The Impact of Ergonomics in the Office

Ergonomics is a crucial factor in the office that greatly influences the overall wellbeing and productivity of employees. It involves designing the workspace and equipment in a way that minimises physical strain and discomfort while maximising efficiency and safety. When implemented effectively, ergonomic principles can have a significant impact on reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, enhancing employee morale and increasing work performance.

Research undertaken by the National Library of Medicine states that “Results of a systematic review of empirical evidence show that many aspects of (day)light, office layout/design, and temperature and thermal comfort have been proven to be related to many mental health indicators.”

Types of office ergonomics

• One of the key aspects of ergonomics in the office is the design of office furniture and equipment. Chairs desks, monitors and keyboards should be adjustable to accommodate different body sizes and working preferences. For example, adjustable chairs with proper lumbar support can help maintain a neutral posture and reduce the strain on the spine. Height-adjustable desks allow employees to switch between sitting and standing positions, promoting movement and reducing the risks associated with prolonged sitting.
• Workspace layout also plays a crucial role in ergonomics. Employees should have easy access to frequently used items, such as the phone, files and office supplies, to reduce any reaching and twisting movements. The layout should also encourage proper posture and movement patterns. For instance, placing the monitor at eye level and positioning the keyboard and mouse within easy reach can help prevent neck, shoulder, and wrist strain.
• Lighting and air quality are also important factors. Suitable lighting can reduce eye strain and fatigue and adequate ventilation can improve concentration and comfort. Natural light is particularly beneficial for our wellbeing as it helps to regulate our internal body clock and promotes a sense of connection to the outside world. Plants also help with this connection and in addition can improve air quality and create a more vibrant and pleasant working environment.
• Regular breaks and movement are essential components of ergonomic practices in the office because sitting for long periods and doing repetitive tasks can lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort. Office culture can help encourage employees to take short breaks to stretch, walk around, or perform simple exercises that can help prevent stiffness and promote circulation. Some organisations offer standing desks or treadmill desks as alternatives to traditional sitting workstations, and these can help employees to stay active while working. Walking meetings are also good for getting people outside and moving throughout the day and they provide a great boost for both physical and mental health.
• In addition to physical ergonomics, mental and emotional wellbeing are also crucial to a holistic approach to ergonomics. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation and relaxation exercises, can help employees cope with work-related pressures and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Introducing such practices into the working environment can help foster a supportive working environment where employees feel valued, respected, and heard. This in turn can boost morale and motivation, leading to greater job satisfaction and productivity.

Ultimately, the impact of ergonomics goes beyond physical comfort and safety – it is about creating a workspace that promotes overall wellbeing and enhances the quality of work life. By prioritising ergonomics and investing in the health and happiness of employees, organisations can create a positive and sustainable work environment that benefits both individuals and the business as a whole.

Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Imperfection

Perfectionism is a double-edged sword that can have both positive and negative impacts on our general wellbeing. While striving for excellence and setting high standards can lead to achievements and success, relentless perfectionism can also be detrimental to our mental and emotional health. It can create feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and stress, ultimately hindering our ability to fully enjoy life and be content with ourselves. In our pursuit of perfection, we often overlook the beauty of imperfection and fail to appreciate the uniqueness and authenticity that comes with it.

A study by UPMC shows that “perfectionism has been linked to a variety of mental health problems, including anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and several eating disorders”.

Why we should embrace our imperfections

1. Personal development: Embracing imperfections is a powerful step towards improving our overall wellbeing and achieving a more balanced and fulfilling life. It involves letting go of unrealistic expectations and accepting ourselves and others as we are, flaws and all. Embracing imperfection doesn’t mean settling for mediocrity or lack of effort, rather, it’s about recognising that perfection is an unattainable and unsustainable goal. By shifting our focus from perfection to progress and growth, we free ourselves from the constant pressure to measure up to impossible standards and allow room for mistakes, learning and personal development.


2. To ease stress and anxiety: One of the key benefits of embracing imperfection is the reduction of stress and anxiety. Perfectionists often place immense pressure on themselves to perform flawlessly in every aspect of their lives, which can lead to chronic stress and burnout. By embracing imperfection, we learn to be more forgiving and compassionate towards ourselves, recognising that mistakes and setbacks are an inevitable part of the human experience. This shift in mindset allows us to approach challenges with greater resilience and adaptability, knowing that failure does not define our worth or capabilities.


3. To increase self-esteem: When we learn to love our imperfections, we increase our self-acceptance and self-esteem. Perfectionists tend to be overly critical of themselves, constantly striving for unattainable levels of perfection and harshly judging any perceived flaws or shortcomings. This self-critical behaviour can erode our self-esteem and confidence, leading to feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy. By embracing our imperfections, we learn to appreciate and celebrate our unique qualities and quirks, as these are what make us individual and interesting.


4. To improve our relationships: When we are accepting of ourselves, we’re able to build stronger and more authentic relationships with others. Perfectionists may struggle with forming genuine connections with others due to their fear of judgment and rejection. By accepting that no-one is perfect, we create a space for vulnerability and openness in our relationships, allowing for honest communication and mutual understanding. When we let go of the need to present a perfect facade to the world, we invite others to do the same, creating deeper connections based on authenticity and acceptance.


5. We begin to live in the present moment: When we stop striving for perfection, we have a greater sense of gratitude and appreciation for the present moment. Perfectionists often fixate on future goals and achievements, believing that happiness and fulfilment can only be attained once they reach a certain level of success or perfection. By embracing imperfection, we learn to find joy and satisfaction in the journey itself, appreciating the beauty in life's imperfections and unexpected surprises. This shift in perspective enables us to live more fully in the present moment, enjoying the simple pleasures and experiences that make life rich and meaningful.


Overcoming perfectionism and embracing our imperfections is a transformative journey towards greater wellbeing and self-acceptance. By letting go of the need for perfection and embracing our flaws and vulnerabilities, we open ourselves up to a more balanced, fulfilling and authentic way of living. In turn, this can reduce stress and anxiety, boost self-esteem and form a greater sense of gratitude and joy in our lives.