If you’ve decided on having a clean work environment, how do you tackle the mess? After all, it might seem like a lot to handle in one afternoon. Follow these simple tips to organize your desk or workspace!
Start Using a Junk Tray
Throughout the day, you’re bound to have a lot of papers or files land on your desk. When that happens, place them all in one tray, and go through them whenever you have time.
Take Out the Trash
Do you need a project outline from 8 years ago? Probably not. When going through your pile of papers, recycle what you don’t need and file the things you do.
Color Code Papers & Folders
You’ll find documents faster when they’re in a designated spot. For example, invoices could go in a red folder, while applications can go in a blue folder.
Label Your Storage
Do you have hundreds of customers? Maybe you’re a teacher with 7 different classes. By labeling your storage, you’ll know where invoices or homework assignments are right away.
Disinfect Your Keyboard, Phone, Mouse, and Desk
A study funded by The Clorox Company found that keyboards and office desks have more germs than most toilet seats. You can stay healthy by wiping down your workspace daily. This includes not just your keyboard, but also cleaning your mouse pad, mouse, phone, and the desk itself.
Keep Only the Essentials Out
You don’t need old coffee cups or yesterday’s half-eaten lunch on your desk. Save room for the necessities like a pen, notebook, and calendar.
Create a Designated Spot for Supplies
Scissors, pens, pencils, staplers, highlighters, paper clips, etc. all deserve their own spot. Whether it’s a pencil holder, desk organizer, or paper tray, make sure everything has a place.
Clean Your Desk Daily
At the end of every work day, take 5 to 7 minutes to tidy up. You’ll be amazed at how long your desk can stay organized just by staying on top of things.
Some days are hectic, and you might not have time to tidy up. But once you’ve taken the time to clean your desk, it’s important to try to keep it that way.
