Your Office Environment - It Also Plays a Key Role in Your Success
© 2007 - 2009 Kendall SummerHawk
Each time I have a private HorseWise client come to Tucson they are amazed and inspired when they see my office. Although it's not very big, it is clean, pretty, and obviously put together with care for what supports my success.
Then I hear how their office looks and quickly understand why mine is such an inspiration!
What I explain to my clients is that objects have energy and can either add to, or subtract from our motivation and productivity. For example, I don't put piles of anything on the floor. If I don't, then every time I see the pile or walk by it I feel guilty that I haven't taken care of it (if that sounds familiar then please read on...).
This is called "psycho-geography" and it's one of the first things I have my clients focus on. If you want to make more money and be more successful in your business then the things you surround yourself with count!
Here are the same 6 simple tips I use to make YOUR office/work environment support your success (instead of nagging at you to get more done):
Tip #1 Clean up the floor!
Yes, I DO mean get rid of every pile of paper, books, magazines, folders,
files, and whatever else is taking up your walking real estate. Think
about it this way: the stuff (and I'm being polite using that word)
on your floor drags your eyes—and your energy—down. Pick
it up and get rid of it and you'll immediately feel lighter and more
freedom.
What to do with that stuff? Be generous in tossing it into the recycle bin or giving it away. You can always find the information you need on the Internet, not on your floor!
Tip #2 Add something living to your office space
I always have a pink or red flowering plant in one corner of my office,
sitting on a small, decorative table. You might prefer a green plant
or fresh flowers. Bringing something living into your work area breathes
in a sense of renewal and possibility.
Tip #3 Camouflage unsightly cords and technology
The mess of computer cords can easily make you feel that things are
in chaos. Hide them behind a plant or a pretty wicker basket. I have
mine neatly tucked behind a pair of matching ficas plants. When I
walk in my office, I see the healthy plants, not the mix of cords.
Tip #4 Add a piece of art to your space
Mine was free and self-made. It's my 'vision board' collage. You can
hang a painting or even a piece of found art from outdoors. Whatever
it is, be sure it is something that lifts you up when you look at
it! Now imagine marketing and designing your business with that same
feeling of being lifted up!
Tip #5 Get rid of desk clutter
My desk is purposefully tiny so that I have no choice but to focus,
focus, focus. I still manage to have room on it for a few photos and
mementos (like the hand-blown glass hearts that were gifts from my
hubby, Richard). Utilitarian items like a stapler, paper clips and
pens are neatly tucked away in a desk drawer, or in the basket that
sits on top of my PC.
Clearing off your desk space is clearing the way for new clients to come in, so get out the trash bin and dive in! Wondering how to track your projects? Use a list or your calendar, not stacks of paper on your desk.
Tip #6 If it's not pretty or inspiring, get rid
of it
I am picky about what enters my space. The result is a feast for my
eyes and a feeling of focus and relaxation when I am working. Anything
broken, dingy, tied to old emotional baggage or just plain ugly is
gone!
Going through and getting rid of things does not have to be a chore if you keep moving and are ruthless about what stays. This is the perfect time of year to clear out the old and make room for what you really want.
Besides, you have to let go to let new things (like clients, money, and happiness) in!
About the author:
Kendall SummerHawk, the "Horse Whisperer for Business" delivers smart, savvy ways entrepreneurs can turn their hectic business into a smooth-running, fun, 6-figure money-making dream. To learn more about her book, Brilliance Unbridled, and sign up for more FREE tips like these, visit her site at http://www.kendallsummerhawk.com
NOTE: You are welcome to “reprint” this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the “about the author” info at the end). I would also appreciate a copy of your reprint sent to kendall@kendallsummerhawk.com