You spend a lot of time at your desk and you should try and make it as nice a place to be as possible. Our desks become more than just a place to do work; they are used for eating, drinking and even sleeping. So take time out to brighten your day and make your office work for you.

We all like our own space, even in the company of others, and your desk is just that. A few personal touches can make your office or desk a lot more approachable and hospitable - and more productive.

Your desk can also say a lot about you, so if it's messy, covered in piles of unopened letters, or has last week's half eaten sandwich on it, you could be sending out the wrong signals to your colleagues and superiors.

Give yourself some space
One look at a cluttered workspace and you get a sense that the person working there is out of control. It's even possible that subconsciously you'll be perceived as inefficient, even if you're not.

De-clutter and you'll change your focus. You'll also be able to think about the nice things you want to be surrounded with - instead of just clutter and work. If you've got a jazzy, funky, busy office; the minimal look can be a calm haven for you.

Put aside some time in the morning to clear up your desk, organise your files and papers and give your computer screen and keyboard a wipe.

Be honest and ruthless with your re-organisation. As you pick up each item consider whether it really is useful to you. If not, then bin it. You will feel much more clearheaded and less distracted. Remember, everything has its place.

One item, or a few, in this case can speak volumes and if you simply want to create your own reassuring space it's always best to try a few simple things first.

There's no need to festoon you desk with pictures of all your distant relatives, a few meaningful family photos will give you a sense of perspective on those tough days. A mascot or two can go down well, but avoid a mountains of cuddly toys that would be more suited to a child's bedroom.

You might even want a gentle scented candle - providing colleagues don't mind. Likewise a small bag of scented herbs can add a touch of both visual and aromatic comfort. A good old-fashioned fruit bowl not only dresses up your office, but makes you popular with co-workers.

Add a splash of colour and life with a plant. Cacti can be very colourful and require less attention, or fresh cut flowers, but throw them in the bin if and when they die.

Use only living, oxygen-generating plants, not lifeless fake ones. Nothing's more depressing than plastic flowers coated with dust. Healthy plants and flowers can equate to a healthy attitude. You'll be bringing yourself back to nature and enjoying the office environment much more.

If you're really adventurous, and if your office permits it, you might want to bring in your own desk chair that you've worn in over many years.

Motivational ideas
Sometimes you just want something to get you into work-mode. Why not choose your favourite quote, saying or statement?

It doesn't have to be a well-known motivational quote but a personal mission statement that keeps you on track for what you want to achieve.

Another option is to put up a picture of a dream holiday destination or something else you're saving up for to remind you why it is you're getting up and coming to work in the first place.

Personalised mouse pads, wallpaper and screen savers can dress up your computer and soften the hard edges of an otherwise stale environment.

As with all such items, what's funny to you may hit a sour note for some. Watch out for inappropriate content - not everyone will appreciate a Page 3 calendar.

Going wider than your desk
If your personal space extends further than just a desk and you have your own office, the décor is vital. Choose you favourite colours, pictures, plants and ornaments so that you feel more relaxed.

Office walls can be the places most in need of individualising - and somewhere to look to for inspiration when you turn away from the computer.

Decide what to hang on the office walls based on your personal interests; your favourite car, boat, view, painting, etc. Always remember that other people will see your décor too and it may be a talking point for those who enter your office..

You're not trying to turn your office into a home - that would be a serious mistake, but you are trying to turn your office into a comfortable and inviting space while keeping your professional status.

The key is to personalise, not over-decorate, so you need to strike a balance that works both emotionally and professionally.