There are more than 6,200 coworking spaces in the United States where some 1.08 million people get their hustle on. And whether you’re a newbie, a veteran or just THRIVE-curious, here are some practical tips on how to make the most of your shared-office experience and boost productivity.
Make Comfort a Priority
A comfy couch is great for chatting or some quick emails, but when you need to get down to business, you’ll want to use an ergonomic chair or a standing desk to support good posture. And if you’re working during daylight hours, find a spot near some natural light to reduce eye strain. When you have a comfortable workspace, productivity will automatically rise.
Maintain a Clean Workspace
Keep things shipshape at your workspace — clutter is bad for the brain! It can affect our anxiety levels and ability to focus, so shoot for neat and tidy. Regularly decluttering your workspace will keep it organized and efficient — take some time to sort through papers, files and other items on your desk, and either discard or store them as necessary. Invest in desk organizers, which will help you easily find what you need when you need it, saving you time and reducing stress. Marie Kondo would approve.
Network
Networking helps you make meaningful connection with professionals in a wide variety of fields and can spark collaboration. THRIVE | Coworking offers monthly catered breakfasts, lunches and happy hours that provide the perfect opportunity to meet your tribe. Common areas and kitchens are also great spots to strike up conversations. Many coworking spaces also have online platforms like OfficeRnD that allow users to connect and communicate with one another.
Manage Your Time
A successful workday depends on managing your time effectively, so:
- Create a to-do list and set specific work hours.
- Use cloud-based tools such as Google Drive or Dropbox to streamline your work processes and collaborate with other users.
- Incorporate task-management tools, such as Trello or Asana, which can help you to stay organized and manage your workload effectively.
- Connect with video-conferencing platforms like Zoom or Skype to meet with colleagues and clients, no matter where you are.
- Invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones to block out distractions and help you stay focused on your work. They can be a game-changer in a coworking space.
Personalize Your Workspace
Once you personalize your workspace, it will feel more inviting and comfortable. So bring in a plant or some flowers, prop up a photo of a loved one, and put an inspiring shot on your wallpaper (maybe of that bucket-list destination you’re saving for). If you have a private office, check out these ideas on how to set up your HQ.
Take Breaks
A lot of people think working longer hours and avoiding breaks will help them get more done, but in reality, taking breaks can help you be more productive, creative and focused.
- Schedule regular breaks — they don’t have to be long, even five minutes to stretch or take a short walk can help to clear your mind and reduce stress.
- Eat lunch (or dinner … we see you burning the midnight oil) to give your body and brain the fuel it needs to recharge. And try not to eat at your space … THRIVE | Coworking spaces always have some great dining options within walking distance.
- Use break time wisely, for instance read a book, meditate or do a quick workout.
- Walk away from your workspace when you take a break. This can help you come back with a fresh perspective and renewed energy.
Get Involved With the Community
Becoming an active participant in the community of your coworking space can offer several benefits, such as expanding your professional network, gaining new skills, and building valuable relationships. You can engage with community events like workshops, seminars and social activities to connect with other professionals and feel more fulfilled.
