There's a good reason why I feel more productive working at coffee shops like Starbucks or CBTL. I believe many people would agree with me, as I often notice a steady stream of others working in these places as well. These coffee shops seem to be intentionally designed to help people stay focused and motivated while working.
Personally, I find the lighting in these spaces ideal for productivity. It's not overly bright, but not too dim either. Bright lighting tends to tire me out quickly, while softer, warmer lighting feels more comfortable and less draining. I recently compared the lighting in my office to that in the coffee shop, and I realized the ambiance here just feels right. This has made me consider changing the lighting in my office. I used to think that brighter lights would help keep me awake and alert, but it turns out I may have chosen lighting that's far too intense.
Another reason I feel motivated to work here is similar to why going to the gym feels more productive for working out. When I see other people around me busy with their own work, it pushes me to stay focused and keep up as well. Monkey see, monkey do—LOL. Motivation really is contagious. Most people in the coffee shop who are there to work tend to be quiet and focused on what they’re doing. They’re less likely to chat and are generally very respectful of the calm atmosphere.
Among the coffee shops I’ve been to, the ones located on the outskirts of the city are the best places to stay for longer periods. They’re less crowded, which I find more conducive to working. That’s just based on my observation—coffee shops in the city center are often packed, and there are usually people talking loudly. Of course, that’s totally fine—it’s a coffee shop, not a library.
Now, you might ask, why not just go to a library to work? Fair point, and probably a good suggestion. But personally, I find libraries a bit too quiet and, frankly, kind of boring to work in. Plus, the coffee there just doesn’t compare to what I can get at Starbucks or CBTL.
Working from a coffee shop has become my little productivity hack—it’s where the ambiance, lighting, and quiet buzz of activity keep me focused and inspired. Whether it's the outskirts for a calmer vibe or the city center for energy, each spot has its own charm. At the end of the day, nothing beats good coffee and a space that fuels both creativity and concentration.
