Simple Ways to Organize Your Workspace
Organizing your workspace can be the difference between a productive working environment and a disheveled one. Whether you’re a freelancer working from home or an office employee, keeping your desk in check will ensure your productivity, mental clarity and physical comfort. To make things simpler, here are 6 simple ways to organize your workspace:
1. Take 15 Minutes Every Day to Organize
At the end of each day, take 15 minutes to sort, organize and clean everything on your desk. This way, you’ll start each day with a clean and organized workspace. Put back pens and pencils in their holders, throw your trash, and wipe the surface of your desk. This will also help reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Have a Place for Everything
Have designated spaces for all your supplies and items. This includes your computer, paperwork, stationery, and even things like your phone and other electronic items. This will help keep everything tidy and organized and you’ll know exactly where everything is instead of rummaging through your desk trying to find something.
3. Buy Organizing Accessories
Organizing accessories can help you even further with your workspace organization. Accessories like pencil holders, desk sorters, drawer organizers, and cable holders are obtainable at low prices and will help make your workspace look neat. Additionally, there are various software and tools which can help you stay organized too.
4. Categorize & Label
Sort your paperwork into categories and label them appropriately. This will help you find things quickly and easily and also ensure that nothing gets misplaced. It’s even possible to automate this if you prefer, as there are a plethora of electronic systems which are much quicker and easier to use.
5. Buy a Printer Storage
If you work with paperwork or documents a lot, you should buy yourself a storage unit for your printer. This will help keep all the paper, documents, envelopes, ink cartridges and other printer accessories neatly organized and there’s less chance of something being misplaced. Plus, keep the papers within arm’s reach so you don’t have to get off your chair every time you need to print something.
6. Clean Regularly
Throw out all unnecessary paperwork, magazines and any other clutter that tends to build up in your workspace. If you’re short on space, opt for desk organizers that you can use to store stationery, documents and other essentials. Find the time to get rid of anything you don’t need, including electronic items. Regularly cleaning your workspace will save your nerves and make things much easier.
Examples
1. Take 15 Minutes Every Day to Organize: An example of this would be taking a few minutes right before your work day ends to make sure all the items on your desk are placed back in the proper area or holder. You can also schedule time on your calendar so you don’t forget to do this.
2. Have a Place for Everything: An example of this would be setting up dividers in your desk drawers so that stationery and electronics have their own respective places. This will help ensure that each of your items stays intact and organized.
3. Buy Organizing Accessories: An example of this would be using a tray to store your notebooks, folders and other stationary items in an easily accessible location. Alternatively, there are various colorful planners, desk sorters, and drawer organizers available which you can use to store your items.
4. Categorize & Label:An example of this would be separating all of your files and paperwork into categories such as bills, contracts, invoices etc. Assign a color and label to each of these categories so you can distinguish them from each other easily.
5. Buy a Printer Storage: An example of this would be buying yourself a tall wooden cabinet where you can store your printer, papers and other related items in one place. This will help free up some extra space which you can use for other items.
6. Clean Regularly: An example of this would be setting a weekly schedule to throw out any unnecessary clutter, such as old bills and magazines, and cleaning your desk surfaces with a wet cloth to remove any dust that has accumulated.
Conclusion
Organizing your workspace can seem difficult, but with the help of these six tips and some commitment, you will be able to achieve a neat, organized and productive workspace. Utilize accessories to keep items in their proper place, leverage technology and keep up with your daily 15-minute organizational routine. With a little effort, your workplace will always appear organized and decluttered.
FAQs
Q: How often should I organize my workspace?
A: You should take 15 minutes every day to organize and clean your workspace. Additionally, it is important to throw out clutter and clean your desk surfaces regularly.
Q: What organizing accessories should I buy?
A: Various accessories such as pencil holders, desk sorters, drawer organizers, and cable holders are available at low cost and can help you keep your workspace neat and organized.
Q: What is the best way to categorize my paperwork?
A: The best way to categorize your paperwork is to sort them into distinct groups such as bills, contracts, invoices, and assign a color or label to each of these categories.
Q: How can I keep my printer accessories neatly organized?
A: You can buy a storage unit specifically for your printer. It will help keep all the paper, documents, envelopes, ink cartridges and other printer accessories organized and easily accessible.
Q: How can I make sure I don’t misplace anything?
A: You should assign designated places for all your supplies and items, including your computer, paperwork, stationery and electronic items. You can also use electronic systems to automate this process, as they are much quicker and easier to use.