Why a Cluttered Work Desk of Cables and Connectors Quietly Erodes Your Influence

Influence rarely collapses. It thins. It fades at the edges, not enough to be dramatic, but enough to be consequential. People do not suddenly stop listening; they listen with less urgency. They do not openly question authority; they quietly defer elsewhere. Most professionals assume influence is won or lost through ideas, confidence, or communication. Far less attention is paid to the environments that quietly erode authority before speech even begins. The work desk is one such environment. It is not neutral. It is one of the few physical spaces that consistently represents a person in their absence. It speaks continuously, even when its owner is silent. And among all the elements that populate a desk, cables and connectors carry an unusual psychological weight. They are functional, unavoidable, and easily dismissed by the person who depends on them. Yet to observers, they form a persistent visual argument—one that subtly reshapes how competence, control, and influence are inferred.

What Is Neuroadaptation—and Why Medicine and Food Stop Feeling the Way They Once Did

The first time something works—really works—it feels like discovery. A medication settles the mind. A painkiller quiets the body. A food delivers comfort so immediate it borders on relief. And then, slowly, almost imperceptibly, the effect softens. The same dose calms less. The same flavor excites less. Nothing is wrong, exactly, but nothing is quite the same. People respond to this erosion with confusion and irritation, as though something reliable has broken its promise. But what has occurred is neither failure nor betrayal. It is neuroadaptation: the brain’s quiet insistence on normalizing what once stood out. This process governs far more than tolerance. It shapes how we respond to medicine, how we experience food, and how quickly pleasure and relief are reclassified as baseline. Neuroadaptation is not a flaw in the system. It is the system, revealing how the brain prioritizes stability over satisfaction—and how human disappointment often begins where biology is simply doing its job.

You Are Not Overly Jealous or Sadistic to See Your Workplace Rival’s Misfortunes — But It Still Feels So Good. Why?

There is a moment—brief, involuntary, and rarely admitted—when you hear that a workplace rival has stumbled, and something inside you loosens. The feeling is not loud enough to be called joy, not sharp enough to be cruelty, and not bitter enough to qualify as jealousy. It is subtler than that. A quiet easing. A faint internal click, as though a pressure valve has released. You do not wish them harm. You do not celebrate openly. And yet, if you are honest, the news feels… right. This reaction troubles people because it contradicts the moral image they maintain of themselves as fair, generous, and emotionally mature. But the feeling persists precisely because it is not pathological. It is structural. It arises not from malice, but from the way modern work binds identity, status, and justice into a single, fragile narrative. To understand why a rival’s misfortune feels good, one must stop asking whether it is ethical and start asking what psychological debt it quietly repays.

Growing office desk plant? 7 Ways in Which It Affects Perceptions About You

There is something quietly suspicious about a real plant growing on an office desk. Not plastic, not faux moss, not a decorative cactus sourced from the clearance rack — but a living thing with soil, roots, and the audacity to thrive under fluorescent lighting. Offices are designed to neutralize personal identity, and yet a plant refuses to comply. It grows, sheds, leans toward the nearest patch of sunlight like a prisoner testing the strength of a window. People notice it, even when they pretend not to. It’s a biological interruption in a habitat built for sameness. And because workplaces are systems where meaning is never neutral, the plant becomes a message — not always the one you intended to send. The colleague walking past doesn’t just see leaves; they see you through those leaves. They interpret your watering schedule, the species you chose, the size of the pot, the stubborn resilience of a pothos, or the fragile drama of a fiddle-leaf fig. In an office where even your handwriting on a sticky note becomes data, a plant becomes a psychological case study. You brought it because you wanted something alive next to your keyboard; everyone else reads it as evidence of who you are. The plant grows, the meanings accumulate, and before you realize it, your small patch of soil has become a mirror you never asked to hold.

How to work around an office colleague who is definitely a racist?

It begins quietly. A pause that lasts a little too long when you enter the room. A smirk the moment you speak. A joke sharpened to look harmless but meant to cut. A pattern of “accidental” oversights, “innocent” mispronunciations, and those peculiar compliments that sound more like ethnographic observations than praise. You don’t need a handbook to know when someone in your office is a racist — the body catches it before the intellect does. There’s a shift in the air, a microscopic tightening of your shoulders, the subtle recalibration of how you occupy space. Racism at work is rarely shouted; it’s designed to pass as professionalism, to hide beneath the sterility of corporate décor. But the body knows. It always knows. And working beside someone who carries racial contempt the way others carry a lunchbox becomes a slow, grinding form of psychological erosion. It’s the daily choreography of deciding when to respond, when to ignore, when to protect your sanity, and when to protect your job. Across cultures and centuries, humans have learned how to live near those who view them as lesser — but the office compresses that experience into an eight-hour performance of patience, calculation, and restraint. To navigate a racist colleague is to walk the fault line between survival and dignity, between diplomacy and self-respect, between the need to remain employed and the human instinct to resist degradation.

SO Hate Me for Carrying One…somewhere in my daily gear

This might sound contorted and tweaked in the most pessimistic way, but the opinionated demographic that I have repeatedly interacted with at workplaces suggests that this is by far the most common perception. A safety pin has been with me at various stages of my life, usually pinned into my schoolbag or college gear by my mom. What once started as an irritating habit that she could not let go of slowly turned into something I started associating with her. I have come across safety pins to be ultra-handy at my work desk, in everyday life situations, when traveling, and when preparing myself for a day of repairs at home. Still, the usual perception is skewed and unreasonable in the most comprehensive way. It seems like the work communities I'm talking about are inspired by how I relate a safety pin in my office drawer as a connecting medium with childhood memories and perhaps as a part of everyday life management. For me, it happens to be a very versatile tool. I have never been ashamed of spotting one in the depths of my office carry. The opinions associated with a man carrying it are the symptoms of a much larger problem. I would call them downstream symptoms of some things engraved in our mindset during our growing-up years. Is this about being urbanized or culturally well-endowed? Certainly not! 

BEYOND PERSONAL OPINIONS: SHARING SOME INFORMATION ABOUT THIS SUBJECT GATHERED FROM THE WEB

What is the history of safety pins?

The safety pin is a simple but versatile fastening device that has been used for thousands of years. The earliest known safety pins were made by the ancient Greeks and Romans, who used fibula, a type of safety pin, to secure their clothing. These pins were made of bronze or other metals and were often decorated with intricate designs. During the 19th century, the safety pin as we know it today was developed. Walter Hunt, an American inventor, is credited with creating the first modern safety pin in 1849. He intended to use the device as a way to secure the clothing of his children; however, he sold the rights to the invention for $400 to pay off a debt. In the late 19th century, safety pins began to be mass-produced and became widely available. They were used for a variety of purposes, including fastening clothing and diapers, and even as a tool for sewing and crafts. Safety pins have also been used as a fashion statement and symbol of rebellion. In the 1970s, punk rockers in London began wearing safety pins as a symbol of their anti-establishment attitude. The safety pin has since been used as a symbol of counterculture, punk rock, and rebellion. In more recent times, safety pins have also been used as a symbol of solidarity with marginalized groups, particularly immigrants and people of color.

Which celebrity was once famous for the controversial safety pin dress?

The celebrity who was once famous for wearing a controversial safety pin dress is Elizabeth Hurley. She wore a black Versace dress held together with large gold safety pins to the premiere of "Four Weddings and a Funeral" in 1994. The dress was designed by Gianni Versace, who collaborated with Elizabeth Hurley on the design of the dress. The dress was widely reported in the media and was considered a daring and provocative fashion statement at the time. It helped to establish Elizabeth Hurley as a fashion icon and helped to launch her career as an actress.

Are safety pins included in camping gear?

Safety pins are not typically considered a standard item in camping gear, but they can be useful for a variety of purposes while camping. They can be used to repair tears in clothing or gear, secure tarps or other coverings, hang clothes or gear, secure tent poles, and more. They are small, lightweight, and easy to pack, so they can be a handy item to bring along on a camping trip. Some outdoor gear stores also sell specially designed camping safety pins, which are more durable and rust-resistant than regular safety pins, making them more suitable for outdoor use.

Can you carry safety pins aboard an international flight?

Safety pins are generally considered to be safe items to bring aboard an international flight. They are not considered to be weapons or hazardous materials, and they are not restricted items. They can be packed in your carry-on or checked baggage without any issues. However, it's important to note that each airline and airport has its own set of security rules, so it's always a good idea to check with your airline or the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) before your flight to make sure that there are no restrictions or special requirements for carrying safety pins. It's also worth mentioning that, as with any item, safety pins should be packed in a manner that does not pose a risk to other passengers or the aircraft, for example, it's not advisable to pack them in a way that could cause injury.

Is there a cartoon or animation figure inspired by safety pins?

I couldn't find any specific cartoon or animation character inspired by safety pins. However, it's worth noting that safety pins have been used in various ways in popular culture, and it's possible that some fictional characters have been depicted using or wearing safety pins as part of their design. Safety pins have been used as a symbol of counterculture and punk rock, and as a symbol of solidarity with marginalized groups, and some characters in comics, movies, or video games may have been depicted wearing safety pins as a nod to these associations.

Maintaining a Better Spinal Posture at the Workplace: Guide to a Healthy Back

A sedentary lifestyle and prolonged sitting at the workplace can lead to poor spinal posture, resulting in various musculoskeletal issues. However, with some simple adjustments and conscious efforts, you can maintain a better spinal posture and promote a healthy back. This article provides practical tips to help you improve your posture while working.

Understand Exactly What is Ergonomic Workstation Setup Is 

Start by ensuring that your workstation is ergonomically designed. Adjust your chair and desk height to support proper posture. Your feet should be flat on the floor or on a footrest, knees bent at a 90-degree angle, and hips slightly higher than your knees. Place the monitor at eye level and at arm's length to avoid straining your neck. Utilize a supportive chair with lumbar support to maintain the natural curve of your spine.

Sitting with Proper Alignment is Not that Hard

Maintaining a neutral spine position is crucial for good posture. Sit with your back against the chair, shoulders relaxed, and chin parallel to the floor. Avoid slouching or hunching forward. Distribute your body weight evenly on both hips, and if needed, use a cushion to support your lower back. Engage your core muscles to stabilize your spine and relieve pressure on the lower back.

Take Regular Breaks and Move - Even if You Are Working from Home

Prolonged sitting can strain your back. Take short breaks every 30 minutes to stand up, stretch, and move around. Perform simple exercises like shoulder rolls, neck stretches, and back extensions to relieve tension and improve circulation. Consider using a standing desk or adjustable desk converter to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. Walking during breaks or incorporating physical activity into your routine can also help strengthen your back muscles and improve overall posture.

Practice Correct Keyboard and Mouse Usage

Improper positioning of the keyboard and mouse can contribute to poor posture and strain on the upper body. Keep your elbows close to your body and bent at a 90-degree angle. Position the keyboard and mouse at a height that allows your forearms to be parallel to the floor. Avoid excessive reaching or resting your wrists on hard surfaces. Consider using ergonomic keyboards and mice that provide better support and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.

Concluding thoughts...

Maintaining a better spinal posture at the workplace is essential for a healthy back and overall well-being. By implementing ergonomic principles, practicing proper alignment, taking regular breaks, and using correct keyboard and mouse techniques, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing posture-related issues and promote a healthier work environment. Remember, consistent awareness and conscious effort are key to maintaining a better spinal posture. Prioritize your back health and make small adjustments throughout the day to improve your posture and overall quality of life.

Moving With a Body That Hesitates: Exercise, Parkinson’s, and the Work of Staying Present

Parkinson’s changes the meaning of movement long before it changes the mechanics of it. A step is no longer just a step; it is a negotiation. A stretch is no longer routine; it is a test of trust between intention and muscle. Well-meaning advice about “staying active” often misses this fundamental shift. Exercise, in the context of Parkinson’s, is not about fitness in the conventional sense. It is about keeping the nervous system engaged in conversation with the body, even when that conversation becomes halting, delayed, or unreliable. To move with Parkinson’s is not to chase strength or symmetry, but to resist disappearance—of rhythm, of confidence, of agency.

Parkinson's disease can limit a person's ability to exercise in several ways, such as:

• Mobility issues: Parkinson's disease can cause stiffness and difficulty with movement, making it difficult to perform exercises that require a full range of motion.
• Balance problems: Parkinson's can affect balance and coordination, making exercises that require standing or walking challenging.
• Fatigue: Parkinson's disease can cause fatigue, which can make it difficult for a person to sustain exercise for a long period of time.
• Tremors: Parkinson's can cause tremors, which can make it difficult to perform exercises that require precise movements, such as weightlifting or yoga.
• Difficulty with fine motor skills: Parkinson's can make it difficult to perform activities that require fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning clothes.
• Difficulty with initiating movements: Parkinson's can cause difficulty with initiating movements, called bradykinesia, which can affect the ability to start an exercise routine or complete it.

Why Exercise in Parkinson’s Is Neurological Before It Is Muscular

Parkinson’s is not primarily a disease of weakness. It is a disease of signaling. The muscles are often capable; the messages reaching them arrive late, distorted, or inconsistently. This is why exercise matters less as conditioning and more as rehearsal. Repeated movement reinforces neural pathways that Parkinson’s progressively destabilizes. Each intentional action becomes a reminder to the brain: this connection still exists. Exercise, then, is not training the body to perform; it is training the nervous system to stay involved. This reframing is crucial. When people with Parkinson’s measure themselves against traditional fitness outcomes—speed, endurance, visible progress—they often feel defeated. When movement is understood as neurological engagement rather than performance, effort itself becomes the metric.

Rhythm Over Force: Why Certain Movements Work Better Than Others

People with Parkinson’s often discover, intuitively, that rhythm helps where raw strength does not. Walking improves with music. Movements feel smoother when paced externally. Repetition synchronized to sound, breath, or count reduces the cognitive burden of initiating motion. This is not a coincidence. Parkinson’s disrupts internal cueing. External cues—music, metronomes, visual markers—temporarily bypass impaired pathways and recruit alternative circuits. Exercise that incorporates rhythm works with the condition rather than against it. This is why activities like dancing, boxing drills, cycling, and patterned walking often feel surprisingly accessible. They offer structure where the brain struggles to generate it internally.

Balance Training as a Psychological Practice

Balance exercises are often framed as fall prevention. That is true, but incomplete. Balance training also rebuilds trust. Parkinson’s introduces uncertainty into the simplest acts: turning, stopping, and standing still. Over time, fear replaces fluidity. When balance is practiced deliberately—slowly, repeatedly, without urgency—the nervous system relearns that instability does not always lead to collapse. The body becomes less guarded. Movement becomes less defensive. This matters because fear stiffens movement. Stiffness worsens symptoms. Exercise that addresses balance gently interrupts that cycle.

Why Intensity Is Less Important Than Consistency

Many people abandon exercise programs because they expect intensity to produce visible improvement. Parkinson’s rarely rewards intensity in predictable ways. What it responds to is persistence. Short, regular sessions keep neural circuits active without overwhelming them. Overexertion often increases tremor, fatigue, and discouragement. Consistency preserves function quietly, without spectacle. This is one of the cruel adjustments Parkinson’s demands: learning to value maintenance over progress. Exercise becomes less about getting better and more about not letting go.

The Emotional Cost of Exercising in Public

Fitness culture is performative. Gyms are mirrors—literal and symbolic. For people with Parkinson’s, public exercise can feel like exposure. Tremors attract attention. Movements look different. Control appears uneven. This emotional tax matters. Shame discourages participation. Many people retreat into isolation, not because they cannot move, but because they cannot tolerate being seen moving this way. Private, adaptive, or group-specific environments often restore willingness. Exercise succeeds when dignity is preserved.

Fatigue Is Not Failure

Parkinson’s fatigue is neurological, not moral. It does not correlate cleanly with effort. People can feel exhausted before exertion or suddenly depleted after minimal activity. Exercise plans that ignore this reality often collapse. The most sustainable movement practices allow fluctuation. They expect uneven days. They treat rest as part of training, not its opposite. Understanding this prevents a common psychological trap: interpreting fatigue as evidence of decline rather than as a feature of the condition.

Exercise as Identity Repair

Parkinson’s erodes spontaneity. Over time, people begin to see themselves as fragile, hesitant, diminished. Exercise counters this not by restoring the old body, but by creating a new narrative: I am someone who still moves on purpose. This matters more than muscle tone. Identity shapes motivation. When exercise becomes an assertion rather than a prescription, it survives setbacks.

When the Body Becomes Evidence: Aging, Visibility, and the Internal Gaze

Long before other people react to an aging or neurologically altered body, the person living inside it has already begun to watch themselves differently. Parkinson’s accelerates this shift. Movements that once passed unnoticed now register as data. A tremor is not just felt; it is observed. Slowness is not just experienced; it is measured. The body becomes evidence of something the mind did not consent to announce. This internal surveillance erodes dignity more efficiently than any external stare. People begin anticipating how they will look while moving. They rehearse explanations no one has asked for. They correct themselves mid-action, not to improve function, but to minimize visibility. Exercise, under these conditions, becomes a double task: moving and monitoring how that movement is being perceived.

The mirror plays an outsized role here. Many people with Parkinson’s report a subtle estrangement when watching themselves exercise. The reflection does not match the internal intention. The lag, the asymmetry, the effort made visible on the face—these are not failures of will, but they are often interpreted that way. Over time, the mirror stops being feedback and becomes judgment. This is where dignity quietly fractures. Not because the body cannot perform, but because performance has become the standard by which self-worth is evaluated. Modern culture teaches people to see their bodies as projects. Parkinson’s turns that project into a public audit. Visibility compounds this pressure. When movement draws attention, people begin rationing it. They choose when to move, where to move, and whether movement is “worth” being seen. The result is not laziness, but self-protection. Stillness becomes camouflage.

What is rarely acknowledged is that dignity is not restored by mastery. Perfect form is not coming back. Smoothness may not return. Waiting for confidence before being visible is a losing bargain. Dignity, in aging bodies, has to detach from aesthetics altogether. Some people reach a quiet turning point where they stop negotiating with the gaze—external or internal. They move knowing they look different. They accept that effort will be legible. This is not a resignation. It is a redefinition of what counts as composure. Exercise changes at that point. It is no longer about appearing capable. It is about remaining in a relationship with the body without hostility. The nervous system, already burdened by impaired signaling, is spared the additional task of self-policing.

Aging bodies do not lose dignity by being seen. They lose dignity when visibility is treated as something to earn. Parkinson’s exposes this lie early and without mercy. Those who continue to move despite this exposure are not displaying courage in the cinematic sense. They are practicing a quieter skill: refusing to disappear just because the body no longer performs invisibility. That refusal does not make movement easier. It makes it honest. And honesty, in a body that is slowing down, is one of the last forms of dignity fully under one’s control.

What “Best” Really Means in Best Exercises for People with Parkinsonian Symptoms

There is no universally best workout for Parkinson’s. The best movement is the one that keeps the nervous system engaged without reinforcing fear, shame, or exhaustion. The best exercise is the one that still happens next week. When advice shifts from optimization to sustainability, people stop beating themselves.

When the Body Becomes Evidence: Aging, Visibility, and the Internal Gaze

Long before other people react to an aging or neurologically altered body, the person living inside it has already begun to watch themselves differently. Parkinson’s accelerates this shift. Movements that once passed unnoticed now register as data. A tremor is not just felt; it is observed. Slowness is not just experienced; it is measured. The body becomes evidence of something the mind did not consent to announce. This internal surveillance erodes dignity more efficiently than any external stare. People begin anticipating how they will look while moving. They rehearse explanations no one has asked for. They correct themselves mid-action, not to improve function, but to minimize visibility. Exercise, under these conditions, becomes a double task: moving and monitoring how that movement is being perceived. The mirror plays an outsized role here. Many people with Parkinson’s report a subtle estrangement when watching themselves exercise. The reflection does not match the internal intention. The lag, the asymmetry, the effort made visible on the face—these are not failures of will, but they are often interpreted that way. Over time, the mirror stops being feedback and becomes judgment. This is where dignity quietly fractures. Not because the body cannot perform, but because performance has become the standard by which self-worth is evaluated. Modern culture teaches people to see their bodies as projects. Parkinson’s turns that project into a public audit.

Visibility compounds this pressure. When movement draws attention, people begin rationing it. They choose when to move, where to move, and whether movement is “worth” being seen. The result is not laziness, but self-protection. Stillness becomes camouflage.

What is rarely acknowledged is that dignity is not restored by mastery. Perfect form is not coming back. Smoothness may not return. Waiting for confidence before being visible is a losing bargain. Dignity, in aging bodies, has to detach from aesthetics altogether. Some people reach a quiet turning point where they stop negotiating with the gaze—external or internal. They move knowing they look different. They accept that effort will be legible. This is not a resignation. It is a redefinition of what counts as composure. Exercise changes at that point. It is no longer about appearing capable. It is about remaining in a relationship with the body without hostility. The nervous system, already burdened by impaired signaling, is spared the additional task of self-policing.

Aging bodies do not lose dignity by being seen. They lose dignity when visibility is treated as something to earn. Parkinson’s exposes this lie early and without mercy. Those who continue to move despite this exposure are not displaying courage in the cinematic sense. They are practicing a quieter skill: refusing to disappear just because the body no longer performs invisibility. That refusal does not make movement easier. It makes it honest. And honesty, in a body that is slowing down, is one of the last forms of dignity fully under one’s control.

Parkinson’s does not take movement away all at once. It frays it. It delays it. It makes it unreliable. Exercise, in this context, is not a fight against decline, but a refusal to disengage. Each movement says: I am still here. I am still participating. That may not look impressive. It may not look strong. But it is deeply human. And in a condition defined by gradual subtraction, choosing to move—again and again—is not fitness. It's important to keep in mind that each individual's experience with Parkinson's disease is unique and that some people may be more affected by these limitations than others. Exercise is an important aspect of managing Parkinson's disease. It can help to improve balance, coordination, and mobility, as well as reduce the severity of symptoms such as tremors and stiffness. Here are a few workout tips for people with Parkinson's:

• Consult with a physical therapist: A physical therapist can help to create an individualized exercise program that takes into account your specific needs and abilities.
• Focus on balance exercises: Balance exercises, such as tai chi or yoga, can help to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.
• Incorporate resistance training: Resistance training, such as weightlifting, can help to improve muscle strength and mobility.
• Practice activities that involve repetitive movements: Activities such as dancing or boxing can help to improve coordination and reduce symptoms such as stiffness.
• Be consistent: It's important to stick to a regular exercise routine to see the most benefits.
• Take Medications as directed by your Doctor: Parkinson's medications are more effective when taken in conjunction with exercise.

It is important to note that every individual is different, and it is best to consult with a doctor and a physical therapist before starting any exercise program.

References (URLs only)

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5712102/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7055464/
• https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Treatment/Exercise
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6336556/
• https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2018.00109/full
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8144445/
• https://aeon.co/essays/what-happens-when-the-body-stops-obeying-the-mind

Workplace Dynamics I Like Explained Via Two Borrowed Images

Corner Desk. Big Windows. Simple Furniture

Image 1 – almost instantly likable with the big window near the work desk. This is what I have been trying for, for nearly a decade now. With front-facing windows, I would have no complaints about the space closing in on me. The closed cabins make me claustrophobic. The windows are not only huge, but they are rich with so much daylight. This is a good therapy for my naturally anxious soul, and when anxiety levels are up at work, a bit of sunlight definitely helps. Even during the summer, I find a bit of daylight contributing to better mood levels as compared to working in a cubicle that is closed like a torture chamber for lifetime convicts. Another thing – this is the corner seat. Always my favorite because I tend to sit big, with my legs spread out. Here, I wouldn’t need to worry about my elbows bumping into someone’s ribs – yes, that has really happened, and I was unintentionally not too kind to the ribs. The chairs are the best if you ask me about office chairs that I adore. These are more industrial, rather than all the padding and unwanted buffering that only makes it more cumbersome to maneuver seats across the working floor. These chairs are more likely to keep you upright. The back support is really good. The sleek finishing means keeping things simple and workable with a big push for practicality rather than choosing chairs with an unending series of knobs and adjustment features.

The table or desk provides ample countertop area – not too much or too little. You don’t want huge desks that tend to encourage people to unload their household onto their tables. I am also against desks that have big, wall-like divisions that tend to alienate employees and make some teammates huddle, leaving others out of the loop. Another thing about the corner space – if you look closely, there is some very usable sill space. These small spaces help to spread out things you might need throughout the day without the need for a drawer. You can keep them in the open without making the floor look over-cluttered. 

Make Your Own Coffee. Latte Machines. Bean Grinders. Cafe Culture

Image 2 – This is not an office floor shot but a great idea which, if turned into reality, could be an awesome example of how workplaces can be employee-loving without wasting money on buying pompous stuff.  A self-sufficient, fully workable coffee zone where employees can tend the table, pour the cream for themselves and their mates, and remember to clean up without being told to – almost sounds too good to be real. Given, a few people would not be that good at prepping the brew, but then the interactions that would happen with the aim of learning the ropes would eventually contribute to better people dynamics. This setup is a bit too expensive, more retail and boutique than being utterly practical. I would want more table-tending high-raised stools. Not too many bean grinders, but one to do the daily duty would be just fine. I would love to add more interior-loving plants on the counter, in fact, across the coffee floor. Unlimited access to dairy and cream also means that employees need to exercise more self-governance to avoid excesses that can make the logistics of it all look horrible.

About to wrap-up work? Don't Just Rush / Slide Out!

Make Your Presence Felt when you Exit / Enter Your Workplace

I have always wondered if all the fancy-ass professional management courses tell young adults anything about how to end their day - there are things you should be doing when you are on the verge of signing out. Some ideas, from fatal observations, at the top of my head include:

- Never ask if you can leave: you should have your day sorted. You should know if you have completed your chores for the day, and when you have, you ought to know, so don't ask. Be sure about your work, and if you are not, you are not worthy of being in the team

- Don't leave as soon as the clock strikes 5: this is basic human psychology. No matter how much your reporting manager adores you for the work you do, there is a tendency to think that if you are not ready to spend a second more than your mandated presence on the floor, you might not be doing your best. Since you are working hard, why give space for such suspicions to surface?

- Don't leave with a bad feeling: you are most likely to carry the vibes home. There are many situations and solutions for diffusing this, including:

• Reconfirming if you have solved a query
• Double-ensuring you ticked off the most critical tasks
• Reassuring the grieving party that tomorrow, you will hand over a solution
• Asking out anyone on the floor who messed up your day to get some closure

- Make yourself heard: this is the most critical rule to calling it a day on a good note. There are many ways in which to do this, i.e., ensure that you punch out with a mannerism that resembles the things you do when you come in for the day. Choices include:

• elbowing your immediate desk partner
• saying a quick goodbye to your reporting manager
• Perhaps a quick hand-to-shoulder press to your immediate teammates 

I came across an interesting bit of information about shift workers and things they should do before they leave for the day, i.e. for the incoming shift - and it is really good that how the smallest things you do, the smallest gestures can make life a lot easier for your fellow workers, though they might not be exceptionally friendly with you: you can read this here. These are easy things you can do when ending your work day, unless of course, you are having a really horrible week. If you have the time and patience to invest a few more minutes for the next work day, you can also:

- start creating the to-do list

- set up reminders on Outlook 

- drop Skype messages to co-workers who forgot to update you

- Check your LinkedIn messages if your workplace allows this

- Borrow some quick shut-eye time to get closure on a hectic week

- Switch off any social media or work-related pings as you want to start your quality time at home

There will always be more tips about how to end your workday, but some of these are purely habitual and might not come to you easily. For instance, you might not be in the habit of cleaning up or tidying your desk. However, this can be a habit you might want to adopt since it helps you de-clutter and creates a better working environment. This editorial piece clearly says that one of the winning habits when winding up your shift at work is not to leave your desk messy. Also, the minutes leading up to your exit should not be about idle gossiping. This should not be about bitching about things at work or about people you don't like. You want to exit the workplace with a lighter, more composed mood and not with the overhang of negativity...

People will not stay with YOU, neither is the expectation real #wisen-up!

Think of me as a manager who brings a team-first perspective to the workplace, every day. However good that might sound, this is not really the best approach when you are working in a setup that has constant churning of resources, the exits are quick, often impromptu, seldom unplanned and you are essentially, almost on your own when it comes to doing something for the team. It has been a handful of years at my current stint and I believe that this duration has helped me grasp one big realization – you might have the best intentions for the team but it is not really wise to expect them to reciprocate the gesture. Why? Simple – the salary-for-work environment puts everyone in a certain place.