Since COVID forced everyone to work from home, I’ve learned what work and non-work related items I should have on my desk in order for me to be my most productive self. I spend a lot of time at my desk, which could be a good or a bad thing. Nonetheless, I think it’s important to surround yourself with things that make you be your best self. Everyone is different. But what works for me is having not only a tidy desk, but also nice things that make me feel happy. I’m a big advocate for having aesthetically pleasing things on your desk that are both functional and nice to look at.
DESK ORGANIZERS
I always need to have organizers on my desk. They’re great at keeping smaller items off your desk so they’re not scattered all over the place. I use a tiered organizer to keep things like my AirPods and cords in one place. And of course a holder to store my pens. I also like keeping sticky notes nearby as well. Keeping a tidy and organized desk is key to being productive so your mind is clear to do your best work.
CANDLES
I love having candles pretty much everywhere. So having them on my desk completely changes the overall vibe of my workspace. I decided to splurge and treat myself to a Diptique candle. I’m in love with their scents and the smell of roses that fill the room is so relaxing while I get my work done.
PENS
This one is no brainer. I like to have pens that not only write well but also match with the aesthetic on my desk. The ones below are my current favorite for the price point and look. Plus they match perfectly (unintentionally too) with the vase I linked in the next section!
VASE + BOTANICALS
Ok this one really isn’t an essential, but I always love to have some kind of cute vase and floral arrangement/botanicals on my desk. It really pulls the space together and gives it a certain vibe. And in my opinion, when the vibes feel right that’s when you feel the most inspired.
I’ve been obsessed with body positivity vases and dried florals/pampas lately:
PLANNER & NOTEBOOK
Call me old school, but I still like to physically write things down in a planner and notebook. There’s something so satisfying about writing down your to-do list for the day and physically crossing it off when you’re done. I also like to have a small notebook on hand to jot down little reminders or notes throughout the day.
WATER & COFFEE
Staying hydrated throughout the day is important in all aspects of life. It helps you stay focused throughout the day. I try to drink the recommended amount of water throughout the day so having a water bottle on hand helps me reach that goal. My current favorite is a water bottle with little time markers on it. It helps me stay on track and spaces out my water intake throughout the day. And of course we can’t forget coffee, I really can’t function without it. A mug i’m currently obsessed with is linked!
MUG WARMER
Have you ever been so into your work that you forget to drink your coffee and now it’s cold? Same. There’s nothing I dislike more than lukewarm coffee/tea. A mug warmer is actually something new that I just got into this past year, and wow was I missing out. It keeps your drink hot so you never have to get up and microwave your drink after you forgot about it.
BLUELIGHT GLASSES
I think anyone who spends time in front of a computer all day knows the importance of bluelight glasses. I wear mine to help reduce eye strain and all the potential problems that looking at artificial light can cause.
