Having a clean desk is essential to killing it in the work place. Not only does a neat work space make you feel good, it makes you look mighty competent too (oh hey there boss lady!). Whether you’re working from home or in an open-plan office, we can guarantee you’re spending a decent chunk of your day at that desk of yours. Sure, some creative geniuses thrive in ‘organised’ chaos, amid piles of papers and stacks of books. But that’s not for everyone. Either way, your work space should be conducive to creativity, making way for those big, bold ideas you keep thinking of. From quirky notebooks to sleek laptop covers, we’ve rounded up all the essential tools for an effective work space, making your workday just a little bit better.
1. Work Clean.
Out of sight, out of mind! Clear your desk of distractions and clutter. Keep the items you need to get the job done within arm’s reach – and only those items. Seriously, be ruthless. To make the most of the space you’ve got, invest in smart storage solutions to file away anything you don’t need on a day-to-day basis. Normann Copenhagen’s Nic Nac Organizers are the perfect desk accessory From large shallow trays for stacking office supplies, small trays for coins and keys, to taller vessels perfect for pens.
One more hot tip. Before you leave the office each day, make sure your desk is neat and tidy. Make it a clean slate, so you can sit down to a fresh start every day.
2. Write Lists
Love them or hate them, an effective to-do list is the secret weapon for all creative entrepreneurs. There’s no point wasting time on tasks that are not a high priority so split your tasks accordingly. Take a load off your mind and write down the tasks at hand. You might have two lists on the go, tasks to complete today and ongoing tasks for example. Blacklist‘s Hello Notes Cube is a sweet little notepad perfect for your desk. You can tear off those bite-size ideas and take them with you wherever you go. Blacklist’s This Week Notepad allows you to pencil in those weekly tasks, get yourself organised and look ahead to next week. Keep The List Notepad close by and jot down those to-do lists and keep your priorities in check. On the flip side, if pen and paper ain’t your thing, make sure you’re getting those ideas down on whichever device or medium you prefer.
3. Be Inspired
If you’re going to spend 40 odd hours in one space, you might as well like the way it looks. Surround yourself with things that inspire you and make you happy. Add a personal touch like a photo of your loved ones, a motivational quote hanging on the wall or a book you fancy. Keep a pair of headphones for those moments you need to block out the rest of the office and get in the zone, or watch that viral video that’s doing the rounds… whichever you prefer. You never know when inspiration will strike so keep a notebook or notepad close by at all time, ready to save all your great ideas. A mood board is another beautiful way of displaying your inspiration and ideas.
4. Think Ergonomics
Hunching over your desk, trying to see your screen? We know the feeling. If you spend most of your days glued to an office desk, chances are your current posture isn’t all that great. The answer is ergonomics. File a laptop stand under “things I didn’t know I needed, but now can’t live without.” Seriously, these babies do wonders for your posture! Do your wrists and fingers feel okay after all that texting and typing? Believe it or not, keyboard and mouse placement matters. And that chair supporting you? He’s your best ergonomic friend. There’s one final piece of the puzzle you can’t forget, physical activity. Get up and move regularly, even set an alarm as a reminder if you have to! Find what works best for you to brush off those daily aches and pains. Your body will thank you later.
5. Plant Life
Plants aren’t just pretty, they purify the air around you. Did we mention they are pretty?! Fact – plants have a calming effect on people, reducing stress and lowering blood pressure (you beaut!). Incorporating a small plant into your workspace is a great way to liven up your desk and the perfect solution in times of stress. Low maintenance plants like succulents or devils ivy are our top picks. Don’t forget to give your plants some pants too, we’ve got plenty of pots & planters to house your green babies in.
6. Keep it Fresh
Let’s face it, there’s nothing more uninspiring than staring at the same thing day in, day out. So, out with the old, in with the new! Change up your work space frequently so it doesn’t feel drab and tired. Whether it’s a big or small change, we can guarantee that mixing up your environement will boost your mood and increase productivity. Try moving things around or adding new artwork to your walls. Fresh office supplies or greenery will do wonders to your daily routine too.
