We’ve told you how to customize your cubicle, why to let your employees design their own cubicles, and how to use Ethospace to personalize your private office.
Sometimes it’s not about designing, though. If you got back to work today after the New Year break and didn’t love it, you might need to make some changes in your workspace — even if it has already been designed and customized.
The first thing to do to make your cubicle your own is to get rid of the clutter.
It may be your own clutter, but having stacks of papers and office gear in your workspace causes stress. Psychologists say it’s because stress, lingering as it does at the edge of our visual space, overstimulates us.
It may also be a continual reminder of things you haven’t done. In fact, some people leave things out where they can see them specifically in order to provide those reminders: the book you need to return, the software you need to install, the bill you need to pay, the notes from a meeting you need to follow up on…
The problem is, seeing these things doesn’t actually cause you to drop what you’re doing and make that call. Instead, it pokes at your mind, causing you to think over and over about things you need to do but can’t at the moment. Instead, make a list of the tasks that need doing and file (or toss) the papers associated with them. Establish a shelf for items that need to be returned or taken somewhere, and take things from it to their destinations every time you leave your cubicle.
Once you have the clutter put away, add a few things that give you pleasure or inspiration. Whether it’s a postcard from a tropical vacation or a list of good habits you want to develop, you probably can use something to look at when you need to refocus your eyes. A picture of your family or your pet, great feedback from a client (print out that email!) or even a small pillow from home can provide comfort when you need it.
Think about the lighting. At EthoSource, we put a lot of thought into lighting when we design workspaces; often, it’s possible to provide natural light as well as privacy. If that’s not possible for you, think about bringing in a desk lamp. A pool of soft light where you work can help a lot, even if you have fluorescent lights in the room.
Some studies suggest that different people are productive with different kinds and amounts of lighting; try out some options and see if it makes a difference for you.
Finally, create some good smells. Even if you don’t light it, a eucalyptus or peppermint-scented candle can make you feel more alert if you take a sniff every now and then.
Bring in a mug that makes you smile and you’re ready to reclaim your cubicle as your own personal space.