Organize Your Home Office Day

The second Tuesday in March is Organize Your Home Office Day. This year, it's March 11th.

Whether you work from home, or have a space where you schedule family activities or keep financial paperwork, almost everyone has a need for some type of home office. Here are some things to think about to make your home office the most efficient and effective space it can be:

Put your home office in a place where you will actually use it. I have seen entire rooms dedicated to the office function that aren’t used because the owner doesn’t like the fact that it’s so far from the family’s other activities. On the other hand, if you are running a business from home, you probably want to be in a quiet area, away from distractions.

Make it a place you want to work. You need adequate light and a chair and desk that are comfortable. If you don’t enjoy working there, you won’t use it and you could end up with paper piled on the dining room table or bedroom nightstand.

Have the tools you need to get your work done. You don’t need to load up on the latest high-tech gadgets, but it is helpful to have a telephone, printer, paper shredder. A trash can and recycling bin will help you get rid of unwanted paper immediately. Keep supplies to a minimum; a few pens or markers, pencils, paper clips, a stapler and a pair of scissors should be enough. Some people like to be surrounded by quirky items while they work. If they don’t distract you and might make the paperwork process more pleasant, treat yourself to fancy folders  or whimsical paper clips or an unusual desk organizer.

Simplify your filing. You will need to keep files, but think carefully before you store paper. If you can access information digitally, you may not need to keep a lot of the paper that builds up and can keep you from moving forward.

Remember that it’s not about buying organizing products, but being able to find information you need, without having to search for it. What can you do now to get your home office in shape for next week? Click on Post a Comment, below, and tell us.

Organized by Marcie: Getting you organized so you have time to do what you love to do!
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