Five Tips for Stimulating Inspiration at Work

By: SmartPros Editorial Staff

May 19, 2003 _ It's a fact -- workers need to release stress, rejuvenate and re-energize in order to be more effective. According to the latest Steelcase Workplace Index Survey, 40 percent of 1,500 respondents said their organization does nothing to stimulate informal interaction and an overwhelming 79 percent believe that physical comfort has a serious impact on worker satisfaction.

Which begs the question: If you're not stimulated or satisfied, are you working effectively?

To help employees and organizations enhance comfort and in turn jumpstart innovation, Steelcase offers the following tips for stimulating inspiration at work.

1.         Location! Location! Location!: People are naturally drawn to spaces where they feel comfortable and connected to their environment. That's why certain vacation spots draw large crowds and cozy restaurant booths are the first chosen. Similarly, when it comes to learning, innovating and sharing, office workers are drawn to places where they feel comfortable.

Try finding an out-of-the-way corner for quiet reflection, to contemplate new ideas or just to get away from work for a few minutes. This spot can be anything from a park bench, a local coffee shop or a comfortable lounge chair in a sunlit corner of the office.

2.         Spice up Your Space: Incorporate live plants, artwork, music, the sound of water or even light dimmers to help establish tranquility in the work environment. Even if in the corner of a desk, adding plants or artwork to your area can create a more soothing and comfortable working environment.

3.         Wiggle -- Literally: Take an impromptu break when you start to feel stress from high-intensity work. Sometimes all it takes is a stretch or brisk walk to revive your senses and focus on the task at hand.

4.         Take a Tip From Your Youth: Keep a playful toy like Play-Doh, a foam ball or Silly Putty at your desk. In addition to being great stress relievers, these toys can foster inspiration and creativity in any solitary or group brainstorming activity.

5.         Talk to Your Neighbor: A common area that is easily accessible invites informal interaction, play, conversation and socializing. Equipped with playful toys and other artifacts, this space can remind employees about the critical importance for balance in the work/life equation. Whether sharing a cup of coffee, talking, laughing or scribbling notes on whiteboards, collaboration is the key to uncovering innovative ideas.