It turns out the smartest investment any company with a shared workspace can make is in herb plants. Bringing greenery into the office is the hidden formula for buying time.
A 2014 study from the University of Exeter in the UK found that plants in the workspace increase daily productivity by 5%-15%. And here's the counterintuitive part: employees who "wasted time" tending to the plants were closer to the 15% productivity increase. In other words, investing precious time actually saved time.
If we move from math to chemistry, it makes perfect sense: The secret ingredient is dopamine, which you've likely heard of as a pain reliever and mood elevator.
Dopamine was produced in the brains of our ancient ancestors to encourage them to hunt. It could be called the "optimism hormone." The morning release of this hormone created the expectation of food, providing the optimism and vitality the hunter needed to face the day's hardships. It was the knowledge that, despite the dangers, they would bring food back to the tribe in the evening.
Growing edible plants and connecting with the soil taps into this primal instinct for the modern urban human. Arriving at the office 10 minutes early, anticipating how our plant has grown; the joy when a seedling becomes a bush; the surprise of seasonal flowers that pop up overnight—all these things lead to a gentle release of this hormone. The result? More alertness, better focus, and a more positive approach to work and daily life. For the employee actively involved in the gardening, each morning starts with a feeling of competence, fueling them to handle even the toughest days.
If you are in a management role, consider nurturing edible plants in the office, even if you already have decorative ones. Just having greenery is good for employees and guests, but edible plants take it a step further—they don't just offer a feeling; they literally provide food. Even if it's just a small mint plant for tea in the breakroom, it completes the dopamine reward cycle. Plus, you’ll save a few dollars on fancy tea blends.
Because what's more luxurious than fresh, organically grown tea straight from the plant, full of love?
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I have created a unique, designed, and easy-to-use capsule in my shop for offices and urban spaces. Feel free to consult with me for free about the plants and equipment suitable for your needs and your climatic area.
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The Green Time: The Secret Formula to Creating Time revealed!
