Christy
Is working in a cubicle as exhausting as people say it is?
Submitting this question to enter the $2,500 scholarship. #business #finance #marketing
6 answers
Jenny Newman
Jenny’s Answer
Hi Christy,
In my experience, any environment can be exhausting or rewarding - it's what you make of it. Personally, I love working in a cube environment, because it allows me to have my own space in a sea of people. I'm also an extrovert, so I appreciate being around a lot of other people, especially if it's my own team. It allows for collaboration, innovation, and general networking. People tend to help and relate better to people they know, which is why being around other people is so important. The cube environment allows you to have all of this, and yet also allows you privacy if you need it (phone calls, emails, and focusing in on your expected work).
Hope this perspective helps!
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Does the cubicle life really drain you as much as they say?
Yes, Cristy, the exhaustion that comes from working in a cubicle is not just hearsay. It's a reality for many, and here's why:
1. Limited Movement: Being confined to a cubicle often means prolonged periods of sitting, which can lead to physical discomfort like stiffness, back pain, and poor blood circulation. The lack of movement is a major reason why cubicle work can be so draining.
2. Repetitive Surroundings: The monotony of cubicle environments, coupled with repetitive tasks, can lead to boredom and mental fatigue, making the workday feel longer and more tiring.
3. Noise and Distractions: Unlike private offices, cubicles don't offer much privacy or quiet. The constant noise and interruptions from neighboring colleagues can disrupt focus and productivity, contributing to mental exhaustion.
4. No Personal Touch: Cubicles don't usually allow for much personalization. This lack of control over one's workspace and the inability to make it feel "like your own" can lead to a sense of disconnect and dissatisfaction, adding to the exhaustion.
5. Psychological Strain: Working in a confined space with little natural light and limited social interaction can also take a toll on your mental health and energy levels.
In essence, the fatigue from cubicle work stems from a variety of factors like limited movement, a monotonous environment, constant distractions, lack of personalization, and psychological impacts. Employers should consider strategies to address these issues and foster a healthier, more productive workspace.
Here are the top 3 authoritative sources I used:
Harvard Business Review: This source offers valuable insights into workplace dynamics, employee well-being, and the factors that influence job satisfaction and performance.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA provides guidelines on workplace ergonomics, including tips on how to design workspaces that enhance comfort and reduce physical strain.
American Psychological Association (APA): APA's research on workplace psychology highlights how environmental factors can affect employee mental health, stress levels, and job satisfaction.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Alexander Tschobokdji
Alexander’s Answer
Hi Christy
This depends on what kind of work you are doing and what you consider as a "cubicle". Even your desk (without any walls around you), could be your "cubicle". The fact that there are walls of different height around your desk does not change the amount of work you have to get through in your day - and that is essentially what is exhausting.
My advice, if you should work in a true cubicle - i.e. with high walls where you cant easily see the people around you, get out of your cubicle, whenever you have finished your task - just like a reward for the good work you have done - and go to a common area to meet other people for a quick chat.
Also, when going for an interview, it is absolutely OK to ask to see the working environment you'll be placed in. If you feel that you can't work where they show you, then look for another job. No need to feel depressed and exhausted every day.
Cheers
Gary Petito (Veteran)
Gary’s Answer
Hi,
Yes, it is to be very honest with you. I am an introvert as well and did find working in a cubicle to be draining most days. I did find things that help...listening to music with earbuds or headphones, taking frequent breaks, going for walks on my breaks and learning to be patient and understanding with coworkers. Extroverts are charged by that type of environment while introverts are drained and completely exhausted in it.
I have worked my way up to a remote position so I work from home all the time. Now, I share an office with only 1 person (my wife) and it is still sometimes tiring when we are both on calls and believe it or not, I sometimes miss the cubicle environment and my coworkers....if I lived closer, I would definitely go into the office 1-2 times a week.
Hope this helps, Gary
Brian Downey
Brian’s Answer
Hi Christy:
Good morning. Working in a cubicle can be an adjustment; however I have worked in one for many years and it is possible to come in and do your work in a satisfactory manner and avoid distractions. I have several suggestions you could consider to make you happy and efficient at your job while working beside others. If your job allows for you to work with headphones you could listen to music and block out any distractions if they have the ability for you to connect with wifi on their network. Another way is to just stay focused on your job and tasks at hand and do your best to block out any distractions.
Take a few breaks throughout the day as well so you can reward yourself for each job that you complete and come back refreshed to tackle the next responsibility or task you have to complete for the day. Try to develop some friendships and take a lunch break together as well too to get a break. If you have someone that is very loud or constant distraction, don't be afraid to bring it up to your manager to see if you could move to someplace that is considered quieter in the building. In the building I work at it certain areas are designed for departments that seem to be on the phone more (Sales and marketing) and departments that need quiter areas (underwriting) which is the department I am in.
Work in a cubicle can be an adjustment but if you are working for a good company with good management it is something you can adjust to. Once you get experience doing it, you will find it is not bad at all. Also, if you are considering taking the job ask the manager to walk you around to see the area you would be working in to ensure you feel comfortable before accepting the job. It might actually excite you versus depress or scare you.
Good luck!
In my experience, yes it can be but there are ways to adapt and adjust. I'm an introvert and get my energy from being by myself, not from interacting with others. I found that the noise and distraction drained me when I tried to concentrate on doing my work, so I invested in a pair of noise cancelling headphones. This helped block out the chatter and helped me concentrate, and I felt less drained by the end of the day.
I also set my timer to get up and walk around the building every 30 mins or hour.
That said, I also found it helpful to socialize with my colleagues who sat around me because you never know what kind of great idea can come from collaborating on a project. There are definitely pros and cons, just like with any work arrangement.
Good luck!
Christy
Christy Loerzel
Albert Blume
Albert’s Answer
This environment can be the best of both worlds, you get to form true connections with the individuals next to your cubicle, but you will also deal with the distractions that come with a cubicle (noise, smells). There is an exhaustion that comes from sitting down all day in the first place. What I do to alleviate this is get up and walk around the office and stretch my legs. Another tactic that I utilize is a pair of headphones to allow me to zone in on my work.
Hopefully these insights help you.