Ever notice how some spaces just make your brain work better? While Instagram-worthy office setups are nice, what really matters is creating a space that helps you think, create, and focus without draining your energy.

I'm going to give you four simple ways to upgrade your creative space!

1. LIGHT CONTROL ☀️

• Natural light is ideal, but not when it's glaring on your screen
• Keep a small lamp nearby for evening work
• Consider your screen's brightness relative to the room (bright screen + dark room = eye strain)

2. SOUND MANAGEMENT 🔈

• Try brown noise instead of white noise (it's deeper and less harsh)
• Keep headphones visible and accessible
• If you work from home, a simple door sign can prevent interruptions

3. TEMPERATURE & COMFORT 🌡️

• Keep a light blanket or sweater handy (being slightly warm might help to improve your focus)
• Position yourself away from vents blowing directly on you
• Use a lap desk if you like working from comfortable spots

4. CLUTTER CONTROL 🧺

• Instead of "clean desk" rules, try "clear starting spot" rules
• Keep only today's project visible
• Use a simple tray to quickly sweep away work when you need a break

Quick Exercise: The 10-Minute Space Reset

Here's something you can try if you're thinking you don't have time to spend on resetting your creative space:

1. Set a timer for 10 minutes
2. Pick ONE aspect of your space that's bothering you most
3. Make only the changes that would improve your focus (ignore the aesthetic stuff)
4. Stop when the timer rings - perfect is the enemy of productive

Remember: Your workspace doesn't need to look like anyone else's. It just needs to help your brain do its thing. Over the next few days, try to notice when you feel most focused. What about your space is contributing to that feeling? What's getting in the way? Sometimes the smallest tweaks make the biggest difference!

I'd love to hear how you create a nurturing environment for thriving in your responsibilities for home and work and your creative projects! Be sure to subscribe to the No More Lists newsletter for introvert-friendly, right-brain productivity and project management tips.