Getting Rid of Clutter: Blitz-Style!
Go for the Blitz!
Not so long ago we started getting organized one step at a time, as part of our new year’s {work} resolutions. For some, it was a very do-able task, while for others, it was still daunting. That’s why we’re going to take a different approach today- a blitz attack! You’ve done it with your kids- “Go pick up every toy you can in the next 5 minutes!”, so why not try it at work, for the sake of organization? Just like it’s part of your parenting skills, focusing on one activity helps you release those bigger, more scattered worries so that you can actually accomplish something (rather than find yourself paralyzed in overwhelment).
Getting rid of clutter
You don't have to get all your ducks in a row (or papers in a file), but getting organized does involve a good system.
And so it is that we focus on….(drum roll, please)…CLUTTER. Yes, I heard that sharp intake of breath- don’t be scared, though. getting rid of clutter is a simple task if you break it down into do-able chunks. Today we’re blitzing it- just dive right in and get done what you can in 30 minutes. If you have some left, don’t worry- allot yourself another 30-minute chunk and try again later. If you are persistent, you will clear off your desk and actually see it again!
- Start with excessive papers/docs/emails/notes/reports/invoices/etc..i.f you haven’t used it recently, it needs to go either to the trash can or to a new home (ie a good filing system). Either way, if a document doesn’t need to be referenced fairly frequently, it doesn’t need to be taking up valuable desk space. Conversely, keep those essential docs and notes on a document holder which keeps them easy to find and, better yet, also helps you avoid eye and/or neck strain as you read or type from them.
- Get rid of knick knacks and excessive framed pictures. It may sound harsh, but such items are far from professional and rarely inspire you to work harder. Instead, they serve as a distraction and therefore belong at home. As for framed photos, choose 2 or 3 favorites (maximum) and pack up the rest.
- Clear out your top drawer and set up a good container system for office supplies: pens, pencils, high lighters, scissors, stapler, paper clips, rubber bands, etc. These are too easy to knock over on your desk top and are better left in a drawer.
- Now you should have a much clearer, cleaner, or professional looking space. Should you find that you still don’t have a lot of spare room, try a mini keyboard or even a keyboard tray to minimize the amount of desk space used.
Getting organized blitz-style is a fast and easy way to tackle clutter. Other resources you might find helpful are organizational containers, a good filing system, a keyboard tray, and/or a document holder.