How to hack your ideal workspace – whether you're an introvert or extrovert

It’s Monday again and while you might not want to be at your desk, you have five more days of this.

Making an effort with your workspace can feel like an unnecessary chore – if turning up wasn’t already hard enough – but you could reap some benefits if you tailor your desk to suit your energetic disposition.

Depending on your personality – whether you’re an extrovert or introvert – there are different things to consider to optimise productivity, according to Ebuyer and Myers-Brigg Personality Type Indicator practitioner Shauna Skinner.

And as remote working is now part many industries, it’s worth investing in your desk spaces both at home and in the office.

Here’s what you should consider.

Extroverts

More outgoing and in need of social time, a shared office or a private space with plenty of stimuli is the way to go.

Desk space

Shauna says: ‘A large desk with options to keep active is ideal for extroverts.

‘They may prefer sitting on a gym ball or using a walking treadmill under the desk to keep moving.

‘A standing desk is also a great option for extroverts to be active while also getting stuck in at work.

‘The desk should be big and with an abstract and colourful design.’

An extrovert’s workspace can seem messy, but traditional office organisation tools can help if it becomes distracting.

Ambience

Mixed vibrant colours and inspirational quotes can help extroverts get into a focused state of mind.

Shauna says: ‘Keeping the space a fun environment with other people around is ideal.

‘They’ll need regular get-togethers with other members of the team, such as team lunches and lounging areas where people come together to enjoy a chat.’

A radio being on in the background, or a TV, can help prevent boredom setting in.

Visuals and decorations

Shauna suggests interactive features like whiteboards or maps, which can help extroverts visualise their work.

‘Playful decorations with games and toys should be part of the workspace decoration,’ she adds.

Introverts

Introverts generally need a quieter, more personal space, with minimalistic designs.

Desk space

Shauna says: ‘The desk space for introverts should be a calm space with minimal distractions.

‘Overall, Introverts prefer a minimal, clean ambience with some needing smaller gadgets for entertainment.

‘They appreciate having a separate personal space to relax and unwind with plants for a balanced feel.

‘To create the separated space they can use room dividing elements and kit the space out with bean bags and egg chairs to read in, so they can recharge during breaks.’

Lighting and sound

Introverts will enjoy a quieter space with either total silence or just light background noises.

Shauna says: ‘The option of having the relaxing sounds of a water fountain or natural white noise helps them concentrate.

‘If music is playing then they are more likely to enjoy classical pieces or light jazz in the background.’

Visuals and decorations

Anything that helps the room look clean and organised will go down well with an introvert.

Shauna suggests: ‘Introverts will benefit from pinboards for documents to keep the space clutter-free and plenty of plants to create a zen ambience.

‘The room will be kitted out with minimalistic pictures, including calming colours and shapes, such as blue and green tones.’

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