Makeover Your Office for Success

Job security is a special concern for many people right now, and I have received many requests from readers for Feng Shui suggestions for offices and workspaces. Whether you work in a cubicle, a corner suite, or telecommute from home, making a few Feng Shui adjustments can help you feel more secure.

Your office should provide a place to nurture and grow your career. But all too often the typical office is filled with computers, bright florescent lighting, metal filing cabinets and desks, cubicles, and ringing phones. All of this creates strain, tension, irritability, and feelings of isolation instead of support.

The good news is that Feng Shui can help. Here are five quick makeover fixes for common workplace issues. Make a few of this changes in your office or workspace, then post the results on the BellaOnline Feng Shui forum so other members can learn from your story.


Problem: Your desk is in the wrong location.

Quick Fix: The most auspicious location for a desk is positioned diagonally across from the door. The worst place is with your back to the door. When you sit with your back to the entrance of a room you can't see what’s going on behind you, making you vulnerable to being "caught off guard" by your competitors, clients, or colleagues. Things literally and figuratively go on “behind your back.” If you can't relocate your desk, hang a mirror in front of you or place a reflective object on your desk so you can see behind you.


Problem: Your desk is the wrong size.

Quick Fix: A desk that is too small for the work to be done makes you feel that your ambitions and aspirations are restricted. On the other hand, a desk that is too large makes you feel that you are not up to the challenge of the work. Choose the appropriate size work surface for the job you have to do. And make sure you have enough room to spread out, create, and expand in your career.


Problem: Your desktop is cluttered.

Quick Fix: In Feng Shui, clutter represents postponed decisions and the inability to move forward. When you have so many files and piles of papers that can't see your desktop it's hard to concentrate on your work. Clear clutter and store only necessary papers on your desk. Use colorful folders and wicker baskets to contain your paperwork.


Problem: There are sharp corners pointed at you.

Quick Fix: In Feng Shui, the edges of walls pointing at you are called "poison arrows.” These sharp edges send harsh energy toward you, making you feel uncomfortable, threatened, or insecure. The best way to “cure” or fix this problem is to place something between you and the sharp edge to block its negative energy. Good things to use include furniture, a healthy plant, soft fabric draped over the edge of the wall, or molding.


Problem: You are surrounded by overhead fluorescent lights.

Quick Fix: Fluorescent lights represent the Metal Element that can be too hard and cutting when it comes at you from overhead. Plus this kind of lighting can cause headaches, eyestrain, and a whole lot of stress. Whenever you can, turn off overhead fluorescent lights and take advantage of natural daylight. Or, try to use desk and floor lamps. If you can't turn off overhead fluorescents, try to have them replaced with full spectrum light bulbs. These simulate daylight and make you feel more comfortable.


Have fun passing this message along to friends and family! I hope to hear from you soon, either in the forum or in response to this newsletter. I love your feedback!

Carol M. Olmstead, Feng Shui Editor
http://fengshui.bellaonline.com


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