work desk office furniture

If you work from home or at the office, you get to know your workspace quite well. Typically you spend the time to set it up just once. You find your desk, grab a chair, and setup a few monitors. Then you grind away until you move offices. What if I told you it’s time for a facelift?

Studies show that maintaining a proper workspace boosts productivity, creativity, and energy. If you think you’ve already got it down, I’d like to challenge you.

Here are five quick workspace changes that will improve your productivity.

Use ergonomic furniture.

Oh ergonomic. We’ve all heard that word, but do you really know what it means? I can tell you that it means more than just fancy. Ergonomic means the product was designed for comfort and efficiency in the working environment.

I spent a hefty sum on my office chair, and it’s one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. I say this because ergonomic furniture tends to be more expensive. However, it’s worth it if you’re spending most of your day in that seat. If you want to get in the weeds, take a look at this ergonomics research on office seating.

Eliminate (or at least organize) all your clutter.

Clutter creates stress. If you desk is full of random papers, used cups, and tangled wires you’ll be constantly distracted. The reason why it serves as a distraction is because it’s constantly in your line of vision. For example, let’s say you have a 20 page contract you need to review and sign. If it just sits next to your computer, you’ll constantly glance over at it. Unless you take the time to review it front to cover at that moment, it serves as a distraction.

Put your stacks of paper away, and keep your space as organized as possible. If you need a lot of items at your disposal then make the easy to find. Just make sure the clutter is out of sight.

Prioritize natural lighting.

The benefits of natural lighting are pretty undeniable. If you have the opportunity to do so, you should prioritize natural lighting for your workspace. If your office space has a southern exposure, try to set up your workspace in that area. If you don’t have access to any sunny areas, then you should purchase a full spectrum light.

Poor lighting can adversely affect your productivity and can lead to headaches and eye strain. General rule of thumb is to make sure you have ample lighting in your workspace.

Use some live plants.

Studies show that live plants can improve indoor air quality and provide many psychological benefits. Okay sure, plants produce oxygen. Whether or not the air quality is better is hard to judge. However, the psychological benefits are real. In fact, there is a clear link between live plants and increased productivity.

Your brain is quite powerful. If you associate your succulent on your desk with better air quality, then it has done it’s job.

Always face the door.

Before you start purchasing all your new furnishings, take a quick second to think about placement. More specifically make sure you setup your workspace facing the door. When your back is facing the door, it creates a natural sense of insecurity. Any subtle movements you may hear behind you will likely cause you to turn around.

It may sound silly, but you should always face the door when setting up a workspace.

At the end of the day, people will customize their workspace to their own liking. However, the quick changes above are proven to make you more productive. Whether you use them or not, it’s always good to take note!