This Delaware Theatre Company graphic designer’s secret weapon? Colorful pens

Breck Willis, graphic design and visual content associate for Delaware Theatre Company, keeps on top of his workload with a well-stocked workspace that helps keep the creativity flowing. Here are his workspace must-haves.

• Hydration station

It might seem simple, but nothing makes me feel more sluggish and cloudy than being dehydrated. Working in theatre is pretty much nonstop, and it’s easy to forget to drink water. My water bottles help combat that. And if I forget one at home, I’ve got plenty of backups ready to step up to the plate.

• Planner

Organization is key, especially when you work in nonprofit theatre and wear more than a few hats. It took me a while to find a planner that really worked for me (call me picky), but it changed my entire workflow once I did. It keeps me accountable and helps me plan my week so I’m not feeling overwhelmed by my comprehensive to-do list.

• Headphones

My office shares a wall — and not-so-soundproof window — with our box office. When I need to focus, my headphones become my best friend. Music is my passion, and it never fails to give me a surge of creativity and clarity when I need it most. Current music obsession: Banks.

• Coffee in my Beyoncé mug

“You have as many hours in a day as Beyoncé.” If that’s not motivation, I don’t know what is. Add a hefty dose of coffee and I’m ready to tackle the day. I’m convinced that nothing gives me quite as much of a productivity boost as this sacred combo.

• Colorful pens

Because everything is better in color (mostly). Having different colored pens serves two main purposes for me: color coding my tasks and keeping things, well, colorful. Sometimes it’s the little things that have a big impact on productivity and creativity. This helps on both fronts.