Your Environment TOP TIP: Money is often tight at the beginning of a new venture. If you need to find ways to be creative with your workspace and are feeling stumped, brainstorm with friends as to ways in which you can improve it. A colour of paint just for you, a picture by a friend, plants can all be inexpensive ways to make a difference. Millions of pounds are spent every year by companies looking to improve the work environment for their staff. Why? Because they know that it increases productivity and therefore profitability. The instances of absenteeism and labour turnover drop and staff derive a greater enjoyment from their workplace. The place in which you work is extremely important to your productivity. Spending a little more time creating an environment which lifts your spirits every time you step into it will give energy and creativity to the work you are doing. An environment you merely tolerate will drain you and leaden the work you are doing. Liken it to staying in a hotel which has made an effort with the details, the design and the care versus one that hasn't - they are both places to sleep yet your whole experience is more enjoyable, and you probably sleep better, in the first. Look for little or big improvements you can make to increase your work performance - a first class environment will support a first class effort! How will you know if it's helping: You'll feel lighter and more energised at work. You'll find as you improve one aspect you'll want to improve others - a sort of momentum will gather You'll feel less stressed as you streamline more and tasks will feel easier Here is a checklist of some of the areas to consider:  Yes   No  I have a defined place in which to work that is not used for other purposes My workspace is uncluttered, I can reach everything I need easily I have ample space, air and light in which to work I have access to music, or silence, by which to work I like the colours and decoration in my workspace I am not distracted by my surroundings There is nothing about my workspace that I am tolerating I have ample storage and filing cabinets for my work I have created more space than I need, so my business can grow I have enough specified phone lines and power points fitted Do It! Spend just that little bit more on something you really love, that makes you feel really good whenever you see it. It's the "sensible" buys you end up hating. © Baillie and Friends Ltd

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