Design, Feng Shui: The Sequel

In this sequel to Feng What? The Essentials of Feng Shui, you’ll learn how Feng Shui uses placement and design to balance and enhance energy. Feng Shui uses placement and design to balance and enhance energy flow. Although this ancient Eastern art was developed well before the modern office, the principles can still be applied to your workplace. So if you're feeling overstressed and under inspired at work, the following tips might help.

	If your job requires creativity, select a desk with round edges. If you're in a money-making position, go for hard edges.

	When you enter your office (or cubicle), the first thing you see should be an object that makes you happy. It could be a photo, trinket or plant – anything that makes you happy to be entering the space.

	Position your desk as far from the door as possible. If your desk is too close to the door, it gives the impression that you're irresponsible and trying to sneak out of the office early! If your desk is against a wall, it blocks the flow of energy.

	Make sure you sit facing the door or window. If this isn't possible, hang a mirror above your computer or hang chimes over the door so you can see who's coming into your office. If you can't see a window from your desk, hang a picture of the outdoors or a plant directly in your line of vision.

	Don't sit under a vent – the draft creates bad feng shui. If you can't move your desk, hang a scarf or flag under the vent to direct the draft away from you.

	Move any tall pieces of furniture that are directly within your line of vision – tall objects can make you feel inferior

	Open windows to increase the energy flow. If this isn't possible, place a fan and plant on your desk to simulate the outdoors.

	Declutter your desk as much as possible – clutter inhibits the flow of energy and makes it difficult to achieve a feeling of calm. A great way to keep your desk clutter-free is to keep a maximum of five objects on your desk at any one time. The five objects include your computer, phone and lamp – so plan carefully!

	Your reception area should be large, bright and inviting and there should be a solid path between the building entrance and the parking lot or sidewalk. This encourages money and energy to flow into your company.

	Have at least one object in your office that has nothing to do with work. A picture of your family, your hockey schedule or favorite poster will remind you that you have a life outside the office and help create a sense of balance in your day.