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When we think of productivity, we tend to consider it as a matter of discipline. We think that if we put in the time and effort, we should be able to bring the focus and achieve our goals; it stands true, but productivity might just be more than more motivation, better habits and time management - it could be the environment that surrounds us. The spaces we inhabit influence our internal factors, such as thoughts, emotions, and ability to concentrate, in ways we often overlook. 

"Environment is the invisible hand that shapes human behavior”

- James Clear, author of Atomic Habits

The idea is simple but immensely impactful – our surroundings guide us, even without us realizing it. 

It is rather simple if we think about it. Imagine working in an organized workspace with all the bearings you need to complete your tasks within your reach and not many distractions around. You might have a very productive time in this scenario. Now, imagine trying to be productive in a cluttered environment; it doesn’t seem very easy, does it? It is the same contrast there is in spending a day in a windowless office and one filled with natural light. These might seem like minor details, but their cumulative impact on how we think and perform is very high. 

Our brain is constantly perceiving our surroundings and processing what it means. A specific and thoughtfully designated workspace can signal our brain to focus. A cosily designed reading corner holds you and your thoughts comfortably. On the other hand, a chaotic environment could overwhelm or distract us easily. The relevance of our environment to our productivity is not only practical but deeply psychological. 

This may be because we as humans cannot be understood by separating ourselves from our surroundings. We tend to absorb the mood of our environment, almost as if the atmosphere around us shapes the atmosphere within our minds as well. 

The way we respond to nature and humans’ relationship with it is an excellent example of this connection. According to the Human Spaces Global Report, which surveyed over 7,600 employees across 16 countries, workers in environments that incorporated natural elements such as plants, natural materials, and outdoor views reported 15% higher well-being, 6% higher productivity, and 15% greater creativity than those working in spaces with little connection to nature. What this study showcases to us is that even a small interaction with nature can positively influence our emotions and performance throughout the day. 

This research also points to something that most of us already know: a little time with nature could bring immense clarity. Whether it's a healthy desk plant you are nurturing, the view of lush trees outside your window or even a walk in a park to clear your head, nature creates conditions that support focus and creativity. 

Another environmental factor we tend to overlook is light; it plays a critical role in our ability to focus with clarity. Research suggests that daylight might be more than the simple comfort we view it as. A study conducted by the Well Living Lab in collaboration with Mayo Clinic found that employees with access to daylight and outdoor views demonstrated improvements in memory-related cognitive functions and response inhibition. Participants also reported greater workplace satisfaction when windows and views were part of their environment.

Put in simple terms, something as simple as where your desk is placed could influence how effectively your brain processes information. More than this, these findings also challenge the belief that productivity is only a matter of trying harder. It could be that sometimes it is a matter of missing alignment between us and our environment. We could be trying to focus for hours without success in our rooms, and then opening a window and letting some fresh air and light in could make all the difference. 

Of course, there cannot be a universally perfect workspace that works for every single person. We differ as people in our process and necessities - some of us thrive in bustling coffee shops, while some need complete silence to bring their focus to its peak. The key is to explore how different environments affect our energy, attention and creativity, then leverage the various factors to build spaces that nurture us. 

Sometimes, the path to greater focus begins not with changing yourself, but with changing the space around you.