What’s missing from this picture? A framed photo, a smartphone charging station or trash bin. It’s clutter. As a business professional and contemporary artist, I have twice as many ways for clutter to pile up. Paperwork, art supplies, sketches and more paper. There are many ways to cut clutter but it really depends on what you need to organize. Here are five simple tips to keep your business and home organized:
- Less is More – When it comes to paper: magazines, paperwork, bills and mail, there are three options to focus on – Recycle, Shred and Archive. Declutter any paper that is no longer needed by recycling. If there is personal identifiable information then cross shred the paper first before recycling. Archive any important documents such as legal forms, receipts, portfolios and contracts and have copies stored in another location.
- Keep your Best Dressed – As the seasons change is also becomes a good time to look at what clothes, shoes and accessories can either be donated, tossed or organized. If you have the space, separate the fall/winter items from spring/summer. This will provide more room to keep things in order and for items unused during that season can then be placed in a designated area to be later donated or sold.
- Paperless Documents – Although it’s a paperless effort to create electronic documents and photos to decrease paper consumption, files need to be organized in folders in order to locate them as needed. Store extra copies of your files by creating an archival on either an external hard drive or cloud service to prevent losing files on your local computer.
- Memorable Items – If you have unused items that have value but are on the fence of parting with them, consider taking a photo to remember the sentimental item. This will not only keep the memory but help you move forward to sell on an auction site or donate.
- Clutter Free Zones – With all the other organization tips, having empty space in your office and home is a good thing. Start the habit of not allowing new clutter to consume these clutter free areas by having a specific place for everything you are keeping.
Benefits of Cutting Clutter
- Feng Shui Effect – When paper and other items have been removed or organized, you’ll notice your work and living space will appear and feel more open. This will also create positive energy to help you stay organized.
- Helps your Finances – One study had found that individuals who organize their finances through budgeting and planning were 39% wealthier. Being able to access bills in an organized office will help to not miss payments. Even better, use online banking to pay your bills.
- Decreases Stress – With less clutter you’ll save the mental energy of having to keep track of everything you own. Not to mention less likely to trip over any excess items.
- Go Green – Use online documents whenever possible instead of printing. By going paperless, you’ll save on print cartridge and paper costs. It’s also better for the environment instead of recycling later.
For more information about keeping organization in your business or home check out the National Association of Professional Organizers. What other ways have you been able to cut clutter and keep organized?
Image source: Stylizimo.com
Cynthia Gedemer is a Digital Marketing Strategist and Business Coach with over 15 years of experience in growing revenue with innovative marketing programs for Financial Services, Insurance, Retail, Telecommunications, and Healthcare industries. Connect with Cynthia on Google+ and Twitter.