‘Al Desko’. The ‘coffice’. The ‘meeting marathon’. ‘Deskercise’. Another ‘workation’. With the lines increasingly blurred between work and play, increasingly in favour of even more work, it can feel next to impossible to attend to the smaller tasks when at the office.
Yep, that’s the excuse we’re giving for a desk piled high with papers, empty crisp packets and random earbuds, when really, the cause might really be a dereliction of basic duty in terms of a daily tidy up.
The benefits of a tidy workspace are undeniable: the potential for increased productivity, reduced stress, and a clearer mind. The good news is that keeping your office clean doesn’t have to be a Herculean effort.
With the help of Think FM London, here are a few simple daily tasks that can help you effortlessly maintain a tidy desk and a tidy mind.
The Power of Small, Consistent Actions
The key to a perpetually clean office lies in the power of small, consistent actions. By incorporating a few simple habits into your daily routine, you can prevent clutter from accumulating and keep your workspace in top shape. Here are some innovative and surprising ideas to help you achieve a tidy desk with minimal effort.
The Two-Minute Rule
One of the most effective ways to keep your desk tidy is to adopt the two-minute rule. If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This could include filing a document, throwing away rubbish, or putting away office supplies. By tackling these small tasks right away, you prevent them from piling up and creating clutter.
The End-of-Day Reset
Before you leave the office each day, spend just five minutes resetting your workspace. This involves clearing your desk of any papers, tidying up supplies, and wiping down surfaces. This simple routine ensures that you start each day with a clean and organised desk, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.
The One-In, One-Out Rule
To prevent your desk from becoming overcrowded, implement the one-in, one-out rule. For every new item you bring into your workspace, remove one item. This could apply to office supplies, personal items, or even digital files. This rule helps maintain a balance and prevents unnecessary clutter from accumulating.
The Weekly Declutter Session
Set aside 10-15 minutes each week for a quick declutter session. Use this time to go through your desk drawers, filing cabinets, and other storage areas. Get rid of items you no longer need, organise supplies, and ensure everything is in its proper place. Regular decluttering prevents clutter from building up and keeps your workspace functional.
The Digital Detox
In today’s digital age, our virtual workspace can become just as cluttered as our physical one. Take a few minutes each day to organise your digital files, delete unnecessary emails, and clear your desktop. A tidy digital workspace can enhance your productivity and reduce mental clutter.
Read: 12 digital detox tips for 2024 that actually work
The Power Of Labels
Labelling your storage areas can be a game-changer for maintaining an organised office. Use labels for drawers, shelves, and containers to ensure everything has a designated place. This not only makes it easier to find items but also encourages you to put things back where they belong.
A Desk Drawer Organiser
Invest in a desk drawer organiser to keep your supplies neatly arranged. Use compartments to separate pens, paperclips, sticky notes, and other items. An organised drawer prevents supplies from becoming a jumbled mess and makes it easier to find what you need.
The Minimalist Approach
Adopting a minimalist approach to your workspace can significantly reduce clutter. Keep only the essentials on your desk and store the rest out of sight. A minimalist desk not only looks tidy but also promotes a sense of calm and focus.
Plant Power
Adding a small plant to your desk can have surprising benefits. Not only do plants (potentially) improve air quality, but they also create a sense of order and tranquillity. Choose a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care, such as a succulent or a snake plant.
The Sticky Note Strategy
Instead of letting sticky notes pile up on your desk, use a designated board or wall space for them. This keeps your desk clear while still allowing you to keep important reminders and notes visible. A corkboard or whiteboard can be a great addition to your workspace for this purpose.
The Bottom Line
Maintaining a tidy desk and a tidy mind doesn’t have to be a time-consuming or overwhelming task. By incorporating these ingenious and surprising daily habits into your routine, you can effortlessly keep your office clean and organised. Remember, the key is consistency and small, manageable actions. With a tidy workspace, you’ll enjoy increased productivity, reduced stress, and a clearer mind, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.
