As I’ve written about recently, when working with clients on time management, we always discuss prioritization and then we identify what’s most important for them to address/improve/achieve.
Another important aspect of time management is organization, and I wanted to share a few tactical tips to help keep your work area cleaner and more organized, whether at home or in the office (or both).
Set the Stage; Declutter:
️ Sort: Assess each item. Get rid of unnecessary stuff, such as things you don’t need or aren’t using anymore.
️ Rearrange: Arrange your space so it’s comfortable to work in, important items are easily accessible, and you have sufficient space to maneuver and be productive.
Simplify: Get rid of all those sticky notes and other random reminders. Consolidate them into as few as possible, such as a calendar, checklist, or planner (whether electronic or hard copy).
Set: Have a designated spot/zone for all items, especially the important and often-used ones: electronics, files, folders, binders, books/manuals, supplies, etc.
Implement a Maintenance Routine:
➡️ Daily Clean-Up and Shine: Keep your workspace clean and tidy. Spend 5-10 minutes at the end of each day tidying up your workspace. Put items back in their designated spots and clear your desk/workspace for a fresh start the next day.
➡️ Weekly Check-In: With a discriminating eye, review your office/workspace weekly for stray items or paperwork that can be filed or discarded. Regular purging minimizes the accumulation of a bunch of stuff.
➡️ One-In, One-Out Rule: For every new item brought into your office/workspace, remove an old or unused one. This helps keep your workspace streamlined over time.
Apps and artificial intelligence can provide benefit in many areas, but sometimes you’ve got to just roll up your sleeves and get your workspace organized in a very practical and hands-on way.
I hope these tips are helpful!