How to Create a Workspace that Fuels Productivity

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Do you have a workspace that fuels productivity?

Have you ever wondered why you sometimes feel more creative and inspired at the beach, or why you get your best ideas in the shower?

At the beach, you have the sounds of the waves, warm sand, beautiful sky, ocean sounds, and chances are, you are calmer and more relaxed.

In the shower, you are without distractions like cell phones and computers, and it gives your brain time to recharge. 

Your environment has a direct impact on your mindset, creativity, and productivity.

If you are feeling unproductive, the area you work in could be affecting you.

Especially if you work from home with a limited amount of space, this could be an issue for you.

Tips on how to create a workspace that fuels productivity

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Incorporate natural light

Did you know that natural light can give you more energy?

Studies have shown that going outside and looking at the blue in the sky can help you feel more awake.

That is one reason why it is suggested to go outside in the morning!

Adding natural light to your workspace can give you that boost of energy that you need to get through the workday.

Try moving your desk near a window and keeping the curtains open.

Notice how you feel and your productivity when you do this consistently. 

Have a clean and clutter-free desk area

Does having a messy house stress you out?

Do you feel a little lighter and calmer after deep-cleaning your house?

When your environment is cluttered, it can overwhelm your mind as well.

This is why it is so important to keep your workspace clean and clutter-free.

Not only will it be less distracting for you, but it will also help keep you focused.

Have a clean and clutter-free desk area with the added benefit of using an all-in-one computer for a sleek and organized workspace.

Try to have only essentials in your workspace.

Diffuse essential oils

Essential oils can help you relax and keep you focused.

Many people like to keep a small diffuser on their desks and diffuse oils while they work.

If you consistently use the same oil while you work, your brain will start to associate that scent with your work. That way when you turn the diffuser on, your brain will be reminded that it is time to get to work.

Keep your to-do list in front of you

What is one way to be productive?

Knowing what you are trying to accomplish!

By keeping a to-do list (and I mean like three big tasks, not a 40 tasks list) in front of you, you will not be tempted to wander off to other tasks.

Don’t allow yourself to move on to the next task until you complete the prior ones.

Keeping your to-do list in front of you will remind you what you need to prioritize and will keep you on task.

Keep your phone in another room

I don’t know about you, but I believe cell phones are the biggest distraction.

I mean, you can text or call friends, look up a recipe for dinner, and scroll on social media for hours on end.

Storing your phone in another room, away from your workspace, and turning it off can skyrocket your productivity.

Only look at it during breaks, and you’ll be amazed at how much more you can accomplish. 

Play calming, instrumental music

If you find that music distracts you while you are trying to work, then perhaps you just haven’t found the right music to listen to.

Sure, your favorite hits on the radio are probably distracting, especially when you just want to sing and dance along.

However, listening to classical music, rain sounds, or soft instrumental tunes in your workspace can really help you focus and help you with productivity.

Search for deep focus playlists and see what works best for you!

Related Reads:

• 10 Habits of People Who Are Always Productive
• Batching Ideas For Productivity and Getting More Done Efficiently
• 7 Weekly Planning Tips to Help You Become More Productive

Choose your decor wisely

You know how some colors provoke certain feelings?

Perhaps bright red stresses you out a little bit, but a soft blue is calming.

Choose your decor wisely in the way you select your colors and decorations in your workspace.

It’s much easier to stay productive when you are sitting in a comfortable, ergonomic chair as opposed to the floor or a couch.

Choose comfortable furnishings and decor that make you happier and make it easier to stay on track.

Keep a notepad nearby

Have you ever been in the middle of doing something, gotten a good idea, and then had to completely stop what you are doing to ponder this new idea?

That is why keeping a notepad nearby can be so handy.

Then, when your mind starts to wander, you can quickly jot down whatever you are thinking and get right back to the task you were working on.

This prevents your brain from switching back and forth between tasks often, therefore making you more productive.

Keep water on your desk

Staying hydrated is crucial for pretty much every function you are going to do in your life.

Water will help keep you awake and energized and feel your best.

Keeping water on your desk will not only remind you to drink frequently, but it will also prevent you from having to go to the kitchen every time you need a sip.

This allows you to stay productive AND stay hydrated—it’s a win-win!

Eliminate any distractions

We’ve already covered the biggest distraction, your phone, but you want to eliminate ALL distractions.

If your kids are running around constantly interrupting your work, hire a babysitter to watch them while you work or shift your hours so you only work while they are sleeping.

If you can hear your roommate watching TV in the other room, invest in a pair of noise-canceling headphones.

There are ways you can eliminate distractions in your workspace so that you can continue your productivity.

Set a timer for your breaks

Although it may sound counterproductive, breaks are vital for your productivity.

They allow your brain time to rest and give you time to reset yourself and recharge.

Try to take a break, at least for five minutes, each hour. Give your eyes time away from screens, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air. Take a nap or take a walk, and come back feeling productive and ready to go.

Final thoughts

Now, do you believe me when I say your environment can strongly affect your productivity?

There are so many ways you can create a workspace that fuels your productivity.

Incorporate some of these ideas into your workspace, and notice the changes you feel.

What is your workspace like?