I don’t know about you but I am a very visual person. I learn by seeing (and doing) and images have a direct impact on my emotions. As a part of this I am also affected significantly by my environment.
If my workspace or home is cluttered, my mind is cluttered. If I work somewhere with no natural light my energy is zapped very quickly and I need to take a walk to soak up vitamin D and breathe in some actual air.
For a long time I thought that it was my (very minor) OCD coupled with a dash of procrastination which saw me spending a large period of time tidying my room or desk; Setting the lighting, choosing pictures / ornaments, ensuring that things are symmetrical, matching and pleasing to the eye. Not cluttered, but enough of ‘me’ to make me comfortable and a smattering of things that motivate or inspire me.
I have tried to carry on working in displeasing environments and I really struggle. I tend to feel whatever vibe is there. Is it dark and dank? If so, I feel gloomy. If it is cluttered and messy I can’t focus or clear my mind. If it is gossipy or mean I feel uncomfortable, unsettled and withdrawn.
The good news is, you have the power and ability to impact your environment and create your happy place. Now, this comes in varying degrees of course. As much as I would love nap pods, standing (or walking) desks outside and being able to bring my dogs to work I am pretty confident that won’t fly with facilities or the GM. (Yes, I have suggested these things on a number of occasions. Clearly partially in jest… partially)
Be that as it may, there is always something that you can influence. If it is your home you have free reign. If it is an office you can work within the bounds of that space. Can you bring a plant / picture / change your desktop wallpaper / sit by a window / go for a walk … You get the drift.
Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
* Declutter and keep your area tidy and clean.
* Make your desktop wallpaper a lovely photo of something you care about or that motivates you.
* Remove anything that is out of date.
* Include a splash of colour. (For example blue is calming, yellow encourages creativity, red is vibrant and energetic, green is balancing and pink promotes warmth.)
I have no doubt that you have recognised how much more positive, creative and productive you are in an environment which works for you. Don’t be afraid to create your happy place. Who knows, others may follow suit!