For many, their office is their second home, which should suggest that the office is someplace that is pleasant, comfortable and personal. Unfortunately, this is seldom the case, as most offices are uniform, white and much depersonalized. If you’re spending hours in this place, why not take the time to add some personal touches to the room that make the hours spent there more relaxing and productive. Your office is not a jail cell (though some days that could be challenged), so why not take a bit of time and create an enjoyable work space.

Here are a few suggestions on how to create a more cheering work space:

1. Pictures- Photographs of family and friends are the surest way to personalize your work space and make it feel homier. Find some nice frames and fill them with visual memories of some of your great and fun moments.

2. Art- Paintings or artful photographs can often make a room more attractive and inviting, especially when you are bringing in your personal favorites.

3. Paint- This personal touch can only be done with permission, but if you are aloud, add some color to your walls. White is very sterile, adding some warmer colors will greatly change the atmosphere of the room.

4. Show off a hobby- If you are a quilter, make a small hanging quilt for your wall. If you are a fisher then add some fishing décor to your walls. If you like Star Trek fan, then have a shelf to show off the model ships you’ve built. Whatever your hobby, having it on display will make your office seem more homey and personal.

5. Music- If you are aloud to have music playing in your work area take advantage of it. Music can be such a mood setter that having the right tunes playing in your area can reduce stress or help to awaken the senses.