It’s hard to be productive when your space is not only a mess, but also disorganised.
60% of people are visual (I am too!) so clutter and “stuff” strewn all over the place will just drive you up the wall!
Before we start, let’s get ready:
(a) put on some upbeat music (not slow love songs – fast music!)
(b) make sure you have a BIG wastepaper basket
(c) get another plastic basket for items that belong in another room
So what do you need to do?
1. Back up your files
Do NOT open your email programme before you start or you’ll get sidetracked!
DO put a recurring reminder in Outlook to do this on a monthly basis, or more frequently than that.
Remember last year when I lost EVERYTHING on my flash drive? It only translated to about 2 hours’ work because I’d backed up my computer a few weeks before that.
Now, while your computer is backing up…
2. Clean off your desk
You can do this in 30 seconds (that’s why you have the upbeat music) – yes, really. Play a game with yourself and say, “by the end of this song, my desk is going to be clean”. Works for me 😉
Put all items belonging in another room in the plastic basket. Don’t go to the actual room to put them away – you don’t want to get sidetracked!
Throw any cooldrink cans, sweet papers, etc. in the wastepaper basket. Put all the little notes inside your desk notebook (you do have ONE desk notebook, don’t you?) and set to one side.
If you don’t use the item on a DAILY basis, it shouldn’t be on your desk. By the same token, if you use something every day, make a place for it within arm’s reach.
E.g. My headset for Skype calls is on a hook on the wall above my desk – near enough that I can just reach for it, but not taking up valuable real estate on the desk.
See? 30 seconds and you’re done!
I *do* know this is the Quick & Easy way – if you want ALL the detail, check out 7 easy steps to organise your office at http://marciafrancois.com/?page_id=17
3. Sort out the paper
Take out the desk notebook with all the little notes. I use a spiral-bound notebook with a lovely, bright yellow and lime-green cover because it makes me happy to write my notes in a beautiful notebook 😉
Write down all those bits and pieces – your internet provider’s helpline, website addresses, people to look up on Facebook, etc.
Throw away all the junk mail and paper you don’t need (and take it to your recycling bag later).
Put all the filing in ONE pile – you can do this in front of the TV later!
Now doesn’t that feel better? A lovely, neat and organised office!
Marcia Francois is a time management and organising coach who empowers small business owners and other busy professionals who want to make the most of their time. You’ll get simple, practical organising and time management secrets to help you work less and enjoy life more! Visit http://marciafrancois.com for your free Organising Success Pack.
Oh, great tips!! I especially love the “on the desk only if you use it daily” rule, I’ll definitely review my desk with this one in mind!