Whether you work from home or you are out in the work force, creating a relaxing and comfortable work environment is absolutely one of the most important things when 
creating a Zen like work Zone. Yes, even if you work out of your home your office space should be as relaxing of a space as you would create in your own home. Not only does it give you a little escape after dealing with the outside elements on your way to work but also provides a space for you to let your creativity flow.
Recent studies have shown that those who are relaxed and in a comfortable work environment are more creative and productive than those who are in an environment where their desks are piled high with paper work as well as office clutter that can create racket of their mind.
First off, for those of you who work from a home setting, you may want to consider painting your office walls. The colors you pick believe it or not have a big impact on how a room feels. Try to choose colors that are relaxing like those with blues, greens, lavenders, beiges or light brown hues. Some color hues to stay away from are bold colors like reds, oranges and yellows; as these colors tend to be more vibrant and bright. Studies have shown that these colors are associated with fast food environments and can create a faster paced work environment.
The placement of your desk is also a very important element you must not over look. You want to face the door way and have a solid wall at your back. Doing so allows you to greet clients and fellow business professionals alike face to face as they enter your office. Following the Feng Suei aspect while positioning helps to create a stronger base for you as your back is against a strong solid wall as opposed to an open gap.
One of the most important tips I can pass along to those in both office space and home office space is to de clutter your office as much as possible. Clutter in an office can create clutter in your mind and bring your creative flow down to a halt. The first step in containing the clutter in your office is to clear your desk entirely of everything you have on it, except your computer monitor or laptop. Next it’s important to create a place for all your office supplies (Stapler, hole puncher, paper clips, letter opener Etc.) perhaps you can dedicate a drawer in your computer desk that is fairly close to your reach.
In addition, think about creating a file system to help keep your paper work organized. You may find it helpful to alphabetize or color code a few folders, thus designating a place for each type of paper that will need your attention. Maybe you would prefer to create a couple piles of papers on top of another work space in your office besides your desk .Organization is an important key in creating a Zen like work environment. Make sure to never leave your office weather at home or outside of the home a mess at the end of the day, take a few extra minutes to place things in their designated areas in preparation for the next day’s events. Not only does this simple task help to keep your office organized and clutter free but it also gives you time to attend to more important issues that may pop up as you get to your desk or computer.
Lighting in your office is another way to create the relaxing ambiance in your office. Whether you choose to light candles that have refreshing and relaxing scents to them or you change your lighting in the office all together, try to create a warm soft glow. You may want to turn off an obnoxious over head light and turn on a small desk lamp that provides you with that soft glow you’re looking for.
Placing some of your favorite pieces in your office can help to make the space your own and may just help you feel more relaxed. There may be a beautiful rug you love or a few inspirational wall pieces. Just make sure not to over clutter your office. Remember we are trying to create a Zen like and relaxed environment. Plants in an office space help to create softness to your environment plus give of that good old oxygen. I say why stop with just green office plants, why not a beautiful flower arrangement or potted plant that flowers you love. How a bout one of those desk top fountains, they create a great water flowing sound that puts most of us at ease. If you’re able to, playing spa music can help create a Zen mood. I myself play spa music on my computer through the use of Pandora. It’s free but I tell you a few minutes of some relaxing music and my brain starts flowing much better.
Are you starting to notice a pattern here? Each work space should be created by the person who will spend the most time in it. Whether you are doing computer work or paper work it is important to be comfortable in your space not only to remain relaxed but to continue to help you continue to be more productive and creative. I myself have put these tips into practice and let me tell you, I have been way more productive now that I am in a relaxing work environment.
Article posted by, Heather Deprey
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