Most of us spend the majority of our waking hours at work. Staggering, isn’t it?  That is precisely why it’s important for us to talk about how to create a zen workspace that helps us feel more balanced and productive.

Use the Power of Sound

Personally, I’m a big fan of music I often enjoy listening to music when I’m sitting down at the computer and working. In fact, right now there’s an arrangement of classical musical pieces streaming in my headphones. I just write better when that’s the case!

Both music and other sounds can be incredibly helpful to create a zen workspace. If you find contemporary music too distracting, opt for instrumental tracks or ambient music.  I also think that just sounds, like soothing waves on a beach or white noise can be incredibly soothing too. At the end of the day it’s about finding what works for you. And if you work in an open office space with cubicles, see what the company culture is like regarding the use of headphones. My experience is that most people don’t mind if you’re not missing out on important conversation regularly.

Scent Can Make a Big Impact Too

No matter your personal preferences, we know that scent is a huge emotional trigger for people. It is one of the strongest ways that our brains connect to memories. This can help us, in a sense, emotionally re-experience some past good times and moods emotionally and physiologically. If we use scent intentionally in our office we can create a zen workspace.

Diffusers are a great option for creating a more zen workspace if you’re looking to switch up the energy in your space. Natural ones, with the use of reeds, require no energy but scents can dissipate quickly. Electronic diffusers offer a great deal of control (you can time the distribution, etc.) but tend to output a pretty strong scent so they may not be best for open workspaces where coworkers might not agree with your tastes.

Another option to use scent at work to create a more zen workspace is to use a rollerball. These handy little canisters pack a powerful punch and they very easily can fit into your pocket or a bag. I recommend rolling it on the inside of your wrists as often as you’d like and taking about 30 seconds to breathe in the scent. This is less invasive to others around you, but can really help calm and soothe you. This is one of my personal favorites.

Curate Your Visual Field

Some workspaces have very specific rules and guidelines on what you can and cannot do in terms of decorating your space. I’ve seen workspaces where people use desks interchangeably depending on the day. That kind of setup can make personalizing your space a bit more challenging.

But, as I mentioned earlier, we spend a lot of time at work. Wouldn’t it be comforting to have things in your space that bring you peace, comfort or even humor?  Why not put up a picture or two of your loved ones or put a meme as your computer wallpaper that you see anytime you minimize windows?  Hang pictures or quotes that you like if you can and choose desk accessories that you actually like and remind you of the people you love. Remember that paper weight you got for your birthday from you dear friend? Let it live on your desk even if you don’t have a functional need for it. Chances are seeing it there every day will help remind you of that person and the good times associated with them.

Bring in A Bit of Life

Whether it be by incorporating plants in your office or bringing in pets, there have been studies that both help combat stress in the workplace. Unfortunately, not all workplaces are welcoming to pets but plants are pretty much a safe bet in most environments. Having plant life in your office will not only help create a zen workspace but could also help provide you with purer air conditions too.

 

Want to learn more tips on creating a better workplace for you and improve your career? Contact us to set up your career coaching appointment today!