Personalizing and enjoying your workspace

Personalize your desk:  

Think about what makes you happy. This might include photos of your pets, favorite objects, or even a scent that soothes you. A personalized workspace can help put you in the right mindset to be productive. Not sure where to start? Consider adding the following when you set up your space:

• Put up a picture or relic from a pet or favorite animal.  
• Use stickers or drawings that bring a smile to your face.  
• Keep favorite pens/writing instruments handy. My current favourite pen is affordable and beautiful on paper. Utilize your favorite pens to underline key terms or begin a new section in your notes!  
• Use a diffuser, salt lamp or a preferred light source. 
• Keep a journal nearby for reflection. 
• Add a bean bag, stress ball, or a plushie.  
• Use a clock - or not! Find out what works best for you. For some, a ticking clock might help as background noise. But if not, don’t fret – remember, this desk is yours to create and work on. 
• A calendar to keep you on top of your work. Use this Student Success Centre resource to break down large tasks into manageable daily steps. To get a big picture view of your semester, try a downloadable calendar to help map out your month. 

Change it up with the seasons 

Feel free to refresh your space as the seasons change! If things are looking bland or too cluttered, take your cue from the seasons and re-arrange your desk. Changing up your visual space can improve your likelihood of enjoying your work station. 

I try to change my desk with each season. Now that spring is approaching, I am collecting small flowers, plushies, and cards that I have received. They bring me joy to look at, especially between those long Zoom meetings! What makes a space enjoyable to work in will vary from person to person. Whenever you begin to feel distracted or bored – these small reminders can help you shake out of that fog. 

Hybrid and changing workspaces 

Having a workspace to call your own is sometimes not possible, but don’t let that deter you from making some adjustments! 

Many of the suggestions on what to surround yourself with can be taken along with you. Below is a converted list of how to adapt your personalization on the go: 

• Find a comfortable spot to sit. There are many different types of seating available around campus, from the firm seating and quiet space of the Bennett Jones Law Library to the Student Success Centre’s sensory-friendly environment every Tuesday.  
• Add pictures in your notebooks of your pets or favorite animals  
• Put stickers or drawings to add into your agenda or binders  
• Favorite pens – Get extras in case they run out of ink  
• Using your favorite scent – but considerate of those who are sensitive to smells!  
• Bring a bean bag, stress ball, or small plushie in your bag  
• Wear a wristwatch 
• Keep Printable Calendars  handy 
• Wear noise cancelling earbuds, or ear plugs  

Conclusion

For many of us, remote learning has reduced the amount of predictability in our routines. Luckily, some things remain within our control. Think about your unique interests and needs and dedicate a little time to focusing on what brings you joy! Let that joy motivate you as you work on assignments and move forward with your goals. 

Good luck and have fun with it!