Top 4 Most Usually Awesome Co-Working Spaces

Posted on by Ellie Ashton


If there is one thing that the rise of co-working space has taught us, it is to expect the unexpected. The typical concept of an office environment has evolved so much over the last few decades, and more recently into modernized shared spaces for businesses to interact and share resources. As you go across the globe and see more and more co-working spaces popping up, they are getting even more advanced and more creative in what they offer to members and their businesses. While the concept of co-working spaces has actually been around for over a decade, check out these wildly unusual new spaces you can become a member of. 

The Village Underground

Lisbon, Portugal 

This groovy little mini city is probably one of the most relaxed working environments you may ever come across. Made from recycled shipping containers, this space offers multicoloured graffiti murals, a double decker bus made into a restaurant, skateboard ramps, and the ever-important air conditioning. The cost of living the boho work dream? Just $141 a month! 

OneCo Work Marina

Barcelona, Spain

Sleek, modern, fresh and full of fiery young entrepreneurs looking for success. The OneCo Work Marina is not only a top-notch co-working space, it also offers a rooftop patio, waterfront views, a private event room and even a gym. Not to mention it is known for its immense education advancements and networking amongst its members. This seaside office goes for $219 a month, sangria not included. 

NapLab

Bangkok, Thailand

Any office with the word nap in the title already sounds like an ideal place to set-up shop, especially on those sleepy Mondays. Well, NapLab is exactly what you’d expect it to be. This labyrinth of little cozy coves is complete with fluffy pillows and high speed wifi. Oh, did we mention it also has tube slides instead of stairs? Live your comfiest life for just $70 a month, talk about a deal! 

Brooklyn Boulders

Somerville, Massachusetts 

Are you more of the active living type? Well this might be the perfect work space for you. In addition to offering the top notch tech services and work areas, this cool space also offers a ton of activities to keep your spirits up and your productivity sparked. Things such as rock climbing and yoga come with your membership, the trick is to actually get some work done! This athletic style space goes for $149 a month.

There is no longer a cookie cutter idea of what an office looks like or what it offers to its employees or members. As co-working spaces continue to transform the working world’s daily grind, they are offering more and more amenities that can help with physical and mental health during the week. Thinking of making the switch to co-working? Check out Toronto’s own Spacie for tons of amazing office options. 

5 Things You’ll Start Doing In A Co-Working Office

Posted on by Ellie Ashton


An Obsession With Lunch

Gone are the days of tossing a sloppy ham sandwich into a ziplock baggie and heading out. You’re now in the world of communal kitchens, group lunch tables and more importantly, the millennial lunch makers. This means it’s time to bring your A-game. We’re talking hearty salads, cracked wheat Artisan sandwich bread, raw veggies to snack on, and don’t forget the reusable water bottle to go with it. 

Sleep Because A Top Resource

Once you start working those 9-5 hours, it can feel a little tough to set that 7am alarm each morning. While you will get into the swing of things and having structure can be a good way to stay on track, you’ll start to notice that those Saturday sleep-ins are worth more than imagined, and those late weeknight Netflix binges will have you second guessing if they can wait until the weekend. 

Attitude Adjustment

Like any job, keeping your cool during a time of frustration or anger isn’t always easy. However, when you’re working in a shared office environment, you need to be extra careful of those around you. Beside keeping the gossip to a minimum, you’ll start to notice a lot of “thanks so much” is being slipped into your daily verbiage. Just like elementary school, learning to share and accept the annoying traits of others in the classroom is all part of the keeping a peaceful environment for everyone. Jessica borrowed your charger and didn’t return it to you until Monday? Steven jammed the printer again instead of asking for help? These things are bound to happen, so let the little things slide and keep your office as harmonious as possible. 

The Endless Tabs

Since the days of written files and folders are behind you and everything is on our computers, you’ll start to notice how many tabs your little fingers get going in a single day. From work reports, to multiple online search tabs, music, a photo of your dog, an Amazon page to that thing you kept debating on buying. The tab life is part of your world now, let it happen. Take those super slow final 15 minutes of your Friday afternoon to close them all down and start fresh for Monday. 

Adventures In Coffee

Standard coffee in a styrofoam cup? Maybe in 1993. Most modern offices have some pretty wild coffee bars and coffee systems for you to amp up your daily java mix. Whether it be a touch screen machine or a funky little cafe, you’ll start swapping your “medium 2 sugar” for something that sounds more like something you’d hear in an episode of Gossip Girl. Embrace the change, plus it’s a great way to find some delicious options. 

Coworkers Become Work Friends

When you work in a shared office environment it often allows for not only more diversity, but also a more social setting. You will be around people from different businesses, different areas of your company and even students. This can really help you to find a friendly connection with some work people. Having a sort of “work friend” can help to boost your mood, and give you a nice little mental break for some chitchat or even an afterwork drink! 

Whether you are transitioning from a more traditional style office setting or you are starting fresh on the 9-5 grind, office life can be great. It can help you to build structure, create new relationships and even broaden your own personal interests that you never even knew you had. Thinking about making the change to a co-working space? Check out all the incredible options Toronto’s own Spacie has to offer businesses of any size. 

Summer Bummer: Make The Most Of Your Sunny Workdays

Posted on by Ellie Ashton


The temperature is going up and the sunny days are becoming more and more, and you’re still stuck at work. While missing out on a perfect summer day may be make the work week feel like a punishment, there are a few easy hacks to making the most of your summer while you’re at work, and they don’t involve playing hooky or faking sick. 

Make A Great Playlist

Nothing makes a mood change faster than a great, fun playlist. From fast electronic to groovy rock classics, making a great playlist can really help to boost your mood and keep that bounce in your step while you work on a sunny day. Not sure what to play? Spotify has tons of pre-made playlists to keep you working for the weekend with extra pep in your step. Did somebody say Dock Rock?

Move Outside

Need a little fresh air? Take your laptop outside! Instead of getting your quick and easy mobile order from Starbucks, try sitting on a local cafe patio while you sip your soy latte. Soaking in a little sun and getting outside can help to boost your mood, productivity and even help you get a little jump start on that summer tan. 

Ice Cream Office Culture

Think coffee is the only common thread with your coworkers? Not a chance! Why not switch up the usual afternoon java for some tropical popsicles or ice cream cones? Not only has a positive office culture recently proven to help lower stress and anxiety, it is a great way to take a minute to enjoy a slice of summer and get to network and socialize with your office mates. Not to mention, you’ll quickly become the most popular one in the office!

Friendly Fridays

It’s no secret that you’re likely watching that clock slowly tick by until 5pm on a Friday. However, when the weather is nice, why not relax a bit after work? Instead of sprinting out of the office to race to a busy commute, why not hang back a bit? Hit a patio, walk in the sun for a bit of the way, or ask some office mates to grab a cold beer. Ending the work week with some relaxation can help you to destress and prepare for the perfect weekend – weather permitting!

Change Up Your Commute

Morning commutes can be a real mood killer, especially when it is hot and sunny and you’re on your way to a long day at the office. Make the most of it! If you take public transit or live close, why not try some walking or biking to get a little exercise and time outside before the day starts. Trust us, this is a huge mood booster! If you drive to work, try avoid the stuffy highways and leave a bit earlier for the more scenic route. Pop the windows down, put on some tunes and enjoy a more relaxed ride into work, you won’t believe the difference it will make. 

Switch Up Your Schedule

While many entrepreneurs can make their own hours, that’s not always the case for everyone, especially employees. However, there are some ways to still snag some extra sun time during the work week. For one, if you make your own hours, try shifting them a little. Coming in an hour early can help you to leave a little early on a hot Friday afternoon. Reporting to someone higher up? Suggest the idea! Plenty of small businesses offer their employees “summer hours” and allow for the schedule shifting on Friday afternoon – Always worth asking!

Lighten Your Lunch

When it’s hot and sunny and you’re stuck inside, the last thing you want to do is weigh down your mood even more with a heavy lunch. Try lightning up with some fun naturally flavoured waters throughout the day and a salad for lunch. Keeping it light can keep your energy level up and give you that extra boost to enjoy the daylight hours after quitting time instead of going home to slump down on the couch!

Being stuck indoors during the summer months can be tough, especially when the sunny days first start rolling in. However, keeping up with these few simple tricks can really help you to make the most of those short summers, even if it is only a few extra hours a week. So go ahead, relax, it’s summer after all. 

Bad Behaviour: Office Habits To Be Mindful Of

Posted on by Ellie Ashton


Making the move from a quiet, personal office space into a more socially open co-working environment can open so many doors, both personal and professional. However, much like moving to any new environment, there are some changes you may need to look out for, as bad office habits and unknowingly annoying behaviours can be a major cause of workplace conflict amongst your new co-working comrades.

The Gift of Gab

Moving into a diverse mix of people and businesses can be a bit of a shock to your system, especially if you’re accustomed to the drab, basic office life. However, you want to make sure you keep the judgements to yourself. It can be easy to fall into office gossip and shallow chitchat, so be sure to be mindful to stay away from the rumour mill. Meet new people, form your own relationships, and always be aware of the gift of gab that inevitably runs through every office. 

Keep It Quiet

Co-working spaces offer such a great social environment, but not everyone is there is to talk. If your specific shared office space is more open concept, be mindful of those working around you. Lunch time laughs and even making personal calls in public areas can still be bothersome to those trying to work. If you have a call to make or have a group social conversation, make sure you’re in an area that it is appropriate, or go grab a cup of coffee and keep the office a little quieter. 

Clean Up

Nobody wants to be known as the “dish leaver”. Be sure to cleanup after yourself in both your own areas and the shared regions. Don’t leave mugs in the communal sink, papers on the desks or left over lunch crumbs on the tables. While you’re co-working space may have a cleaning staff, you don’t want to be known as the inconsiderate Pig Pen. If you’re working space is not specifically yours, make sure it’s as clean when you leave as when you arrived. Don’t forget, other businesses don’t want to bring their clients to a space that’s littered with someone else garbage.

Follow The Rules

Moving into a cool, new co-working space can offer some amazing new office perks, especially in the technology department. From 3D printers to top of the line projection screens and board rooms. While you’ll likely have full access to them, it’s important to follow the rules. Much like using a machine at the gym, follow the proper rules and etiquette. Ensure the equipment is available, you’re using it properly, and be sure to have the proper permission before using anything that doesn’t directly belong to you. And as mentioned before, make sure it’s left in the same condition you found it in.

While moving into a new co-working space can help you grow your business and network relationships in a social setting, there are some changes to always keep in mind. While you can have designated section or a full open concept, be mindful that it is still a work environment and be sure to be considerate to those around you, so each business can prosper with productivity. 

Rework Your Workplace: How To Better Manage Work Fatigue

Posted on by Spacie


When the weather gets gloomy and the work weeks get draining, it can be hard to find some motivation to get going and be productive in the work place. Whether it’s a slow pace or an overload of stress that has you feeling in a slump, there are a few easy ways to quickly revamp your work space, even in a shared office!

Move Your Furniture

Ever heard of Feng Shui? Well, consider this a similar concept. While you may not need to find the energy centre of your office, sometimes moving your desk around can help you to refresh. Try turning it a new direction, sitting in a new spot or even just sitting on the other side. Believe it or not, studies have suggested that slight changes in environment can help to spark new ideas and imagination, which may be the boost your mid-week slump needs.

Add Personal Touches

A shared environment can make it different to really personalize your working space, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add some homey touches. Try adding something decorative like a plant or personal item to your desk to perk your mood. Having items that give you a more at-home feel can help to reduce work-related stress and settle anxiety. Not to mention, interior decor can really help to boost your mood.  

Let The Light In

Sitting under bright lights for an extended period of time can actually be detrimental to your productivity. While the old-fashioned fluorescent tubes may not been seen as much, bright overhead lighting can still cause you to feel drained and sleepy. Try adding a soft lamp to your office or desk or opening the blinds instead of using harsh overhead lighting. Reducing the brightness on your computer screen can also help you to feel less drained, and can help to reduce dry eyes and headaches throughout the day. 

Have A Break Place

Typically people think if “taking a break” as getting a coffee or hanging by the water cooler for a few minutes, however people generally need more than that. A good get-up-and-stretch can really help to get the blood reflowing and reset your mind. Try going for a quick walk around the block to get some fresh air and little movement or enjoy your cup of coffee on a nearby bench or park. Take a breath, remove yourself from the office environment for a few minutes and see how quickly your enthusiasm and productivity spark back up. 

Meditation & Quiet Time

In recent years, meditation has made ground breaking advances in its benefits in the battle against stress and anxiety. If you’re feeling drained by midweek, try take a quiet break to be alone without your work. Find a quiet corner or nearby park, grab a seat and relax. Breathe, be present and let your mind flush out the panic and stresses. Mindful meditation is also readily available on various smartphones app to help you get started. Long commute home? Try taking a few minutes near the end of the day to grab a quiet break to prevent taking your stresses home. 

In a world where everyone is hustling to rise to the top of social and economic ladder, it can be overwhelming for your mind and body. Finding a balance and a few tricks to help you get through the work week with ease can really help to promote a positive environment, outlook and mindset. Whether you’re in a shared office or sitting solo in cubicle, it is important to remember these simple ways of managing your stress and creating a better headspace for you and your coworkers.

Moving In: What You’ll Need To Bring

Posted on by Ellie Ashton


One of the most obvious perks to moving your business into a co-working space having a top-notch office already set-up and ready to go. While that is in fact the case with many options in co-working, there are still some things you will likely have to provide for your day to day operations. Traditionally, things such as internet access, top tech like projectors and printers and most furniture is provided, however thats not always a guarantee for all spaces. 

Computers

Regardless of how simple or elaborate your co-working space may be, bringing your own computers is a must. Whether you opt to for a handful of desktops or ask each employee to provide their own laptop, either way, this is not something you will likely see included in your co-working space. While larger scale technology will likely be provided, personal computers will have to come from your own pocket. 

Furniture

Depending on the space you choose, you may have to provide your own desks/office chairs. Some of the larger co-working environments do provide furnished office spaces, however that’s not always the case. While you may even be given the barebones of furnishing for your specific office area, anything further will be your responsibility. Things such as plants, filing cabinets, etc are likely also not included. So keep this mind when budgeting out your initial move, whether or not you will have to shell out for furnishing. 

Office Supplies

Besides the usual printer paper, coffees and teas, a large portion of co-working spaces to not provide the thoughtless office supplies you may forget to buy until you need them. Things such as staplers, pens, file folders snd even good old-old-fashioned paper clips are things that you should have on your To-Buy list before you move in. While it might seem like a low priority, you don’t want to end up in a bind when you finally need them. Not to mention, moving in with everything accounted for can make for a smoother transition into your new digs. 

Chargers & Headphones

While most people toss their charger into their bag when they leave, out of pure habit, it’s always good to keep one at the office. Not to mention, a set of headphones. Although many shared office spaces can be quiet, it can be easy to drift out of focus and more onto office chit-chat or conversations happening around you. Keeping an extra set of earphones to pop in when you really need to crunch down on work can really save you the distraction. 

Water Bottles & Coffee Cups

As mentioned, plenty of co-working spaces offer gourmet coffee and tea options, even small snacks, but it can be bothersome to constantly be washing your coffee cup or glass at the end of each day. Keeping you own mug and reusable water bottle in your office space can not only keep you extra hydrated, but it can save you any cleanup come 5 o’clock. 

Sweater or Jacket

Offices are notorious for being chilly. While there is some science behind the lowered temperature, it’s not always everyone’s perfect environment. To avoid feeling the chill, or worse, finding yourself stuck underneath the AC vent, tuck an extra sweater or jacket into your desk drawer, since you won’t have access to the thermostat. 

There are so many pluses to what a shared office environment can bring to your and your business, but don’t forget what you need to bring to keep your daily operations running smoothly. From big item like desks to tiny things like extra staples, it will all depends on what type of co-working space you choose. To get an idea of the range of options, check out the huge selection Spacie has to offer any business! 

Co-working Amenities: Which Do You Want, Which Do You Need?

Posted on by Ellie Ashton

Finding the perfect office space for your business can be like finding the perfect apartment. While there is lots of options and locations, it is important to narrow down the list of features you need and the list of features you want. What comes as a huge surprise to those seeking out a co-working space is the amount of variety of locations, as well as their individual features, most of which people don’t even realize are available for their use. 

Top Notch Tech

Project Spaces 73 Bathurst St, Toronto

For those with a more technology based business operation, they may be looking for an office space with more amenities specific to tech. Some of the major tech-based bonuses in co-working spaces include top of the line printing services, projection board rooms for presentations, digital whiteboards for brainstorming sessions, video conference quiet spaces, Apple TV, HDMI and high definition video screens to match. It’s like working in your own personal Best Buy – Talk about cutting costs! 

Conferences, Events & Hosting

IQ Offices 250 University Ave, Toronto

One of the best parts of having a pre-made office with a co-working space is having the environment to host others, without having to commit to a large permanent space. Whether it be for out-of-town employees or other businesses, having ready-made conference rooms and board rooms with the necessary items and features can help you to have a professional meeting or a successful sales pitch when needed. This allows you skip on renting a bigger office space for the long term, and use the board room amenities at your own convenience for no extra cost. Another great thing to consider about these larger, private areas offered in co-working spaces is that they can also be used for social events pertaining to work. Whether it be an office get together or you’re hosting a social mixer with potential clients, having this amenity available for your use can help save you time, money and energy when building your networking skills. 

Outdoor Spaces

IQ Offices 150 King St, Toronto

As winter finally comes to a close, the first thought on everybody’s mind is patios, patios, patios! Did you know, that many co-working spaces offer an outdoor area to work, eat and be social in? Across the city, you will find plenty of co-working environments that offer this private luxury to its resident businesses, often complete with tables and chairs, umbrellas and more often than not, some Friday afternoon social gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a sunny spot to work, a breezy place to have a meeting or just a quiet area to relax, private outdoor patios are a huge hidden plus when it comes to picking the perfect office. Not to mention, it is a great place to schmooze potential clients on a nice day. 

Reception, IT & More

WeWork 240 Richmond St West, Toronto

It likely isn’t something that pops to the top of the mental checklist when looking for a working space, but one of the many benefits of moving into a co-working environment is the extra help. To begin with, most offer a reception area with  an employee offering help or navigation to visitors, interviewees, etc. Additional services such as tech support, IT and even cleaning staff can help to elevate some costs, hiring and stress when trying to compile the perfect working area. While some may not think of these features as a high priority, once you see them in action and how beneficial they can be to your day-to-day operations, it can really jump up the list!

There is no cookie cutter perfect office environment for everybody, as each business and entrepreneur has their own list of needs and wants. However, with the mass growth and expansion of co-working spaces, and the limitless amount of features and amenities each have to offer, it can help you to find the personalized space for optimal productivity. Thinking about making the switch to co-working? Take a look at the huge selection of offices and amenities Spacie has to offer your budding business.

Traditional vs Modern: Is Co-Working Right For You?

Posted on by Ellie Ashton

The with the massive rise of co-working spaces popping up in major cities across the globe, small businesses and entrepreneurs are reaping the benefits of the modern day work environments. However, the concept of a classic office is still in hot pursuit. While both offer their unique options and specifics, determining which is best for your business can be tough. Let’s take look a some comparisons and contrasts of the two types of office life.

Structure

One of the biggest and most noticeable differences between co-working spaces and classic offices, is the style and structure of the office life itself. When you think of a traditional office, you think of private sections, cubicles or rows of desks, etc. Co-working spaces offers a bit of a different approach, allowing employees from multiple businesses to intermingle, move around, share resources and give a much more social vibe amongst each other. Depending on the level of structure you feel is appropriate to keep your professional wheels running smoothly, you may opt for a more private office style. For example, while a marketing agency may flourish in a creative co-working space, it may not be the best choice for a research group or cold callers.

Cost

The major draw the a co-working space is the fact that it is ready, set and good to go for you to move into you. With office areas already furnished and top notch tech at your disposal, a new business or even an established smaller business can really save some big bucks on amenities by moving into a co-working space. While the cost per person is a bit higher in a co-working environment, the cost of build-outs and office extras  or upgrades are not a factor that needs to be a concern as you build your business. 

Size

Despite the mass size of some co-working buildings in major cities, the size of your business is a big determining factor as to whether or not you’d be able to move into a shared environment or need your own office. With the average square footage of a co-working space nearing 8,000 square feet, it narrows down to to about 150 square feet per member. With this in mind, a new entrepreneur or small business might jump art the opportunity, however a growing business with upwards of 60 or more employees, might find it difficult to find the right accommodation in a shared environment with such a large amount of members. Not impossible, but not necessarily easy nor ideal to acclimate a large company into a shared space. 

Commitment

The business world can be a very tumultuous, so the idea of a long-term commitment to an office location can be stressful. Especially for budding businesses, it can be hard to determine the right place to set up shop, more so if there is a contract to be locked into. If the worry of a long term commitment is a factor in your new business, the co-working route might be a better option. Typically, shared work spaces offer as low as month-to-month memberships, while more traditional commercial spaces can ask you to lock in for up to 3-5 years. If your foresight about your business needs isn’t perfectly clear, perhaps going for less commitment is the better decision for you. 

Locations

Many companies, both big and small, operate across the country and ever across the globe. With offices in different timezones, cities and countries, it can be difficult for business owners and entrepreneurs to keep track of multiple offices running smoothly and profitably. More so, employees or business owners that find themselves needing to travel to various locations for meetings, interviews, recruiting, etc., a shared space can offer a home-away-from-home style office when they need it. Operate from Toronto but looking to expand to Vancouver? No problem, you can hop on over and have a fully set-up office to get your affairs in order, without compromising professionalism or making a preemptive commitment. On the other side of the spectrum, a company running multiple offices in various locations may want a more structured environment in a private office, to ensure when the cat is away, the mice won’t play. 

Finding the perfect place to run your business can be a long process. Establishing the type of morality, culture and structure you’d like for yourself and your employees should all be taken into consideration when deciding between classic office life and co-working space. With both offering different benefits and styles, both can help to grow you business and run your day to day operations smoothly, depending on what your business needs are. Thinking about making the change to a co-working space? Be sure to check out all the options Spacie offers, something for every business and eager entrepreneur to explore. 

Office Upgrades – 10 Gadgets To Make Your Work Week Better

Posted on by Ellie Ashton

No matter what type of business you’re in, it always seems that day to day office life can start to dull your senses and have you watching the clock by midday. What if there were a few helpful, and super unique, gadgets to help you turn your office space of any size into the perfect place to be productive, recharge and kick ass all the way through to Friday?

1. Foot Hammock

Sitting in an upright office chair can really start to take its toll on your posture and lower back, no matter what your age. While some offices have opted for standing desks, that doesn’t help relieve the fatigued muscles and body slump that hits about 2pm. A foot hammock easily attaches under your desk, allowing you to lift you feet while you lean back and continue to work until closing time. Believe it or not, but that tiny break of putting your feet up can really go a long way when it comes to finishing off the day on a strong note. 

2. Exercise Ball/Resistance Band

Much like the hammock lets you kick back for a bit, keeping a little stash of low impact exercise equipment can really help you feel rejuvenated before the day is done. Taking a quick 15 to stretch it out, bend it back and boost a few endorphins means less of that end of day struggle, and a better feeling body to hit happy hour! 

3. Rainbow Maker

Nothing dulls your productivity like a gloomy day. Brighten up your work space with your very own rainbow! This cool little gadget gives you the zen-like feeling of sunny, summer days and adds little pops of bright colour to turn your rainy day the other way! 

4. Colouring Books

It wasn’t long ago that stress-relieving adult colouring books hit the market and took off running with their huge popularity. At a low cost and being able to be used nearly anywhere, keeping an office stash of some Crayolas and a book can help you to lower any midday stress and take a little brain break. Eating lunch alone? Do a little colouring while you snack and let your mind relax and focus on something else. Just watch how refreshed you will feel when you return to work.

5. Healthy Snacks

Nothing slows down a day’s productivity like a hunger slump. That post-lunch hunger rolls in and you start to feel dull and lethargic. Keeping a little stash of healthy snacks can work wonders on reviving you until you head home for dinner. Things such a trail mix, granola bars and even a little bit of chocolate and perk you up and keep you productive until the clock strikes 5 – And don’t forget to stay hydrated! Skip the sodas and keep a reusable water bottle close by to keep your focus up. 

6. Cleaning Supplies

While most offices have an after-hours cleaning company that swoops in after everyone has left, that doesn’t mean you can’t keep a little bit of the work for yourself. Brain on overload and looking for a quick distraction? Grab a few Lysol wipes and do a little sanitize and organize of your work space. You’ll get a nice little brain break, not to mention the fresh scent and organized space will help you to focus and feel back on track. 

7. Ostrich Pillow

Everyone gets a lunch break, or a smoke break, or some even get a break whenever they’d like. Enter, the Ostrich Pillow. This handy little new pillow allows you the plop your head down on your desk and catch some Zzzs, while giving you comfort, privacy and blocking out any office noise. Extra tired today? Speed through your sandwich and grab a quick 10 minute power nap comfortable at your desk. You’ll thank us later. 

8. Plants

Since many people suffer from allergies, not all offices allow for real, living flowers. However, greenery is usually a go! From tropical looking leaves to simple succulents, adding some plants to work your space can help turn a drab office into something that feels more home-like and zen. While it may seem like a small change, tiny touches can really go a long way when you’re spending extra hours at work. Try adding a few little plants to desk or work space and watch the difference it makes. 

9. Whiteboard Clock

Stop watching the clock and waiting for quitting time. Instead, try a whiteboard clock! This handy new gadget helps to not only break up your day to keep the hours pressing on, but it also helps you time-block and manage your tasks with ease. Work away, and when the clocks hits your next task, you’ll know to switch it up. It’s also great for showing you how much time you need to allot for projects in the future, and keeps the day sailing by. 

10. Desk Light

Nothing is worse than getting in the zone on a big project and being interrupted by a colleague asking you to sign a birthday card. Solution is simple! You can add a light to your workspace that politely lets people know when you don’t want to be disturbed. This works great for shared office spaces, as they can see your red light and know to come back later. In contrast, you can flip the light to green when you cruising through the day and don’t mind a little impromptu chitchat. 

Whether you work in a shared space or a traditional office, any tips and tricks to help the day go smoother are always a good idea. From keeping you calm to revamping your afternoon brain fog, there is no shortage of helpful gadgets. Looking to turn your office into a shared space? Don’t forget to check out the amazing selection of co-working spots Spacie has to offer! 

Workin’ For The Weekend: How To Better Manage Your Work Week

Posted on by Ellie Ashton

The Sunday scaries. The Monday struggle. The midweek slump. When the work week fatigue starts to hit, what do you do? No matter what field of you’re in, everyone knows the feeling of trying to just make it to the weekend, and pull through another week of work-life stress. What if there were a few tips and tricks along the way to help you manage your stress, energy and even polish off Friday with a smile? 

Monday

The most dreaded day of the week is Monday. Back to the 7am alarm clock, rush hour traffic and starting the week off all over again. However, Monday is actually a perfect time to set yourself up for an easier workweek. While Monday mornings can be a hectic game of catchup, they are actually the best day to regroup, schedule and plan. By taking time during your Monday morning to plan your week and reevaluate your tasks and goals, you’re less likely to feel flustered and burn out before the weekend. So grab your whiteboard or Google calendar, and map out a plan for what you need to do, when you need to do it by and who you need involved. Don’t forget to schedule your personal life, too – It will help you stay on track and stay less stressed throughout the week. 

Tuesday

Studies show that Tuesday is the best day of the week to schedule meetings. The logic comes based on the fact that the Monday mayhem has cooled, and the midweek slump hasn’t set in yet. This is the perfect day to get all your meetings and conferences scheduled, done and out the way. By keeping your meetings scheduled to a specific block of time or day, you are less likely to break focus on other tasks later in the week, and can stay on track and running smoothly. Not to mention, if you happen to work in marketing or sales, Tuesday has been shown to be the most popular day for positive client impact. 

Wednesday

Hump day! We’ve all felt the struggle of Wednesday. The fatigue is catching up, our necks are sore from hunching over a desk. Wednesday is a great day to schedule a little self-care and relaxation. Today is the perfect day to treat yourself to a nice lunch and take a little breather. Do some stretching in the local park over lunch hour, take a quick 15 to go for a walk or reorganize your desk. Experts say that breaking up the work day midweek can lower stress, revive energy and lead to a more productive closeout of the week. Not to mention, YouTube has hundreds of free stretching tutorials you can do right at your desk! So go ahead, take a little time to yourself.

Thursday

Thirsty Thursday, Friday Junior, the its-almost-the-weekend work day! Thursday is the perfect day to start prepping for the closeout of the week. While you’ve got one more early left before your Saturday sleep-in, giving a little extra effort on Thursday can make your Friday a breeze. Use this day to finish up any projects, tie up loose ends and gather any final pieces you may need. As  plenty of people cut out early on Friday or take a long lunch, making sure everything is lined up by end of day Thursday, means for your Friday afternoon can be stress free and an easy ride right into the weekend. So send your emails, make your calls and staple your files before you leave for the day, you’ll thank us tomorrow!

Friday

Fri-YAY. The end is near, the week is done and cool, crisp beer is just hours away. Can’t leave until 5pm? No problem. Since you already prepped and planned for the week, and tied up your loose ends on Thursday, you can relax a little bit. Get you materials together for Monday,  take a look at projects further on the horizon, knock off those tiny tasks you’ve haven’t been prioritizing. Keep it productive but casual, and watch how fast the clock clicks into the weekend. Slow your stress pace a little, you’ve earned it. 

No matter what your office environment is, there is always a basic workweek structure. By taking a little breather and mapping out your Monday to Friday, you can help to reduce your stress and anxiety, while increasing productivity. Looking to switch up your office space? Take a look at all the amazing options Spacie has available for every business size.