the walls and shelves of a room of one’s own

For my high school graduation, my Aunt Alice gave me the book A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf. The title says it all.

I’ve been thinking lately of how that room of my own affects the work I do. I have a small room in my apartment that has been designated as my office. And in that room, I have carefully chosen the books on the shelves, the pictures on the walls, and the location of my desk. I happen to find it inspiring to, when I work, see a photo of my great-grandmother, a collage of people I admire pinned to a bulletin board, books that are particularly meaningful on the shelf next to me, framed pictures that were gifts from friends hanging on the wall, and a tiny rubber frog sitting on my desk because… well, just because. My office is inviting to me, comfortable for me, and, everywhere I look, I am reminded of what grounds and inspires me.

Some of you have an office away from home or a cubicle away from home or a work corner in your living room. Whatever and wherever your office room is, consciously creating the atmosphere around you, even if it’s hanging a single photograph, makes it a room of your own.

What are your suggestions for creating that special work space?