We all live in a challenging world. Lots of stress, political and social tension, and exhaustion are just a few things that make our lives overwhelming, along with the constant need to be productive at work.

There’s no surprise that modern people are looking for new lifestyle concepts that could make their lives less stressful and more meaningful.

Many of us are trapped in time. We need to think about the future, we must plan it and constantly analyze things that have already happened, and so we belong to the past.

Sometimes it’s hard to catch the present moment, enjoying your life at this point of time, no matter where you are and what you’re doing.

If you can relate to what’s been described, it means that you could benefit from a secret, that would make your everyday routine a little more comfortable and enjoyable.

The secret that you need is Hygge.

What is Hygge and How Can It Increase Your Productivity

What Is Hygge?

Hygge (pronounced as “hoo-guh”) is a concept that was born in Denmark. A long rainy winter and a cold grey horizon is the typical Danish scene. Nevertheless, the Danish are also known as the happiest nation in the world. They needed to find a way out of depressing thoughts, and the solution turned out to be really simple: One needs to fill every moment with warmth and coziness.

Hygge isn’t a certain thing, it’s a feeling that puts you in a better mood. Think of chocolate, candles, a cozy blanket or your favorite sweater — it’s Hygge, and the Danish manage to create Hygge everywhere, even at work. In this case, Hygge can reduce your stress and make you more productive.

Hygge is sitting around the fireplace with your friends, drinking chocolate and talking about happy moments. Hygge is reading a favorite book and eating tasty food. This concept is all about enjoying life and making it comfortable and pleasant.

It’s about little conscious rituals that make you feel better regardless of what’s happening around you, in fact, you can create a warm and happy atmosphere everywhere. Given that we spend most of our lives working, we definitely need to add more Hygge to our corporate culture that suffers from never-ending stress.

You can increase your productivity by incorporating Hygge in your work. Of course, words like “cozy” or “warm” don’t sound like the first choice when describing the work environment, but let’s distance ourselves from the regular image of the workplace for a minute.

The truth is, you can easily bring Hygge to work, reducing stress, getting more motivation, and increasing productivity.

How to Increase Your Productivity by Incorporating Hygge in Your Life

1. Declutter your desk

First of all, get rid of that mess on your desk. It’s hard to stay productive and focused when your desk is littered with countless papers and notes. Such an environment also causes stress. If you really need so many papers, try to be creative and find a place where you can store them neatly. The main thing is not to see a huge pile of papers that creates a feeling that your work is never going to end.

2. Create a cozy spot

Candles are the best, but if you work in an office, candles are usually not an option. It doesn’t mean that you cannot create a Hygge atmosphere in the office. Make sure you have a cup of tea or coffee and put on a cozy sweater.

If you’re allowed to listen to music, some music can greatly boost productivity & really get you ‘in the zone’.

Another great way to make your workplace more inspiring and peaceful is bringing in some greenery. A few plants will give you a sense of freshness and make you feel grounded.

3. Lighting matters

There’s nothing worse than working in an office without windows. According to a research conducted by Northwestern University in Chicago, workers in offices without windows have more problems with their physical and mental health. They also sleep an average of 46 minutes less at night. Their productivity decreases due to the daytime dysfunction, and their sleep is generally worse.

However, if you cannot find another office with a big and beautiful window, you can still choose better artificial lighting. Make sure your office is bright enough to keep you alert.

We would also suggest choosing warm light, which creates a cozy and calm atmosphere.

4. Make your breaks a Hygge time

Every time you enjoy your coffee break or lunch, it’s a great opportunity to get inspired by Hygge.

Many office workers don’t even leave their desks, eating their lunch while surfing the internet. Such breaks are not actually relaxing.

Try to dedicate this time to yourself and really enjoy your meal. A lunch break is also a great opportunity to talk to your coworkers. According to many studies, our social relationships are crucial for a sense of happiness.

Hygge involves a feeling of togetherness. If you’d rather text or email someone who’s sitting in the other corner of the room, try to talk personally instead and build a a feeling of comradery.

If you want to increase your productivity and to add a bit of happiness to your everyday routine, you need to consider bringing Hygge into your life and to your work.

Enjoy every moment of your life. Make it meaningful by adding the pleasurable little things that make you feel comfortable. And don’t forget: Happiness exists within you!