5 tips to redesign your surroundings and live better

Leidy Klotz, a behavioral scientist and engineering professor at the University of Virginia, proposes that intentional design of our physical surroundings can significantly enhance psychological well-being, identity, relationships, and memories. In his book, "In a Good Place: How the Spaces Where We Live, Work, and Play Can Help Us Thrive," Klotz outlines five key insights for living better through environmental engagement. One core suggestion is to "practice space before screen," using the common habit of looking at phones as a prompt to first notice and engage with one's immediate physical environment. This conscious awareness, Klotz argues, can counteract the disengagement fostered by screens and serve as a gateway to appreciating other aspects of one's surroundings. He also advises seeking "adjacent freedom" when feeling constrained by one's environment. This involves recognizing that while some aspects of our surroundings are uncontrollable, such as a non-opening window in his office, focusing on elements that can be changed or influenced can restore a sense of agency. Klotz, who has published in journals like Nature and Science and written for publications including The Washington Post and Harvard Business Review, emphasizes that our physical spaces are not passive backdrops but active contributors to our quality of life. By actively designing and interacting with these spaces, individuals can cultivate a greater sense of control and satisfaction.