Express Yourself at Work by Decorating Your Own Space

Its 7:45 am and you are rushing through traffic just to pick up your java at Tim Horton's and then its rush rush and off to the office, all to sit there and stare endlessly at the four walls surrounding you. Well, that is until you decide to get your work done.

Well how about sprucing things up a bit? Try taking that boring felt lined cubicle and turning it into a personalized space.

Here are some themes and tips for turning your work space into a Feng Shui space with personal flair.

First off, be sure to check with your supervisor to make sure you are able to change your space around a bit.

Asian- An Asian inspired theme is easy to achieve, buy bamboo curtains to hang on your walls, or even hang partially to imitate a window. Another window idea is rice paper, rice paper can be used as a backdrop, to create a subtle oriental look. Don't forget the Bonsai plant, (very oriental) it doesn't have to be real it can be plastic. Picture frames or shadow boxes with Chinese writing or proverbs are a great idea to add interest. Black Red and gold are highlighted colors in reference to Asian or Oriental decorating. A small rock garden can adorn your desk, don't forget rocks with Chinese proverbs to add a relaxing touch.

Tropical - Tropical themes are always popular. A wall Mural can be found at pottery barn.com, which makes you feel like you are right at the beach or watching a relaxing sunset. Add a water fountain to create a subtle relaxing state to help you concentrate on your work. Jimmy Buffett carries a very beachy tropical theme, visit his store and then try adding little touches like mouse pads and stationary with tropical themes. Need to put your tropical vacation postcards to good use? Utilize them to create a tropical collage to adorn your walls or the dark side of your filing cabinet. Sea shells and sand in a clear glass vase are also an idea to contribute to your beach theme. Don't forget the potted palms and banana leaf trees. Screensavers of your favorite beaches can blink on your desktop while you are away!

Paris- Everyone loves ole Parie! Black and white photos of the Eiffel Tower and other European landmarks are very hot design items right now. Matted and tucked behind a black frame, these prints will pop in your small space. The Eiffel tower lights up beautiful at night, why not utilize your space with subtle lighting, you may be able to get away with a small string of lights to adorn your cubicle. Creating collages of Paris memoriblla, photos and travel stamps are a great way of adding character to the themed space. Pottery Barn carries a Photo Carousel, which is reminiscing of an antique photo holder, very Parie. If you are crafty then try decoupaging, some items such as your pencil or pen case, find some Paris themed scrapbooking paper or stickers and add them to your office odds and ends to create the look you want.

Interchanging and misc- Interchanging different themes and items can also bring your artistic side to the surface and what better place to show it off then your desk at work. Why not bring some of the comfortable settings you feel at home to work with you. Try your favorite candle but don't burn it. simply use a candle warmer to bring to life the scents you love. Adorn your walls your favorite colors of fabric or wallpaper and bring photos from friends and families to work to highlight your space. A linen pin board adorned with ribbons can hold notes and messages so they are always in front of you, a pretty way to look at office clutter. Be sure to buy a clear vase that you can interchange flowers to suit your taste or even objects such as shells and colored glass that can shine through. Stainless steel is hot right now, try hanging just four stainless steel magnetic pieces to create a contemporary look for displays and work orders. Why not complete your personalized look with a betta fish and a water plant, a beautiful and friendly focal point for your space.

I've only highlighted a few themes, mix and matching and incorporating your personal style is what matters most to create harmony in your workspace.