As a promo pro, you understand the importance of the five senses in your work. You know that unlike other mediums, promos engage all the senses, from sight and smell to taste and touch.

But have you ever thought about how your senses are engaged in your workspace? Whether you work in an office setting or remotely, when you integrate the five senses, you can positively influence your productivity and optimize your work. 

In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we’re highlighting a post from JiJi Lee that explains how you can create a work environment that engages the five senses.

  1. Sight. For starters, try to tidy up at the end of each workday. Lee says office clutter has been shown to negatively impact productivity and increase stress. Then, think about the colors around you. Maybe you can add some pops of color with pens or notebooks to boost your mood and energy levels. If you prefer minimalism, Lee recommends swapping busy designs for natural tones in taupe, beige or white.

  2. Sound. If you work in a busy office space, get some noise-cancelling headphones to drown out other conversations. Lee says noise pollution can affect the ability to focus and concentrate. If you work best with some noise, add some ambient sounds to your workspace or work in a coffee shop from time to time for the background sounds.

  3. Smell. Our sense of smell is deeply connected to our emotions, Lee says, which is why some smells can comfort and others can annoy. She suggests doing a seasonal deep clean of your office space to get rid of dust and dirt that can give your space an “off” smell. You could also consider a room diffuser with scents like rosemary or peppermint to help with focus and productivity.

  4. Taste. What you eat and drink can certainly impact the way you work, Lee says. She recommends keeping healthy snacks available and making sure to stay hydrated. If you regularly work through lunch, allow yourself to take a break and enjoy a nourishing meal.

  5. Touch. In the workplace, this can be as simple as using pens with a cushioned grip. On days you work from home, you might incorporate soft, cozy slippers. It’s all about making your work environment feel the most comfortable.

Your senses might be trying to tell you something. Maybe it’s too dark in your office, or you find nearby construction noises to be distracting. Think about how each of your senses is impacted during your workday and consider small changes you could make to create an ideal work environment.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: JiJi Lee is a writer who has contributed to Ink + Volt, The Onion, The New Yorker and others.