Businesses pay a high cost when employees spend time looking for things that should be readily available. Even though I work on the time management side, clients often ask my help on the organizational aspect of things.

Here are a few quick tips for keeping your space, uncluttered and organized.

Files:

1. Always use a noun to name your files, keeping the names the same between paper and digital folders.
2. Steer clear of being so specific that you wind up with ten files that have similar content.
3. Never have a Miscellaneous file, everything that you don't know what to do with will end up there, never to be found again.

Physical Space:

Consider your desk  and computer desktop prime real estate.  While we may be "visual" people, the truth is that we don't know what is in that stack.  Creating a system for your files,  will surpass having to "see" them right in front of you. 

Leave only the files that you are working on  top of your desk. What you use frequently can be within arms reach. Things you use less frequently can be further away from your desk.  Also avoid cluttering up your computer desktop with excessive shortcuts.  It takes you longer to find things.

Delete or discard anything:

• that you don't need for legal or tax purposes
• when you can find the information on the internet or elsewhere
• when the information is outdated and no longer applies

Have an "inbox" so  papers from coworkers do not wind up on your desk or chair.  Keep your notes in one place,  paper or digital, to avoid multiple writing pads or locations on your computer. 

Walking into an office that is cluttered with piles sets the tone for the day of being overwhelmed and stressed.  Use the last 15 minutes of your day to clean off your desk, and  look at tomorrow's appointments.

Start today building a new habit from the suggestions above and you will create a difference in your workday.