Organizing your work area can dramatically improve your productivity. You spend less time looking for things, or worrying about an important document you lost. A clean work area also has less distractions and is simply more inspiring to be in! Here are some tips to get you started.
Sort your stuff
Set aside one day to just sift through all your files and belongings. Decide only what is useful, necessary and meaningful. Alas, there is a difference between sentimental and meaningful. It may be hard to throw away clippings or letters but think of it this way: is it meaningful if it is gathering dust in a drawer or lying under a pile of junk? Maybe it is better to scan that document or letter, or to place in a dedicated folder or scrapbook, where you can turn to it for inspiration.
Make things easy to find
Assign a specific place for things so you know where you can find them. Get storage containers like boxes, filing systems, or expandable folders. Get boxes or caddies to hold office supplies and invest in a label maker (or print out labels).
Set up your work zone
Create a space that is specifically for working. It can be a corner or a room or a small desk. Or you can use the kitchen table but create a ‘Work box’ that carries all you need so that you can easily grab it before you sit down at your ‘office.’ (Read tips on how to make your cubicle a more relaxing place.)