DESK

Disarray hinders productivity. Do the following to create a work environment that’s conducive to getting things done.

Be a minimalist

Keep only what you need and use regularly on top of the desk. To determine what that truly is, follow the below steps.

• Start with only the essentials: a task lamp, computer, and writing implements and papers.
• Move everything else on your desk into a box. Keep it within easy reach for a week (longer if you don’t use the office every day).
• Take note of how often you reach for something from the box—and gradually return only the must-haves to your desk. Anything you haven’t touched can be stored.
• To maintain a clean work space, consider using the above-desk wall space for keeping things in sight and within reach.
• Repeat this process when you feel your desk is getting too crowded.

Contain the odds and ends

Give everything a place on the desktop, with nothing floating about.

• Corral like items (pens and pencils, scissors and straightedges, binder clips and paper clips) in their own vessels.
• Don’t compromise your sense of style: Use containers that are as attractive as they are functional.
• Look around your own home and upcycle items from the kitchen or potting shed (think jars and garden tins).
• If you are right-handed, keep all the supplies on the right side, and vice versa. Exception: The task lamp should be on the opposite side, to avoid shadows.

Curate the paperwork

Piles visually aid your memory, but only when they are intentional—and tidy.

• The number of piles you need or want can vary, but two reliable ones are “to do” and “in progress.”
• Save desk space with stackable solutions such as filing boxes or slotted letter bins.
• Go paperless as much as possible; scan or snap a photo and file papers digitally (page 159).

personalize the space

The occasional personal touch can make you feel more at ease, inspiring greater focus.

• Houseplants, photos, collectibles, travel keepsakes, or favorite books and periodicals can make the space more inviting.
• An inspiration board offers a visual boost to keep you motivated, and provides a way to declutter a desk and house beloved items (photos, postcards, pretty papers, and other ephemera).
• Rotate the objects once a season—or after a big project—to keep the space feeling fresh.