“Baby, it’s cold outside.”

My office is about 12 degrees “warm” this afternoon. The sun is shining outside the window, but don’t be fooled. The winds are chilly. I believe winter has arrived; fall skipped (again).

While sitting here, nose and fingertips slightly numb, it occurred to me…

“Your work environment is as key to your productivity as a good night’s sleep.”

For as long as I can remember, I’ve heard, “Make sure you get a good night’s sleep so you can make it through the day tomorrow!”

What if I’m well rested, at 7 a.m., but completely put off by my surroundings once I’m in the office? Your home-away-from-home has to be inviting, relaxing and, dare I say, fun.

Here are a few of my favorite things…

My diplomas. They remind me of why I worked so hard at Murray State University; to get here.

My plants. When the stress is overpowering, they reassure me that life goes on.

My wooden sushi set. Who doesn’t need Velcro-fastened California rolls and ama ebi?

My family photos. Pictures of my husband and sons remind me that I work to live. I don’t live to work.

My thank you notes. Received from co-workers (and their children), these little notes remind me that random acts of kindness are important.

My 3-year-old son’s cloud mobile. It may just be paper, strings and a wire hanger, but it reminds me that there’s a higher power at work in my life.

My candy jar. It’s always nice when people wander in to say, “hello” (and swipe M&Ms).

What do you like about your office?