Thoughts on Office Space

This week my cubicle at work was rearranged. I had to move everything out and then back in again. These sort of situations are a good opportunity to reassess what you’re actually keeping around that you might not really be using. In the past I had a lot of notebooks, text books, etc. that I used. It gave my space that overworked busy-papers-everywhere look. Which has a benefit I suppose. But now the majority of my notes, packets, resources are all digitized. I don’t reach for textbooks or notepads in order to achieve my goals. So I’m thinking of storing away the few books and notepads I do have. Leaving my desk cleaner.

There’s a thought that worries me, “could this give off a message that I am not busy?” That’s something I’ve always been curious about. Which is more important? Having a desk environment that reflects your work-load? Sometimes a mess of papers can seem like a right of passage for the importance of the work. Or creating a desk environment that is more conducive to your productivity? Typing it out the answer seems pretty clear.

For me that would definitely be the modern meets zakka style found on many Korean office supply sites.

But I think images like these can be a bit deceiving. Especially if you’re online shopping for office supplies. Because, for many, an office made up of slick white, clean surfaces and ample natural light just isn’t reality. Not everyone can work in a Google-esque environment. My cubicle is made up of drab colors in beige, tan, gray, and maroon. Full natural light is non-existent for myself and most of those in my office.

These images below are a better representation of the levels you might hope to achieve…

There’s also the reality that things change, offices move, your job could change, etc. and if you prize something you’ll want to bring it with you. Because I commute on the train, bringing an excessive amount of decor with me is no easy task. And if I needed to take all that home…? So I don’t like to spend a lot of money on making my work environment feel relaxing. I buy the cheapest lamps or bring in things from home I’m no longer using and wouldn’t care about it breaking, etc. So when that $4.00 lamp from IKEA stop workings (it did Friday) I’m not bummed out by it. :)