I find clutter to be a distraction. If the distraction is great enough, I cannot focus on anything other than that mess. I use stacked dividers to eliminate piles on my desk as well as a list of things to do that stays right next to my computer.
Hello Nora,
I love the idea of dedicating one day to rid your desk of clutter. I pride myself on having a well-organized desk, but sometimes I think I obsess over it. I find myself staying 20 minutes late some days just to make sure my desk looks perfect.
I think most of the motivation comes not from wanting to acutally BE organized, but wanting my supervisors to SEE how organized I am. Maybe if I just let that go and focus more on getting my work done, my supervisors would look past a semi-messy desk.
I think I'm going to try to devote my Thursdays (we're not here on Fridays) to tidiness. Thanks for this idea.
I agree I recently cleared all the clutter from my office desk and find that I am more productive. I found myself being overwhelmed by the clutter on my desk and becoming paralyzed by it. Once I removed the clutter the weight was lifted and I immediately became more productive.
Zachary, If you thrive in an organized mess, it might make sense to keep doing what you are doing. Others might perceive you as disorganized but if you've got a system that's working for you, you might consider keeping it.
Dr. Melissa Read
I have some ideas about how to reduce clutter. I've always maintained a very organized desk. For me, the primary key to keeping things organized is to not let them get cluttered in the first place. Once things are in complete disarray, it'll seem like a much more daunting task to organize a huge mess. Another key to keeping things organized it to label each binder/folder/file. Also, the only things that can be on my desk at any given time are the materials for the immediate task on which I'm working. Everything else should either be in cabinets or drawers.
I am also known for my clutter. However, i still seem to know where everything is and dont lose things to often.
Nora, It sounds like this practice allows you to have a wonderful weekend. I like the idea of organizing everything on Friday, clearing your desk and clearing your head. This practice also likely makes mondays much less trouble.
Dr. Melissa Read
I agree. Sometimes one has so many tasks that take priority that you never find the time to organize the desk.
Clutter has always been a problem for my desk. What I started doing about 3 yers ago has seemed to assist me in my efforts. Every Friday I clean off my desk. I make piles based on what needs to happen with the documents. If they need filed, I file them before leaving Friday. This allows me to start off every week with a clean desk. I still have piles but they are organized and I seem to gain a sense of control over the chaos!
Bola, Sometimes it's nice to have a visual reminder of all that needs to be accomplished. I understand the need to spread things out on your desk to see everything.
Dr. Melissa Read
Tiana, I like your thinking! Digital formats take so little space. One consideration is to always remember to back things up when you take this approach.
Dr. Melissa Read
It is interesting that i find myself in the same situation. I actually work better when all the things i need to get accomplished i on my desk. Others may see it a clutter but i can find anything anytime in the "clutter" to get my assignment accomplished. I have difficulty finding things when filed away and also feel like it is time consuming. After the assignment is done, then i clear it off my desk
Agreed, i try to keep my desk clean. One way I do this is by keeping my important papers in an electronic format so there is no need to store/file them.
Samuel, It's important to note that the best organizational system is the one that works for you. If you are comfortable with the amount of clutter you have, it's ok to keep things as is. The perceptions of others matter, but are not as important as getting our work done right!
Dr. Melissa Read
I also have a lot of clutter.. I dont think im disorgainized, but many other do because of it. I get to it as I can. It really dosnt bother me...
Reducing clutter is one way I deal with my stress. It is something that I can control and if I just take the time to do it, I feel better and have a clearer head and path.
I too get over whelmed if I have to many items on my desk such as pens, pieces of paper or books on my desk. I started by placing the papers in a file folder with different colors for projects in alphabetical order. I purchased a pen holder to place all pens instead of laying on my desk. I also started placing my books back on the shelves. Now I'm not so over whelmed with another task on my to do list.
Eric, It sounds like you have found an approach that works best for you. It's ok if it doesn't conform to what works best for others. Just keep doing what you are doing!
Dr. Melissa Read
I agree about the clutter, but I find myself working better when I have all my stuff out on my desk. Then at the end of the day I organize and stack in the priority of what needs to be done the next day.
Michael, That sounds like a wonderful approach and something many of us could benefit by. Simple organizational systems can make an incredible difference.
Dr. Melissa Read
