Updatecast: Part 2 - False Worlds In Our Heads, Dealing With Our Environment

Have you ever made a quick decision only to ask yourself later, “What was I thinking?” Our minds play tricks more often than we realise, especially when we’re juggling multiple tasks. In this episode—whose player is located at the top of this page—we pick up from the last conversation about illusions and misaligned perceptions, focusing on a simple but eye-opening scenario involving curtains. We also dive into ways to make your office environment more supportive when you need it most.

The key takeaway from the podcast is how easily we can be fooled by appearances. Something that looks perfect on a screen doesn’t always match reality. This realisation isn’t just about home décor; it’s a bigger reminder about pausing before we rush into decisions. The episode highlights why aligning your surroundings with your true needs matters more than chasing a shiny or flashy image.

The Trap of False First Impressions

Most of us are visual creatures. We see something picture-perfect online, and our brains say, “Yes, that’s exactly right!” But when you unwrap that item at home, it might be the complete opposite. In the podcast, I shared how picking out new curtains became a lesson in seeing beyond the initial image.

“I took one look at these curtains online and was convinced they’d be perfect, but they turned out to be the complete opposite when I got them in my office.”

It’s easy to get swept up in a mental picture that doesn’t match reality. That gap is important if you have a busy mind or if your attention is easily pulled in ten different directions.

Why Environment Impacts Success

Our offices and workspaces can boost us or block us. A well-crafted space supports mood, focus, and creativity—especially if you have something like dyslexia, ADHD, or you simply thrive in a certain atmosphere. The wrong lighting or the wrong décor might leave you feeling unsettled without you knowing why.

In this podcast, I mention how the colour and texture of even the simplest items, like curtains, can shift how you feel. Comfortable furniture, helpful storage solutions, and breathable light all contribute to a better work rhythm. We don’t want anything fussy or cluttered. We want relief from chaos so we can do our best thinking.

Aligning Your Senses

Curtains are just one piece of the puzzle. Think of what else in your workspace might not fit the image you need. Are your shelves too dark, making you feel captured in a cave? Is your chair height slightly off, causing a subtle ache that distracts you over time? Are the walls too bland, leaving you uninspired?

If you’re not sure, do a quick walkthrough of your workspace and note what’s helping and what’s hurting. Don’t just rely on a mental image. Really look at each item and ask:

• Does this piece of décor or furniture bring me comfort or spark my creativity?
• Is the lighting supportive or too harsh?
• Am I drawn to certain colours or textures?
• Do I have enough room to move around and feel free?

Little changes to your environment can make a huge difference. Sometimes, we keep an item because it looks “cool” online. But if it’s not serving you in real life, why hold onto it?

Simple Steps for Creating a Supportive Space

If you’re considering a small makeover, start with what’s most critical for comfort and clarity. Perhaps you’ve already noticed your back aches by midday. A better chair or a stand-up desk could be your first move. Or if lighting is the issue, experiment with different bulbs or reposition your current lamps to reduce glare.

Once you’ve tackled comfort, add personal touches that remind you why you do what you do. Artwork that stirs your motivation or a favourite quote on the wall can keep you centred when your attention drifts. Bringing in a few plants can also calm your senses, making your workspace feel alive in a way that no online photo can truly capture in advance.

Look at each potential addition or upgrade with a discerning eye. It’s not about chasing the perfect social media photo. It’s about creating a place where your mind thrives, and where your energy feels aligned with your goals.

Takeaways

• Don’t trust surface impressions. Always test how something feels in real life.
• Crafting a calm environment keeps you focused and engaged.
• Small tweaks, like new curtains or better lighting, can shift your mindset.
• Ask if each item in your office truly supports your needs and energy.
• Your workspace should reflect your goals, not just a pretty picture.

If these thoughts resonate and you’d like to hear the full story, check out the episode using the player above. Give it a listen, see how it applies to your life, and share your own experiences. Sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs start with noticing the small details around us.