Now that we’ve covered how much we’d like to spend our days outside, let’s figure out how to make the most of our situation (needing to spend most of our days inside with our computers).
You’ve probably heard about color theory for interior design—painting your living room white will make the space seem large and sophisticated, opting for blue is calming and tranquil, while yellow walls are energizing and exciting (although it can be overpowering and become irritating as well). It goes further than just the paint on the walls, though you can totally change your perspective by simply changing your surroundings.
So, while we have to spend time at our desks, let’s talk about how we can still take advantage of the summer motivation sweeping the nation. It’s all about your surroundings.
Take Advantage of Natural Light
Of course, some of these things are easier to do if you’re working from home. But if you’re at an office, you can still make it work.
Sunshine is so healing for people, especially when we spend most of our days inside. Having exposure to natural sunlight is energizing and mood boosting, releasing a natural release of serotonin in our brains.
Positioning your work space around a window to look outside can keep you moving along in your work, and you’ll find yourself wanting to take fewer breaks to scroll on your phone.
Meanwhile, if you prioritize lighting your space primarily through natural light, it can take the strain off of your eyes; artificial light can be harsh on your eyes, and staring at a screen all day doesn’t help.
Bring the Greenery Inside
When you look out that window in the summer, you’re seeing lush lawns, colorful flowers, and green leafy trees. But why should that remain locked outside?
By bringing just one living plant to your workspace, you can revolutionize your relationship with your work. Multiple studies have shown that having live plants in your space can increase productivity and creativity at work. Those who work in proximity to house plants also report much higher satisfaction with work.
The best part? If you don’t have a green thumb, you can start with something hardy, like a bunny ear cactus or a snake plant.
Keep Your Climate Controlled
For many people, the best part of being inside during the summer is the AC. There’s no reason you shouldn’t take advantage of that!
Keeping your internal climate controls cool and refreshing can be a good way to stay energized during the workday. You don’t want things so cold that you’re uncomfortable, but some air circulation can be a huge help to staying comfortable while you work.
If you don’t have an AC unit at your disposal, fans are huge for keeping the air moving through your office. And before the sun rises too high during the day, cracking a window for a natural breeze is invigorating as well.
Get Comfortable
It’s no lounge chair on the beach, but a comfortable desk chair can be a good second place!
Being comfortable in your space is a good way to ensure your mind won’t wander to greener pastures. Investing in a comfortable chair, a decently-sized desk, and even a footstool can totally transform your workday. When you’re not distracted by your stiff neck or the cramp in your back, you can glide through your day much more seamlessly.
Be Active
It’s important to not spend 8 hours shackled to your desk, no matter how comfortable your seat is.
Getting up and moving for 5-10 minutes each hour is the widely accepted recommendation for modern workplaces. This can be a simple stand-and-stretch break and a walk to the restroom. It’s important to take a brain break as well, to keep yourself from burning out throughout the day.
If you want a bit more activity to stay focused, you can invest in office gear like resistance bands and a walking pad under your desk.
And Yes, You Can Go Outside!
I’ve already talked about how I like to spend my lunch break in my building’s courtyard to get my daily dose of serotonin. You can do this too, if you like! It’s such an easy way to scratch that itch of wanting to spend your summer days outside… It’s right there to enjoy!
In most cases, you don’t have to spend every minute of your day inside. If you’re craving that fresh air, go get a breath!
That’s the best part of creating your dream home office. In most cases, it’s just down the hall or across from the stairs of your front door, so you can take a break when you need to.
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Written by Jordan McAndrew