"Embracing Hygge at Work:

 Transforming Your Office Into a Cozy Haven "

In the pursuit of creating a more fulfilling and enjoyable work experience, many of us turn to various sources of inspiration. For me, one such source is "The Little Book of Hygge" by Meik Wiking, which delves into the Danish art of living well and explores the concept of 'hygge'. As I immersed myself in its pages, I found myself contemplating not just my home life, but also the often overlooked space of my workplace. How could I infuse a sense of hygge into my office environment? This question sparked a journey of exploration and experimentation, leading me to uncover simple yet effective ways to make my work hours more pleasant and productive.

Denmark, often ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world, owes much of its reputation to the concept of hygge. Meik Wiking, director of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, explores this notion in "The Little Book of Hygge", a cherished comfort read for many. As I revisited its pages, I approached it from a new angle—how could hygge transform my workplace? This fresh perspective prompted me to discover ways to bring warmth and comfort into the often sterile environment of the office.

Throughout this exploration, I found that infusing hygge into my workday not only made the hours more pleasant but also contributed to a more productive and fulfilling experience. Today, I'm excited to share these insights with you, in the hope that they might spark a hygge revolution in your own workplace. So let's embark on this journey together, exploring how to transform your office into a cozy haven where warmth and contentment abound.

Lighting: 

The right lighting can make all the difference in creating a cozy and inviting workspace. Instead of harsh overhead lights reminiscent of a hospital setting, opt for softer, warmer lighting. Incorporating lower lamps or string lights around the office can not only change the mood but also serve as charming decorations, contributing to a more relaxed atmosphere.

Candles: 

While a fireplace may not be a feasible option for most workplaces, you can still achieve instant hygge by lighting candles. In fact, around 31% of Danes light more than eight candles at a time, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. So, don't be afraid to indulge in multiple candles to set the perfect hygge scene in your office.

Sweet Break: 

In many workplaces, incorporating a sweet break into the daily routine can be a delightful and beneficial practice. This break typically involves indulging in a hot beverage paired with a sweet treat, such as a cake or pastries. While this tradition may sound distinctly Danish, it's important to note that similar practices are observed in various Scandinavian countries. For example, in Sweden, this ritual is known as Fika.

Fika, deeply ingrained in Swedish culture, emphasizes the importance of taking time to pause and enjoy a moment of relaxation amidst the demands of the workday. It's not just about satisfying a craving; it's about fostering connections and creating opportunities for social interaction. By incorporating Fika into the workplace, employees are given a few precious minutes to step away from their tasks, recharge, and engage in meaningful conversations with colleagues.

This structured break not only promotes bonding among team members but also serves as a valuable opportunity to alleviate stress and boost morale. By providing employees with a designated time for relaxation and socialization, workplaces can minimize interruptions and create a more harmonious and productive environment. Additionally, implementing a clear break like Fika helps dispel the misconception that the workday begins with breakfast preparation, reinforcing the idea that breakfast is a meal best enjoyed at home.

Clothing Comfort: 

Creating a hygge atmosphere in the workplace begins with feeling comfortable in what you wear. It's essential to embrace attire that not only reflects your personal style but also allows you to move freely and comfortably throughout the day. If you find yourself struggling with high heels or uncomfortable dress shoes, consider opting for formal flats or other comfortable footwear options that still maintain a professional appearance.

In today's modern workplaces, the lines between formal and informal attire are becoming increasingly blurred. For instance, wearing a tie may not be a necessity for all positions, and mixing formal and informal styles can be perfectly acceptable. Pairing a blazer with a casual t-shirt or opting for a cozy shirt underneath adds a touch of comfort without sacrificing professionalism.

Moreover, consider the practicality of your clothing choices. While jeans may seem more casual, they may not always be the most comfortable option for extended periods of wear. Instead, prioritize garments that not only look good but also make you feel at ease throughout the day.

Ultimately, the key is to find a balance between style and comfort that suits both your personal preferences and the expectations of your workplace. By choosing clothing that allows you to feel relaxed and confident, you can create a workspace that embraces the essence of hygge and fosters a sense of well-being for everyone.

Noise Management & Music Selection: 

In a harmonious workplace, managing noise is crucial for maintaining productivity and focus. For those in open spaces, wearing headphones can be a courteous way to enjoy personal audio without disturbing others. Additionally, providing designated areas for calls and meetings ensures that important discussions can take place without disrupting the entire office. When it comes to playing music for the entire workspace, opt for genres like classical or instrumental, which promote concentration and create a relaxed atmosphere conducive to deep work.

Room Comfort: 

Ensuring that your workspace offers comfortable seating options is essential for promoting productivity and well-being. Ergonomic chairs provide support during extended periods of work, while the addition of a cozy sofa or armchair offers a welcoming spot for more relaxed tasks.

These cozy spots aren't just for relaxation; they're ideal for focused tasks like reading or analyzing data, as well as for creative activities like brainstorming. They also provide a comfortable setting for meetings or interviews, fostering open communication and productive discussions. Integrating these versatile seating options ensures that every task can be completed comfortably and effectively, boosting productivity and collaboration.

Respecting Work Hours:

Nothing embodies hygge less than sacrificing personal time for overtime. Maintaining balance is vital for nurturing a hygge atmosphere at work. Hygge revolves around harmony—a blend of work, social life, family time, and personal well-being. Sacrificing personal time for overtime directly contradicts this principle.

Setting a precedent for respecting work hours fosters a culture that values well-being. Encouraging colleagues to prioritize personal time promotes a healthier work-life balance, enhancing motivation and job satisfaction. Individuals working in such an environment are likely to feel more motivated and change their attitude towards work. If you're a manager or in a position of authority, lead by example by adhering strictly to predetermined work schedules. Conversely, if you're not in a position to set rules, consider suggesting these practices to your colleagues or management, as they can significantly contribute to a happier, more balanced workplace for all.

Conclusion: 

Incorporating hygge into your workplace can transform the atmosphere, making it a more inviting and productive space for all. From adjusting lighting and indulging in candlelight to enjoying sweet breaks and soothing music, each element contributes to a sense of warmth and contentment in the office. While implementing these suggestions may require some effort and coordination, the benefits of a cozy and harmonious workspace are undeniable. So, whether you're working from home or in a bustling office, consider these tips to infuse a touch of hygge into your workday. After all, a little warmth and comfort can go a long way in creating a more enjoyable and fulfilling work environment.

By following these tips, I've been able to create a workspace that truly reflects the essence of hygge, even when working alone. While it may take some adjustment and coordination, don't hesitate to share these ideas with your colleagues or suggest changes to your workplace. Remember, small steps toward a cozier and more comfortable environment can lead to greater satisfaction and productivity in the long run.

Hygge isn't just about creating a cool workplace vibe—it's deeply connected to cultivating a happier life overall. Embracing hygge enriches not only your own life but also the lives of those around you. Its profound impact extends beyond the office, enhancing well-being and fostering deeper connections in all aspects of life. So, embrace the hygge spirit and make your workplace a haven of warmth and contentment, knowing that it's not just about creating a pleasant workspace, but about enriching your entire life journey.

Camila Fulle Bunster

Glossary

• Pursuit: The act of striving to achieve or follow something. (persecución)

• Sources: Origins or places from which something is obtained. (fuentes)

• Immersed: Fully engaged or involved in something. (inmerso)

• Infuse: To introduce a quality into something. (infundir)

• Sparked: Caused to start or ignite. (desencadenado)

• Cherished: Held dear or valued highly. (apreciado)

• Warmth: The quality of being intimate and affectionate. (calidez)

• Sterile: Lacking in liveliness or interest; dull. (estéril)

• Embark: To begin a course of action. (embarcar)

• Contentment: A state of happiness and satisfaction. (contentamiento)

• Abound: To exist in large numbers or amounts. (abundar)

• Harsh: Unpleasantly severe or rough. (áspero)

• Reminiscent: Suggestive of something in the past. (reminiscente)

• Feasible: Possible and practical to do easily or conveniently. (factible)

• Indulge: To allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of. (indulger)

• Delightful: Causing delight; very pleasing. (encantador)

• Beverage: A drink other than water. (bebida)

• Sweet treat: A pleasingly sweet snack or dessert. (dulce)

• Pastries: Sweet baked goods made from dough. (pasteles)

• Ingrained: Firmly fixed or established; difficult to change. (arraigado)

• Craving: A powerful desire for something. (antojo)

• Fostering: Encouraging the development of something. (fomentando)

• Alleviate: To make less severe or serious. (aliviar)

• Boost: To increase or improve. (impulsar)

• Dispel: To make a doubt, feeling, or belief disappear. (disipar)

• Attire: Clothes, especially of a particular or formal type. (ropa)

• Blurred: Made unclear or less distinct. (difuminado)

• Garments: Pieces of clothing. (prendas)

• Feel at ease: To be relaxed and comfortable. (sentirse cómodo)

• Ergonomic: Designed for efficiency and comfort in the working environment. (ergonómico)

• Embodies: To be an expression of or give a tangible form to an idea, quality, or feeling. (encarna)

• Nurturing: Helping to grow or develop. (nutriendo)

• Adhering: To stick firmly to a belief or idea. (adherirse)

• Candlelight: The light provided by a candle. (luz de vela)

• Soothing music: Music that is gentle, calming, and relaxing. (música relajante)

• Bustling: Full of activity; busy. (animado)

• Hesitate: Pause before saying or doing something, often out of uncertainty or caution. (dudar)