According to the proverb, a congested desk indicates a cluttered psyche. Many Canadians spend a significant amount of time working at their office desks in Canada, which can rapidly become a breeding ground for disorganization, congestion, and inefficiency. However, with a little creativity, upgrading your office desk can be a simple DIY project that can lead to a more organized, functional, and productive workspace. In this article, we will explore DIY tips and ideas for upgrading your Canadian office desk.
- Clean And Declutter
Before making any upgrades, start by cleaning and decluttering your desk. Remove everything from your desk and give it a thorough cleaning. Get rid of any items that you don’t need or use regularly. Organize your remaining items into categories, such as stationery, electronics, and paperwork, and create designated spaces for each category.
- Create A DIY Desk Organizer
If you find yourself struggling to keep your desk organized, consider creating a DIY desk organizer. You can make one using items you likely already have around your home or office, such as cardboard boxes, mason jars, and file folders. Cut the boxes and folders to the appropriate sizes, and use glue or tape to assemble them into a customized organizer that fits your desk’s dimensions and your storage needs. Label each section to make it easier to find and access your items.
- Add A Monitor Stand
If you use a desktop computer, consider adding a monitor stand to your desk. A monitor stand can raise your screen to eye level, relieving neck and eye strain. You can create a monitor stand using a stack of books, but for a more polished look, consider building one out of wood or purchasing a pre-made one online.
- Build A Custom Keyboard Tray
Consider constructing a custom keyboard tray if you spend a substantial amount of time typing at your workstation. You can create a tray using a wooden board and brackets or repurpose a sliding drawer from an old piece of furniture. A keyboard tray can reduce strain on your wrists and arms and free up valuable desk space.
- Upgrade Your Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for productivity, but many office desks are poorly lit. Consider upgrading your desk lamp or adding additional lighting sources, such as overhead lights or a floor lamp. You can also create a DIY lightbox using a cardboard box, white tissue paper, and a string of LED lights. A lightbox can provide soft, even lighting for reading, writing, or drawing.
- Install Cable Management
If you have multiple electronic devices on your desk, cables can quickly become a tangled mess. Installing cable management can help keep your cables organized and out of sight. You can purchase pre-made cable organizers or create your own using binder clips or zip ties. Be sure to label each cable so that you can easily identify which device it belongs to.
- Paint Or Refinish Your Desk
If you’re looking for a more dramatic upgrade, consider painting or refinishing your desk. A new coat of paint can give an ancient desk new vitality and make it more compatible with your office’s aesthetic. Choose a paint or stain that complements your office’s color scheme and your personal style. For a more personalized touch, consider stenciling a design or quote onto your desk’s surface.
- Add Decorative Accents
Finally, adding decorative accents to your desk can make it feel more inviting and personalized. Consider adding a potted plant, a framed photo, or a decorative vase. Choose items that reflect your personality and inspire you to be productive.