The impact of distractions on individual workers and the organizations they work for has become a major discussion point across industries. Within the past few weeks, I have had the privilege of researching this topic in the graphic design sector, which I have personally been working in for over ten years. My experience in offices have been marked with aggravation and distraction, similar to stories I read about in Stolen Focus and online. What I heard the most was that the majority of graphic designers want to be able to do work without the constant interruptions, as well as have the time for tasks we deem important to our creative process.

As you may have guessed, the major problems in all offices, not just graphic design jobs, are the never-ending interruptions. As I explained in my last week’s blog post, the top four distractions are office noise, work-related changes, meetings, and social media. But after doing more research, I see real potential for the graphic design industry leading the way to making more inclusive office environments. I say this because graphic designers are extremely dedicated and passionate workers who are familiar with suggesting new ideas and swaying opinions, whether that be a client’s brand idea or the office feng shui. I truly believe that if graphic designers speak up and ask for environments that support them, then productivity and collaboration will skyrocket! Research has even shown that a calm office environment helps with the number of tasks a worker gets done in a day.

If designers speak up, our future workspaces can look dramatically different than how they do now. These new offices could be described as tranquil, allowing time for deep work uninterrupted and people solely focused on one task. Limiting social media use and turning off personal and work notifications for a time has also been proven to help workers focus, limit anxiety and increase overall well-being. With their employer’s help, graphic designers can start a workplace revolution, allowing all employees space to put their best foot forward and create better work while having a more balanced lifestyle.

This week as I finished writing my white paper, I feel excited to post and publish it online, hoping to spark a conversation with the graphic designers in my community. Writing this paper has made me feel hopeful for the day when I return to working in an office full time. If my new workplace is supportive and allows changes so that I can focus better, I know that my longevity at the company will be easier and more enjoyable. My paper, The Right to Focus, is posted below. Please enjoy, share, and let’s start a workplace revolution!