Graphic designers, photographers, web developers and many other professionals spend most of their time at a desk. A desk can tell a lot about its owner – from work organization to space management to pastime. You can create your own workspace to make it more friendly where you can feel good. It can be decorated with some personal items and useful tools, which have a great influence on creativity and effectiveness.
According to science, the spaces we occupy shape who we are and how we behave. This has consequences for our psychological condition, effectiveness and creative performance. Given that many of us spend many hours working in the same room, or even at the same desk, it really makes sense to optimize that space in the most beneficial way possible.
First of all, colours play a significant role. Different colours and light levels have different psychological effects and they affect your performance. To promote the best productivity for anyone who will be using the office space, don’t use very bright colours unless you use them in limited areas to have an accent. We often use cool colours (white, blue, black) which gives some visual inspiration and boost creativity.
Warmer colours (brown, orange, yellow) are often associated with warmth and mood and make us feel more like at home.
Keeping your things organized and where everything has its own place will limit the amount of time you look for things and the amount of stress you have. Desk space is often limited so you should use storage objects to avoid spending time moving piles around to find something you need. Depending on the type of work being performed, there should be storage for paper and files, computer equipment and peripherals and basic office supplies like pens, tape and paper.
If you have the luxury of designing your own workspace, consider choosing a layout and furniture that is curved and rounded rather than sharp and straight-edged. This kind of furniture looks more pleasing and inviting.
Another solution that can help enhance your work is to create around it a friendly, comfortable atmosphere. Apart from the comfortable, well-shaped and ergonomic chair that will take care of your spine during a busy day and help you feel for a moment like at your own home, invest in a green plant or two. Research has repeatedly shown that the presence of plants has a range of benefits including helping workers to lower stress levels.
Invest in the ear headphones as well. Turn on your favourite music and relax for a while. No worries, a brief moment of pure relaxation will quickly pay off an extra dose of energy and creativity for the rest of the day.
Remember that your desk is your own space and if you organize it well, you will better perform daily duties. Prepare yourself a good cup of coffee, put some of your favourite magazines and books or just family photos from holidays and you will feel comfortably.