What Role Does Lighting Play in Productivity, and How Do You Choose a Well-Lit Spot?
Choosing the right spot with the right lighting can have a significant impact on your work—and, more importantly, your eyesight. Good lighting is often the hidden ingredient in workspaces that feel comfortable, focused, and relaxing.
Good light matters. We all need it to work well.
Why Does Good Light Matter?
Good lighting isn't just for models and film crews—it helps people work better. Here are a few key reasons why:
Accuracy: Good lighting ensures that you can read your screen and paperwork with ease, reducing the chance of mistakes by keeping your eyes rested and your vision clear.
Reduced Eye Strain: Proper lighting helps mitigate eye strain by providing a clear line of sight to your screen or documents.
Concentration: Good lighting helps you concentrate and allows you to stay focused on the screen for longer without distraction.
Comfort: Lighting helps shape the atmosphere of your space. Think of how much more comfortable sunglasses make a bright summer day—compared to squinting without them.
Mood Boost: Natural lighting, in particular, has been shown to improve mood and overall well-being.
As you can see, there are several important reasons why working with good lighting matters.
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__Good Lighting: What to Look For and What to Avoid
You’ve made your way to the coffee shop and are now looking for a spot with that perfect glow-up lighting. Here's what to aim for:
✅ Look for Seats That Are:
- Near a Window: Natural light is your best friend. It provides even, uplifting illumination without the harsh glare of artificial lights.
- Under Overhead Lighting: Overhead lighting will give you a clear view of your screen without casting shadows across your work.
❌ Avoid Seats That Have:
- Large Shadows Across the Table: These will make your screen harder to read and strain your eyes over time.
- Multiple Shadows from Different Directions: Light coming from several angles can create glare and confusion for your eyes—leading to discomfort and fatigue.
- Cosy but Dim Corners: If a seat looks cosy, be cautious. It may have low or inconsistent lighting that won’t support focused work.
Be Prepared
When it comes to lighting, the best way to ensure a productive work session is to plan ahead. Scout out your workspace before you settle in. Don’t be afraid to move if something doesn’t feel right.
What to Do If There’s Bad Lighting?
Leave and find another café or workspace. It’s better to take the time to find a well-lit spot than to suffer through hours of discomfort and low productivity. You’re there to work—give yourself the environment to succeed.
TL;DR
- Good lighting improves your mood, concentration, comfort, health, and productivity.
- If the light is bad, leave.
- Natural light beats artificial light every time.
Final Thoughts
Lighting is one of the secret ingredients people often overlook—whether you're in an office, your home office, or a coffee shop. It affects how you feel, think, and work.
Next time you sit down to work, take a moment to look around and ask:
Is this light helping me, or holding me back?
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. We appreciate it.
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