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The Psychology of Co-Working: Why People Thrive in Shared Workspaces

Updated: Sep 16, 2023

TLDR: 

Psychology of Co-working Success: 

  • Social Facilitation: Perform better in a community. 

  • Sense of Belonging: Valued contributions and support. 

  • Creativity and Synergy: Diverse collaboration sparks innovation. 

  • Autonomy with Accountability: Freedom and peer influence. 

  • Optimized Environment: Well-designed, productive spaces. 

  • Networking Hub: Connections and opportunities thrive.


As the world of work continues to evolve, so does the environment in which people build

their careers. Gone are the days when you’d be stuck in a boring windowless office

from 9 to 5. Instead, a refreshing alternative is now available to most entrepreneurs and employees - co-working spaces.


Co-working spaces offer a unique blend of work and social interaction, autonomy, and collaboration, which makes them an increasingly popular choice for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and even established corporations.


But what makes these a preferred option for the millennial workforce? Let’s put psychology to work and find out!


1) Social Facilitation Theory

Individuals perform best when they are surrounded by people
Individuals perform best when they are surrounded by people

Psychologist Robert Zajonc's Social Facilitation Theory tells us that individuals often perform at their best when others are present. Co-working spaces like OurDesk create an environment that blends productivity with community, where you're free to pursue goals without the cutthroat competition found in traditional offices. Here, you'll find a supportive atmosphere that fosters not only your personal growth but also potential collaborations and business opportunities.


2) The Sense of Belonging

The Sense of Belonging
The Sense of Belonging

Humans are social animals with a deep desire to connect and fit in. A sense of

belonging is essential to our happiness and is more than just a pleasant emotion. Shared workspaces foster this sense of belonging. In these locations, you are not alone. Your co-workers encourage, inspire, and help you, and this develops a sense of belonging that is good for both your job and general well-being.


3) The Spark of Creativity - Synergy Effects

Synergy effect
Synergy effect

Co-working spaces are centers of synergy - the magic that happens when collaborative efforts lead to outcomes greater than the sum of all individual labor. A traditional office setup doesn’t show you. a graphic designer brainstorming with a software developer or a writer

collaborating with a marketer. But such collaborative efforts are not unusual in co-working

spaces. These interactions encourage innovative solutions, fresh perspectives, and

enhanced problem-solving abilities that are needed to take a project from ‘good’ to ‘great’.


4) A Balanced Approach: Autonomy And Accountability

A balanced approach towards  work leads to a happy life
A balanced approach towards work leads to a happy life

Employees who enjoy working autonomously thrive in co-working spaces. With the freedom to arrange workdays however they see fit, employees tend to notice a spike in their productivity levels. Being in the presence of other individuals who are there to get their work done, a shared sense of accountability, concentration, and productivity arises, benefitting all those present.


5) Designing Success - Environmental Cues

OurDesk - Coworking space in Khar
OurDesk - Coworking space in Khar

Co-working spaces are carefully designed to optimize productivity and well-being. Bright, open spaces with abundant natural light, ergonomic furniture, and flexible seating options encourage movement and adaptability throughout the day. Communal areas offer a space to recharge or engage with co-workers. It's a thoughtful environment that cultivates not just productivity but also a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.


6) Networking Nirvana - Building Connections

Networking at coworking spaces
Networking at coworking spaces

Networking is a breeze in co-working spaces. Regular workshops, seminars, and social events create a vibrant platform for professionals to connect. Whether you're looking to expand your industry contacts or explore new opportunities, these spaces offer fertile ground for building connections. You might just stumble upon a mentor, a collaborator, or your next big client during one of these events.


Coworking spaces provide a purpose beyond being a workplace. They give us a tempting look at the office of the future, where success is determined not just by personal achievement but also by thriving in a welcoming environment. Whether you're a freelancer, an entrepreneur, or a part of a corporate team, think of the co-working movement as a method to maximize your potential. At the intersection of teamwork, creativity, and personal growth, your path to success starts right here.


About OurDesk


OurDesk – your ultimate coworking destination. Now open for business, our 52-seat coworking space also boasts a corner office, a well-equipped meeting room, and an event space for 25 seated guests. Whether you're a new business or a seasoned one, OurDesk provides all the amenities you need for a productive and successful workday.


Located in Khar West, OurDesk is just a short walk from Khar railway station (300m) & in close proximity to SV Road (75m). High-speed internet, ergonomic furniture & abundant natural light are on the house! We also have an on-site pantry & separate toilets for men/ women on the same floor.


Flexible membership plans are offered to solopreneurs, freelancers, entrepreneurs, management consultants, chartered accountants, marketing agencies, small businesses, startups, and professionals seeking shared office space or a flexible workspace for remote work.


OurDesk is more than just a coworking space; we are an initiative of Mataji Rampiyaribai Trust, a registered not-for-profit organization with a rich history of assisting members of the community for over 50+ years. Our commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth in the business community is driven by our longstanding mission to empower professionals like you. By choosing OurDesk, you not only gain access to a dynamic workspace but also contribute to the meaningful initiatives and support provided by the trust. Together, let's make a positive impact on the business world while uplifting our community. Join us on this journey of empowerment and transformation.


To inquire:

  • Call: +91-88507-84440

  • Email: hello.ourdesk@gmail.com

  • Click here to visit our website or here to visit our Instagram Profile.

Explore our modern office space in Khar West, Mumbai, conveniently situated near the Khar Train Station, offering location advantages for professionals seeking work-life balance in a community-driven space. Take advantage of our meeting rooms, hot desk options, dedicated desk setups, virtual office services, and business support offerings. Join us at OurDesk for networking events in a professional environment, and experience an affordable workspace designed to boost productivity and collaboration.

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