Declutter your productivity

Did you know clutter in a workspace is actually a distraction to your productivity? It weighs you down, it disrupts your thinking and it creates an invitation to chaos.

I have had discussions with creative people who challenged me on the topic of clutter. They tell me they need the clutter around them in order to express and allow their creative juices to flow. Yes, I can see this is necessary but the difference it is ‘control clutter’. The reason I call it this is because it has a purpose. Once the purpose or project is complete the ‘control clutter’ is eliminated. The clutter I am referring to are the mental blocks damaging you from being productive.

Here are five tips to simplify your workspace:

1.  Get rid of unnecessary knick-knacks and office accessories.

They are distractions that create clutter and reduce your concentration to be productive. Consider if it does not have a purpose then it needs to be removed from your desk surface. Bookshelves, closets, and containers are great for all the excess. Eliminating these distractions will build concentration in order to focus on your work.

 

2.  Access folders quickly by using a vertical desktop file sorter instead of stacking papers.

As well, colour coding each folder by topic will provide a great visual for folders you access regularly. With information at your fingertips, you will immediately notice an increase in your productivity. For computer folders, save them in one location to reduce confusion.

 

3.  Preparing the day before helps decrease stress and mental overload.

It is a great booster to start every day with a plan in advance of what you want to accomplish. A "to do" list helps many and feels good to check off each task as it is completed.

 

4.  Handle all incoming information only once (ie. mail, email, flyers).

Make a decision to take action, toss it, or delete from your email. For items you need to take action a suggestion is to prioritize your time when to complete each task. Use your "to do" list to help sort and organize each item. Mental fatigue will decrease, reduces excess paperwork and your efficiency increases.

 

5.  Create a buffer zone to manage your time and work commitments.

Your time is valuable and a buffer zone provides a psychological cushion to avoid feeling rushed; thus you have time to gather your thoughts and check your work for important details. Your anxiety is removed and replaced with a feeling of accomplishment.

 

Clutter, disorganization and stress decrease productivity and your profits. Instead of feeling constantly exhausted and dreading your workspace, try these five suggestions to remove barriers that are keeping you from being productive. Staying organized will also help you be productive and move forward. Bring back the fun in your day by reminding yourself the reason or purpose you started your business.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.