We all know that any type of mess or clutter can have a negative impact on the way you feel and work. If you don’t believe me, ask Marie Kondo (Author of, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up) and she’ll give it to you straight.
The first step is to actually get your space clean and clutter-free. Whether you work from home or have an office space elsewhere, you are probably spending a majority of your work day at a table or desk in a room that is filled with things on things on things. Getting organized will take away the distraction of everything around you and allow you to focus your attention to the task at hand, i.e. work. Aside from my book recommendation (it’s seriously life changing, read it!) here are some ways you can get tidy quickly and get working.
Ditch it or Pitch it
I know this is scary for some people. But, do you really need that basket of magazines over in the corner? Those five stacks of sticky notes aren’t going to use themselves, you know? Getting rid of all the extra stuff is a step in the right direction. With less clutter, a space can feel more open and inviting rather than cramped and overwhelming – which is exactly what we don’t want our place of work to feel like. Don’t just throw this stuff away though, donate it or sell it online. Donating your excess items to a charity or consignment store is a great idea to recycle old pieces.
However, if you’re wondering what you should do with that ratty throw pillow (that one that used to be cute but then your dog tore it to shreds and sleeps on it sometimes) can go in the trash. Make a list of things to sell, give away, toss out and then actually do it! You’ll be shocked at how this tip can take some stress weight off your shoulders.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
I don’t have to tell you that Pinterest is the mecca for finding crafty solutions to your messy mishaps. Dedicate some time to learning how to optimize your space by creatively organizing your office or room with shelving, drawers, boxes, etc. The possibilities are really endless here. The goal is to find everything a home – no pair of shoes, book, or stray blanket should be left behind
If your desk is unorganized, find a way to clear off the top. Under-desk shelving units are relatively easy to find and can make all the difference. When your general view isn’t messy and distracting, you’ll be able to see through to all of the important things that need attention, like that assignment that need edited or your calendar that desperately needs updated.
Embrace Your Inner Interior Designer
Now, let’s talk about the more exciting part. If you work from home, having a separate space dedicated to getting work done can make all the difference. If you don’t have an office, try sprucing up your desk in your bedroom or setting up the kitchen table to resemble a desk. This can done simply by adding a calendar or to-do list next to your laptop.
If you do have an office, then go as all out as you want! Whether you want to treat yourself to a new piece of artwork or print, surround yourself with things that you think are pleasing to look at. Regardless of what you decide to do just keep in mind, your work environment can have a huge effect on your overall stress levels and productivity. If your space is chaotic, your mind and work will reflect that unruly fashion.
Here are some tips to spruce up your office space that will be aesthetically pleasing and motivating:
Go Green
Add some greenery to your workspace. Not only does this make your office space extremely #instaworthy – but it is proven that plants can have a positive impact on your mood. Plan a visit your local greenhouse and pick up some cacti or succulents. The bonus to these types of plants is that they require minimal maintenance, taking even more of the stress off of you. Another great green item to add is flowers. There is just something about going to the florist and putting together a bouquet for yourself. Find a pretty vase, and you instantly have all the positive floral vibes.
#AllTheFeels
Strategically placing things that make you happy WILL boost your mood throughout the work day. Whether it’s some polaroids of you and your friends from your last GNO or that adorable card that your niece and nephew created for your birthday. These are the things that matter, and keeping them around your workspace will bring on all the positive feelings you need to remember why you need to get your work done, so you can go hang with your friends and family, duh? Oh yeah and money, deadlines, and the rest of the reasons why work is so important.
Take It Outside
If you need a change of scenery, then go and find it. Light, open spaces can boost your productity levels, so if your schedule or career allows – take it outside! There is nothing better than hunkering down in your local park or coffee shop and getting work done, while also enjoying nature and her positive energy. This natural mood-booster is a real life productivity hack.
It’s true across the board that if you are working the standard 9-5 or are your own boss and work from home, you will eventually, at some point, realize that focusing isn’t always a simple task. Hopefully, if you try some of these strategies to get your work space organized, you will find that boost in your energy levels and productivity that you were looking for.
What helps you stay focused and productive at work? Share your productivity hacks with us!
