By Julie Goh

Did you know that adding a personal touch to workstations can make a big difference in employees' happiness and productivity? It turns out that decorating or personalising their workspaces offers several benefits that go beyond mere decoration. By adding their own special items and personal touches, employees can create a sense of ownership, express their unique personalities, and even reduce stress.

Let’s take a look at how decorating and personalising workstations can be beneficial:

  1. Increased sense of ownership and belonging: By personalising their workstations, employees can create a sense of ownership and belonging in their workspace. It helps them feel more connected to their environment, which can boost their morale and motivation.
  2. Expression of individuality: Personal items and decorations allow employees to express their individuality and personality. This can foster a positive work environment where employees feel comfortable being themselves, leading to improved job satisfaction and creativity.
  3. Stress reduction: Having personal items, such as photographs, plants, or artwork, can create a calming and familiar atmosphere. This can help reduce stress and promote a more relaxed state of mind, enabling employees to focus better and be more productive.
  4. Emotional well-being: Surrounding themselves with meaningful items, such as mementos, family photos, or inspirational quotes, can uplift employees' mood and emotional well-being. This can contribute to a more positive work experience and enhance overall job satisfaction.
  5. Conversation starters and relationship building: Personalised workstations can serve as conversation starters, allowing employees to connect with their colleagues on a personal level. It can facilitate relationship building, teamwork, and a sense of camaraderie among co-workers.

While personalisation can have numerous benefits, it's important to strike a balance between individual expression and maintaining a professional workspace that aligns with company policies and guidelines. So, don’t start bringing all your soft toys to the office!