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deals with clearing the clutter at work. He really goes in to detail about how to determine if the career you have is right for you. And he discusses how to go about making the best of your current job or changing jobs if you feel you need to move on. I suggest you read this chapter if you are unhappy in your job or your wondering if you would better off someplace else.Whether you plan to stay or find a new job being organized at work is crucial. Peter says, "Your desk is a reflection of your head" If your desk is a jumble of papers and files and half finished projects then what must be going on in your head? With a cluttered desk it's almost impossible to be efficient and prioritize. I believe we should all adopt the motto "you are your desk". I know it's true for me that days when my desk is a mess I get less done and I dread going in to my office. On the other hand if my desk is neat and orderly I seem to fly through my "To Do" list.
Many of you have heard me say that a good day starts with a well made bed. Well, I also think a clean desk starts a productive day at work. It also relays to others that you respect your space and that you have a commitment to organization and routine.
OK, so let's get that desk in order! Remember that papers belong in files where you can find them when you need them and files belong in the file cabinets. Only "active" files and papers should be on your desk top.
Use a vertical desktop file organizer for active files so that they can be easily reached. File them by due date.
Minimize your personal items. Peter says, "This is not a high school locker". You are a professional, maker sure you desk reflects that image.
Adopt systems that work for you. Just because someone else does it a certain way doesn't mean that's the best way for you. Think about how your mind works. If you are visual person then you need to set up systems that you can easily see or create reminders that will tell you when something is due and where the paperwork is stored.
Some other things to remember to help your desk stay organized are:
take notes, keep a calendar, put away all documents when a project is complete, return calls, be accountable.
Also, take a few minutes at the end of each day to file papers and prepare your "to do" list for the next day so that you can hit the ground running. Keeping your desk orderly will help you to be an ultra reliable person that can be trusted to do what they say they'll do when they said they'd do it!
If your desk is overwhelming and you don't where to start then give me a call and we can schedule a time to work on it together! You contact me from my website at http://www.simplyorganizedval.com/
Happy Organizing!
Valerie
