Studies have shown that a cluttered environment contributes to a cluttered mind, hence leading to depression,  anxiety, and decreased productivity. Maintaining an organized and clean space might seem too overwhelming and time-consuming, however it can have an extremely positive impact on your productivity and energy, giving you peace of mind saving you more time in the long run. Below are some tips on how to organise your space, specifically, your desk space:

1. Get your layout right: frequently used items need to be within your reach, that will prevent you from reaching over for items needed, while knocking out things on your way.
2. Limit your office supplies: only have 2 of each item, one for use, and an extra one. That will limit the amount of items on your desk, hence creating a clearer space.
3. Compartmentalize: If it has a home, it won’t get lost! Place all items in some sort of cluster, whether it’s a rubber band that will keep your extra office supplies together, or a container that will ensure nothing strays away from its intended place, compartmentalizing your items will significantly reduce clutter and lost items.
4. Create a filing system: as much as we love the digital age we live in, we are bound to have paperwork floating around. Organise your paperwork in a way that works for you. You can colour code your files, or organise them alphabetically, either way that will reduce the probability of scrambling through paperwork.
5. Declutter your to-do list: We all love post-its! However, too many of them can ultimately clutter your space. Invest in an undated journal, such as The Focus Journal, and write your to do list for the day, and for the week, in one go. If you remember a task, jot it down in the same space.
6. Highlighters, highlighters, highlighters: invest in 3 different coloured highlighters, one for each level of task importance. Colour coded notes have demonstrated increased efficiency among students and professionals. Don’t overdo it of course, or it will have the opposite effect!
7. Limit sentimental items: as much as you may love pictures and cards on our desks, limit the amount of sentimental items around you. Having one sentimental item will create a domino effect in the amount of items that can accumulate. Instead, place all items in a folder, and store it in one corner.
8. Make sure the recycling and trash cans are within reach: procrastination in getting rid of unwanted items will most definitely increase the clutter in your desk space. Making sure you get rid of these items straight away will help you in maintaining a clear space. If you can’t have a trash can or recycling bin near you, store all your rubbish in a designated bag, and get rid of it on your way out of the office.