Desktop Distractions: Is Your Workspace a Wreck?

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Hey, is that you behind that monstrous assortment of stuff cluttering your desk? Most people don't even realize it, but a disorganized desk can cause tremendous frustration and lost productivity. And that can mean staying late at the office. The simple fact is, a messy desk makes it extremely difficult to go about your daily routine.

We'd like to offer some practical suggestions for avoiding desktop distractions:

1. File immediately.

We cannot say this enough: Avoid pile-ups! We know it can be difficult to keep up with your filing when you get really busy, but to keep your desk neat and orderly, it's imperative that you don't allow paperwork to grow into unmanageable stacks.

2. Use the tops of credenzas and lateral file cabinets.

These pieces of organizing furniture can be found in almost every office. And even if you work in a cubicle, there's probably a flat-top credenza or cabinet nearby, providing space where you can store such things as binders and catalogs...rather than letting them clutter your desktop.

3. Utilize shelves.

This is another smart location for storing things that might otherwise cause confusion by taking up space on your desk. A shelf, not your desk, is the proper place for items such as phone books, magazines and videos.

4. Create drop spots.

Perhaps a basket designed to hang on your wall, or some other kind of receptacle to temporarily drop memos, notes and other small papers...keeping those kinds of easy-to-lose documents off your desk until you have time to look at them.

5. Try not to get too personal.

Minimize the urge to clutter your desk with an excessive amount of personal items, such as photographs and knick-knacks. Of course, it's great to have some of these in your workspace, just don't overdo it so that your desk is covered with them.