School days have begun and with it comes the stress of routine changes, high expectations in all areas and the daunting workload of the year to come. I am often asked how to best set up a desk for success both in the academic & professional world. Clients also question how to do this when the space or budget is tight. Here are some ideas on ways to launch your student (or you) and set them up with a chic space, no matter the size, and give them the foundation of a space that supports optimum performance.
Studies have shown that your environment impacts your performance. It can help you with the task at hand aiding your productivity, creativity and distractibility. Or, it can hinder all those factors that go into effective work. This determines whether you or your student achieve optimum results. Let’s look at some simple and cost effective solutions for a chic and savvy work space that will help you and those you love get the grades or work performance you hope to achieve.
1. Color
Color is often used to design inspiring interiors but it also can help create an organized space, helpful habits and clear thinking. Color coordinate subject binders with needed accessory storage containers so that you help your student develop an habits of organization. For example, if your student has a blue binder for math, make sure that all items associated with math are blue and pick up a blue container to place calculators, protractors and in my case ample erasers. This will help them focus on the task at hand, math, without getting side-tracked and distracted hunting for needed items.
2. Differentiate the Space
From a psychological perspective it is important to differentiate between spaces to help one’s mind shift into the mindset of the activity ahead. Maybe you have a favorite reading or relaxation chair, your brain adjusts to the feeling and physical state just by thinking about it. Creating a space that is designated for a specific activity can help your student get into study mode. One way to do this in a small space that might be multi-functional is to place a carpet under the desk. This helps to differentiate the space and help trigger the mechanics in the brain that will tell your student it is time to study.
3. Clutter
Clutter is a big distraction to optimum academic or professional performance. In today’s world we have an abundance of cords that contribute to clutter around our work spaces. Creating plug-in spots that eliminate the cord chaos is ideal. Tying up loose cords with elastics a or ties can calm the commotion.
4. Utilize all Surfaces
Sometimes study spaces can be tight and it is important to utilize every nook and cranny. Realizing that you can use the walls and ceiling to free up space is key. And, it can help you make a unique statement with your space! Hanging baskets, dry-erase or cork boards can double your useable area. Hanging lights from the ceiling can help you free up much needed desk space.
5. Colorful Boxes
Again, I love color! One clever way to make your space vibrant, colorful and organized is to incorporate hat boxes that can hold workspace essentials like paper, envelopes or ink cartridges. There are so many stacking box options in a variety of shapes and colors that can help you manage the items needed to successfully navigate academia or execute professional prowess.
These are just a few ideas to create a chic workspace that will support optimum performance.
If you would like guidance to begin living your Inspired Life feel free to connect with me for a FREE 20 Minute Home in Harmony Lifestyle Private Call by clicking here!
Happy Soaring!
XOXO
