make his own desk and it is BEAUTIFUL! Sometimes, the only way to get exactly what you want is to create it. He’s also super fortunate that his father happens to have a woodworking room in his basement with equipment that made it convenient to build his ideal desk. It’s made from spalted maple and has sleek, clean lines. I love it!
Here are a few ways to create an inspiring work environment…whether it’s in your home or not.
Have a Clutter Free Desk
Keeping the surface of your work space clear of clutter is essential. When you have no distractions, you’re able to be more efficient with your time and focus on the task at hand. Going paperless as much as possible while also having good cord management will go a long way in creating a clutter-free space. A messy desk can also spill over to feel like you have a mess in other areas of your life.
Surround yourself with inspiring images or words
Do you have a favourite quote, photo or piece of art? Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that resonates with you on an inspiring level. My husband had several inspiring custom word decals printed off to create a work of art on the wall above his work space. My favourite ones being ‘Make it Simple and Make it Happen…’
Use Comfortable Furniture that you also find Visually Appealing
Sometimes you don’t have control over this, but if you do, make sure your work area is functional yet also visually pleasing. I’m a visual person so I am very aware of how my surroundings make me feel. If your desk chair is beautiful but not comfortable in the least it’s like wearing a pair of high heels that look fantastic but you can’t walk in them because they hurt your feet so much. I’m all about comfort so make sure your surroundings are comfortable and then you can narrow them down to pieces of furniture you love.
Bring some life to your space
Plants are a wonderful way to add some life, energy and extra oxygen to your room. It doesn’t have to be big, even a small plant can add that pop of colour to bring that breath of fresh air to your office.
Do a thorough cleaning
Dust surfaces, wipe off your keyboard and monitor, sweep the floor or vacuum up any dust bunnies, empty your garbage can, recycle any empty cans or bottles, and open a window to let in some fresh air. When you respect your work space, by keeping it clean, you can change the energy in that space. A clean room is a happy room. Or more importantly, when you have a clean room, you’ll in turn feel inspired about spending time there. And when you’re inspired, good things will be created as a result.
When you go to work tomorrow, walk into your office with a fresh new pair of eyes. Is your desk constantly covered with piles of papers that need to be filed? Do you have a photo of the people you care most about in your life? Is there anything that inspires or motivates you? Do you need to rearrange your furniture or get rid of any extra furniture? Take a step in the direction of creating a space that inspires and motivates you.
Have a great week!
Jillian
