The idea of a cubicle is older than most of the employees now. It was designed in 1964; the creators believed that cubicle could give a little privacy and raise productivity. Nowadays the open offices are more popular than cubicles, but some people are still sitting surrounded by grey walls.
In theory, working in a cubicle is a great concept - you don't get distracted that often and you have your own storage space. On the other hand, being there alone might make you feel isolated and depressed. Also, sitting all day and not seeing sunlight isn't very healthy. If you feel unmotivated just like the character from the Office space movie, it's time to change your current situation. Before you start looking for a better work environment, apply some strategies that can improve your life in the cubicle today:
Decorate your cubicle
You spend at least forty hours per week working in the cubicle. So, why not to make it a better place and decorate it the way you want? You can use your company's custom stickers or personal items in order to bring some colors into your little cave.There are only a few rules. First of all, keep it professional - your computer, phone, and notebook should be within arm's lengths, while your collectibles and family photos should be in the background. Secondly, keep it simple - don't bring too many things since they can only distract you from your work.
If you have a lot of documents and notes, get a desktop organizer, wall pocket or cork bar. It will help you decorate grey walls and show to others that your work really matters to you. Also, it will be easier to find the needed information.
Don't forget about hanging some pictures or notes that can relax your mind or motivate you. For instance, you can have your family photo in a frame or a poster of a place you want to travel one day. Also, consider keeping a To-Do list in front of you. Having a plan for the day can boost your productivity.
Make it green
According to the latest study, plants in the office can help reduce stress; they also clear the air, reduce noise levels, and provide a visually enhanced perception of the space. So, make sure to find a corner for leafy plants. If you don't have natural light in your cubicle, choose spider plant, aloe, pothos, cards or bamboo palm. These plants are low-maintenance and low-light. It will be ok to leave them without water for a few days so you will be able to go on vacation with quiet in your mind.Bring a blanket
Throwing a blanket or shawl over the back of your chair will not make you less of a professional. It can actually help to keep you productive (unless you decide to sleep at the workplace). According to a study conducted at Cornell University, cold can affect your work performance, so having a blanket next to you might be a solution during the winter season. Also, consider bringing a small pillow in case you have some back problems.Bring some desk toys
Employees should also have some toys in the workplace, especially in the office. For instance, you can get a stress ball or Chinese meditation balls so that you can roll and squeeze something when you feel stressed or tired.Take these breaks
People who don't see others don't notice time passing by. That's why you need to have a watch in front of you so that you can keep track of time and take breaks. Make sure to stand up every hour; you can walk around the office or look out the window and catch the sunlight. Your brain needs these little breaks; they can help restore motivation, increase your creativity, and prevent 'decision fatigue.'Eat well
Another important thing is your diet. Working in the cubicle implies sitting in front of the screen the whole day. Poor nutrition can only make the entire situation worse. Scientists proved that the gut could directly affect a human's mood. Have you ever been irritated when you were hungry? It was your gut saying you hello. So, make sure to eat breakfast and lunch every day. Also, you can keep a bunch of healthy snacks at your desk (e.g., raw nuts, dried fruit,low-sodium jerky, or granola).To maintain a healthy lifestyle in your cubicle, stay hydrated. Drinking water can help you overcome hunger and make you more energetic.
Never eat alone
Hiding in your cubicle during a lunch break isn't the best idea. According to research, employees feel happier after having a small talk with their co-workers. So, invite your colleagues to eat lunch together. Spending time with other people relieve stress and anxiety. Also, it gives you a chance to learn something new and expand your network.There are a lot of things you can do in order to improve your cubicle life. It is your space so you can decorate it any way you want. You can even bring your own furniture if it makes you happy. Get social and take good care of yourself at the workplace. A lot of talented professionals work in the cubicles and manage to get their work done, and you can be one of them.
