When we aren’t being productive, or aren’t doing the best we can, we start feeling low. Self-doubt is on an all-time high. When this happens, we stew in it, and then eventually try to find ways to fix it.
When you are in a rut, shaking things up is a great way to get your mojo back. So, people start changing up their schedule, they start adding new ways to take breaks, even new distraction-free apps are installed. One thing that we often overlook is the environment we work in.
When the working environment and changing it up comes up, people think it means rearranging things on the desk, decluttering, organizing, etc. But, that isn’t exactly changing the environment.
Your workspace ISN’T the environment, the place it is located in IS. Many a time, the people around you, the location, the noise, etc. can all be contributing factors in you falling behind.
Changing the environment is probably the easiest way to improve your concentration. It puts you in an unfamiliar setting that forces you to get creative in order to get your work done. If you do not have a typical office job that requires you to be at your desk, then you have the perfect opportunity to keep switching things up so that you don’t get too comfortable.
We try to make our working spaces comfortable, sometimes they become too comfortable. The more comfortable your workplace is, the faster you will lose focus. The coziest places can become detrimental to your productivity, concentration, and determination.
Many freelancers, telecommuters, startup executives, etc. work from their homes. Your residential space is supposed to be one of the most comfortable place for you. While working in your PJs is a dream, it can be the reason for you to not work enough.
If you work from home, then here are some things to keep in mind –
- Do NOT work on your bed – Ironically I am writing this article on my bed, but it is not advised to do so. You should keep your sleeping and working area separate. If you don’t do that, then one bleeds into the other. This can be unhealthy for not only your work but also your sleep.
- Keep a SEPARATE office area – It can be a simple desk and chair in the corner of your living room or your bedroom. But, make sure to always use this space for work and nothing else.
- Manage the NOISE levels – Living in a noisy and busy area can put you in a funk and lower your level of concentration. Try to use noise cancellation headphones. Keep your family away from your workspace. Do anything that will keep the hustle and bustle of daily life away from your ears.
You can always switch it up by visiting cafes and libraries to work. This picture is of me reading in McDonald’s in the morning when the entire space is empty.
The reason I love working from Starbucks in the morning is that I am surrounded by people who are also working their laptops. This gives me a sense of community and the best part is that I don’t even have to interact with anyone other than the barista. Talk about great benefits!
Final Thoughts
It is essential to choose a workplace where there are positive people around. People who have the same ambitions and long term goals as you will motivate you to work. In my case, people working motivates me to work too. So, whenever I am not feeling motivated, I head over to my favorite Starbucks. Find out what works for you. Switch places and see what inspires you.
