Job Market Insight: Professionals Share Their Essential Needs for Maintaining Productivity While Working in the Office or at Home

In today's evolving workplace, productivity is more than just having the right tools or a good internet connection. For many professionals, maintaining productivity while working is all about creating the right environment – one that meets their individual needs and preferences, whether they’re working from home, the office, or a mix of both. In a recent Rise Community survey, professionals shared what truly keeps them motivated and efficient.

The Role of Mental Health in Productivity

It’s no secret that mental health and productivity are closely linked. In fact, research suggests that employees who prioritize their mental well-being are up to 20% more productive than those who don’t. The responses from our Rise Community survey highlight the importance of incorporating practices that support mental health as part of daily work routines.

Breaks Matter

Many respondents emphasized the need for short breaks throughout the day. Taking a few moments to step away from your desk, stretch, or get some fresh air can significantly reduce stress and improve concentration. Studies have shown that even a 5-minute break can help reset your brain, making it easier to tackle complex tasks when you return.

The Power of Music

Whether it’s lofi beats or classical tunes, music plays a vital role in creating a calming and focused environment. In fact, a 2020 study found that listening to music while working can boost productivity by up to 15%, especially for tasks that require creativity or problem-solving. Community members often mentioned the importance of a good playlist, with one saying, "Soft music and breaks when needed are essentials for me. Also, snacks!"

Flexibility as a Mental Health Boost

Flexibility isn’t just about choosing where you work; it’s also about giving yourself the freedom to structure your day in a way that supports your well-being. Respondents mentioned the importance of flexible schedules that allow for personal errands, exercise, or simply a change of scenery. According to a recent report by FlexJobs, 79% of employees who have flexible work arrangements report better mental health and lower stress levels.

Team Connection & Support

Feeling connected to colleagues and having a strong support system can also have a big impact on mental health and productivity. Our survey found that respondents who regularly engage with their teams (virtually or in-person) felt more motivated and less isolated. This aligns with findings from the Harvard Business Review, which noted that strong workplace relationships can increase job satisfaction and decrease burnout rates.

When mental health is prioritized, the quality of work improves naturally. Now let’s dive into these essentials shared by the Rise Community and explore what research says about how each factor can impact productivity.

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1. Natural Light and Fresh Air

Many professionals in the Rise Community emphasized the importance of natural light, fresh air, and well-ventilated spaces. Studies show that exposure to natural light can enhance mood, improve sleep quality, and even increase productivity by up to 40% in some cases. Research from Cornell University suggests that natural light reduces eye strain and headaches, which are common issues in office environments, helping individuals feel more alert and energized throughout the day.

💬 What our community says:

• "A clean desk helps my mind stay focused and ready to work." - User DR

• "I love a clean workspace, it makes me feel mentally prepared for the day." - User NM

2. Music for Focus and Flow

Music also emerged as a top tool for staying productive, with many members mentioning soft background tunes or instrumental music to help focus. The "Mozart Effect" suggests that listening to music while working can enhance spatial-temporal reasoning and concentration. However, it’s all about finding the right balance; soft, instrumental music has been shown to reduce stress and improve focus, especially for repetitive tasks.

💬 What our community says:

• "Soft music without lyrics helps me focus better than pure silence." - User CC

• "I can’t work without music playing in the background. It sets the tone for the day!" - User MO

3. Organization and Cleanliness

A clean and organized workspace was mentioned repeatedly. Clutter-free spaces are shown to help reduce stress and improve focus, while an organized desk can support better time management. A Princeton University study found that physical clutter can compete for your attention, leading to decreased performance and increased stress. Keeping things tidy isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a productivity booster.

💬 What our community says:

• "I feel more productive when I can switch up my workspace, even if it’s just moving from my desk to the patio." - User JA

• "Flexibility is key! Some tasks are better tackled in the morning, while others are easier in the afternoon after a break." - User KV

4. Coffee, Tea, and Hydration

Coffee and tea are classic workplace essentials. Both beverages contain caffeine, which has been shown to improve alertness, memory, and concentration. According to a study by Johns Hopkins, caffeine can enhance long-term memory retention, making it easier to recall information when needed. Hydration, equally vital, plays a critical role in cognitive function and maintaining energy throughout the day.

💬 What our community says:

• "I start my day with coffee, and I have a stash of snacks to keep me going through the afternoon slump." - User MD

• "Tea, light snacks, and my cat. It’s all about having a cozy setup that keeps me energized." - User BG

5. Flexibility and Movement Breaks

Flexibility to move around throughout the day and take short breaks was another common theme. The Pomodoro Technique, a popular productivity method involving focused work sessions followed by short breaks, can help prevent burnout and sustain high levels of productivity. Moving regularly, even if just for a short walk, boosts circulation, reduces fatigue, and enhances focus, according to Harvard Health.

💬 What our community says:

• "A nice view of my backyard and sunlight streaming in keeps me motivated." - User SC

• "I need natural light and a fresh breeze to stay focused and happy while working." - User MS

6. Task Management Tools and Calendars

Many respondents shared the importance of tools for planning and time management, such as Asana, Notion, or physical planners. Research has shown that creating a clear to-do list and setting daily goals can enhance productivity by helping to break down larger projects into manageable tasks. Digital task management tools enable seamless collaboration and keep projects on track, ensuring everyone is aligned and focused.

💬 What our community says:

• "I need flexibility and trust from my employer. Feeling supported helps me stay focused and motivated." - User EG

• "Having a great team makes all the difference in getting through the day." - User CR

7. Comfortable Workspace Essentials

Furniture like comfortable chairs and ergonomic desks was high on the list. Studies from the American Society of Interior Designers found that ergonomically sound furniture can reduce discomfort and prevent issues like repetitive strain injuries, making it essential for long-term productivity. Items such as desk organizers, cozy seating, and ambient lighting help create a more enjoyable work environment, essential for both physical and mental well-being.

💬 What our community says:

• “A well-organized, comfortable space keeps me in the zone.” - User JL

8. Connection and Support

Flexibility and trust from employers, as well as having a supportive team, are critical for many workers. Research from Gallup shows that employees who feel supported and trusted by their leaders are more engaged, productive, and likely to perform at a higher level. In today’s remote or hybrid work setups, digital “face-to-face” collaboration and open communication channels have become even more vital in sustaining productivity and job satisfaction.

💬 What our community says:

• “Connection and support from my supervisor and team are essentials for productivity.” - User SW

9. Personalized Rituals and Routines

Some professionals shared unique routines to separate work and personal life, such as getting dressed even when working from home or setting up “fun” rituals that mark the start and end of the workday. These practices help individuals mentally transition into “work mode” and reinforce the boundaries between work and home life, contributing to both productivity and well-being.

💬 What our community says:

• “No working in pajamas! Getting ready for the day sets the tone.” - User KF

10. Healthy Snacks and Nourishment

Finally, snacks play a key role in productivity. Nutrition directly affects cognitive performance; healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or yogurt can maintain blood sugar levels and keep energy steady. Avoiding high-sugar snacks helps prevent the dreaded energy crash, while nutritious options provide sustainable energy and mental clarity.

💬 What our community says:

• “Healthy, satiating foods and coffee keep me productive.” - User JF

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In the end, the essentials for productivity are as unique as each individual. From a comfortable chair to a carefully curated playlist, professionals today are crafting personalized productivity kits that go beyond traditional office supplies. Whether you’re in the office, working from home, or somewhere in between, finding the right combination of tools, environment, and habits can make all the difference in maintaining productivity and work-life balance.