In my work as professional organizer I obviously see a lot of clutter. One area where clutter is alive and well is on the pages of the E-newsletters most of us receive every week or month. What I see and read online inspires the new for format to the monthly Clear Path
Introducing "The Top 10." Each month will feature 10 tips, suggestions, or strategies for clearing stuff and clutter, and reorganizing your space to a better advantage.
The subject line will always reflect the list of the month, enabling you to make a quick decision about whether to read or delete the email.
I encourage readers with particular problem areas to suggest "top 10 list" ideas. Chances are very good that others share your problem.
The Top 10 List for March:
Staying organized at the office
1.
Stop the work day
30 minutes before clocking out to put away supplies, file loose papers, clear
the desk
2.
Instead of lined
notepads use a spiral notebook for all meeting notes, phone messages, notes to
self, "to do" lists, etc.
3.
Keep only essential
desk items on the desk (e.g., tape, stapler, pens, spiral notebook)
4.
Do not start the
work day by answering email. Instead prioritize the day with a "to do" list and
start to work on taking care of most important tasks.
5.
Pre-sort mail
(read, file, toss, give to boss)
6.
At the end of
each project, file all project related materials in a drawer or box
7.
Block out time to
return calls in batches. Be sure to leave the best time/number for person to
return your call.
8.
Do not take back
to your office every handout from every meeting unless it is pertinent to your
job.
9.
Keep only enough
office supplies in your desk that you will need for only a month. You can
always restock.
10. De-clutter "sent" folders and "delete" folders at
least once per week. Alphabetize the emails to see at a glance what can be
quickly deleted or filed.
