A psychiatrist explains 7 strategies that will help you work smarter

Flickr/Luigi Mengato

Our environment matters more than we often realize. Research has repeatedly shown that our surroundings impact our behavior and emotions. Students do better in schools with more natural light.

Painting prison walls a certain shade of pink reduces aggression. A high ceiling encourages more expansive and creative thinking.

This is especially relevant for the workplace. If you spend a lot of time at the office — according to the American Time Use Survey, we spend 8.7 hours at work on an average day — it is worth channeling your inner interior designer and creating an environment that enhances your wellbeing and productivity.

While changing the ceiling height of your workspace may not be an option, here are seven ways you can optimize your office:

1. Go green

Invest in a plant or two. Studies show that indoor plants boost mood and creativity. They also reduce stress and enhance concentration. They’re good for your health.

Patients recovering from surgery in a hospital room decorated with plants and flowers had lower blood pressure, reported less fatigue and required less pain medication. Splurge on some fresh flowers occasionally. The positive effect will last for days.

2. Make your mark

Studies show that personalizing your workspace is empowering and linked with greater productivity. Bring in photos and other knick-knacks that matter to you.

These personal items will help you maintain emotional energy in the face of stress and may help compensate for the lack of privacy if you work in an open office space.

3. Minimize distractions

If you don’t have a door to close, invest in a pair of headphones. Noise takes a toll on productivity.

One study found that workers lose up to 86 minutes a day due to noise distractions. Wearing headphones also sends a signal to co-workers that you do not want to be disturbed.