The more you work, the more likely it is that workplace clutter will build up. However, you don’t want to get used to a cluttered workplace. Whether you know it or not, such a workspace harms productivity.

Within an office space, cluttering is unlikely to become extreme. At home, though, you tend to mix your personal life with work. As such, your workspace could look like a hoarder’s abode. This article explores the decluttering of both digital and physical workspaces. Read on and use what you learn.

Cleaning Up The Digital Workspace

The world is highly digitalized, and work is no longer restricted to desks and papers. Unfortunately, this can mean more resources to keep track of. The consequence is that even your digital workspaces need decluttering. Here are ways you can start restoring order.

Develop a File-naming System

Digital files can pile up just as much as physical ones. Two popular crime scenes are documents and download folders. Developing a naming system that helps you keep track of what files are important. Such a naming system should incorporate date, project identifiers, etc.

Do something similar for your desktop, as well. A crowded desktop could zap momentum whenever you have to look at it. Instead of staring at many small icons and trying to find what matters, use folders.

Designate a Default Browser for Work

Consider using a different browser if your work requires internet connectivity. With that in mind, though, a new profile could do the trick if you have a favorite browser that you are reluctant to leave.

You can have a personal internet activity from work with a different browser or profile. Consequently, separating your personal and work browsing history, bookmarks, etc, becomes easier.

Be sure to organize your bookmarks lest they run wild, though. Use folders and sub-folders to categorize interrelated subjects. In addition, regularly check through your bookmarks to remove links that are no longer useful.

Invest in Password Manager

Investing in a password manager is a wise choice for enhancing online security. Password managers offer a convenient way to store and manage passwords securely. Regardless of whether you use Chrome, Firefox, or any other browser, you have the freedom to choose any password manager that suits your needs.

Many people prefer using them because they help simplify the process of keeping track of numerous login credentials. Using a password manager can not only declutter your digital life but also enhance your overall online safety.

Tidying Up the Physical Space

A physical workspace can impact employee experience and performance. It may comprise an office, cubicle, or designated space for work. However, regardless of size, if everything is scattered around, your work will feel it. Here are a few tips to help keep things simple.

Clean Regularly

The foundation of any organized space is cleaning. When wiping away dust and dirt, you automatically arrange stuff. That’s a simple fact. Therefore, to declutter your space, regularly clean it. Furthermore, set up a cleaning routine. Decide if you’d do it every morning, every other day, etc.

Limit the Items on Your Desk

‘Simplicity is best’ is true for a workspace. There is a temptation to surround yourself with everything that might be useful. However, not every potentially useful item warrants a place on your desk. Start by making a list of items used in a workday. That way, you get to identify the most used items objectively. Don’t guess; let your routine determine what deserves a desk space and what doesn’t.

You should treat personal items the same way. Consider a group photo rather than a separate picture for every family member. You should especially watch the clutter of personal items not contributing to work.

Buy Some Folders

If the problem in your workspace is clusters of disorganized papers, get some folders. Folders would allow you to organize documents better. Here are some other tips:

• Pin related documents before storing them in folders.
• Categorize and name folders accordingly.
• Employ sticky notes to clarify the specific contents of each folder.
• Store the folders according to their importance, such as impending deadlines, projects, etc.
• Designate drawer spaces for folders.

Get More Drawers

A sequel to clearing out your desk surface is getting more storage space. In a workspace, there could be more drawers or cabinets. Any item considered unnecessary to immediate tasks belongs in the drawers. Extra office supplies are examples of things that go right in the drawers.

Conclusion

Many factors can lead to work area clutter. They can range from an unwillingness to stand up from your workspace to maintaining online sessions without the need to provide credentials. It is essential to identify factors contributing to your clutter and mitigate them.

We advise figuring out the problem, freeing up your workspace and headspace, and not losing comfort. Lest we forget, regularly fine tune your organizational systems as work demands grow.

Need Office Space? We have a better way to find office space.
Give us a try. No obligation.