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Setting the Scene for a Productive Day
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Work environment and productivity
When you leverage the fact that you have emotional and mental responses to specific places, you can dramatically increase your productivity.
Each person’s optimal environment will look a bit different, but there are a few general elements to take into consideration.
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The Right Reminders
- standing up instead of perching on your chair at your elevated desk;
- moving your mouse from one side of the keyboard to the other;
- sliding your chair over to a different portion of your work surface.
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The Right Tools
Have all of the tools you need laid out organized and within arm’s reach. This makes you more efficient and reduces your resistance to doing a certain task because it requires getting up to fetch something.
If you can’t leave everything out or you have a mobile working situation, carry a bag stocked with all of your essential tools, materials, electronics, and papers.
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The Right Distractions
Some people are creative in a quiet environment, while others hit the flow state to the pounding beat of their favorite song.
Neither pattern of activity is right or wrong. The essential point is that to be aware of aware of what works for you when working. You can take notice of how you respond to these sorts of environmental factors and stage your day accordingly
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The Right Surroundings
If a custom workspace isn’t feasible, make small adaptations to your workspace:
- Bringing in a small lamp with a soft white light bulb for a warmer glow
- Keeping fresh flowers or plants in your area
- Putting up some favorite pieces of art or inspiring quotes
- Tacking up fabric on the wall
- Requesting additional drawers so that your surface looks less cluttered.
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SIMILAR ARTICLES & IDEAS:
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Key Ideas
Figure out your morning flow
Starting your day on a high note sets the tone for the rest of your day (or even week).
Think about the one thing that boosts your mood in the morning and incorporate it into your ro...
Take regular breaks
Not looking away from the computer doesn’t translate into productivity. A good way to boost your motivation throughout the day is to take small exercise breaks.
You can do anything from stretches to treadmill runs, just to get your blood flowing and boost your brain function by moving your body. It also sets the tone for a more energetic afternoon.
Write it all down
Mapping your goals in a visual way is key, as seeing them makes them more real. You’re more likely to follow through on your ideas if you pen them.
Write down your top priorities and designate ways and blocks of time to tackle them. Also minimize distractions (i.e., social media notifications, alarms, news alerts, etc.) to get these things done.
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Reduce the stress of clutter
- Apply constraints and stick to them: to tabs open in your browser, notebooks, magazines etc.
- Use small storage spaces: Less room means less room for c...
Find places that inspire you
You might not be in a position to choose your workspace, but there are quick fixes: look for a spot with natural light from a window or skylight, take a walk outside when you feel stuck, or simply explore a new location.
A new environment can quite literally lead to new ideas.
Task association
It's when your brain knows that when you’re in a certain place, you’re taking a certain action.
Take advantage of the way different locations affect you. Our brains love habits, and if we can associate certain qualities with different places, it can help us get into a better working flow.
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Natural light
Natural light is the most fundamental element of a welcoming space.
Employees prefer natural light and views of the outdoors to onsite cafeterias, fitness centers, and daycare. Natura...
Add in the green
People who work in offices with leafy green plants concentrate better than those who work without greenery. Reconnecting workers with a natural environment results in fewer sick days.
Adding some plants to the office will give your team both a brain and a mood boost.
Consider your company's needs
How do your teams work best? What are their physical and technological needs?
The seven attributes to consider when determining your optimal workspace: location, enclosure, exposure, technology, temporality, perspective, and size.