We all know the feeling – you sit down with the best intentions, your to-do list ready to tick off, but somehow you just don’t get anything done. Or at least not much. And sometimes that is to do with a lack of motivation, but in other situations, it’s actually the space you’re (trying) to work in. The fact is that the right environment can make or break your productivity, and where you work really does matter. With that in mind, keep reading to find out what makes a place great for getting things done – once you know, you can make a few changes and start to be a lot more productive.
A Good Atmosphere
When it comes down to it, there is some science involved, but in essence, if you want to be productive, it’s a lot to do with how a place feels. Natural light, quiet corners, comfy chairs (although not too comfy because that can also make you unproductive), some greenery… these things all add up to a good atmosphere to work in.
Of course, good energy is hard to measure, but you know when you walk into a space that just works – the feeling is calm and focused, and it’s relaxed but still feels professional. If you can find somewhere like that, where you feel totally comfortable and able to just get on, you’ll definitely get ahead on your to-do list.
It’s Not About Being Alone
Although you might assume that if you want to get more done you’ve got to be by yourself, the truth is that sometimes that’s the opposite of what you need, and being around other people, whether you collaborate with them or not, can be inspiring. That’s why shared workspaces have become so popular in recent years. With so many people working at home by themselves, the idea of having somewhere to work where you’re around other people can be very tempting.
The great thing about these spaces is that they can fit around your schedule, so if you do want to be alone, you can be, but as soon as you feel you’re flagging and could do with some energy around you, you can go to the shared space and get stuff done.
A Place That Adapts To You
A great workspace isn’t one-size-fits-all… it can be whatever works for you, so although some people might love to be in the light and sunshine, others might prefer to be away from the window because they know they get distracted, and so on. So the best workspaces are the ones that give you what you need and can adapt if you decide you need something else.
The point is that whether you work in an office, a shared workspace, or in your own home, it’s got to be what suits you, not what works for other people (necessarily). You mustn’t try to force something to work either, because that’s just going to mean you’re more uncomfortable than ever, and you’ll get even less done.
