When you think of your workspace, you probably think about a featureless desk you labor at every day. The truth is, you spend more time at your desk than anywhere else except your bed. And just as an uncomfortable bed means you won't get good sleep, an uncomfortable, impersonal desk means you won't be productive. Get more out of your work hours by creating a more personal, productive workspace.

A Productive Workspace

It's true! Just a few small changes to your workspace can improve your performance and productivity. For the most part, this means adding personal touches to make the space your own. After all, we work most efficiently when we're physically and emotionally comfortable. Adding items like a sweater or throw for those days when the air conditioning is a bit chilly can help you stay focused. You may even keep a stress ball or a fidget toy in your desk drawer for those hectic days.

This infographic from BusinessBacker reveals 12 hacks to create a more personal, productive workspace. Although many companies have policies regarding decor at your desk, anything you can do within those rules to make your workspace your own will help you stay happy, healthy and productive.

It's your workspace. Make it your own! After all, you'll be spending a lot of time there.

12 Office Desk Hacks to Improve Productivity

Just making a few small changes to your desk space can maximize your performance and productivity at work. Try these simple desk hacks and see how much you improve your focus!

1. Add a Plant

Research published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science suggests that exposure to the color green makes you more productive.

Try an air plant or a succulent, as they don't require too much attention.

2. Purchase a SAD Light

Researchers at Northwestern University found that office workers with greater light exposure are more alert.

Light therapy is most effective early in the morning. Start by switching it on for the first 30 minutes of the day.

3. Use Peppermint Oil

Using scents and essential oils can stimulate your brain and make you more productive. Peppermint in particular has been found to enhance cognitive performance.

Try applying a few small drops to your temples and on the back of your neck.

4. Chew Gum

Research published by the British Journal of Psychology found that chewing gum boosts your concentration.

Keep a pack of peppermint gum on your desk. Sugar-free is best!

5. Use Noise Canceling Headphones

Studies by Cornell University have shown that prolonged noise has serious health effects on office workers.

Use them when the office gets busy. It can help block out unwanted noise, even if you're not listening to music.

6. Use a Gaming Keyboard

Gaming keyboards offer more options and shortcut possibilities. Using shortcuts can cut down on the time it takes for you to complete tasks.

Personalize your keyboards with your own hotkeys -- it'll be quicker to memorize them.

7. Have a Throw Blanket

Ergonomic studies at Cornell University found that warmer office temperatures have been proven to make you more accurate and efficient.

Keep a large scarf or blanket in your desk drawer for chilly office days.

8. Add a Letter Tray

Having a cluttered and unorganized desk can slow you down and send the wrong message to colleagues.

Keep the tray on your desk where you can easily reach it.

9. Get a Stopwatch

Research conducted by Cornell University found that workers who use reminders to take short breaks are more productive.

Keep a stopwatch on your desk. Set a countdown for each break you plan to take.

10. Gaze Into the Distance

To avoid fatigue, the Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends you look away from your screen every 20 minutes at something that is 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Pick an object in the distance and look at it when your eyes feel strained.

11. Install a Notification-Blocking App

A study by the University of British Columbia found that people who limited their daily email use had significantly lower stress levels, which made them more productive at work.

Put new messages on hold so they won't appear until you are ready.

12. Get a Stress Toy

Research conducted by New York University's Tandon School of Engineering found that stress toys or "fidget widgets" help improve focus and support productivity.

Keep a few different stress balls in your desk for those tense moments.

Being at your desk all day can often make you feel unmotivated and unproductive. These simple and easy-to-apply desk hacks can really make a difference.

Give them a go and see for yourself just what a difference they can make.