05
Refresh Your Workspace
CLARITY & COMFORT
This week, let’s embrace a habit that has personally reshaped my work environment and increased my productivity. My journey from a kitchen table to a dedicated office space, and a stint in a 350 square foot condo, taught me the importance of an clean work and organized work setting.
Habit of the week:
Refresh Your Workspace
Whether  you have a dedicated office or a modest desk area, the space where we work directly impacts our productivity and creativity. Inspired by my time in a minimalist condo, I discovered the power of a workspace free from physical clutter like unnecessary papers and files.
Why it matters:
A well-organized workspace can help you focus on the daily tasks at hand. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that allows you to perform your best with minimal distractions.
Quick Start Guide:
- Screen Saver Motivation: Start small with a new screensaver of a place you love or aspire to visit to keep your mood uplifted and motivated.
- Smart Storage Solutions: Invest in smart storage solutions to keep your workspace tidy and organized. Â Keep paper and supplies hidden.
- Ergonomic Setup: If you can, invest in furniture and equipment ergonomically set to support your posture and prevent you from sitting all day.
- Declutter: Regularly clean out your filing cabinet and donate unused office supplies to maintain a neat workspace.
Cami's Tips
- Desk Positioning: Place your desk in a 'power position' to avoid having your back to the door. It’s good feng shui and keeps you feeling secure and in command.
- Go Digital: Reduce paper clutter by using digital tools documents and contract management. Keep a physical notebook only for doodling habits or quick notes.
- AI Note Taker: Implement an AI note-taking service to handle meeting minutes and reduce reliance on physical storage.
- Inspire Yourself: Decorate your office with items that inspire you, reflecting your personal style and creating an inviting atmosphere.
Routine Checkpoint:
Remember, an updated workspace can significantly boost your job satisfaction.
Create a wish list for updating your office, including tasks like painting, acquiring new furniture, or rearranging the layout. Establish a timeline to achieve these significant updates within the calendar year. For smaller adjustments, commit to organizing a drawer or sorting through files once a month. On a daily basis, make it a habit to tidy your desk.
What's Your Take?
How do you keep your workspace conducive to good business? Have you tried any of these tips? Share your experiences and insights using #WebDesignerHabits and join our community discussion.
WebCami Cafe is a Facebook group created to connect web designers, old and new, to share tips on starting, running, and maintaining a successful web design business. Join Today!
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about the author
Cami MacNamara is a web designer and owner of WebCami LLC, a Seattle-based agency since 2002. She created Web Designer Habits to help solopreneurs build smarter systems, stay productive, and run a business that works for them.