Desk clutter is inevitable. We all have busy lives and things can sometimes pile up especially when we are in the midst of multiple projects.
Know your limits – if your desk has gotten so cluttered that it’s affecting your creativity and productivity, it’s time to take action.
Below are 4 ways to clear your desk (and your mind) quickly and easily.
Gather the right tools and supplies
Have 3 bins handy; “trash”, “recycle” and “shred.” You’ll also need file folders, hanging files and a sharpie or label maker.
Tackle the big stuff first
Toss anything you know can be thrown out. Put things that already have a designated place where they belong. Pull out bulky items such as CD’s, brochures, magazines, newspapers, manuals and unopened mail. Create separate piles for each of them. Use a nearby table as your “staging area” and if one isn’t available, use the floor.
Go Micro
Gather all the receipts, business cards, post its and scraps of papers with notes on them. Put in a separate pile on your staging area. You can process those later.
Process the paper
Gather the paper into one neat pile. Go through each document and sort based on categories. Some common categories are: To Do, To File and To Read. Use a capture tool such as a desk tray to sort and keep your papers organized, especially your To Dos. Create a file on the spot for things that need one. Review the scraps of paper and business cards. Transfer any useful information to your contacts, calendar or to do list.
Voila! – your desk should be clear and clutter-free. Spritz on a little cleaner and wipe it down…A clean slate, a more productive and clear headed you!
Do you have a cool way of restoring order to your desk? Leave a comment below and let us know!
