Environment

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Revision as of 11:53, 30 March 2023 by Styrke (talk | contribs) (Add some more notes about light)

The environment you find yourself in can affect your ability to focus and be productive.

If there is a certain space that you associate with being productive it will probably be easier to focus if you are there.

Factors about the physical environment include

  • Temperature - When we get cold it means we're expending more energy to keep ourselves warm. This increased energy expenditure to regulate body temperature can lead to fatigue and distraction, making it difficult to focus on work. When temperatures are too warm, it can cause discomfort, fatigue, and dehydration, leading to reduced concentration and increased errors. Like with cold temperatures, warm temperatures can also cause distractions, as individuals try to cool themselves down. Research suggests that the optimal temperature for productivity in the workplace is around 70-73°F (21-23°C), as this provides a comfortable environment that allows individuals to focus and work effectively.
  • Noise
  • Light - Light should be sufficient for completing the task at hand. If it is too dim, it might be necessary to strain to see what's needed. Light that is too bright and direct can be distracting and cause squinting which can in the worst cases lead to headaches. If working with a monitor, bright light from some angles can make it difficult to see what's on the screen. Sufficient amounts of light can probably also improve seasonal affective disorder. For extreme case studies, look into lumenators[1].
  • Air humidity
  • How disorganised or tidy the space is. Is it easy to find and use the tools you need to work?

References

  1. LessWrong post: How to build a lumenator.