4.Add some additional lighting, especially if you have fluorescent overhead lighting in your office. Fluorescent lighting throws a cool green cast and can be harsh, so adding incandescent lights helps to warm up space. An attractive floor lamp or a nice desk lamp will do trick and you might find that you can turn off those overheads for good.

5.Awards and trophies can add interest to your office if they are displayed properly. Hang a nice shelf and use it to display a few things that are special to you. Again, keep them grouped together, so they aren?t spread all over space. Things that are spread about and end up looking like accidental clutter, whereas things grouped together look like a collection.

6.The sound of running water is peaceful and can also mask sounds of traffic or a working office outside your door. Tabletop fountains are inexpensive to buy, take up very little space and they add a wonderful auditory texture to an environment. Place one in your waiting area and one in your personal office for quiet, soothing white noise while you work or while your guests wait to see you.

7.Last but definitely not least, invest in some nice, comfortable pieces of furniture for waiting area as well as your private space. In waiting area, bigger, cozier pieces of furniture work to set a comfortable frame of mind while guests are waiting. In your private space where you conduct business, something a bit less soft but still comfortable is more appropriate.

If you have space, consider adding a small table between two chairs in front of your desk so that you can come out from behind your desk to interact with clients. Even a small sofa and a chair will work for those times you may meet with more than one person at a time. A big desk between you and your client may not create a feeling of trust and partnership, whereas meeting around a smaller table will.

Work and play are no longer mutually exclusive parts of life. Making your office environment as comfortable as possible is a key element in your having an enjoyable workday, as well as creating a positive, memorable experience for your clients. The more inviting your office is, better it will serve you, and better you can serve your clients.

Monica Ricci has been an organizing specialist since 1999, and her motivational presentations teach effective organizing and simplifying techniques for home and work. She also offers free email tips and ideas on how to make life simpler and more organized. Her topics include clutter control, paper management, time management, organizing space and procrastination.Contact Monica at 770-569-2642 or Monica@CatalystOrganizing.com.

5. Roll clothing into cylinders when packing. It takes up less space and it will help keep wrinkles down. Also, roll socks and underwear up and stuff them inside your shoes. Not only will it make more space in your luggage, but it helps keep your shoes from getting crushed.

6. Pack clothing that resists wrinkling, such as polyester blends, wool blends, microfibers, silk, and rayon. Avoid packing 100% cotton or linen when possible.

7. To avoid having to bring two pairs of dress shoes, choose one neutral color and build your wardrobe around it. Don?t bring outfits based on both black and brown, because then you?ll need both black and brown shoes and belts.

8. Bring one suit and several pieces to change its look. Men can wear same suit with varying color shirts and ties. Ladies can create several different outfits from just one skirt, one jacket, a pair of coordinating pants, and a few blouses.

9. Call your hotel ahead of time to ask if they will provide personal items such as an iron, clothing steamer, and hair dryer. If so, you?ll have extra room in your luggage for other things.

10. Carry on your important documents, toiletries, medications, and one change of clothes in case your luggage gets lost.

Traveling can be simpler and go smoother if you create an effective travel and packing system and then consistently follow it.

Monica Ricci has been an organizing specialist since 1999, and her motivational presentations teach effective organizing and simplifying techniques for home and work. She also offers free email tips and ideas on how to make life simpler and more organized. Her topics include clutter control, paper management, time management, organizing space and procrastination.Contact Monica at 770-569-2642 or Monica@CatalystOrganizing.com.