Our picks will make doing your best work feel like a breeze

It’s September, the season of transformation, and for many of us, a time when we’re heading into the last quarter of the year with renewed focus and motivation – whether that be directed towards school, college, that big work project or those final 1000 pages of your first novel.

And while being successful and productive is part of an all-around healthy routine based on building good habits and a consistent routine, there are some little quick fixes that can help you set off on a good foot. 

Yes, we’re talking about those little touches that can help you to bring some order and organization to your desk, and make sitting down to work a pleasure rather than a chore.

We consulted members of the Freedom team, and some of our friends in the productivity and digital wellbeing space and rounded up some of our favorite products that will make your workspace a little more joyful and organized, and help you do your best work.

Bagby Mat – No Phone Desk Pad

Bagby MAT is a desk pad mindfully designed to help you increase your focus and productivity and help you work distraction-free. It features a non-slip back made of cork and a soft and cushioned front with an additional special pocket to hide your phone while working.

Logitech G600 MMO Mouse

Recommended by our Engineer and resident custom keyboard creator Danny, this mouse from Logitech features 12 thumb buttons that can be used to quickly control volume or switch between browser tabs. Great for programmers and designers, it’s actually made for gaming so make sure you block Fortnite with Freedom!

Pendulum Wave Desktop Model

A desktop toy can be just the thing when you’re feeling stressed out and want to take a meditative moment, but some of the traditional ones, like Newton’s Cradle can be noisy and distracting for your colleagues if you work in a shared space!

Enter the Pendulum Wave, which simulates phases, beats, and frequencies.

When released, the pendulums will swing back and forth to quickly form a wave pattern and then cycle through different phases. It’s astoundingly hypnotic and soothing to watch!

Husky Adjustable Workbench 

If you’re in need of a desk to put all these goodies on, here’s another recommendation from software engineer Danny. This solid wood workbench from Home Depot is height adjustable so can be used as a standing desk and also has the option of attaching wheels so it can be easily moved around.

Branch Ergonomic Chair

If you don’t plan on standing all day, an ergonomic chair is a worthwhile investment that your back will thank you for! This chair from office furniture specialist Branch is comfortable and completely customizable, with adjustable armrests, seat height, tilt, tilt tension, seat depth, and lumbar support. The lumbar support is also adjustable and can even be completely removed, and the chair is available in a range of color combinations.

Peperomia Pixie Lime 

We’ve spoken before about the benefits of adding some greenery to your workspace, and even if it’s just one small plant on your desk, you’ll feel instantly lifted and refreshed when you look at it!

Equal parts adorable and hardy, the bright green leaves on the Peperomia Pixie Lime from Bloomscape will instantly add some zest to your desk. What’s more, these semi-succulent plants are happy in a warm environment while their leaves store excess water, making them resilient in the face of a missed watering and perfect for busy or forgetful plant parents. 

Powerball

Our Android Engineer Dmitry swears by his Powerball, which can help counter the effects of RSI caused by computer use. 

Typing and using a mouse require small, precise repetitive movements that over time can cause irritation and discomfort in the hand, wrist, and fingers. Powerball is a highly-effective tool for maintaining hand and wrist health and will help combat RSI from computer use.

Magic Pen Cubes 

Is there anything more annoying than reaching for a pen when you need one and not having one to hand? Keep your pens, pencils, or paintbrushes close by with these stylish wooden magnetic pen cubes from Wolodymyr & Kazimi. Each magnetic pen holder is equipped with a high-quality magnet that will keep your writing tools firmly attached to any metallic surface.

Place them individually or as a cheeky couple, or even arrange them in an artful grouping.

Jomo Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Stay hydrated in style with this 17-ounce, double-walled stainless steel water bottle from JOMO Goods – Featuring an odor and leak-proof cap, it will keep your drink of choice hot or cold for hours, as well as serve as a permanent reminder of the joy of missing out.

Joyful by Ingrid Fetel Lee

After welcoming designer Ingrid Fetell Lee to the podcast recently, we all felt inspired to add some touches of joy to our workspaces. In her book Joyful, Ingrid explores how the mundane spaces and objects we interact with every day have surprising and powerful effects on our mood. Drawing on cutting-edge neuroscience and psychology, she reveals how we can harness the power of our surroundings to live fuller, healthier, and truly joyful lives. It’s the perfect inspiration to spruce up your workspace!

Make it your space!

Whether it’s at home or the office, your desk is your place to do great things, and you’re going to spend a significant amount of time there. So make it a space that’s comfortable to spend time in, surround yourself with objects that inspire you, and make sure everything you need is close by.

Work won’t always be easy, but putting a little effort into your desk decor can make you smile every day, no matter the task at hand. 🌈