Organization goes beyond productivity. It creates a comfortable and happy environment — which is especially necessary where you work. An efficient method of placing, filing and arranging your various papers and supplies increases your morale and ensures you are making the most of your space.
Over half of the American population has clutter issues. About 78 percent simply don’t know how to organize their work environment, and it’s easier to use the “out of sight, out of mind” strategy. Sound familiar?
Having a neat office that showcases your personality can help tremendously. Decorate with whatever makes you feel happy and inspires your creativity. Always remember that less is more.
You may not have enough square footage in your home to make an entire room your office. But what about a cozy space in the corner, or using a beautiful, multi-purpose piece of furniture?
WHEREVER YOU WORK, HERE ARE SOME SUPPLIES YOU SHOULD STOCK:
- Printer paper
- Pens
- Pencils
- Highlighters
- Notebook or legal pad
- Post-it notes
- Binders
- Folders
- Stapler
- Staples
- Staple remover
- Scissors
- Paperclips
- Document sorter/holder
HERE ARE SOME OF MY OTHER OFFICE MUST-HAVES:
• Bluetooth speaker/earbuds: For me, jazz music playing softly in the background creates the perfect work environment. Some prefer white noise, or maybe another music genre.
• Greenery: A plant not only brings life to your space, but it also improves air quality, reduces stress and makes your office environment more pleasant.
• Ergonomic items, including keyboard, mouse, and monitor arm: Using ergonomic items is healthier, resulting in less illness, fewer injuries and increased health awareness. Other benefits are higher productivity and better work quality.
• Stress ball: Having one of “those” days? Squeeze away the tension.
IF YOU DON’T HAVE THE ROOM FOR A DEDICATED HOME OFFICE, HERE ARE SOME ALTERNATIVES:
• Dining room: The most ergonomic set-up you have in your home is your dining room. It already contains a table and chairs, the primary office essentials.
• Living room: You can place a console table or desk behind your sofa.
• Master or guest bedroom: Empty the closets and take off the doors to open it up and transform it into a “cloffice.” You also can swap out your nightstand for a sleek desk. It still offers the same functionality if there is extra space next to your bed.
• The “odd” spot: Many homes have a corner or space with no purpose. That may be the perfect place for a cozy little office.
• Foyer: Replacing your console table with a bar-height table is a perfect way to transform your entryway.
• Staircase: Utilize the area underneath for your workspace.
• Built-ins: Replacing one of the cabinet sections in your built-in with a desk will give you extra storage and won’t take up any extra room.
SOME OTHER MISCELLANEOUS TIPS:
• Wires can get out of control fast. Using cable ties will save you a lot of frustration and help keep your space tidy.
• Establish a specific place for papers and devise a filing system. If I have a filing system at the tip of my fingers, it is much easier to stay organized.
• Always keep a notepad and pen handy. I find if I jot down thoughts and ideas the moment they come to me, I am more likely to follow through with what I wrote down.
Above all, enjoy the process of creating a workspace that works for you and reflects who you are.
Jennifer Miller is a certified interior designer, professional home stager and the president of Jennuwine Design, Sophisticated Staging. Reach her at jenn@jennuwinedesign.net.
