8 Things Every Career Chick Needs at Her Desk

8 Things Every Career Chick Needs at Her Desk
As a young professional, you want to be prepared for anything. Other than your trusty (or not so trusty) computer and your office phone, you will need a few other basic items in order to ensure your workday runs smoothly. Here are seven must-have items for your desk:

1. Spare Notepads

Whether you use them to take notes on a presentation or to doodle while you’re talking with a client on the phone, having spare notepads in your drawer always comes in handy. And while you’re at it, grab some Post-It notes, too. They are a great way to organize and prioritize your to-do list. (Just don’t go crazy and stick reminders everywhere - it’s one of the easiest ways to overwhelm yourself!)

2. A Little Bit of Life

Some days, work can drain the living daylights out of you. Counter this exhausting feeling by getting a plant or a fish for your desk. There’s a reason fresh flowers brighten up those gloomy days! According to this article on Health.com, having a plant in your office can increase your satisfaction at work. Who knew?

3. Extra Blouse

So, you have a huge presentation to give today, but you managed to spill coffee all over your top! Oh no! What do you do? Before this happens to you (or happens again!), be sure to plan ahead. Tuck a conservative, versatile blouse away in a drawer just in case. (And while you’re at it, it never hurts to keep an extra pair of heels under your desk in case of emergency.)

4. Air Freshener

Who wants to sit at their desk all day and smell the same old stale air for eight hours? Not me! Potpourri, fragrance diffusers, or plug-in air fresheners are a great way to stink up your office (in a good way). According to Fox News, certain smells can ease your stress and boost your mood. Start sniffing your way to a better workday with these scents: lavender, cypress, and rosemary.

5. Something With a Touch of Personality

You need a little something fun to brighten up a boring office. Whether it's a cow-shaped coffee mug or a pen with feathers, be sure to add some personality to your desk. Not only do these things give a glimpse of who you are outside of work, but they are also great conversation starters for co-workers and clients!

6. Desk Calendar

Google Calendar is great, however, it can’t beat the classic desk calendar. Yes, its paper, and yes it might be old fashioned, but it’s one of my must-have items. Google’s e-mail reminders are nice, but the last thing you need is one more thing filling up your Inbox. Not to mention, a desk calendar always in front of you. And if you want to avoid wasting paper, get yourself a dry-erase calendar – it’s easy and always in sight.

7. Chocolate

Research has shown that chocolate might actually help enhance your mood. So, on those days when you’re down in the dumps, it’s always good to have a drawer of goodies to help you out. Even if you’re on a diet, stash some kind of treat in your desk. I mean, you’ve got to reward yourself for nailing that presentation, right?

8. Something Inspirational

Whether it’s a photo of your family or a quote from your idol, be sure to place something that inspires you on your desktop. That way, you can regain your motivation when you’re having a bad day at work. What are your must-haves for your desk?Career chick desk image from Shutterstock
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