Contributed by Info Guru Lisa Pratto

A desk is a desk, but it isn’t YOUR desk unless you personalize it with at least one gadget that says something about you or the work you do. But come on, why stop with one? After all, this is the place where you probably spend more awake time than anywhere else, so you want it to say that you sit there (as opposed to that creepy guy in the corner cubicle or that woman with the foil hat in the last office on the right.)

Add some personal touches – little electronic accessories or playful work-related toys – to your desktop to express your personality, and make it feel like home. Which, getting back to those awake hours, it kind of is! So here are a few ideas to spur your creativity and take that office or cube from boring to just plain fun.

10. Perpetual Motion Toys

This is one of the great desk gadgets of all-time. Who can resist? It makes the list, but only at number ten. We’ve all seen them and they have lost their unique edge a bit. Unless of course, you’re looking to express your inner hipster. In that case, this ironically out-of-date toy is probably a great place to start!

9. Giant Calculator

Yes, I know every computer has a calculator built in, but do you really want to close that documnent everytime you need to compute the quarterly profit or total up your expense account reimbursement? I thought so!

So why so big? Maybe it’s me. Maybe I am getting old. I hate teeny, tiny calculators with teeny, tiny buttons. If you are resisting bifocals, get a giant calculator.

8. Galileo Thermometer

You remember him, right?! Physicist, mathematician, astronomer, philosopher and all-around overachiever? Well, the Galileo thermometers are hot desk gadgets now. They combine his theories about fixed mass, ambient temperature and buoyancy into these really cool float-y things. And yes, it will boost your geek quotiant. (I’m good with that…how about you?)

7. Magnifying Glass

Not just a plain, utilitarian magnifying glass, but a unique one. One that says something about you. Sleek and modern. Classic antique. You decide.

So why is this a great choice? Simple…everyone will wonder why you have it. An instant element of mystery! Even if you don’t use it, it’s a great way to get coworkers thinking about what your job title really includes!

6. Electric Stapler

OK. This is not a toy, but if you have ever struggled with an old school stapler through multiple projects, you can appreciate the need for one. It’s one of life’s little luxuries. That and Starbucks. (Well, no wait. Starbucks is a necessity. Candy is a luxury…no, wait. Chocolate is another necessity, and that’s a kind of candy…OK, I give up.) Electric staplers are a luxury. End of story.

5. Electronics Docking Station

While this is a great gadget for home or office, beware. There are only so many spots for charging phones in most offices. Once people find out you have one, they will be asking to borrow it. Say no. (Hey, I promised gadget ideas, not interpersonal skills!)

4. Stress Balls

We all have stressful days. Days where we wonder if the entire world has gone nuts. Days where nothing goes right. Relax. Take a deep breath. Play with your stress relieving toys. Ahhhhhhhhh…..

3. Mini Zen Garden

Larger Zen gardens have been calming retreats in Japan for centuries and now that sense of peace has been shrunk down to fit on the corner of your desk. Genius, right?! Not quite a latte and a good book at the corner table in Starbucks, but it’ll do in a pinch.

2. Digital Photo Frame

These came out several years ago, but digital photo frames are great if you have more than one kid. Believe it or not, they complain when their sister’s picture is a 5”x7” and their picture is only a 3”x5”. Sigh. This way no one gets shorted. Don’t forget a media card.

1. Magic 8 Ball

Why? Well, frankly, why not? A Magic Eight ball has a retro vibe and yet somehow exudes uber cool at the same time. Perfect.