How Personalizing Your Workspace Can Influence Productivity and Well-Being

If you work from home, an office, or a coworking space, your desk is where you spend a significant portion of your day, and it can make or break your productivity and well-being. Environmental psychology tells us that the way we decorate and organize our workspace can have a huge impact on how we feel, how motivated we are, and even how satisfied we are with our jobs.

So, how does this work, and what can you do to set up a workspace that truly supports both your professional and personal growth?

How Your Environment Shapes Your Mindset

When you personalize your workspace, you’re creating a space that not only looks nice, but gives you a sense of control and ownership. This can do wonders for your motivation and stress levels. Surrounding yourself with things that make you feel good, like family photos, art, or plants, helps create a comforting mini-environment. This can lift your spirits and make tackling your to-do list a little more enjoyable.

Finding the Balance Between Creativity and Focus

Your workspace setup can also play a big role in how focused and creative you feel. A cluttered desk might leave you feeling overwhelmed, while a too-sparse one could stifle your creative juices. The trick is to find that sweet spot—fill your space with items that inspire you but don’t overcrowd it. Colors can make a difference too. Blues can help you concentrate, while greens can spark creativity. Just a few thoughtful touches in these shades can subtly enhance your workday.

Initiating Connections and a Sense of Belonging

A personalized desk can even help you connect with others. The items you choose to display can serve as conversation starters, giving colleagues insight into your interests and personality. Building these kinds of social connections is key to feeling satisfied and supported at work, which is crucial for your mental health in the long run.

Elevate Your Workspace at FoundrSpace

If you're looking to take your workspace to the next level, why not consider working in a place that’s designed for both functionality and personal expression? At FoundrSpace, our coworking spaces offer the flexibility you need to create a workspace that truly feels like your own. Whether you’re after a quiet corner or a collaborative environment, FoundrSpace can help you find the perfect setup to boost your productivity and well-being. Check out our offerings and see how we can help you transform your work experience.

Personalizing your workspace is about more than just looks—it’s about creating an environment that supports your goals and well-being. So why not start today? Your desk could be the key to unlocking your best work yet.

Introducing Our Phone Booth: Your Private Oasis for Calls and Zoom Meetings

Coworking spaces are known to be the spot for like-minded individuals to come together for collaboration. However, amidst the buzz of activity, there are times when you need a quiet, private space for an important call or virtual meeting. Enter our phone booth: a private, almost fully soundproof oasis designed exactly for those moments when you need peace and privacy in a shared workspace.

What is a Coworking Phone Booth?

When you think of a "phone booth," you might envision a small box where you step in, insert coins, and make a phone call. While our booth doesn't have a traditional telephone, it's designed as a modern-day equivalent—a private pod tailored for your phone calls and virtual meetings.

Compact and well-designed, our phone booths can comfortably accommodate one person at a time. Equipped with plush seating, a convenient desk for your laptop or tablet (complete with a pass-through for chargers), a light switch, and charging outlets for your devices - consider it your personal workspace within a shared environment.

Comfort and Functionality

While the primary purpose of our phone booth is to provide a quiet space for calls and virtual meetings, we've ensured that comfort and functionality are not compromised. The booths are well-ventilated to prevent that stuffy feeling often associated with enclosed spaces, allowing you to focus on your call without distractions.

Flexible Usage

Our phone booths operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum time limit of one hour to ensure fair access for all members. However, they can also be booked in advance if you need guaranteed access at a specific time. Furthermore, guests with a booking for a phone booth don't need a day pass — they can simply drop by for their phone call and go about their day afterwards.

Versatile Uses

The versatility of our phone booth extends beyond simple phone calls. Imagine using it for a confidential business call, a quick video interview, or even recording audio for your video content. The possibilities are endless, and our phone booth is here to cater to your needs.

Next time you need a quiet spot for a call or a virtual meeting, consider booking our phone booth. It's the perfect solution for those moments when you need privacy and focus in a busy coworking environment. Reach out to our front desk to reserve your spot and enjoy a peaceful, uninterrupted experience.

The Role of Hobbies in Work-Life Harmony

I'm continually inspired by the diverse talents and passions of the members in our coworking spaces, and one topic that frequently arises in our conversations is the elusive quest for work-life balance. It's a subject that resonates with many of us. Today, let's explore the role that hobbies play in achieving that delicate balance.

Let's face it – work can be demanding. Whether you're freelancing, running your own business, or working remotely, the lines between work and personal time can easily blur. That's where hobbies come in. They provide a much-needed escape from the daily grind, allowing us to unwind and recharge.

More than just a way to relax, hobbies also play a crucial role in our overall well-being. Engaging in activities we love can reduce stress, improve our mood, and even boost our creativity. When we're immersed in a hobby, whether it's painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, we're in a state of flow – completely absorbed in the present moment. This can have a profound effect on our mental health, helping us to feel more balanced and centered.

One of the things I love most about hobbies is how they remind us of who we are outside of work. It's easy to get caught up in our professional identities, but hobbies allow us to reconnect with our passions and interests. They give us a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond our professional achievements.

Hobbies can also improve our productivity and performance at work. Taking time to pursue our passions can help us recharge and come back to work with renewed focus and energy. Plus, hobbies can teach us valuable skills that are transferable to our professional lives. For example, learning to play an instrument can improve our concentration and discipline, while painting or drawing can enhance our creativity and problem-solving abilities.

As we navigate the ups and downs of our professional lives, let's not forget to nourish our passions and nurture our souls. Whether you're a seasoned hobbyist or looking to pick up a new pastime, I encourage you to make time for your hobbies - they're a vital part of achieving a healthy work-life balance.

If you're seeking a space to explore your hobbies or simply crave a change of scenery, consider FoundrSpace. From desks to podcast studios and yoga spaces, we might just have the perfect spot for you!

The Power of Coworking Spaces for Remote Teams

In recent years, remote teams have become more commonplace, with professionals from all corners of the world collaborating and getting projects done. While remote work has its perks, it can also make it tricky to keep the team tight-knit and creative. That's where coworking spaces come in – a creative solution that ramps up productivity and connections for remote teams.

When you work remotely, it's easy to feel disconnected from your team. But in coworking spaces, you've got a shared space where remote professionals can come together and feel like part of a crew. It's more than just virtual meetings. You get to have chats, swap ideas, and feel like you're all in it together.

Collaboration is the heart and soul of coworking spaces. They're designed to spark interaction and networking among professionals from different fields. It's a melting pot of ideas and perspectives that can ignite creativity and problem-solving skills. Remote teams can bounce ideas off each other, work on projects together, and learn from people with different backgrounds.

Let's not forget the sweet perks that come with coworking spaces. They've got top-notch facilities, comfy workstations, and breakout spaces for a change of scenery. It's all about finding that work-life balance and feeling good while getting stuff done. With all the cool gadgets and resources at coworking spaces, you've got access to all the tools you need to achieve your work goals.

The beauty of coworking spaces is that they're flexible, just like remote work. You can pick the membership option that works for you and your team - we at FoundrSpace offer a variety of plans to suit your needs or those of your team.  If you need more space for a big project, go for it. If things quiet down, scale back. It's the perfect fit for the ever-changing nature of remote work. Plus, it's cost-effective for businesses of all sizes, so you're not breaking the bank.

Coworking spaces also take care of your social life. They're buzzing with like-minded professionals who are all about connection and community. You can join events, workshops, and networking sessions that bring everyone together. It's all about building a vibrant and supportive crew that has your back.

Gone are the days of feeling isolated as a remote team member — as the future of work keeps evolving, jump on the coworking train and watch your professional life thrive.

Promoting Mental Health in the Post-Pandemic Workplace

In the wake of the pandemic, our return to the workplace brings a mix of excitement and trepidation. While we look forward to reconnecting with colleagues and settling into a semblance of normalcy, the challenges of the past years have left a mark on our collective mental well-being. As we step into the post-pandemic workplace, it's crucial to prioritize mental health to foster a supportive and thriving work environment.

First and foremost, let's recognize the impact the pandemic has had on our mental health. We’ve all felt uncertainty, isolation, and stress, and it's important to acknowledge that these experiences might stick with us. As we navigate this transition, leaders and colleagues should approach it with empathy, understanding that everyone's journey has been different. Opening up lines of communication, where we can share both our struggles and victories, helps create a supportive culture that cares about our mental well-being.

Flexibility is a key ingredient for a mentally healthy workplace. The pandemic taught us the importance of work-life balance, and as we move forward, let's embrace that lesson. Offering flexible work schedules, remote work options, and being understanding when personal commitments come up can really help reduce stress and promote mental wellness. This flexibility allows us to take charge of our work environments, leading to a positive mindset and increased productivity.

Bringing wellness into the workplace is a proactive way to promote mental health. Whether it's organizing virtual mindfulness sessions, providing access to counseling services, or encouraging breaks throughout the day, investing in employee well-being sends a clear message that mental health matters. It shows that our organizations value us as whole individuals, not just as employees.

Community is at the heart of everything we do at FoundrSpace, especially in the post-pandemic era. Building strong connections with others creates a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation. Hosting a variety of activities, whether virtual or in-person, helps rebuild the social fabric of the workplace, creating a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels acknowledged. From comedy nights to tech networking mornings, FoundrSpace events are designed to improve your work-life balance and promote a positive mindset.

Lastly, let's break down the stigma around mental health. Fostering an environment where discussing mental well-being is as natural as talking about physical health helps individuals feel comfortable seeking help when needed. Implementing awareness campaigns, sharing resources, and providing training for managers on recognizing and addressing mental health concerns contribute to a workplace culture that values the mental well-being of its members.

As we step into this new chapter, let's carry the lessons from the past with us. Prioritizing mental health in the post-pandemic workplace isn't just necessary; it's an investment in the resilience and success of individuals and the entire organization. Together, we can build workplaces that not only survive but thrive in the face of challenges, making mental health a top priority on our collective journey.

You’re Probably Having Too Many Meetings

It often feels like we spend more time in meetings or calls than actually getting work done. From early morning brainstorming sessions to status updates, meetings and calls seem to dominate our schedules. But are they really necessary? In many cases, the answer is no.

While meetings can be useful for collaboration and decision-making, they often end up being a waste of time. They eat into our productivity, disrupt our workflows, and leave us feeling drained and unproductive. So why do we continue to have so many meetings?

One reason is that meetings have become the default way of communication in the workplace. Need to discuss a project? Schedule a meeting. Have a question for a colleague? Set up a meeting. This reliance on meetings as the primary means of communication is inefficient and counterproductive.

That's where async communication and weekly standups come in as a solid alternative. Async communication refers to communication that does not require immediate or synchronous response. It allows team members to work at their own pace and respond to messages when it's most convenient for them. This eliminates the need for unnecessary meetings and enables individuals to focus on their tasks without interruption.

Weekly standups are another effective way to keep teams aligned and informed without the need for lengthy meetings. In a standup, team members briefly share updates on their progress, highlight any roadblocks or challenges, and discuss their plans for the week. It's a quick and efficient way to keep everyone on the same page without wasting valuable time.

By adopting async communication and implementing weekly standups, teams can significantly reduce the number of meetings they have. This, in turn, leads to increased productivity, improved focus, and better overall work-life balance.

Of course, not all meetings are unnecessary. There will still be occasions when face-to-face discussions or brainstorming sessions are essential. FoundrSpace provides plenty of meeting space for the next in-person meeting you need to have. However, by reevaluating the purpose and necessity of every meeting, teams can ensure that their time is spent wisely and efficiently.

So next time you find yourself drowning in a sea of meetings, consider whether async communication or a weekly standup could save you time and boost your productivity. Embrace a work culture that values uninterrupted tasks and efficient collaboration, and watch as your team accomplishes more in less time.

Tips for Fighting a Performance-Based Society

We live in a world that places a high value on performance. We are constantly pressured to excel in every aspect of our lives – in our work, relationships, and even our personal hobbies and interests. Once it all compounds, this can be a stressful and exhausting way to live, and it's important to take steps to fight it. Here are some suggestions for how to do so:

1. Re-evaluate your priorities.

Take a step back and consider what is truly important to you. Is it being the best at everything, or is it something else entirely? Perhaps you value money, connection and community, or personal growth and development. Whatever it is, make sure that you are aligning your actions with your values.

2. Set realistic expectations for yourself.

Recognize that you are a human being, and that you will not be perfect all the time. It's okay to make mistakes, and it's important to give yourself permission to do so. Set goals that are challenging but achievable, and be kind to yourself when you fall short.

3. Practice self-care.

Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising as regularly as possible (even if a little bit), and doing your best to “not take your work home” with you. You can also practice meditation, prayer, or any other acts of mindfulness to help manage stress and anxiety. Take time to do things that you enjoy and that help you relax, such as reading, listening to music, or taking a weekend or day trip.

4. Connect with others.

Build meaningful relationships with others, whether it's with family, friends, or colleagues. Connect with people who share your values and who support you in your goals. FoundrSpace coworking creates a great environment and opportunity to do just that.

5. Embrace imperfection.

Recognize that perfection is not attainable, nor should it be desirable. Embrace your flaws and imperfections, and recognize that they are what make you unique and interesting. Learn to be comfortable with vulnerability and uncertainty, and find joy in the process of learning and growing.

By taking these steps, you can combat the performance-based culture that we all live in. You can find greater satisfaction and fulfillment in your life, and build meaningful connections with others. Remember that it's okay to take things at your own pace, and that you are valuable and worthy regardless of your achievements!

FoundrSpace Nominated for a Webby’s People’s Voice Award

FoundrSpace Coworking has placed in the Top 5 of its category for The 2023 Webby Awards, out of thousands of entries. We have been nominated for a Webby’s People’s Voice Award, and we can use your vote!

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The Webby Awards and the Awwwards are highly regarded accolades in the creative and marketing world. They are both a recognition of exceptional creative work that sets a high standard for the industry. It is a stamp of approval that distinguishes designers and creatives of all types from the thousands of others in the industry.

This year, FoundrSpace Coworking has been recognized as 2023 Webby Honoree, and a People’s Voice Award nominee for The Best Website in the Real Estate category. This distinguishes the FoundrSpace website in the top 12% of a record-breaking 14,000 entries this year!

This April, FoundrSpace was also awarded an Honorable Mention from our peers in the Awwwards community, as well as The Awwwards International Jury of judges.

The FoundrSpace website is a collaborative effort from The Foundr Collective (Hueman Studio and Mozwell Studios). Being recognized by these awards means that we have demonstrated exceptional creative thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to create experiences that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. 

Winning a Webby Award or an Awwward is not just a feather in our cap, but also an inspiration for us to continue to push the boundaries, create memorable experiences, and provide excellent service to the FoundrSpace community. It is a great motivation for us to strive for excellence, experiment with new ideas, and stay ahead of the curve in the evolving and growing coworking industry!

Finding Balance: Reconciling Work and Home After Lockdown

As the world begins to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals who have been working from home are now facing the challenge of finding balance between their work and home lives once again. For many, being at home for an extended period has created a blurred line between one's professional and personal life, making it difficult to separate the two. Let’s explore some tips for reconciling work and home life after lockdown.

Set Boundaries

The first step in finding balance between work and home is to set boundaries. It is essential to separate your work and personal life as much as possible. One way to do this is to create a designated workspace at home. This space should be free from distractions and have all the necessary equipment for work activities. Use this area exclusively for work and avoid using it for personal activities. Creating a physical barrier between work and home can help with establishing boundaries and reducing stress.

Manage Your Time

When working from home, the boundaries of time management may be blurry, as personal and professional life can merge. It is important to set specific work hours and break times. This will help you to be more productive during work hours and reduce stress during personal time. Make sure to schedule breaks throughout the day to keep yourself energized and focused.

Communication Is Key

Effective communication is crucial when balancing work and home life. Speak with your employer about arranging a flexible schedule that suits both parties. If you're facing difficulty at home, make sure to communicate it to your employer, family, or friends. Talking with them will help you find a solution to your problems and reduce the stress-level.

In these situations, finding a coworking space such as FoundrSpace could be a possible solution. Many of our members have arranged with their employers to cover their membership costs.

Prioritize Self-Care

Lockdown may have affected your mental and physical health. It is important to prioritize self-care, which can be as simple as taking a walk or reading a book. Engage in activities that help you de-stress and relax. Prioritizing self-care can help you feel more balanced and recharged, which will positively impact both your work and home life.

Finding balance between work and home after lockdown can be challenging. It is important to establish boundaries, manage time, communicate effectively, and prioritize self-care. By implementing these tips, you can create a more harmonious work-life balance that can help you to achieve your professional and personal goals.

The Unsung Benefits of Diversity in a Coworking Space

Most of us are already familiar with the idea of sharing a workspace with strangers. You can pop into any Starbucks and find different kinds of people and professionals, sitting with cold lattes, headphones on, tuning out the world around them, and hogging all the power outlets.

But unlike coffee shops, coworking spaces provide a unique opportunity to collaborate and learn from people with different backgrounds and experiences. Today, pretty much all coworking spaces (including FoundrSpace) provide the typical amenities such as high-speed internet, printing services, meeting rooms, and even free snacks and coffee. This makes it a great option for those who want to focus on their work without having to worry about the logistics of setting up a productive workspace.

However, FoundrSpace believes the true benefit of a coworking space lies in its ability to create a sense of community and collaboration with other professionals that are uniquely different than you are.

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But why exactly is diversity so important in a workplace setting?

First, diversity inherently helps create a richer, more thought-provoking work environment. Bringing together different perspectives opens up new ideas and spark creativity — which is becoming more essential in today's ever-evolving business climate.

Additionally, a diverse and inclusive coworking space can also provide an opportunity to learn from one another. By working alongside people from different backgrounds and with different life experiences, you can gain valuable insights about how to think more broadly and solve problems in new ways. This can help you understand the different markets and audiences you're trying to reach, and even build relationships with people who might help you reach them.

Moreover, diversity in a coworking space can promote acceptance and inclusion. Having a variety of people in the same workspace encourages everyone to be respectful of each other and to draw on each other’s strengths. This can create an atmosphere of openness and trust that can help foster success for members, both personally and professionally.

Lastly, but certainly not least, diversity in a coworking space can help create a more vibrant and inspiring work environment. The presence of different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives can bring energy, enthusiasm, and a refreshing vibe to the workspace, and help create a unique atmosphere that encourages collaboration and growth.

Fostering a diverse workforce in a coworking space can be extremely beneficial. It can help create an atmosphere of innovation and creativity, encourage learning from each other, promote acceptance and inclusion, and create a vibrant and inspiring environment. FoundrSpace Coworking fully embraces diversity and inclusion in our coworking locations, and is dedicated to creating a workspace that is open and welcome to anybody, regardless of where they are on their professional journey.‍