Feng Shui is an oriental doctrine based on the principle that the arrangement or design of your office or workplace that can change your life for the better or worse. A workplace using these principles is an environment that allows the free flow of energy or Chi.
Although Feng Shui is much more popular in the Eastern Countries, many North Americans are starting to look at using this ancient practice to enhance their workplaces.
Large firms, small firms and even people who work at home have found benefits by putting some of the Feng Shui disciplines into practice. It is easy and inexpensive to use in your workplace.
Some of the basics changes you can make are:
Desk Position
- Position your desk so that you can see the entrance door from where you sit. If you can't do this, place a mirror in such a way that you can see the doorway through it.
- Be able to see outside from where you sit. If this is not possible, hang a picture of a landscape or an outside scene.
- Don't place your desk at the side of a door as this will cause too many distractions. Place a screen between the desk and the door if you can't change the position.
- Try to sit with your back to a wall. If this is not possible, position a strong bookshelf or some other sturdy piece of furniture behind you to give you support.
- Minimize clutter on your desk to help the flow of energy. Put files away rather than leaving them in piles on your desk. This goes for any pieces of paper, newspapers, books or any other office supplies. Keep extra pens and pencils in a drawer. By having only your current task on your desk, you will be able give your attention to that project instead of being distracted by everything else on your desk.
General Atmosphere
- Add plants to your workplace to promote a healthy atmosphere. If you can't have live plants, be sure to use silk or cloth plants or a picture of a healthy plant. Do not use plants with spiky leaves or dried flowers or plants.
- Avoid sharp angles where ever possible. For instance, spiky leaved plants promote attacking energy.
- Add a water element. If you can't have an aquarium, perhaps you could place a small water fountain in your office. If you think that either of these would be too distracting, a picture of a water fall or lake will help. Water symbolizes money.
- Select the right lighting. Too little lighting depresses productivity while too much lighting can cause glare and headaches.
- Put a picture of a rooster in your office. This is said to help in eliminating nasty office politics and give a feeling of spaciousness and well being to your workplace.
By using Feng Shui in your workplace, you should find your office much more enjoyable and much more efficient. If you make some of these changes you will be allowing the free flow of Chi or energy in your workplace. This in turn will increase your productivity and well-being.
