If you are able to add personal touches to your office space, it makes you feel more engaged, in control and at home while you’re at work. When you get home, you’re able to relax and view work conundrums more objectively and this effect is carried into the office if you bring a bit of home into it. No-one’s saying you should don your old slippers and watch Eastenders, but a few personal effects can keep you comfortable enough to maintain your professionalism.
There has to be a balance; remember, no ratty old slippers and pin-ups of Justin Bieber at your office space in Mayfair. You need something that keeps you focused on work while feeling at home.
Decorate
Bringing in personalised and personal items can help to keep you happy at work. These items can be artworks, souvenirs of memorable trips or places, family photos and even a few books. Anything you bring in should be subtle and modest, though. You might love that nude sculpture you picked up in Barcelona, but not everyone else will…
A foot rest
Not everyone wants to sit up and pay attention; some people need to kick back and put their feet up if they’re in for a long haul. If it helps you to get the job done, who cares where your feet are? Aim for style, discretion and comfort, as well as something you can roll under your desk when it’s not in use.
Your very own lamp
Most offices have overhead fluorescent lighting and this doesn’t suit everyone. If you’re able to let a lot of sunlight in, that’s great, but if you can’t, or if it’s winter, then you should bring in your own desk or floor lamp. Choose a bulb that casts soft, easy-on-the-eye light and you’ll instantly feel better.
A cushion or thick throw
Office chairs are already designed for comfort, after all, they’re sat in for eight or more hours a day. You can never be too comfortable, though, which is why a cushion or throw for your chair is a great idea. You can sit on the throw, or use it to keep your legs warm when the aircon kicks in. Best of all, you get to bring a dash of colour to the place.
Bring the outdoors in
Being indoors all day isn’t good for you, but sometimes it’s unavoidable, especially if work’s busy or you have a pressing deadline. If you can’t escape to the great outdoors, or if your office is in the middle of the city, then you’ll have to bring the outdoors in. Invest in some easy-maintenance plants; not only do they look good, but some types filter out harmful compounds from the air.
With all these cushions, foot rests and pot plants, you might be thinking that your office is turning into a home. This isn’t the aim – the aim is to make the office more homely and welcoming, but it has to be done in a way that maintains the work ethic. It’s a fine balance, but one that you’ll be glad you’ve struck.
