How To Feng Shui Your Computer & Boost Productivity

So, you’ve been working from home, socializing on Zoom, studying online, and attending virtual exercise classes. Everything we do nowadays involves a computer screen, so it makes sense that you’d want your devices to be at their best. This is where Feng Shui comes in.

But first...

What is Feng Shui?

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy about how our lives are influenced by our interactions with our environment. If we allow Qi (pronounced 'chi'), the vital life force or energy linking all living things, to flow in our lives, we achieve balance with the natural world around us.

The Principles of Feng Shui

The most important principles are the five elements and the Bagua map. They can help us design our homes or rearrange any space to enhance Qi flow. We can also apply them to other areas to achieve balance and enhance productivity—like our devices.

If this all sounds a little complicated, don't worry! Just follow these simple tips and you’ll feel energized in no time!

How To Feng Shui Your Computer (& Other Devices)

Commanding Position

First things first, where to put your desk? In the commanding position. This simply means furthest from the door, but facing it diagonally. Now you are ready to face whatever comes into your life!

Green Is Always Good

Plants are a fantastic addition to any space. They emit harmonious energy, and having one close to your computer will combat any negative electromagnetic energy. They also release life-giving oxygen and mop up carbon dioxide, keeping the air around you fresh and clean.

Organize & Declutter

Now, let’s tackle the computer itself. Does your desktop look like a random collage of icons? You guessed it; that doesn’t help. Clutter is a big no-no in Feng Shui.

Only keep shortcuts and icons you use regularly. Create a home for everything else by organizing it intuitively in folders. As Marie Kondo says, “Clutter is caused by a failure to return things to where they belong.”

Take it a step further and use paperless office software like Smallpdf (it works across web, desktop, and mobile, which means you'll have PDF tools wherever, whenever!). Using paperless office software won't just help you declutter, but save money, time, space—and the planet.

Use our 5 Steps To a Paperless Home Office guide to help you get started.

Backgrounds & Screensavers

Choose images that inspire you and make you feel good. Pictures of your loved ones or nature are a good idea. Most experts suggest water-related images to boost prosperity; water symbolizes wealth in Feng Shui! Ka-ching!

Let the Qi Flow

Qi needs to flow through your computer like it does through your home. Switch on your computer daily to ensure Qi doesn’t get trapped—you need to keep it fresh.

Stay Healthy

If your computer isn’t functioning optimally, you can’t function optimally. Run your antivirus software often to maintain your computer’s health.

Always Start Fresh

Starting your workday with a browser open to a million tabs will only remind you of everything you couldn’t finish the day before. Try to close all your tabs and shut down your computer at the end of your workday—this will help you clear your mind. Don't forget to tidy up your desk.

Now you’re ready to feel the Qi and hack your productivity! Good luck!

Check out Smallpdf's handy suite of PDF tools to streamline your digital devices.