12 steps to a more organized workspace

An organized office provides a backbone to any thriving business. Why then is it so hard to keep order?

All too often, people with the best of intentions sort and toss for hours, only for the piles to return with a vengeance. The tips here allow for some wiggle room, letting you create a functional workspace that is uniquely yours.

Here are twelve fresh ideas that you can start implementing today:

1. Know your goals (aside from having an organized office)

I have all of my new clients make a list of 10 things they’ll do once they’re organized. People never get organized just for the sake of having pretty folders. They organize so that they can spend more time with their family, delegate more, workout again, and more. It is an eye-opening exercise that you should do before touching a single sheet of paper.

2. Group like with like

Let this be your mantra. If I had to explain how to organize an office in just four words, this would be it. Group anything from statements and receipts to writing utensils and paperclips. It’s awfully hard to create files when you’re not looking at complete categories. This should be a very straightforward step. Don’t get caught up in where these things will go. That will come to you once you see everything in one snapshot.