May: A Month to Create your Office Nest

You work eight hours for at least five days a week. You do the same work everyday: check your email, write proposals, do finances, talk to clients, attend meetings, etc. When stress gets to you, you might begin to see your office space as a precinct--you become imprisoned within the same routine and confines of your work.

Liven up! You can still transform your workspace into a personal comfort zone. Even if you have a small cubicle with only a computer and telephone at your side, you can make it your own space.

This month of May, focus on yourself and create your own office nest. Follow these easy steps and make your small workspace your personal haven:Tidy Up!
It's hard to work when there are too many things on top of your desk. There should only be your computer, phone and other essential equipment, plus indispensable office supplies and documents on your desk. Avoid paper clutter: banish from your desk any office documents dating from two months ago. Find a folder and collate these documents for future reference. Neatly stack them on your desk or file them in your drawer, so they'd still be accessible without being distracting.

A Corkboard Helps.

Keep your company's policy permits and list of rules visible to serve as reminders in your daily work. You can also post in your work area a small calendar to help you keep track of your deadlines. Tack these on a personalized cork board. You can scribble your name or post your favorite motto like: Seize the day. This can turn your desk into your "own zone" at work.

Spice Up Your Space with Photos.

Pictures of your family, friends, and even your pet can instantly put you at ease even in frantic times. These images can also inspire you to work even harder. Just remember not to display vulgar or large photos because they can distract your and your colleagues' attention from work. Try to keep the picture/s as simple (and small) as possible.

Add Color to Your Work.

Include the color green or blue in your office nest. David Johnson of Infoplease.com says that the color blue makes the body produce chemicals that make people feel peaceful and composed. The color green is also a calming and tranquil color that aids vision in the human eye. Use green in your office nest when your job requires you to use the computer the whole day. You don't need to change the color of the walls of your cubicle; you can just put the color blue or green on your screensaver.

Choose office-friendly decorations for your nest. Be as creative and imaginative as you can in decorating your work space, but keep in mind that you're still in the office.

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