Taking Stock: More plants... (Chapter 43)

Throughout my career, i've had a rich and varied journey shaped by different roles and industries, each one leaving a unique impression on me. Most recent though, my time at Legal & General was particularly impactful, not just for my professional development but also in influencing my approach to workspace design and appreciation. Legal & General's award winning build in Cardiff emphasised the importance of green spaces and how they contribute toward colleague well-being. Inspired by this, I decided to bring a similar sense of vibrancy and grounding to my home office and it's become a personal project of continuous evolution over the past year.

Whenever I find a spare moment, I tend to tweak my workspace. I started by creating a green-walled border around the room and adding a variety of potted plants. The greenery has transformed the space into something that feels less like an office and more like a creative sanctuary, one that’s both calming and stimulating combined with the mood lighting. I've even placed additional planters in the window alcoves that climb up the chimney breast, creating a lush, inviting atmosphere that brings a touch of the outdoors in.

This setup feels miles away from the characterless white walls I've encountered in some traditional office spaces, which can feel uninspiring after a while. Integrating plants, whether real or artificial has grounded me in a way I hadn’t anticipated. There's a well-documented connection between greenery and productivity, a small splash of green has a remarkable way of easing stress and enhancing focus. The fresh look not only boosts my mood but also encourages a different kind of productivity, one that feels more natural and sustainable. I wholeheartedly recommend plants to anyone looking to refresh their workspace. Even a small plant or two can transform a bland space into one that feels alive and personal.

If you’re yearning for a similar transformation, take a leaf out of my book (pun intended!) and head to Ikea or a local garden store. You’ll find affordable plants that can help you reimagine your space. Embracing this connection between environment and well-being has been a rewarding evolution in both my personal and professional life, a small yet impactful way of aligning my workspace with the lessons I've gathered along my career path.

Stay tuned for another chapter of 'Taking Stock' here on my LinkedIn page.