Having a workspace that doesn’t stress you out makes all the difference to your productivity and motivation. A stress-free workspace means your posture is supported, the lighting doesn’t strain your eyes and you have all the tools you need to do the best job you can do. If you’re in a cubicle, a desk at home or anything in between, it’s important you feel comfortable while working. Here’s how to create a peaceful work environment:

1. Make a list of all the things that are not peaceful in your work environment

Take a moment to collect your thoughts and write out things that stress you out in your workspace. Unfortunately, you can’t control chatty coworkers or intimidating bosses but think about the things you can change. Does your office have an unpleasant smell? Is your desk uncomfortable? Do you often get headaches from staring at your screen all day? Are you too cold or too hot? Think about all the details.

2. Come up with solutions

Once you’ve identified the problems, it’s time to come up with solutions. Here are some examples of workplace woes and ways you can remedy them:

• Unpleasant smell: If your office doesn’t have a strict scent-free policy, bring in an aroma diffuser. These devices will not only make your space smell better, but they also offer aromatherapy benefits. For de-stressing oils we recommend frankincense, lavender and chamomile. Consider it a two-for-one deal in creating a peaceful work environment.

• Uncomfortable desk: People typically spend approximately eight hours a day, five days a week sitting at their desk. It is extremely important that you feel comfortable. Consider investing in a new office chair or a pillow for added support if you find yourself stretching or re-adjusting your posture multiple times a day. Additionally, look into laptop stands or other ergonomic desk setups. It’s definitely worth the investment as you’ll save on chiropractor bills later in life.

• Lighting: If the overhead fluorescent lighting is giving you headaches bring in a new desk lamp to soften it up. You can also look into getting glasses that specifically counteract eye strain from staring at screens all day. Computer glasses are definitely worth looking into if you are uncomfortable day-in and day-out.

• General drabness: If your workspace is uninspiring you can brighten it up by adding some personal touches. Whether it’s a motivational quote, photos of friends and family or colourful stationery, you can create a peaceful work environment by making it feel homier and more you.

• Outdated software: If one of the factors stressing you out at your workspace is the lack of state-of-the-art technology, talk to your boss or I.T. team. If you present a good case with research, facts and reasoning behind why you and the business at large could benefit from an upgrade they will likely hear you out.

Another way to create a peaceful work environment is to change the environment altogether. Why not try out a community-based coworking space like Project Spaces? Book a tour today to see the final solution to a stressful workplace for yourself.