Minimalist vs. Personalised Desks: Which One Boosts Productivity?

I’ve seen many desks in my time, some piled high with paperwork and books, some very minimal, as if no-one actually works there, some with a distinct colour theme (often pink!) where everything has a home and it’s beautifully organised.

As a teacher my desk was a mess, it was a bit of an ongoing joke. At the end of most terms, I would have a serious declutter and tidy, only for it to get messy again. I wouldn’t say it was disorganised, but it certainly could’ve looked a bit neater.

Now since starting up as a Virtual Assistant I got excited to purchase office bits and bobs. I proudly placed everything (colour matching of course!) in its place and admired how neat, tidy and aesthetically pleasing it looked. A few weeks on and granted it’s not as neat but I know where things are, and I have some cute, personalised items to brighten up the space.

Some people swear by a clean, clutter-free desk (and home for that matter), while others thrive in a workspace filled with personal items and creative inspiration, one that could be referred to as messy! But which approach truly enhances productivity? The answer depends on how your brain functions best. Let’s explore the benefits and drawbacks of both styles and how you can find the right balance.

The Case for Minimalism

A minimalist desk setup is all about simplicity, efficiency, and focus. By keeping only the essentials on your desk e.g. laptop, pens, notebook, you eliminate distractions and create a clean space that fosters concentration.

Benefits of a Minimalist Desk:

• Reduces Mental Clutter: A tidy workspace can lead to a clearer mind, helping you stay focused on tasks.
• Easier Maintenance: Less clutter means less time spent organising and cleaning.
• Encourages Efficiency: Only having what you need within reach makes work more streamlined as you’re not scrabbling around trying to find an important piece of paper or item.
• Prevents Overstimulation: Too many visual elements can be distracting, while a clean desk keeps your mind on the task at hand.

Potential Downsides:

• Can feel sterile or uninspiring to some people.
• May lack personality and warmth, making it less inviting particularly if you are client facing and want to show your personality.
• Could be difficult to maintain if not naturally inclined toward minimalism (definitely me!)

The Case for Personalisation

A personalised workspace reflects your personality, interests, and creativity. From family photos to motivational quotes, having items that make you feel comfortable and inspired can enhance motivation and overall job satisfaction.

Benefits of a Personalised Desk:

• Boosts Motivation: Seeing meaningful objects (e.g., photos, awards, or artwork) can inspire and uplift your mood. Some of you may have seen my socials recently where I shared a knitted flower I was gifted. It brightens up the desk and makes me feel positive and summery! I also have a “little reminders” plaque with things to keep me on going e.g. “It’s ok to have bad days”. A few years ago I was gifted a unicorn book containing positive and funny quotes. When it was on my desk I would often read a quote to start the day and give my colleagues a laugh!
• Encourages Creativity: A personalised space can foster innovation and creative thinking. You may have a pin board or a whiteboard just to get those ideas down and give you a starting point for more.
• Enhances Comfort: Surrounding yourself with familiar items makes the workspace feel more inviting and homely. It makes it feel like it’s yours.
• Reduces Stress: Having plants, artwork, or sentimental objects can create a calming environment and let’s be honest, some days that is needed! A photo of a loved one can remind you of your “why” on those tough days.

Potential Downsides:

• Too many personal items can lead to distractions (getting lost in the unicorn book!).
• Clutter can accumulate quickly especially if you like to collect cute items and you can’t resist an on brand item. This can then reduce efficiency as important items get jumbled up and your reaching around things.
• Might distract others – You might get a client sit down and see your holiday phot of Disneyland and there ensues a 15 minute conversation about Disney. Not a great use of time perhaps.

Finding Your Balance

The best workspace is one that supports your productivity while making you feel comfortable. If you’re not sure which approach works for you, try these strategies:

1. Start Minimal, Then Add Essentials:

Begin with a clutter-free desk and slowly introduce items that enhance your workflow and motivation without overwhelming the space.

2. Use Functional Personalisation:

Choose items that are both meaningful and useful—like a plant that purifies the air, or an inspiring quote framed on the wall.

3. Implement a Clutter-Check Routine:

Whether your desk is minimalist or personalised, aim to declutter and reorganise at the end of your working week ready for a fresh start the following week.

4. Find a Hybrid Approach:

A combination of both styles often works best. Keep your workspace clean but allow for a few personal touches that bring joy and inspiration.

So…

There’s no single right answer to whether a minimalist or personalised (perhaps slightly cluttered) desk is better for productivity. It ultimately depends on your work habits, personality, and the environment that makes you feel the most focused and motivated. The key is to experiment, find a balance that suits you, and create a workspace that enhances your efficiency while keeping you inspired. It’s got to be somewhere that you enjoy spending time. After all, the best workspace is the one that helps you get things done!