PS my kitchen usually looks better than this but I just finished cooking so don't pay attention to the clutter everywhere (ashamed)

No, you are not, many people do it. You could put a rug in the center of the kitchen with a table on top. The following pic ( first one) is like your kitchen:

You could also consider an indoor/outdoor rug. They are usually reversible, and can be washed off with a hose! Some of them are just gorgeous! there are more rugs in the attached Ideabook, I'm not suggesting the aqua colour :)
https://www.houzz.com/magazine/guest-picks-stylish-rugs-upgrade-outdoor-space-stsetivw-vs~1870569

i don't like rugs in kitchens. your kitchen is not "boring", but how about instead of a rug, a Boos chopping block on a red stand to spice things up ... http://www.surlatable.com/product/PRO-16394/?affsrcid=Aff0001&mr:trackingCode=354C7685-471B-E011-B690-001517384909&mr:referralID=NA&mr:adType=pla&mr:ad=30153266381&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:filter=24156051701&origin=pla

How about an animal print !

How about a round or oval rug?

I would not add a rug... concerns would be dropped food, splatters, not a fan of rugs in a kitchen.

Definitely add a rug with padding. Mine makes such a difference when standing at the stove.

I love rugs in the kitchen but my concern with a chevron pattern would be the usual high contrast white or ivory and dark color combo. I feel like the lighter area will get dirty quickly in a kitchen.

I agree with Michelle, in addition it could be a trip hazard. I think a better solution (but more expensive and complex) would be to remove the mid wood section and install a "ceramic tile rug" ie a follr pattern and border made with ceramic tile installed level to the surrounding(existing wood floor. ----Or you could have the floor sanded to the bare wood and have the refinisher create a "stained border"
PyramidDG.com

I've always used area rugs in my kitchen currently I have one under the dining table. Everyone likes it. It's not expensive so I can change up the colors with my curtains and accessories to give the room a whole new look.

I think a round braided rug would be pretty. One that incorporated your cabinet color and your wall color. I'd stay away from the chevron pattern. Your cabinets have a lot of rectangular features that can be softened. Floral patterns or curvy geometric patterns.

Add a rug with color. Make a statement with it. It's easy to do and easy to change. Go for it!