Key No. 11
Rearranging Your Study And Work Environment
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Historical
The monasteries of old had all that you could
desire for a conducive study and work environment. They were isolated and
protected from distractions and invading visitors, self-sufficient in
resources, and bastions of discipline and order. The objectives of their
residents were well laid down and the daily plan was designed to ensure that
these objectives were attained. Achieving the daily prayer, study and work plan
was made possible by the conducive environment and the rules of the monastic
life. Strict work allocation times, meal breaks and recreation periods
prevailed. Time for reflection on their objectives and progress towards the
objectives was carefully metered out and monitored. Distractions and
interruptions were eliminated and frivolous activities were forbidden or curtailed.
Today's Application
You can learn from this way of life and adopt the
more amenable parts to suit yourself. In this section, however, the physical
environment created in the monasteries will be considered in determining the
location and layout of your study or office area. Incorporating some of the
suggestions of Feng Shui may also be of interest. For most of us our bedroom
doubles as our study.
Domain
Your study or office area should be partially
enclosed on three sides if possible so as to minimise interference,
distractions and noise. You should face the centre or inner wall and have your
back to the opening. The area should be distinctively yours, providing you with
a feeling of security and privacy as well as being a place of refuge to which
you can retreat. A visitor or caller should always feel that he or she is in
your distinct area or domain.
Aspect
Ideally one of the sides should provide a view to
the outdoors. There should also be an internal view showing a display of your
qualifications if applicable, achievements to date and your favourite idol or
icon. Personalising your work area can be done by including something
associated with your family or social life. In an office environment the
internal aspect of the area should also reflect the status associated with the
career or function and this should apply particularly to senior positions.
Adequate space must also be allowed for computer equipment, printers, storage
and drawing boards.
Environment
Lighting, including daylight if possible, heating
and ventilation, should be to office or industry standards. Local lighting
should be provided for detail and precision work. Be conscious of your own
health and safety needs and those of others as well as any local safety
requirements.
Consideration should also be given when choosing colours for walls and
furnishings that they contribute to creating a stimulating environment. Adding
a plant or floral display can brighten up your day.
Activity Status
Display your daily study or work plan, important
timetables and notifications. Highlight your current position against target
dates for study revision, project submission and task completion.
Time Awareness
Provide a calendar, clock, alarm, timetables and
schedules of events covering lectures, meetings, examinations and social
activities.
Utilities
For the study or office area the following items
are required: a large desk, storage space, shelving, drawer units (lockable),
trays and holders and a comfortable chair with swivel or castors. Stock up with
all the stationery and desk top supplies.
Remember having a place for everything eliminates searching.
Communications
All the necessary communication links should be
provided or accessable when required. At all levels of study and work greater
use is now being made of computers, scanners, printers, telephones, mobile
phones, photocopiers and faxes.
Data Bases
Data bases in the form of reference books,
libraries, encyclopaedias, reports, articles, manuals, microfilm, instructions,
drawings, notes, etc. should be available, kept up to date and near at hand in
a suitably indexed filing or retrieval system. Access to the Internet, local
intranets and the provision of the necessary CDs and DVDs must also be
undertaken.
Expansion Space
Consideration must always be given to your future
space requirement and provision should be made for just such an event. In the
business world this is a critical requirement but unfortunately it is often
neglected.
Psychological Considerations
Your study or office area should be designed to
provide stimulation and inspiration. The overall effect should be to create a
physical environment conducive to study and work.
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