So friends, remember before Christmas I mentioned that getting my office in order was my holiday project? Well, I’m getting there! It’s in order! I have big plans for this space- a new desk, shelving (in progress!), and a few other building projects. But in the meantime, I didn’t want to be working in a storage room. I wanted to be inspired in my space and not overwhelmed. Today I’m sharing what I’ve done so far with my 9 tips for creating a work space that inspires you (it’s easier than you think!). Also… I’m giving away a print from Light Rust Studio (the same one I’m using in my office!).
I cringe at this, but let’s take a look at the before photo:
Seriously guys, that was my before. It’s not hard to make the after look 1 million times better… but getting here really has been a lot of work! I didn’t just want to dump those boxes in the basement (and we couldn’t- because we’re still finishing it!) so it took about three days of Shane and I (and some ‘help’) sorting and organizing and moving stuff around over the break. But I’m so glad we did! Obviously, that was no way to work- but the inefficiency of it was what pushed me over the edge. I would probably spend an hour of my 5 daycare hours every week looking for things. There was NO organization in that room. SO much wasted time! Now I know exactly where to look for supplies and ‘that’ notebook or marker. It’s amazing. But organization isn’t the only change that has made this space better.
(oh man, that bedhead! But he was so cute helping assemble my trolly with his screwdriver!)
Before I share my tips on how to create a workspace that inspires you… do you guys notice one BIG change? That gorgeous computer! My laptop officially died over Christmas- and this beautiful beast became mine. I’m in love with it. The speed difference between the two (2-5 minutes to load a webpage to lightning fast) is making me even more efficient when I’m sitting on my butt. So that’s a big change. Anyways- on with the tips!
1. Keep an uncluttered space// Honestly guys, if my office hadn’t been so BAD before, I might not have realized how important to me this is. I’ve always been a kind of messy person with too many things on the go at once. I think a little bit is okay, but when you sit down at your workspace it should be clear what you are there to work on. It used to take me five or ten minutes to ‘get set up’ at my desk before I could actually start working. Then I’d get distracted by all the clutter and waste time moving things around.
2. Keep your calendar(s) in view// I have a few calendars on the go at one time. There’s one on our fridge, one in our budget binder, one on my office wall, and my Kate Spade (total splurge) day timer. I’m okay with that! I like to have lists and organization and that’s what works for me. Whether you have one calendar (please, please, have at least one!) or seven- try keeping them in view. It will make it quick to double check meeting times, and prioritize your day. And if you want a pretty calendar to have on your wall, I’ve got you covered- snag my free printable 2015 calendars here (yep, three styles!).
3. Surround yourself with words that challenge and ground you// This is a big one for me! When I’m thinking I tend to stare at the walls around me. Having something that challenges me “Dream Big & Dare to Fail” or grounds me “Oh, So Thankful” are huge when I’m feeling un-motivated or overwhelmed. That’s where the giveaway comes in! The ‘Climb the Mountain’ print is not only pretty pretty, but it’s a great reminder. That Thankful card is a free printable from a while back if you’re interested!
4. Two words: Mood Lighting// But seriously. Who wants to work in the dark? A task lamp is so helpful for reading and writing, but I always have a candle going when I work. When I was in university and working on papers through the night (which kind of feels like what I’m doing now sometimes), Shane would always light a candle for me. Now it’s habit- I like having something else that’s ‘awake’ in the room. But also- it smells good.
5. Bring some life in// This is kind of along the same lines of the candle… but fresh flowers or plants are good for the soul. As an added bonus, plants clean the air- and who doesn’t need that when they’re working away? Psst- I made that plant pot.
6. Keep your tools handy// After wasting so much time searching for stuff, I’ve found the best way for me to keep productive is to keep my tools within reach. I love this vintage tool caddy that I’ve filled with wide-mouth mason jars for pens, pencils and paintbrushes. It can move with me if I’m spreading out on the floor too (you do that too… right?). The blue trolly (from Ikea) is on wheels too, so it is easy to grab from. I also use washi tape like it’s going out of style, so I keep it in an open tin. Don’t hide the stuff you use often!
7. Have a place to jot notes// Or as I like to say- post-it-it-up. I read something (a very long time ago) that recommended you keep a notepad on your nightstand so that when you’re trying to sleep if you think ‘I need to do this!’ you can jot it down and go back to sleep instead of laying awake trying to make yourself remember in the morning. I think the same is true when you’re working. You’ll think of something you need to remember and if you don’t write it down and get back on topic, you’ll never finish your task. I think sticky notes are a sign of a productive workspace. Then at the end of my task, I take all my post its and write a list. That’s my system. Pretty paper goods help.
8. Add things that make you happy// Who says a workspace has to be all work and no play? Surround yourself with things that make you smile. I have a pennant from my birthday party, snail mail from my sister-in-law, my babies’ first finger painting, the sparkly garland I made for NYE, driftwood from past adventures, and the floral crowns I made for my birthday (those things are lasting forever!). None of these are necessary to me working… but they definitely make it more fun.
9. Embrace Change// Last but definitely not least… be open to change! I think a workspace that works is the product of change. You find what works best for you and you run with it. Then two months later you realize that it actually works better to do something differently. Just because you spent hours making it perfect doesn’t mean it can’t change. I love to use washi-tape to put up ‘temporary’ decorations. Then I can change it up whenever I get the feeling. I also think every office or workspace should have a bulletin board, chalkboard, whiteboard or memo board (like mine) to write notes, draw on, and pin up things that make you happy. This is a super-old Instagram picture… but even my old fundraising office had a bulletin board- it’s A-OK to fill it with Dr Seuss prints… honestly. If you’re not into Dr Seuss… that ‘Love you’ printable is from Avery Street Design, and that ‘I love you to the moon’ is actually a card from Green Tie Studio (same as that ‘Thanks’ Card in my trolly).
(If you’re an avid reader say hello because I’d love to meet you- but also you might have noticed I’m not using the metal board as a meal planner any more. It worked great as one but it’s perfect in here… so I stole it.)
So there’s my tips for a workspace that inspires you… and guys, I’m so inspired by my new space! I can’t wait to finish it and share with you. Now… what you’ve all been waiting for- the giveaway! Brittany from Light Rust Studios was kind enough to partner with Roots and Whim and I to give you guys some free stuff. We met during an Alt Chat (a Twitter party… we’re such nerds, right!?) where we talk about wonderful things like time management and building community. So really, this giveaway is so fitting- isn’t it?
Brittany, the creative behind Light Rust Studio creates gorgeous hand lettered illustrations in prints, cards, and cloth that are inspired by travel. I fell in love with this ‘Climb the Mountain so you can see the world, Not so the world can see you’ print (available in her store)– I just love the reminder. I thought you might too… so that’s what I’m giving away here!
Hayley is giving away one of Light Rust Studio’s pretty calendars- so you can hop over there and enter for that too! Both giveaways are open for one week.
Before you head off to Roots and Whim to enter there… I’d love if you shared your tips for an inspired workspace! I’m always looking for new ways to work smarter!
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I love the sentiment on that print! And your new space looks great! I’ve been working on getting my new craft room/office all sorted in the new house. It’s a lot of work!
Thanks so much Alexis! I’m so jealous of your paper storage… the one big thing I need to address in this space is storage!
My work office is a fun, inspiring colour – and beside me we painted a large chalkboard so I can doodle, write quotes, brainstorm, etc throughout the day. I had made some bunting for a baby shower, and I’ve brought it in to my office to add some decor. It’s still a work in a progress, as I returned from maternity leave two months ago, but I’m slowly turning my office back in to a motivating space to work in!
I love chalkboard walls! It sounds like your space is lovely (what employer lets you paint your walls!?) And… it sounds like our babes are about the same age :)
Too Fitting! I just sat down for the very first time in my storage room turned home office as I embark on this work from home adventure. I have slowly been trying to make this an inviting space all week. After spending 10 minutes decluttering my desk I popped on here to print your super cute calendars because organization is also a must and found this. I love the candle idea and will be adding it……next time, I cant procrastinate any longer today! I also have on my wall a vision board with pictures and notes to remind me of why I am working so hard and what my goals are.
Haha well there’s a few things we have in common Dawn ;)
I’m really good at using organization as a tool for procrastination! I think I need to take your idea and create a spot to have reminders of why I’m doing this… sometimes I get so focused on my to-do list I can forget.
Currently my workspace is the kitchen table… I love what you’ve done personalizing your space! Really should find another place than the kitchen to make my own.. Also, your ‘help’ is so adorable!
That’s why I cleaned out this room! The kitchen table just wasn’t cutting it anymore. Maybe we grew up thinking this was normal? Love ya, sis!
So beautiful and conducive to creativity. Is this upstairs or downstairs…can’t figure it out. I couldn’t agree more about keeping things uncluttered. I am so much more productive when I can start a project in a clean and uncluttered area. I also love your tip about the candle and a plant. Lately I am embracing old school taper candles again…how elegant they are!
I wish you much productivity and peace in your new space.
Thanks so much Erin! This is the extra bedroom upstairs, we just moved everything in to here so we could finish the basement and never moved anything out.
Also… I’m loving tapers right now too! We have them on our mantle since Christmas :)
These tips are great! I am working on creating a more usable creative space- can’t wait to start with these tips.
Thanks so much Brenda! I’d love to hear how it goes. I don’t think the process ever ends- I just printed off a freebie from Persia Lou for my wall!
I am so happy I found your blog today! You have so many good ideas that I will be using. My work space needs a lot of help!!! I have a cube which is fairly sized but it’s all work stuff, no cute fun stuff. I was just talking to my boss about how lame my cube is. So your post definitely helped!! So excited to start following you :)
Thanks so much Alisia! You definitely should make it your own- that’s the best part about not sharing a desk/cube!
So excited to have you as a follower :)
Great tips (and loving that velvet bunting).
Thanks so much Sarah! I hope they come in handy :) I have SO much of that bunting left from my birthday party, I had to use it somewhere!
Hi there! Great Article. I’m a product/fabric designer who works from home and have never had a truly inspiring work space but always wanted to! Also, I’ve never found the right calendar system that works for me. I use Ical because it syncs between all my devices. My question for you is, with so many calendars how do you not double schedule and question what’s happening on a certain day. Don’t you find it tedious updating so many calendars? The reason I ask is I’ve wanted to try a day planner so I have a place to write notes and keep track of inspiration, but I don’t want to have to dual calendar, kwim? What do you think?
Thanks so much Sally! Your job looks like a ton of fun. It’s funny, in town here we have a furniture re-furb shop that’s run by sisters and is called Iron Orchid!
Each of the calendars have a purpose so I don’t find it tedious (because it’s rare they have the same things written). The one in my office is my blog planner- so it has posts and contributor deadlines, our budget calendar is to help us figure out when to pay bills and savings and such, the one on our fridge is things we’re doing (or things Shane should know about) and my daytimer is where I plan my days/tasks. I used to try and do it all in one and found it frustrating to decipher what was a deadline and what was an activity etc.
If you wanted to stick with digital… I’ve started using Trello to track post ideas and contributor deadlines (as well as the paper on my wall) and it’s fabulous! It’s a free app so I’d definitely recommend giving it a try.
What I like about my workspace is it’s my own space! Love how you organized yours and Love your Kate Spade day timer!
Thanks for the opportunity for the giveaway!
Good Luck on the Giveaway Sharon! I hope to keep my space this organized (at least for a while!)
Love that print! None of my work spaces are Pinterest worthy spots but I’m thankful to have a sewing room with a cutting table and a basement with multiple work areas.
Isn’t it gorgeous? I can’t wait to give one away- I’m sure it will be well loved. This is the first time I’ve ever dared take a photo of my workspace. My next project in here is to build a space so I can sew! Probably in the closet :) A sewing room with a cutting table would be heavenly!
My work space is pretty boring at the moment. I just have the essentials! I do like that I have two computer screens. Get so much more work done!
Ahh yes, I wanted two computer screens but this thing is so big compared to my old laptop I can have two windows open side by side. So that’s my compromise :)
Thank you for this post! I’m always trying to find new ways to spice up my work space now that I’m working from home, and these tips are so helpful! I always like pictures of loved ones to keep me motivated. I draw inspiration from my daily life, and what better way to conjure up an idea than a picture of my daughter or husband? Thanks so much for sharing these!
Isn’t working from home a different beast? I used to have a ‘home office’ in our apartment but now that I work from home it wouldn’t have cut it! I totally need things around to keep me motivated. I love having my kids’ painting up… but I think photos would be a great addition! Thanks for the tip Maria :)
Unclutter and a calendar handy turned out to be two of my smartest moves in my little workspace too. Great hints–funny how those little changes add up!
Um… I’m pretty sure I skipped putting ‘unclutter’ in my list! Haha, but that is HUGE! All the little changes sure do add up :)
I have that same trolly by my work space! Love the creative spot there! {And I can so relate to that before picture! ;) }
The trolly is the best! I’m considering spraypainting it… but the metal mesh and all the pieces make me a bit nervous to try… think it would work?
I bet you could do it! But you are going to want to get a good paint that won’t clog on you. Let me know if you give it a try. How sweet would it be in a shiny bronze?? Ooh new idea :)
I kind of want to go neon… is that crazy? I love to spray paint but I have to admit that I’m pretty amateur with it (I’m much too impatient!). I’ll let you know if I do :)
do. it. :)
all that space needs now is a metallic tape dispenser ;) looks great! xo
it SO does! Can’t wait to make those with ya :)
Your office looks FABULOUS, Colleen! I love all your wall art! And your tips are soooo true. Keeping an uncluttered work space is totally my number 1, but also keeping post-its handy is super helpful too. I’m always writing stuff down and making lists!! Thanks for the great tips! :)
Thanks so much Amanda! I still feel like it’s a work in progress (shelves to be going up this week!). I can’t believe I forgot to add uncluttered to this list… I think I’m going to have to go in and update it!
Oh my gosh Colleen!! It’s looking so beautiful already AND I’m just so touched and happy to see my printable on your wall!! You totally made my day!!!! :) :) :) Thank you!! I can’t wait to see how everything comes together. xo!
Aw thanks so much Laura! When I saw it I knew it would be perfect in here :) Shelves should be going up later this week, I can’t wait to see how it comes together!
Colleen…love the tips. Thanks, as always, for linking up at Sunday Features. I really appreciate you. Sharing on FB today.
Thanks so much Denise! You’re such a wonderful support :) (and a great party host!)
cute!!! where did you find the cute pink/white honeycomb list near the lamp?
I totally forgot to source that! I actually won it (woohoo!) from a giveaway at The Merry Thought… it’s from Well Press and that notepad just ended (sadly).