Optimizing your physical home workspace for productivity.

Creating the ideal workspace isn’t just about making it look good. It’s about using science-backed strategies to boost productivity, focus, and creativity. Imagine stepping into a workspace (for some their home office is still their kitchen table or bedroom, for me it is a small, 8 square meter space we create in our house a few years ago) that energizes you the moment you sit down, where every element is designed to help you do your best work. That’s what this edition is all about. Inspired by Dr. Andrew Huberman’s insights from the Huberman Lab Podcast—and my personal experience as someone who juggles family, work, and hobbies—let’s explore how small changes can make a big difference in your workday.

1. Lighting: Setting the Right Mood for Work

Wonder why in the early morning, when sunlight streams through the big windows of your home office, As you sip your tea (yes, I'm a tea guy), you feel energized and ready to tackle my day? That’s no coincidence—lighting plays a huge role in how we focus and feel. The first 8 hours after you wake up are prime time for analytical tasks, and bright, overhead lighting can help by triggering dopamine and norepinephrine—chemicals that boost alertness.

Tips for Better Lighting:

• Morning Boost: Use bright, blue-rich light or natural sunlight to kickstart your day. If you can’t get natural light, a daylight lamp works wonders.
• Afternoon Shift: Imagine switching to softer, warmer lights in the afternoon, creating a cozy atmosphere that encourages creative thinking and problem-solving.

In my setup, I’ve added smart lighting with adjustable warmth and brightness, controlled via HomeAssistant, which makes transitioning between tasks effortless.

2. Visual Focus: Where You Look Matters

Think about the last time you stared at a screen for hours. Did your neck hurt? Were your eyes tired? Your screen setup can make or break your focus. For me, positioning my monitor slightly above eye level has been a game-changer. With four kids running around, focus isn’t always easy—but using the 45-5 rule (work for 45 minutes, then spend 5 minutes looking at something far away, like across the neighborhood outside of my window) keeps me sharp.

Quick Fixes:

• Raise your screen using a monitor mount or even a stack of books. (Hey, it’s practical!)
• Design your space to alternate between tasks that require intense focus and moments of relaxed visual engagement.

3. Sound: The Hidden Factor in Focus

You’re deep in thought when suddenly the hum of an air conditioner pulls you out of the zone. In my case, the fan that keeps air in the house clean sits IN my office. When the shower pops on or someone is cooking downstairs, it spins like crazy. It's just loud enough to distract me or having to focus a little too hard on meetings. Sound can either fuel your concentration or drain your energy. For me, having curated soundscapes, has been a lifesaver during preps for keynotes or strategy sessions with the team here at Microsoft.

Sound Tips:

• Avoid spaces with constant white noise or mechanical sounds.
• Try noise-canceling headphones and experiment with soundtracks designed for focus (I enjoy some of the soundscapes that James Blake has created)

4. Workspace Layout: Clutter vs. Clarity

Does a tidy desk spark joy, or does a bit of organized chaos help you think? For me, it depends on the task. When I’m building LEGO models with my youngest, creativity thrives in a cluttered, playful environment. But for deep work during my The One Things (see a previous edition of this newsletter) a clean, organized desk is non-negotiable.

Layout Tips:

• If you can (I can't unfortunately) use high-ceiling spaces for creative tasks like brainstorming.
• Choose smaller, more focused spaces for detailed, analytical work.
• I'm bad at this, but alternate between different environments to keep your brain engaged.

5. Posture and Movement: Keep It Dynamic

Picture yourself slouched over your desk, feeling tired and sluggish. Now imagine standing tall, your monitor at eye level, and taking a short walk every couple of hours. I'm definitely in the market for a sit-stand desk!

Posture Pointers:

• Alternate between sitting and standing every few hours to stay energized.
• Keep your monitor slightly above eye level to reduce neck strain.
• Invest in ergonomic furniture that supports long-term comfort.

6. Quick Checklist for Workspace Optimization

Here’s a simple list to get started:

• Bright lighting for morning focus; dim lighting for afternoon creativity.
• Elevated screens to reduce strain and improve focus.
• Curated sounds for better concentration.
• Ergonomic seating with a mix of sitting and standing options.

Start Small and Experiment

As with everything start making just one small change—adding a blue light to your desk in the morning or trying out some soundscapes. Over time, these tweaks add up, transforming your workspace into a place where you thrive. For me, the journey to an optimized workspace is personal and dynamic, shaped by my family, career, and even my hobbies. Remember, your workspace is more than just where you work; it’s how you work. By making intentional adjustments, you can create an environment that supports your best performance every day.