For approximately eight hours a day, your desk is your command center. This statement applies whether you work in an office, a communal workspace or at home. You want a work environment that supports productivity and calmness, not one that enhances stress and keeps you fumbling for a pen. That's why many people turn to feng shui.
Developed centuries ago in China, this practice works to harmonize a person with his or her surrounding environment. Many people credit the philosophy with keeping them calm and centered at both work and home. For anyone looking to add some stability to their life, here is a comprehensive overview of incorporating feng shui to your work desk:
Your desk should promote productivity, no matter where you work.
Starting out
The ideal desk location allows you to clearly see the entrance. This puts you in a position to accept any opportunities that come your way. Turning your back to the door means you've turned your back on advancing your career.
Choosing where your desk sits is easy if you have your own office, but those who work in cubicles or an open floor plan will have to be more creative. Try as best you can to shift your desk so it faces the entrance of your workspace. If that's not feasible, use a mirror to reflect the main door.
Using the bagua map
One of the simplest feng shui tools available is the bagua map. This 3-by-3 grid represents any space: your desk, office or even the coat closet. The map's various squares represent the different areas in your life. To understand the bagua map, mentally divide your desk into three rows and three columns.
In the top row - or the edge of the desk furthest from you - the left square square reflects wealth and abundance. Energy here focuses on growth, making this a great space for a plant or valuable object. The middle square corresponds to your reputation or fame in the workplace. Here, you should display your personal and professional accomplishments - perhaps an office award or your diploma. The top-right space concerns love and relationships. Put a picture of your spouse or significant other in this area. Singles can grace this spot with a fresh flower, as Greatist suggested.
The three sections in the middle row, from left to right, reflect family and community, health and energy, and children and creativity. Place pictures of your family in the left square and a health-related object, like a stress release ball, in the center. Put something designed to inspire on the right side. Even placing a blank notepad here gets those brainstorming juices flowing.
A notepad on the side of your desk is great for brainstorming.
For the bottom row, the left section represents wisdom. Use this space for items that remind you of or help you achieve your aspirations - training manuals and books by leaders in your field. The area directly in front of you relates to your career. If nothing else, keeping this area neat and focused is essential to success. The final section is devoted to travel and helpful people. Think of it as a spot for guidance and connecting with others. This is a great location for a phone or important contact information.
You're still responsible for being a productive team player. What feng shui does is create a space that supports you in your career-oriented endeavors. By organizing your desk this way, you encourage chi - life energy - to flow in a way that brings positive energy to your life.