Clutter out, Color in: Make Your Office Work for You

 Clutter out, Color in Make Your Office Work for You

Summary:

• Is your workplace good for you? Research has shown that your environment has an impact on your mood. So it could be time to redesign your workplace to improve your mood at work.

Article text:

• Is your workplace good for you? Research shows that your environment has an impact on your mood. So it could be time to redesign your workplace to improve your mood at work.

• "Now you can change your office decor as often as you change the ink in your printer," says Anna Griffin, designer of desk accessories at Anna Griffin Inc. "Changing colors and patterns in your workspace can be motivating, relaxing and even improve your mood."

• The most important thing is to add variety to your workspace so you don't get bored with the same environment and décor day after day. Griffin offers the following tips to help you create a pleasant and invigorating workspace.

* Declutter. The first step to creating a pleasant workspace is to make it clean and tidy. This will help you focus on your work.

* Declutter. Disposable desk accessories in fun colors and patterns instantly add a touch of pizzazz to your workspace and can be swapped out whenever you need a new ambiance.

The "Rose" and "Elsie" collections from Anna Griffin Inc. are fresh, fun, and above all affordable. They include four different patterns in eight coordinating office items, including file folders, magazine and pen holders, paper and letter trays, journals, and photo albums. The Rose Collection is full of rich, vibrant colors in old-world floral patterns, while the Elsie Collection is sophisticated and playful, featuring abstract and floral retro and pastel motifs.

* Set up your workspace to look like home. Since you spend so much time at work, decide on a color or style and start decorating. A small rug can add color and texture to your space, and a favorite lamp or lampshade can provide just the right amount of light. You can personalize the space with small details like a decorative basket as a "mailbox" and fun prints and pictures for the walls. Don't forget photos of your family, friends and pets. They'll bring a smile to your face and help to lower your stress levels.

* Just add water. A fountain on the desk, fresh flowers, or a fishbowl can give your office an atmospheric ambiance and convey a sense of style and calm.

* Don't forget the finishing touches. Use a pre-made slipcover to add style and color to that tired old desk chair. Swap the boring manila folders for decorative patterned folders. It makes work fun! Show some individuality with your mouse pad. You can buy a mouse pad with a piece of art or a cartoon character, depending on your theme and mood. A quirky clock, a fun paperweight, or an unusual plant could be just what you need to make the room more "you"