We recently shared some tips about about “cleaning up the mess in your head.”
But what about your physical space? Whether you’re a co-worker or a work-from-homer or you are big enough to have your own dedicated offices and warehouses, the area around you can make a huge difference in productivity.
We asked professional organizer Jessica Decker of Become Organized, Inc. for some 2017 resolutions for a tidier and more effective workplace.
Jessica shared, “Before I was a professional organizer I worked several jobs in corporate America. The number one thing that kept me sane and on top of my workload, and gained praise from my coworkers and superiors, was my ability to keep projects and my workspace organized.” For example:
- Create and maintain a filing system. Whether you’re paperless or not, having labeled folders (virtual or in a filing cabinet) is essential to maintaining project clutter and aiding in retrieving information. Create a folder for each project or client and file away corresponding communication and documents right away or at a set time each day. Imagine how productive you would feel upon opening your email to an inbox containing only current issues. Think of how easy it would be to find a file by opening your filing cabinet rather than shuffling through papers on your desk.
- Manage your time effectively. Create a schedule for yourself at the end of the day that will detail your next day. Block off time where you will only respond to emails, work on a project, or meet with coworkers. Multitasking is not favorable to productivity. Focus on one task at a time and schedule buffer time to cover any issues that arise and need your attention immediately.
- Clear your desk. A clear desk is paramount to productivity and professionalism. File away the papers cluttering your desk and use an inbox to corral incoming paperwork. Put office supplies away in a desk drawer. Recycle and toss trash and finished projects. The only things out on your desk should be beautiful and useful. Put up a family photo if you wish and only have your current projects on your desk when you’re working on them, Otherwise those too should be filed away.
I can attest to that! As Publisher of sheBOOM, I’m now running two separate businesses, while planning for a huge home move (which Jessica’s company has been helping me with!). Yesterday, I cleaned-up my workspace and filled two giant trash bags with stuff I was saving for “someday.” Next, I’m tackling my online files. I feel liberated and lighter and ready to start 2017 with a BOOM!
Please share your “clean-up plans” for the new year! Our readers would love to hear your tips!
