Happiness is a desk space that works – for you!

Why personalize your desk space?

Not surprisingly, how our desk space is ordered and what’s to be seen on and around it can affect how we feel. A sterile desk space can compromise our work performance and our commitment to tasks.

The office where we work is inextricably linked with our desk space but things can still be optimized at the ‘desktop level’. Environmental psychologists believe there is a 15 -25% increase in productivity when our desk space has been personalized. For example, studies have found that those of us who place just one picture or plant in our work space are more productive than those who don’t.

What does your desk say about you?

Lily Bernheimer, environmental psychologist from Space Works Consulting claims that a cluttered and chaotic desk is typical of an extrovert. With phone in easy reach and brightly coloured knick-knacks on the desk. In contrast, little or no personalization on a desk represents a traditional solid mind-set. Dependable, but unlikely to be innovative.

The introverted desk space owner is more likely to prefer a wall of books to defend personal space along with subdued colour preferences. This desk space leans more towards a safe place, and extends creativity, where introverts tend to flourish.

A distinctive stylish and unusual workplace displays openness and imagination. Personal items such as a pair of sunglasses on the desk suggests an extrovert may occupy this space. A controlled amount of clutter is often more inviting than a sparse temporary looking space. A to do list and notepad is a good sign on any desk and suggests a conscientious worker occupies this space.

How do you personalize a desk space?

Perhaps start with customizing your mouse pad – as it’s something used all the time. Why not have a photo of your favourite holiday place or pet embossed into the pad. Desk lighting and lamps can make a huge difference – organize your lighting in a way that suits you best. Don’t just settle for ceiling lights. Hang up your own inspirational messages, don’t rely on one size fits all corporate framed messages. Upgrade your stationery, and perhaps have crazy pens and staplers. Hang up a fancy calendar with each month illustrating your personal interest or desires – be an individual. Use a string and clips to hang up pics of your favourite people and pets. Use your own personalized mug and be your own person. Why tolerate coffee stains – have your own cloth handy and keep a clean desk top (nothing looks worse than personalized coffee stains).

A handwritten note is always well received. Maintain rapport with your colleagues and customers with the occasional personalized note!

Hopefully, these insights and tips will help you kick-start your desk personalisation journey and improve your productivity!