Happy people are more productive
Your office should be one that encourages you to be more productive and efficient. If you’re feeling as if your space isn’t working for you, maybe it’s time to do a cleanup. HouseBeautiful recently ran an article on items in your house that make you unhappy.
Let’s talk about things in your office that are bringing you down.
Clear the clutter
Old electronics that you no longer use
Printers, old computers, PDAs, etc. Please donate them or recycle instead of letting them collect dust in your office.
Your kid’s drawings and artwork
It’s okay to show off your 4-year-old’s drawings for a few days. Then it needs to go into a scrapbook (or scanned), or get taken home to enjoy in its rightful place.
Office supplies that don’t get used
If you don’t need the stapler every day, find a home in your desk for it. Same with pens, papers, and anything else that clutters up your desktop. I’m a firm believer that having a clean desk makes you more productive.
Old pictures
You should show off your family in your office. Update those snapshots regularly.
Outdated furniture and décor
It might be time for a new coat of paint and a new office chair if yours looks like it’s out of the 1990s or earlier. A fresh color can do wonders for your mood. Make sure to change the window treatment to match your new style.
Stacks of old papers.
Get an inbox and outbox for immediate projects. File (preferably digitally, if possible) all those old papers that create clutter.
Promotional items from your clients
Your office should show off your company, not someone else’s. If you have a favorite coffee mug from one client, keep it. Move the rest to the kitchen.
Old reference books
If you have a collection of magazines from five years ago, update them. Keep your reference books up-to-date to let your customers know you stay current with the market.
Feeling lighter?
Lots of us have problems getting rid of things and cleaning up. Get help. Hire your teenage daughter for an afternoon to scan all your documents into electronic files. Find someone to come in a dust and vacuum regularly. Make your office look professional and productive by getting and staying organized.
