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what I changed in my space that changed my focus

  • Writer: kaila o.
    kaila o.
  • Jan 28
  • 2 min read

There’s been deep pain and outrage across our country right now, especially after the fatal shootings in Minneapolis. Many of us share a collective grief or maybe even anxiety about this country’s future. The general sense of fatigue a lot of us are carrying can leave us feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure how to hold space for progress while still trying to cultivate our own peace.


It’s alright to feel tired or even want to disconnect from it.


And yet, even when so much feels out of our control, there are small corners of life we can influence — and that’s where our wellness begins.


One place I’ve personally focused my energy is my physical environment — especially the space where I work and create. For the past few weeks, I dedicated myself to cleaning and simplifying my desk space. No clutter, no random piles— just the essentials I need for work, creativity, and calm focus. Here’s what I’ve noticed in just three weeks: my readiness to work has shifted. When I sit down in this clean, intentional area, my brain somehow says “Yes — let’s go.” The work feels lighter, the to-dos feel smaller, and even my mood is steadier.


It’s not magic — it's an environment changing mindstate.



 3 Organizational Tips to Elevate Your Space (and Your Mood)


1. Maximize Your Wall Space with Shelves

Think vertically — shelves free up desk surface area and give you room for things you love or use often.Use that real estate to display:

  • Inspiring books

  • Plants 

  • Functional bins or baskets–i.e. The container I purchased JUST for cords and charger. #gamechanger


    This keeps your workspace open and your mind uncluttered.


2. Give Everything a “Home”

When every object has a designated place — pens, notebooks, chargers, water bottle — the visual chaos disappears.


It’s not about having less stuff; it’s about having purposeful places for what you keep. You’ll spend less time searching and more time flowing.


3. Keep Surfaces Clean, Clear, and Intentional

Even if you only restructure your desk — wiping it down and removing anything that doesn’t serve your productive mindset — you create mental breathing room. A clear physical space often leads to clearer thoughts and better decisions.


Why This Matters

It took me a while (despite my mom’s pleading for me to become an organized person), that our environments feed our nervous systems. Messy and cluttered spaces can subconsciously signal stress. Clean, intentional spaces tell your brain, “This is focus time. I’m ready.” When so much in the world feels chaotic or uncertain, building a sanctuary — even a small one — can be a powerful act of care. I started with my desk, next up: organizing my dress and laundry spaces.

Remember: you don’t have to control everything — you just have to steward what you can.

That alone is discipline.That alone is wellness.That alone is power.


Final Breath

One closing breath with me: Inhale for a count of 4 — feel your whole body expand.

Exhale for 6 — releasing stress, tension, and worry.

We're all doing better than we think. And every small step — even cleaning a desk — moves the needle toward peace.


Where we slow down enough to care—for ourselves and each other.


 See you next Wednesday 🪷


 
 
 

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