Is clutter standing in the way of you doing your best work? Likely it is. In fact, it’s one of the biggest challenges to your productivity.
Are you constantly searching for client files, notes, or even something to write with?
Is it a nightmare to find a file on your hard drive or the cloud because you lack an organizational structure and/or an effective file-naming convention?
Do you have a dozen tabs open on your computer at any one time? Yes, that’s a form of clutter, too.
Are there stacks of books, papers, or even coffee cups or dishes sitting on your desk?
Are your file drawers crammed with paperwork that’s no longer needed and which belongs in the trash can?
No wonder it’s hard to focus or get anything done. And, even if you do accomplish anything, you’re probably not feeling your best when you work under these cluttered conditions.
Across the board, clutter is often fueling these uneasy feelings and your lack of productivity. It has a way of sucking the life out of you, distracting you from what’s most important, and derailing your success.
5 Tips To Clear Clutter In Your Workspace
You can’t increase your productivity by reading a book or taking a class. You actually need to take action.
After that’s done, you’ll start to see the effects — increased productivity.
Let’s focus on some basic components of your work environment.
A cluttered and messy office is no place to expect your best work. And, while some people believe that’s where they get their best work done, imagine what they could accomplish if working in a completely upgraded environment! Here are some simple tips for helping you to create an environment for success.
Put It Away!
Put away everything that belongs in your desk drawers or file cabinet.
If you find things that don’t belong in your office, then take them to wherever they belong and put them away.
Bonus tip: Discard anything you haven’t used in the past year. If you haven’t used it in that time, odds are you never will.
Clear It Away!
Clear everything from the top of your desk and wipe it down.
Prior to placing things back on top of your desk, evaluate each item to make sure you actually need it front and center.
If not, then put it away or throw it away. Reduce visual distractions as much as possible.
Bonus tip: Wipe down your desk phone and/or smartphone. They’re a haven for germs.
Review
Gather all your Post-It notes and scraps of paper.
For the remainder, type them into a digital document for safekeeping.
Bonus tip: If they include items you need to reference, keep the one page document easily accessible on your desktop or stored in a top desk drawer.
Clean Up!
If you have boxes or stacks of items on your office floor, go through them and discard everything you can. Again, if you haven’t used something in the past year, discard it or give it away.
Discarding is the better choice so that it can be recycled.
Bonus tip: Go through your bookcase and get rid of any books you also own digitally.
Box up any others that are outdated and either give them to the library or recycle them.
Remove Digital Distractions
Technology produces its own brand of clutter.
Close down any tabs that you have open on your computer except for those that apply to your current work.
Bonus tip: Turn off any gadgets except the ones you need to do your core work tasks. You’ll get more done faster and easier without added distractions.
By implementing these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to clearing the clutter in your office and reducing distraction.
You’ll love the result. You’ll be more energized, less anxious, and more focused on your work. Investing a little bit of time today to prepare your work environment will make a noticeable difference in your productivity!
