What to prioritize at work in 2015

As 2014 comes to an end, this is the perfect time to reflect on the successes of the last 12 months, and also to make some workplace resolutions for 2015. As both furniture vendors and designers, Rightsize creates office spaces that are healthy and productive for our clients. We also know that work can be a challenging place to spend time, which is exactly why we think 2015 is the year to reduce stress and increase productivity at the office.

Rightsize 2015 Workplace Resolutions

1. Declutter - Start the year off right by saying goodbye to the stacks of paperwork that have built up over the course of the last year. The slower days between Christmas and New Years are perfect for getting organized and getting rid of your desk’s excess baggage. Recycle all of those old papers, memos and notes that have accumulated in all corners, then give your surface area a good scrub.
2. Add some color - Bringing things into the office from home like photos, artwork and plants can instantly make your area more personalized and comfortable. It also adds an element of permanence to the space, which can improve your overall outlook on the company. The more color, the better.
3. Upgrade your office chair - For those who value ergonomics and are confined to a desk, think about upgrading your office chair to one that is a little more body friendly. We recommend chairs that have enhanced lumbar support and adjustable arm rests. It will make a difference.
4. Embrace the natural light - If there is a way to adjust your seating area to face a window, definitely do it. Exposure to natural light during the day can boost health and productivity in a major way. Wouldn’t it be nice to know if it’s raining or not?
5. Go mobile - Take advantage of the booming mobile technology and make your office space wireless. Providing a way for employees to move away from their desks and into lounge areas and small conference rooms will give them more flexibility to work comfortably.
6. Sit less - Standing desks are quickly becoming a healthy alternative to sitting in one place all day long. These desks are typically height adjustable and can alternate from sitting to standing height with relative ease. Adding even one of these desks to the workplace gives employees an hour or two to stretch their legs and boost blood flow.
7. Take breaks - With more people than ever working around the clock due to mobile accessibility, there is that much more flexibility during the workday to take a break. Whether that means walking two blocks to the coffee shop or running to the post office, taking a quick break is far better than staying stagnant all day.
8. Be part of the open office solution - Many businesses have converted the workplace into an open office concept. Studies have shown that this isn’t always the best solution for the introvert. Rather than collaborating openly in common areas, take meetings into the smaller meeting rooms in your office space. Use inside voices and be respectful of other people in the office.
9. Evaluate your layout - Taking a few minutes to evaluate the layout of your company office space can be extremely beneficial. Think about which departments are growing and if your layout accommodates optimal productivity. Is the design department located on the opposite side of the printer? Consider moving things around to make the office space more efficient.
10. Take a vacation - The number of workers who don’t utilize their vacation time is astonishing. While we aren’t promoting taking weeks off work at a time, it is important to decompress while out of the office. This time away will help you “sharpen the saw,” according to the best selling book “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Use your vacation days, then come back with a clear head and big ideas—and hopefully not a sunburn.

From all of us at Rightsize, we want to wish you a very Happy New Year!