Below are some ways to make the workspace more pleasant and improve employee well-being
Burnout syndrome is a condition that results from chronic workplace stress and emotional tension. It affects more and more professionals every day and is directly linked to their daily work life, including not only the operational aspects of the job but also the physical environment they work in.
Workspaces have a profound impact on our mental well-being, given that we spend around one-third of our day in them. With the pandemic forcing many of us to work from home in 2020, we're now seeing more people back to collaborative work environments. These spaces can offer a refreshing change of scenery from the domestic environment and can serve as dedicated places for different aspects of our lives. This shift is undoubtedly a positive step forward after the prolonged isolation period.
Multifunctional furniture
One of the ways coworking businesses can stay up-to-date and meet the needs of their clients is by providing individual standing desks in their workspaces. These workstations offer numerous health benefits, such as improving posture, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and preventing certain types of cancer. According to experts, working while standing up for at least two hours a day can significantly contribute to overall well-being.
Apart from the physical benefits, different types of furniture also contribute to making work less monotonous, allowing for different interactions that can often increase the user's motivation. A good idea is to encourage changing work environments throughout the day by offering not only traditional desks but also armchairs, bleachers, sofas, and high tables. Using colors and textures can offer a wide variety of tables and places to sit that inspire different perceptions of the same space.
From isolation to interaction
Furniture layout is of utmost importance. It is imperative to have designated spaces for both socializing and isolation. This will allow individuals to have the freedom to choose the most appropriate space for their activity and moment. Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic has made it vital to have more isolated workspaces to decrease the risk of contamination.
However, it is worth pointing out that according to some studies, the optimal size of an individual workstation is 1.20 meters, smaller desks are likely to become too confined.
Multipurpose rooms
It's not healthy to spend eight straight hours in front of a computer screen. That's why collaborative workspaces offer various activities to help people unwind and relax their body and mind. Many coworking facilities have dedicated rooms with music and artwork on the walls, or balconies and terraces with beautiful views to help users rest their eyes and minds.
Some companies offer yoga and meditation rooms, game areas, and playful decor like hammocks and hanging chairs to inspire their employees.
Outdoor spaces impact our brain's energy levels, like a cell phone battery. Disconnecting in nature, regardless of the greenery, can refresh us. Prioritizing mental and physical well-being is crucial, and spending time in nature is an excellent way to do so.
By applying these strategies, any work environment can be transformed, even the home office, into a space that not only promotes productivity but also nurtures mental health. It should be considered that the physical space plays a vital role in the well-being of those who use it. So, let's take charge of the environment and create a place that inspires improvement and excels while also improving the quality of life.