Your workspace may impact your mood, productivity, and stress levels. Small and affordable changes may help support your day-to-day.
A cluttered or chaotic workspace might make you feel overwhelmed or unable to focus. A well-organized, calm space can help you stay on task throughout your workday. I’ve found that keeping a minimalist workspace with some cheery decor best supports me while I’m working.
The good news is that you don’t need a total makeover to feel a difference— a few changes may help.
Here are some simple adjustments you can make to transform your work environment into a chill space.
Start by removing everything you don’t use daily, such as piles of papers or books, used mugs and dishes, or extra cords/chargers.
File away important documents, take out any trash, and keep only the essentials on your desk. If you’d like, you can use organizers or trays to sort items. Less is more!
Bonus tip
You may want to set a recurring cleaning session once a week, on a Friday or a Monday, to help keep your desk clear.
Natural light may help support your mental health and energy levels. If you can, work near a window.
Exposure to daylight helps regulate your body’s internal clock, which improves sleep and mood.
If you don’t get a lot of natural daylight where you work, you may want to spend some time outside before or during work to help support
You could also invest in a desk lamp that mimics natural light. Or, try a light box, also known as a SAD lamp.
Bonus tip
I like to take a short walk outside in the morning, before I start working.
Studies have shown that plants may reduce stress and improve air quality. A small potted plant or succulent on your desk can bring a bit of the outdoors in and help create a sense of calm.
If your workspace lacks light, opt for low-maintenance options like snake plants or pothos.
Bonus tip
I can’t have live plants in my home because my cat will try to eat them! Instead, I’ve started putting together Lego plants, succulents, and wildflowers to decorate and create a calm working space.
Colors affect our emotions. Soft blues, greens, and neutrals create calmness, while bright colors might be energizing.
Consider adding calming color through wall art, desk accessories, or even your desktop wallpaper.
Bonus tip
I have a desk mat that’s full of cotton candy pinks and blues. It soothes my busy brain! Using a desk mat under your keyboard or laptop can be a nice way to add soothing color to your workspace.
When you can, find ways to reduce or remove any distracting noises. Noise may cause stress, especially in shared or open offices.
Try using noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine. Lo-fi or instrumental music may also help you stay focused without overwhelming your senses.
Bonus tip
I’ve found plenty of great lo-fi mixes on Spotify that help me relax while I’m writing or editing. You can also try playing throwbacks to your favorite music, and the memories might relax you while you work. I like ’90s or classic rock, as well. It’s fun to switch it up.
It’s tough to feel calm if your work chair hurts your back or your monitor is at the wrong height. If possible, invest in ergonomic furniture or make small adjustments to your current setup.
You could use a footrest or laptop stands to reduce strain on your body and make sitting or standing at your desk more comfortable.
Bonus tip
Try a small lumbar pillow or other cushions to help make your chair more comfortable. I also try to take breaks as often as possible to get up, walk around, and stretch my body.
Start with a change or two, or by cleaning up your workspace, and see how it makes you feel!
Need product recommendations for your office?
Check out Healthline’s 9 Essentials for a Home Office