I have the infamous bug that’s been going around offices across
This got me thinking. I often times work more efficiently outside my office. Maybe it’s the lack of distractions, maybe it’s the creativity produced by a new environment, but there’s something about getting away from my desk that fuels productivity. In this day-in-age of laptops, wireless internet, and remote access to networks, I’m convinced that working from bed (or at least from outside the office) is good for business.
So, because I’m still pretty sick and don’t really want to talk about serious work-related stuff, I’ve decided to put together a list of my favorite places to work that aren’t my office. (For the record, I really love my office. It’s comfortable, colorful and a bit messy, and that suits me perfectly.)
Bed – After yesterday, I’m convinced that it can’t get much better than working in flannel pants under a down comforter. I’m daydreaming about it right now, in fact.
Hubbard and Cravens – Another place that has free wifi. When the weather is nice I like to sit outside and work from their tiny café tables. I’ve done some great brainstorming at the Hubbard and Cravens on Penn & 48th.
10 K path at Eagle Creek – Most of my most creative marketing ideas have developed on the 10K path at Eagle Creek. Sometimes it takes getting away from my office AND my computer to really get the best work done.
I’m in search of a few new places to add to my list. Got any other suggestions on places to work when I don’t want to work at my desk?
Ideally, I’m looking for a quiet place with WiFi and a cool atmosphere. The availability of coffee and/or beer is essential.
February 21st, 2008 at 6:12 pm
So sorry to hear that you are not feeling well, but I’m glad that it led to this stream of thought.
I agree. Getting away and into a different environment frequently helps my mind expand and develop new thoughts.
-Many parks in my area have wifi and it is beautiful! That, of course, is for warmer days.
-I also love Panera because I love the chi-tea and sitting by their fire when it is so cold outside.
Finding ways to inspire productivity sometimes takes creativity. Another reason that going away often helps is because we are surrounded by *stuff* in our offices that distract us. By getting away, we are running from the *stuff* So, if you don’t have the opportunity to snuggle under your covers, take a look at your surroundings and see how you can alter them to feel better for the way you work.
To your success!
February 22nd, 2008 at 8:58 am
I’m with ya Meg – working at home has its advantages. However, if I work from home, I still have to concentrate hard because the dust bunnies in my basement, the toys all over the floor, the dishes in the sink and the “West Wing” reruns on Bravo scream my name. I’m going to make a point to escape every so often to the new library downtown. My one brief visit was enough to convince me to give it a try…oh, but first I’ll need to finally get that laptop.
February 22nd, 2008 at 10:48 am
I’m all for the virtual office, and find myself more productive out-of-cube, but how do we rid ourselves of that lingering guilt for not going in like everyone else? Sitting at home like a shlumpadinka!
February 23rd, 2008 at 10:31 am
Stepping away from the office can be really productive. I love working at Pantera Bread, the Broad Ripple Brewpub and even the airport!
February 23rd, 2008 at 10:45 am
Noelle-I have never seen the word “shlumpadinkal” before in my life, but now that I know how to spell it, I may have to work it into every blog I write. It’s fantastic! As for the lingering guilt – there are many benefits of the virtual office, but there are many curses. I often think about how much more I work on the weekends and in the evenings due to my laptop. I think that helps me to justify the occasional day out of the office.
D-I too enjoy the Broad Ripple Brewpub. Beer and Free WiFi. Yes, please!
BTW-Is Pantera Bread the lesser-known, Heavy Metal version of the Panera Bread chain?
February 25th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
The new Central Library is an amazing place to work, study or just pass time. Great wireless, lots of space to spread out, and lots of good energy from the others who frequent the library make it a great place to be.