I am a total passionista and one of my favorite things to do is coach my students to fuel their passions, live out their dreams and reach them successfully. ( Hello, unleash your ista students! ) One of the most common things I notice when working with my one-on-one clients via Skype are disheveled home offices. One of the first things we tackle is the work space. How can you expect your work life to soar to success when everything in your office is a mess? It just doesn't work. So, I've pulled together a little reference guide and list for you to use to spruce up your home office.
Place your desk correctly. Try to place your desk in a command position, meaning not directly in front of the door but facing it, and not facing a wall or window. If you have to put your desk against the wall, put a larger mirror in front of you. That does two things: You can see behind you and it makes you feel like you can move forward and you’re not getting stuck. And positioning yourself so that you can see who is entering your office allows you to be prepared for whatever business comes your way. You don't want to be missing out on potential opportunities. (photo above shows the ideal desk placement, back against the wall via @dominomag)
Home office feng shui tips - desk in command position @wennaprive
Choose the right colors. There is no perfect color for your home office. You will have to determine what is right for you and what nourishes your working soul. Are you an artist? Choose white walls, which represents a blank canvas and will inspire your visions. Are you a healthinista? Try a soft shade of green for your walls to encourage health and vitality. Are you a love coach? Try pink to inspire thoughts of love and romance. Are you a business strategist or consultant, use navy or black and encourage knowledge and wisdom. You can research colors here.
Enhance inspiration with wood. Wood is an element that promotes creativity and symbolizes loyalty. Use either a wood desk or a wood chair and try to place something wood in the east corner of the room. This will inspire your creativity and ensure loyal customers or followers.
Boost productivity with fire. Fire is the strongest of all the elements. It is one that represents activity and passion. Burn a few candles in your office to keep the smell energizing and to promote productivity.
Manifest money. Place metallic colors in the west side of the space. All metals symbolize and attract money. Silver, brass, steel, etc. However, be careful to not over do it. Over indulgence of anything will knock off the Chi.
Inspire easy communication. Water symbolizes good communication. You can use a mirror, water fountain or fishbowl. Or why not display a piece of art in your office of water? I love a good ol' Slim Aarons print any day.
Bring in the harmony. Plants in any environment symbolize harmony. If you feel your office is off balance or you prefer a little bit of a disorganized mess, just bring in a plant. Best option, bamboo.
De-clutter and organize. Constantly be ridding your office of paper and objects you no longer use or need. Keep a pretty file cabinet for extra files. Also, keep your computer desktop clutter free and create an orderly file system.
Erica Brechtel - home office vision board
Keep focused. Create an inspiration board. Placing feel good images, words that inspire you and things that you want to attract will keep you on track towards your goals. It's a constant reminder of where you are going!
