7 Ways to Make Your Work Desk Feel More Like Home

Simply knowing your 4 p.m. caffeine fix is in the drawer will do wonders for your state of mind. Stock up on caffeinated and decaffeinated instant coffee, a few wooden stirrers, and a mug with sentimental value. Bonus points for hoarding packets of hot chocolate to mix into your desk brew for a caffè mocha al desko.

Adding plants or flowers to your work space lifts the mood, and cleans the air around you. Succulents are always a good idea, because they’re hard to kill and won’t wilt over the weekend or during your vacation.

It's a bright idea to add a chic lamp to your desk setup. The additional illumination will help your eyes manage the strain of working under fluorescent ceiling lights all day long.

Prior planning prevents poor lunch experiences. Lunch buyers and bringers alike know that an urge for mustard or hot sauce can hit at any time. That’s why it’s best to stock up on condiments ahead of time and store them in a deep file drawer. Add olive oil and balsamic vinegar to the list if you're fancy.

The temperature can fluctuate wildly in an office, so be prepared for an indoor cold snap with a cozy throw.

Slipping off your shoes offers instant relaxation. It’s normal to worry that nearby colleagues will notice — or worse, smell — your feet out in the open. If you work in a formal office, going shoeless may not fly. But in more casual workplaces, go ahead and let your toes breathe.

Take a pillow from your sofa at home, and bring it to the office. The pillow will offer back support and contribute to an overall cozy feeling.