Many people avoid cleaning their own workspaces so much that the demand for commercial cleaning services grew. In New Zealand alone, the commercial cleaning industry is expected to grow to USD$ 3 billion (NZD$ 4.9 billion) by 2029, which accounts for a 3.9% difference. (1)
This shows that cleaning isn’t exactly at the top of most people’s ‘fun things to do’ list. And if that applies to you, then you might’ve walked into your office with a cluttered desk that bombards you with visual noise, making it hard to concentrate.
But did you know that your workspace has a surprising impact on your psychology and productivity? In this article, you’ll learn the science behind a clean workspace and how it can unleash a powerful psychological boost and endorphin rush, ultimately pushing you toward peak performance.
Why does mess mean stress
You arrive at your desk, papers overflowing from your inbox, coffee mugs from forgotten meetings staining the surface, and sticky notes clinging precariously to your monitor. It’s not exactly an inspiring sight, is it?
Research from the Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association suggested that clutter can be a significant source of stress. Their study found that a cluttered environment may cause your cortisol levels to spike—causing anxiety and depression. (2)
Why does this happen? Clutter bombards your brain with visual stimuli. Everywhere you look, there’s something demanding your attention. This constant barrage can be mentally taxing, making it difficult to focus on the task at hand. It’s like having a dozen browser tabs open at once—your brain struggles to prioritise and filter out unimportant information.
The mental magic of a clean workspace
So, how can you transform this mental battlefield into a haven of productivity? The answer is simple: declutter! Here’s the surprising thing—the act of cleaning and organising your workspace isn’t just about aesthetics—it has a profound impact on your mental and physical state.
When you clear away the clutter, you’re essentially removing visual distractions. This creates a sense of calm and order, allowing your brain to focus its energy on the task at hand. It’s like hitting the reset button on your mental clutter. Experts also believe that a clean workspace can lead to improved cognitive function, better decision-making, and increased creativity.
Think about it this way: When your desk is a cluttered mess, it can feel like your mind is, too. But when everything has its designated place, there’s a sense of mental clarity that mirrors the physical space. This allows you to approach your work with a sharper focus and a calmer mind.
Aside from that, an organised space has a bigger effect on one’s overall well-being. A study noted that organisations that value clean workspaces saw an 80% reduction in sick days among employees. This is a win-win for your company and the workers. (3)
The endorphin rush of getting organised
The benefits of a clean workspace extend beyond just reducing stress and improving focus. The act of decluttering and organising can trigger the release of endorphins—those feel-good chemicals produced by your brain.
Have you ever experienced that surge of satisfaction after finally cleaning your desk or organising your bookshelf? That’s the endorphin rush in action! The act of putting things in order and creating a sense of accomplishment can be incredibly motivating. It’s like giving yourself a mental high five, and that positive reinforcement can propel you to tackle other tasks with renewed enthusiasm.
This doesn’t just apply to personal tidying sprees. In a work environment, a clean and organised workspace can foster a sense of teamwork and shared accomplishment. When everyone contributes to keeping the space tidy, it creates a sense of collective well-being and can boost team morale.
Practical tips for a clean workspace
So, how can you transform your workspace into a haven of productivity and mental well-being? Here are some practical tips to get you started:
Declutter regularly
This doesn’t have to be a herculean effort. Dedicate 10-15 minutes at the end of each workday to declutter your desk. Throw away any waste, file away important documents, and put away any unused items. A little bit of effort every day goes a long way.
Designated spots
Assign specific places for commonly used items like pens, staplers, and notebooks. This eliminates the time wasted searching for misplaced items and keeps your workspace visually organised.
Cleaning routine
Establish a simple cleaning routine to maintain a tidy workspace. But you must set the tone for it to be effective. For example, you can implement a clean desk policy within your team and provide the proper tools and facilities for proper waste disposal and sanitation. (4)
Now, life gets busy, right? There might be times when you and your team just can’t seem to squeeze in any time for cleaning. That’s totally okay! If that happens, you can check out commercial cleaning services near you. They can be a lifesaver and help keep your workplace tidy even when you’re short of time.
Embrace natural light
Natural light has been shown to improve mood, focus, and overall well-being. If possible, position employee workspaces near a window to benefit from natural light.
In closing
Taking the time to create a clean and organised workspace is a simple yet powerful investment in employee well-being and company success. By reducing stress, boosting focus, and triggering the release of endorphins, a clean workspace can empower employees to reach their full potential.
Remember, a little bit of organisation goes a long way in creating a productive and positive work environment for everyone. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace decluttering, and watch your team’s productivity soar!
References
- ‘Commercial Cleaning Services in New Zealand industry analysis’, Source: https://www.ibisworld.com/nz/industry/commercial-cleaning-services/574/
- ‘Cleaning is good for mental health’, Source: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sponsored-stories/cleaning-is-good-for-mental-health/K5S5IU27LNEIVLHMTOK7HYEMAY/#:~:text=according%20to%20the%20Australian%20%26%20New%20Zealand%20Mental%20Health%20Association%2C%20research%20has%20found%20that%20these%20negative%20environments%20can%20raise%20cortisol%20levels%20%E2%80%93%20which%20can%20lead%20to%20anxiety%20and%20depression.
- ‘Want to Boost Productivity? Start by Cleaning Your Office’, Source: https://www.business.com/articles/organize-your-workspace/#:~:text=It%20decreases%20sick%20days
- ‘Tips For Maintaining A Clean And Sanitary Workplace’, Source: https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU2305/S00154/tips-for-maintaining-a-clean-and-sanitary-workplace.htm#:~:text=Establish%20Cleaning%20Routines
