If you've worked in a cubicle any length of time, chances are you've experienced a bad work environment. It may have been something obvious like a bad manager or punching a time clock, but other times you might not be able to put your finger on why you hated going into work. Studies have shown that work surroundings greatly affect how employees feel about their job and how productive they are. Things like lighting and sound can affect how honest and creative employees are. Work peers can even affect each other's health.

The economic downturn over the last 5 years has forced companies to optimize their workforce in order to stay in business. Jobs were cut, salaries reduced, and longer work weeks were introduced. Many Americans suffered whether they had a job or lost one. Fingers crossed, things seem to be looking better and hopefully this country is on a road to recovery.