Clean desks lead to happier, more productive lives!

By Christina Smith

There are two types of people – the messy, disorganized individuals and the neat, orderly individuals. Sometimes a person falls in between. This person is usually someone who is has created large messes in the past but realizes when it's time clean up! As you read this, I'm sure you can identify with at least one of the three individuals. I characterize myself as the "in between" individual. However, I generally tend to lean towards the clean, orderly spectrum of the organizational scale. My sister, on the other hand, is beyond disorganized. Growing up, my room was kept neat and tidy. My sister was a different story. I rarely ever saw the floor let alone any discernible piece of furniture. Clothes were tossed about. Papers and binders were scattered everywhere. However, I was amazed at how well she was able to work in such a cluttered disaster!

Some people think working in a disorganized office actually helps creativity.  Having scraps of paper, magazines, and books everywhere fosters a more creative environment. I agree to a point. However, when books, papers, folders, and anything else that clutters a desk build up, productivity is harmed. I've known people who have spent over ten minutes searching through clutter for something important. Can you imagine how much time you could save if all papers were filed away, all books were neatly arranged, and all the clutter was cleared off your desk?

According to a recent study, people who are organized are 35% more productive during the day.  35%!!  That's a lot of time spent getting a project done rather than searching through clutter.  This means everyone should stop what he or she is doing and start organizing! Of course, this is obviously easier said than done. So! Below are five quick steps to get your life (and office space) clean, neat and clutter-free!

1.) Set aside a few hours. Sort through all the papers on your desk. Don't be afraid to throw away old papers. And don't be a pack rat! Create neat, organized piles with remaining papers.
2.) Begin a folder/filing system. Place all papers in folders.
3.) Place all books and magazines in a bookcase or on a shelf neatly nearby.
4.) Don't use sticky-notes. Desks get messy quickly with excessive post-it note usage. Instead, keep a small memo pad nearby.
5.) Keep only useful everyday items on desk, such as a small calendar, pens/markers, stapler, & tape on desk. Everything else should be put away.

Hope this helps!!