It can be a little surprising to think about how closely desk organization and productivity are linked. Keeping up a well organized workspace often seems more like a matter of preference than it does a matter of efficiency, but in all reality, an organized desk can have a direct positive effect on productivity . Getting ones desk organized is often a matter of removing things that get in the way more than it is a matter of making things right in the first place. There are many items that end up on a desk that often do not belong there, and these items make it impossible to nuance your desk for peak productivity . Indeed, having miscellaneous objects in the way can provide a major setback on all efforts.

Because clutter is a major problem when it comes to desk organization, the first thing that one must do to reach the ideal of a productive workspace is to remove clutter. Problems created by excess clutter can range from the minor, such as making it difficult to find pencils or pens, to the potentially job threatening, making ones boss think that an individual is sloppy, inefficient and lazy. Removing clutter is a must. Many items can fall into the large bracket of clutter. Some of those items are objects that never really belonged on your desk in the first place. Small toys and gadgets make up one group of culprits in this area. Another type of traditional clutter is made up of items that belong on a desk, but have been removed from proper storage, and are now spread all over the place. Pens, pencils, documents, books and other office paraphernalia often fall into this category. Purging your desk of clutter is simple, set aside some time, and clear off your desk, one item at a time.

Move all permanent items (phones, computers, etc.) to the most efficient locations, and then begin the process of replacing the important items around your desk. Be sure to leave space between your computer monitor and the end of the desk so that you can write. Also, make sure that your phone is stored on the opposite side of the desk from your writing hand. This way, you can answer the phone with your off hand, and have your best hand free to write or type. Be sure to also organize all pencils and pens into a convenient storage container, and put it in an easy to reach location. From there, take all of the items that you use often, and put them within reach. Doing all of this can minimize the clutter, and allow you to maximize your productivity.

For some people, this is not enough. All of the clutter removal and organization is great, but it never lasts. There is just not enough time to keep putting every item back where it belongs, and in a short time, the desk looks like a tornado hit it. Investing in proper storage devices may be the right step if you are not usually organized. Sometimes, the hardest part about staying organized is finding the time to put everything back in its proper place. But if those proper places were accessible enough that it would take no extra time, you may have hope. There are countless products that help you take care of your desk, but a few items really stand out.

One of the most prolific desk organizers is a system of document boxes and files. This is not your ordinary old file cabinet. This organizer is a collection of many tools. The group of clear plastic containers in a variety of sizes allows you to easily store documents, and the fact that the containers are clear allows you to see what is in each. But that is not all. The containers are also all color coded, and come with blank labels. This allows you to very easily organize your documents in the first place, and keep those documents organized long term.Another top organization item is the six-in-one desktop workstation. This device holds a tape dispenser, electric stapler, pencil sharpener, electric letter opener, pen and stationary holder, and even a paper clip bin. Very simply, this device takes many items that are often left loose around the desk, and puts them in one place. They may never become cluttered again. Save yourself many organizational woes, and splurge a tiny bit on a device of this sort.

From here, maximizing your productivity should be a breeze. Just remember that desk organization is indeed crucial to efficiency, and you should be well on your way to reaching your peak. By removing clutter and organizing your desk, you are taking the first step towards having a productive workspace. From there, investing in the best materials can serve to get you over the organizational hump. With the right help, anything is possible.

Author's Bio: 

Get Organized provides you with tips and tools to help you organize your home, office, and any other area that needs organization. ShopToGetOrganized.com

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