Recent research suggests that a sloppy desk is a sign of creativity and does not necessarily affect productivity. On the other hand, for some, sloppiness on the outside is representative of what is happening inside. The truth is that the organization does not rely on neat stacks and etiquette for everything. It’s about setting the office in a way that allows productivity and does not hinder work, whether it means a mess or a clean desk. Here are five tips for organizing your home office to maximize your productivity
- Manage the mess
Note that you don’t have to avoid clutter altogether. Messiness can be stimulating for some employees. At the same time, you need to organize your organization to avoid wasting time looking for the materials you need. If you’re cluttered, find a way to make it work for you. For example, stacks of paper have a purpose. Instead of having many piles of different items, you have one stack for bills, another for invoices, another for reading, etc. They are still piled up and a bit messy, but now you at least know which stack to start on if you are looking for a particular type of paper.
If clutter affects your energy and productivity, you need to do more to create a clean space. If the paper bothers you, switch to paperless systems for archiving. Store the file sorter at or near your desk to quickly remove the paper, even if you can’t formally fold it.
While the paper is a big source of clutter, it’s not the only one. Pens, paper clips, thumb drives, books, calculator and more can take place in your workplace. Once a week, get rid of these items (get rid of dried feathers) and place them in a place where you can easily access them. Use containers such as pen cups and paper clip holders to store items.
- Keep the necessary items Close
Searching for items or having to get up to get something wastes time. If there is something that you need to use often, keep it at a distance to the workplace. This may include a telephone, textbooks, planners, files, shipping materials, a printer, etc. If you have many items that you need to have close by, you may need a larger desk. Or you use a U-shaped kit with a desk or desk and tables, so you just have to rotate to get what you need.
Anything you don’t use every day or several times a week may not be on your desk or near your workplace. You can store these items in other areas of the office.
- Be comfortable
Nothing can affect performance more than discomfort. If your back hurts or your eyes are tired, you won’t want to work. A good chair and a well-lit office are key to your comfort and health. Ideally, your office should have natural light, but also adequate artificial light to avoid eye strain when it’s dark. Adjust the chair or computer monitor to look straight instead of up or down to avoid neck and back problems.
Because sitting for so long can be harmful to your health, consider getting a standing desk or adjustable monitor shelf so you can sit or stand.
- Have a routine and plan and change them sometimes
Procedures become habits that allow you to move through actions without having to put a lot of attention into it. Schedules ensure you get things done on time. These time management strategies help you stay focused and productive. For example, I work on the same items in the same order almost every morning. I don’t have to think about it, I just sit and do it.
The problem with routine and schedules is that they can become ruts and stifle creativity. When your routine and schedule begin to make you feel lethargic or uninspired, change them.
- Surround with people who uplift and motivates you
You left the gray cabin to run your own home business. Now there are no rules about whether you can have personal photos or a plant on your desk.
You can maximize energy and productivity by decorating your office in a way that brings you joy or inspiration. Considering painting your office in the color of your choice. See photos or posters that inspire or motivate you. Use decorative office tools and supplies, such as colored files. I love the beach, so I have a beach shelf with a mini-palm tree, coconut bowl, and shells.
Productivity and motivation do not have to come only from pure will. You can encourage and inspire him in your surroundings. To maximize the success of your home business, intentionally organize and decorate your office in a way that will help you be the best.
