Creating a Productive Work Environment

How to Create a Productive Work Environment

Wherever you work, creating a good workspace is key to your productivity. In learning how to increase your productivity at work, these following 6 simple steps can help you create a more focused, professional, and pleasant work environment for yourself (and co-workers).

How to Increase Productivity at Work

Do these tips to create more productivity at work. Simple tips on creating a productive work environment:

1.  Control clutter in your immediate workspace.

This not only makes you look more professional but allows you to work efficiently without hunting through a mess.

• Use shelves, folders, or hanging files to create an organized filing system for paperwork.
• Hang up a small cork board for notes and memos.
• Put up a dry-erase board for your most important ‘To Do’ list.
• Keep a digital system for other To Do’s.
• Recycle or throw away excess paper or other litter, such as food wrappers, old memos, etc.
• Sync information between all your devices for easy access and to lessen the need for duplication.

2. Add small decorations to help you relax.

A photo of loved ones, a picture of a favorite vacation spot, or a painting of a nature scene can add a soothing touch for your work space. If your office computer allows it, set your desktop background to an image you particularly enjoy or find motivating.

Depending on your workplace, you may also be able to bring in a small potted plant.

3.  Bring music and headphones if your job is mainly silent.

Do this simple trick so you can listen to music on the job without disturbing others.

Music that does not have words (instrumental) can help you concentrate on your work, and headphones also signal to co-workers that you are busy and avoid unnecessary disturbance.

4.  Keep track of time spent working and socializing.

Make use of your time wisely by logging your productive time with time keeping equipment. You may also use simple scheduling methods with the use of alarm clocks for better time management.

Prioritize time spent on work over socializing or checking your social media accounts.

5.  Organize your computer so you can easily find files.

Organizing your computer and keeping it organized is well worth the time it takes to do so.

Not only will it help you with time saved down the road, but also in the clarity of mind it can provide.

6. Protect your ‘personal space’ from unwanted visitors.

If someone is continually wandering over to your desk to chat, gently tell them that you’re in the middle of an important task and wish to concentrate. Good phrases to use include:

• “I’m sorry, but I’m really swamped right now.”
• “Maybe you could fill me in at lunch when I can give you my full attention”
• “I’m sorry, but I’m really just weird about people standing too close.”

Likewise, keep text notifications and/or chat boxes off on your computer.

7.  Take your breaks outside of your workspace.

Using your work area exclusively for work helps you keep on your most important tasks.

Creating a productive work environment is as easy as these few simple steps.

Adapted from How to Create a Productive Working Environment.