Learning. Life.

The secrets of a great desk

Posted on 26 February 2008

If you study, write or spend time on the computer, it’s worth setting up your desk to make that time a joy. That means at home, too. It can be cheap - check out the 2nd hand furniture stores – just make sure it’s write (sorry – right) for you.

1. Get a good chair that supports your back properly and sits you at the right height for the desk. Guidelines can be found here.

A chair doesn’t have to be expensive to do this. If it’s the right height for you to use the keyboard properly, but your feet don’t touch the floor, get a footrest (a thick book or box will do). If you’re leaning back a bit when you rest on the chair back, will a cushion make you sit up straight?

2. Have enough space to spread out. If you have several books open at once, you need enough room to lay them out. If you have a notepad beside your computer, you need enough room for it beside the keyboard, on the side you write with. Get a desk long enough to let you work how you want.

3. Have only what you need. One pen. One writing pad. One computer. That may be all you need: take everything else away, and see if you use it. If you do – regularly – find a home near your desk for it. If not, throw it out, or find somewhere else to store it. It’ll be easier to find things, easier to keep things tidy, and will feel a whole lot better.

And if you’re storing hundreds of pens because one day the one you’re using will run out, here’s a suggestion: think about how long one pen lasts you. Then think about how many spares you need. 5? OK. Pick out the 6 best pens, bundle the rest up, and give them to your local Red Cross. They’ll be grateful.

4. Add some inspiration by putting a beautiful picture or photo on the wall – one that makes your heart feel glad every time you look at it.

5. Get good light. Invest in a good overhead light, and a lamp if you need it. Make sure that you can see clearly, whatever time you’re at your desk.

6. Keep your desk clear of distractions and clutter. If you can’t see it, you can’t use it. If your desk is currently a disaster zone, start working on clearing it and keeping it clear. Find another place to dump all the junk.

7. Enjoy. Let your desk become a place of inspiration.