An office is a space dedicated to work, which must be functional and organized to enable you to work optimally.
A poorly organized office is often a source of distraction and stress, which we often unwittingly suffer. As a result, we’re not productive enough, and we sometimes go round in circles on tasks that could have been finished a long time ago.
There’s a simple solution to this, and it’s the best way to prevent all forms of procrastination. It’s a new way of organizing and tidying up.
Here’s how to regain complete motivation by opting for better office organization – a solution that works just as well in the workplace as at home.
Step 1: start by tidying up
As with any reorganization operation, the first step is to clear/sort/discard. All those items that are lying around the work area when they’re really not needed can be eliminated.
To be efficient and effective in this task of sorting and cleaning, it is advisable to proceed by creating three piles:
- A pile for objects that are useful, but not necessarily used on a daily basis, such as: files, paper stocks, etc.
- A pile for items that are used on an almost daily basis and need to be within easy reach (post-it notes, pens, notebooks and diaries, etc.).
- A pile for useless or discarded items (old envelopes, post-its with obsolete notes, an old coffee cup, pens that no longer work, etc.).
Of course, the computer equipment stays put. Once the desk has been cleared, you can then take the opportunity to dust it and wipe it down with a damp cloth, to give it a good clean.
Step 2: organize papers
When an office is cluttered, it’s very often because of the numerous papers and administrative documents that have been allowed to accumulate over time.
When this is the case, it’s important to take the time needed to do just that, so that you can see the space more clearly. This can be done by creating four piles:
- A pile for documents “to be read”, such as unopened mail.
- A pile for documents “to be processed”, for bill payments, for example.
- A final stack for documents “to be archived”, for all documents that need to be kept, such as telephone and energy bills, official documents, fines, warranty invoices and so on.
- Finally, there’s a pile for “throw-away” documents, such as advertisements, information letters, etc.
Once all your documents are organized, you can put them in named boxes, filing cabinets or compartmentalized baskets.
Step 3: reorganize the workspace
Once the workspace has been cleared, the third step is to optimize it by installing additional storage modules. This is particularly useful if the desk has no built-in storage.
You’ll be able to store all sorts of things, and above all, have them close at hand when you need them. Here are the different options available:
- Wall-mounted shelves
- Storage cabinet
- Mobile pedestal with wheels
- …
Step 4: choosing the right accessories
Choosing the right accessories is essential to complete an office space and make it perfectly ergonomic and functional.
Here are the accessories you can’t afford to overlook if you want to organize your workspace properly:
An ergonomic chair
An ergonomic chair is essential for optimal working conditions. It will help avoid musculoskeletal disorders, which have become a real problem for people who work mostly seated in front of a desk.
Investing in a good chair is a health issue that will prevent back pain in particular.
Good lighting
Lighting is very important for good work. It allows you to see clearly and improves productivity. Good natural light is essential, but it’s a good idea to supplement it with a desk lamp whenever necessary.
Anti-blue light glasses
To protect your eyes from the harmful effects of blue screen light, we strongly advise you to wear anti-glare glasses when working at the computer.
A waste garbage can
A trash can, wastebasket or paper shredder is an essential accessory for any office. There’s no question of discretely throwing papers under your desk, a waste garbage can is an essential purchase in any workspace.
Essential pens and notebooks
An ergonomic workspace inevitably includes a set of carefully selected pens and notebooks.
Even in the digital age, being able to put your ideas and a few notes on a notebook is always a great help.
A few decorative objects
To create an office space that reflects your personality, it’s important to include a few decorative accessories. As this is primarily a workspace, you’ll want to give preference to small objects like a photo frame, a small plant, etc.
Step 5: Finish by organizing the computer area
Today, the organization of an office space with a PC inevitably involves the internal organization of the computer, so that the work is complete.
Here are a few tips to help you organize your computer:
- Organize and clean up the desktop by deleting as many unnecessary icons as possible and filing all files without folders. This will allow you to start your work session with a clear, organized screen.
- Create thematic folders and organize all your files in them.
- Clean out all unnecessary files.
- Back up the most important files on an external hard drive.
- Finish by emptying the recycle garbage can.
And that’s how to organize your desktop in the best possible way!
