9 Gen Z–Picked Workplace Must-Haves
Whether you work from home or in an office, Gen Zer Phoebe Hurwitz has suggestions to make your workday more productive and enjoyable without busting your budget.
We all know the value of a good accessory. An outfit needs a statement necklace or some stackable rings to spice it up, a drab room needs an accent chair with a pop of color, bland chicken needs a side of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Okay, I may be taking some liberties with the term, but you get the point: What appears boring at a glance simply needs a sidekick.
Because we spend much of our life at work, as a member of Gen Z (a group notoriously focused on enjoying our lives), I wondered, “How could I make my experience more interesting?” And as much as we all love our jobs, maybe you’ve asked the same question. As with any other not-so-exciting thing, an accessory might help. Here I’ve compiled some workplace knickknacks that might help make your day a little more interesting:
IBOANN 3 Pack Blue Light Blocking Glasses, $11.89
I don’t wear corrective lenses, but I love these glasses because they make me feel like a working professional. If that’s not your primary concern, however, blue-light blocking glasses are still an essential for anyone who stares at a screen all day. They help protect your eyes from potential damage caused by prolonged exposure to blue light from your computer or phone, which can cause eye strain, headaches, and fatigue.
2. Timer cube:
GSY Gravity Sensor Flip Timer, $11.99
Having trouble deciding which task to start with? Roll the dice and let the suggested amount of time be your guide. This timer cube is a fun and tactile way to section work and life tasks. Four of its sides are numbered: 15, 20, 30, and 60 minutes. Simply turn it on and place the amount of time that you want faceup. The gravity-sensing cube will instantly activate and start counting down that amount of time. This is an effortless way to space out different work tasks.
3. Mini desk vacuum:
ODISTAR Desktop Vacuum Cleaner, $15.98
If you are a constant snacker (like me), a mini desk vacuum might be a workplace necessity. All those little, incriminating crumbs that are evidence of your desk feast are easily sucked away with this tiny desk vacuum. It’s also useful for pencil or eraser shavings, if you’re less food driven than I am. You simply turn it on and guide it with your hand across your desk – or whatever surface you want to clean, including dust in your computer keys.
Vaunn Medical Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser, $49.99
They say one of the best ways to keep your mind sharp is to keep your body moving… which is exactly why sitting at a desk all day is miserable for most people. ANYWAY! This battery-powered machine, at only 6.8 inches tall and 15.2 inches wide, fits discreetly under your desk and gives you a chance to get in some light physical activity. If nothing else, it’s a way to keep your mind busy while also keeping your joints oiled and ready to run (home at the end of the day). And if you’re ready to seriously grind those quads, you can up the resistance by turning a knob. Most product reviews on Amazon claim the exerciser has a quiet and smooth experience, likely depending on workout intensity.
5. Laptop sunshade:
Vatalyst Laptop Sun Shade, $44.95
If the fluorescent office lights are dulling your wit and sparkle, maybe you need to do some work outside. Unfortunately, Ms. Sun is not compatible with the artificial light of your computer screen – but this sunshade is here to help! Pop open this portable sun blocker and place your computer inside. It allows you to clearly see your screen so you can work while out in the sunshine.
Doter MagSafe Accessories Laptop Phone Holder, $15.99
This fun, little gadget makes multitasking on your phone and computer much easier. The bending arm attaches to one end to the back of your computer screen and the other end attaches to a magnet on your phone. You can remove or connect your phone to the magnet at any time, and the sturdy arm will hold up your phone so you can see both displays at once.
SUPMEGA Monitor Memo Board, $13.99
Sticky notes have long been a working professional’s best friend; at the very least they deserve a designated place to sit. The thing about your computer screen is that you need to be able to see it. So even though your screen makes a perfectly obvious place to stick your Post-it notes, inevitably you’ll run out of room. This gadget is a sleek, clear stand that attaches to the back of your desktop and provides that perfect surface to attach sticky notes where you can clearly see and prioritize them.
BAJNOKOU Large Laptop Tote Bag, $25.99
Everyone loves a classic black tote. This one has that understated, professional look that will help you keep a low profile while still making it known that you’re a smart and capable boss (if you don’t think a bag can say all this, maybe you have the wrong bag👛💁♀️). There are plenty of compartments in this tote so you can easily organize all your things. Also, this puppy comes equipped with a USB port to charge your phone, and it’s waterproof. To use the USB port, you need a portable charging bank that you connect through the inside of the bag. Then, just plug your USB cord and phone into the port on the outside.
9. Fidget Toy:
SMALL FISH Infinity Cube Fidget Toy, $9.95
Fidgeting at work is inevitable. This cube has little magnets inside that allow you to continuously take apart and rearrange the cube, keeping your hands busy and helping you focus. Most importantly, it has a kind of Rubik’s Cube–inspired look so while you fidget your colleagues will wonder what new genius brain game you’re playing.
BONUS! We wouldn’t be SheVentures if we didn’t give a shoutout to women-owned businesses on Amazon. Check them out here: Women-owned small businesses.
