As a busy mum with a home office, juggling work and family responsibilities can be challenging. However, with the right strategies and techniques, you can make the most of your home office and create a productive and fulfilling work environment. Here are some practical tips that can help you use your home office better.

Time management and productivity tips

• Set clear goals for each day and prioritize tasks accordingly.
• Use a to-do list or task manager to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.
• Use the Pomodoro technique to break up your work into manageable intervals and take regular breaks.
• Minimize distractions by turning off notifications or using apps that block certain websites or apps during work hours.
• Schedule in time for breaks, exercise, and other activities that help you maintain work-life balance.

Home office organization and decluttering

• Regularly clean and tidy your workspace to eliminate distractions.
• Use desk organizers and storage solutions to keep everything in its place.
• Donate or sell items that you no longer need or use to clear up space.

Ergonomics and comfort

• Invest in a comfortable and supportive office chair and adjust it to your body’s needs.
• Use a standing desk or a sit-stand desk converter to switch up your position throughout the day.
• Position your computer screen at eye level to reduce strain on your neck.

Technology and tools

• Use software such as Trello or Teamwork to manage tasks and collaborate with others.
• Invest in noise-canceling headphones to minimize distractions.
• Consider purchasing a high-quality microphone and webcam for video conferencing.

Creating a work-life balance

• Set boundaries for when you will and won’t be working.
• Create a separate workspace or office to physically separate work from home life.
• Take breaks and make time for self-care activities such as exercise or reading.

Home office design and décor

• Choose a color scheme that promotes focus and productivity, such as shades of blue or green.
• Add personal touches such as photos or artwork to make the space feel inviting and inspiring.
• Use plants or natural lighting to improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere.

Managing distractions and staying focused

• Use noise-cancelling headphones or a white noise machine to block out distractions.
• Set boundaries with family members or housemates to minimize interruptions.
• Use productivity apps such as Forest or StayFocusd to stay on task.

Remote work communication and collaboration

• Use video conferencing software such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams for virtual meetings.
• Establish regular check-ins with colleagues and supervisors to stay connected.
• Use collaborative software such as Google Docs or Dropbox to share files and work on projects together.

Self-care and stress management

• Prioritize sleep and exercise to maintain physical and mental health.
• Practice mindfulness techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises.
• Take regular breaks and make time for hobbies or activities you enjoy.
• Read inspiring and insightful books such as Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker or Mindset by Carol Dweck.

Professional development and networking opportunities

• Attend virtual conferences or webinars to learn new skills and network with professionals in your industry.
• Join online communities or groups related to your field to connect with others and share knowledge.
• Take online courses or earn certifications to advance your career and demonstrate expertise in your field.

Remember, as a busy mom, you have unique challenges when it comes to managing a home office but your home office can be a space where you can achieve both professional success and personal fulfillment. With the right mindset and tools, anything is possible.

Don’t let a cluttered and disorganized workspace hold you back. Sign up for our “7 Days to an Organized Home Office” course today and start taking control of your workspace. Join now to receive daily tips and strategies that will help you create a more productive and efficient home office in just one week.

Introducing the Refreshed “7 Days to Organized Home Office” Course – Your Ultimate Guide to a Clutter-Free, Productive Workspace

Hello, everyone! We are thrilled to announce that we have revamped and refreshed our popular course, “7 Days to Organized Home Office”! Our team has worked tirelessly to bring you an updated version of the course, packed with new features and valuable content to help you create and maintain an organized, efficient, and stress-free home office environment.

Here’s what you can expect to get from our newly refreshed course:

1. Instructional Videos for Each Task

We understand the importance of hands-on learning, so we have included instructional videos for each daily task. These videos will guide you step-by-step through each process, ensuring you can learn by doing and achieve the best results possible.

2. Quizzes to Reinforce Your Knowledge

To help solidify your understanding of the material and build your confidence, we have added quizzes at the end of each daily task. Test your knowledge, and track your progress as you complete each lesson!

3. Updated Images and Content

We have meticulously updated all images and removed outdated material to ensure you receive the most current and relevant information. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible learning experience and help you stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

4. Bonus Tasks: Ergonomic Equipment Technology and Tools

In addition to our core lessons, we have added bonus tasks that cover Ergonomic Equipment Technology and Tools. These additional resources will equip you with the knowledge you need to create a comfortable and healthy workspace, both in your personal and professional life.

5. Daily Email Reminders

To keep you consistently engaged and motivated throughout the course, we will send you daily email reminders. These friendly nudges will help you stay on track and ensure you make the most of our revamped course.

6. Refreshed Sales Page

To celebrate the launch of our updated course, we have also published a refreshed sales page. Check it out to learn more about what’s included in “7 Days to Organized Home Office” and how it can transform your workspace.

7. Downloadable Summary PDF

As a special bonus, we have included a downloadable summary PDF of the entire course. This handy resource allows you to quickly reference key points and serves as a great reminder of everything you’ve learned.

Who is this course for?

If you are: 

• Drowning in paper 
• Need a better filing system 
• Can’t get things done because you can’t find what you need 
• Find your office has become a dumping ground for other household stuff 
• Procrastinate/feel unmotivated because the space is too chaotic for productive work 
• Fear what might be hiding under the piles of stuff… 

Then 7 Days To An Organized Home Office is just for you!

How long does it take?

7 Days To An Organized Home Office goes for 7 days. Day 1 requires 1-2 hours. Days 2 to 7 each require about 1 hour. Depending on the size and state of your office, you may want to spend more or less time on each day.

Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your home office into a productive and enjoyable space! Join us now and experience the benefits of an organized workspace in just 7 days with our revamped “7 Days to Organized Home Office” course. Enroll today and start your journey to a clutter-free, efficient, and inspiring home office!

If you’re already enrolled in the ‘All Courses’ program, you should have access to this course already.

In today’s world, where remote work has become the norm, having a more organized home office is essential for productivity and efficiency. But maintaining an organized workspace can be a challenge, especially when you’re juggling work and family responsibilities. The good news is that strategies for forming small, consistent habits can help you maintain an organized workspace by encouraging you to make small but meaningful changes to your daily routine. In this blog, we’ll explore how tiny habits can lead to big changes in your home office.

The Power of Small: How Tiny Habits Can Lead to Big Changes in Your Home Office

One of the reasons it can be challenging to maintain an organized home office is that it often feels like a daunting task. However, by breaking down the process into small, manageable steps, you can make progress without feeling overwhelmed. Here are some small habit-forming strategies that can help you maintain an organized workspace:

The Daily Five-Minute Tidy-Up: How Taking Five Minutes Every Day Can Keep Your Home Office Organized

One of the most effective ways to maintain an organized home office is to tidy up for just five minutes every day. Set a timer for five minutes and focus on one small area of your workspace, such as your desk or a bookshelf. Use this time to put away any items that are out of place, clear away clutter, and organize your space. This simple habit can make a big difference in keeping your workspace clean and organized.

The One In, One Out Rule: How This Simple Habit Can Prevent Clutter from Building Up in Your Home Office

Another effective habit-forming strategy is to subtly refresh your home office and follow the “one in, one out” rule. Every time you bring a new item into your home office, such as a new book or a piece of equipment, make a point of getting rid of something else. This habit can prevent clutter from building up in your workspace and make it easier to stay organized.

The Three-Item Daily Declutter: How Decluttering Just Three Items Each Day Can Transform Your Home Office

Decluttering can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. A simple habit you can develop is to declutter just three items each day. This habit takes only a few minutes and can make a big difference in keeping your workspace organized. Set a goal to find three items each day that you no longer need and get rid of them. Over time, this habit can transform your home office into a clutter-free zone.

The Organized Morning Routine: How Starting Your Day with Small, Organizational Habits Can Set You Up for Success

Your morning routine can set the tone for the rest of your day. By starting your day with small, organizational habits, you can set yourself up for success. Develop a habit of spending a few minutes each morning organizing your workspace, such as clearing your desk or filing away any papers that are out of place. This habit can help you feel more focused and productive throughout the day.

The End-of-Day Reset: How Taking a Few Minutes to Reset Your Home Office at the End of Each Day Can Help You Stay Organized

Similarly, taking a few minutes at the end of each day to reset your home office can help you stay organized. Use this time to clear your desk, file away any papers, and put away any items that are out of place. This habit can help you feel more relaxed and prepared for the next day’s work.

The 10-Minute Power Hour: How Investing Just 10 Minutes Each Day in Organizing Your Home Office Can Make a Huge Difference

Finally, consider investing just 10 minutes each day in organizing your home office. Set a timer for 10 minutes and use this time to focus on one small area of your workspace. Use this time to clear away clutter, organize your space, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your workspace is optimized for productivity.

By adopting these small habit-forming strategies, you can keep your home office organized and efficient without feeling overwhelmed. Remember that forming new habits takes time and effort, so be patient and persistent. With consistency and dedication, these small changes can lead to big improvements in your workspace and your overall productivity.

So, what are you waiting for? Start incorporating these small habit-forming strategies into your daily routine today and see the big changes they can bring to your home office! Enroll in our “7 Days to an Organized Home Office” program and get daily tips and strategies for creating a workspace that works for you.

Life can be stressful and hectic, and it’s easy to forget to take a moment to be kind to others. But did you know that doing something kind for someone else can actually make you feel happier and more fulfilled? That’s why we’ve created the 30 Days of Kindness Challenge – a simple way to add a bit of kindness to your daily routine. We thank our long-term supporter, Terry Currie for contributing to the themes in this article.

Here are 30 daily acts of kindness to give you an idea of what you can do for others:

Day 1: Compliment someone

Give someone a sincere compliment. It could be about their appearance or something they did well.

Day 2: Recycle

Take a few extra moments to properly sort your recyclables, or even offer to help someone else with theirs.

Day 3: Give a smiley face picture to someone

Draw a simple smiley face on a piece of paper and give it to someone who could use a little cheering up.

Day 4: Visit a nursing home

Spend some time with the elderly at a nursing home. You can play games or simply have a chat.

Day 5: Share stuff with siblings

If you have siblings, offer to share some of your stuff with them for a day.

Day 6: Make a card for someone

Create a thoughtful card for someone you care about. It could be for a birthday, anniversary, or just to say hello.

Day 7: Tithe allowance

Set aside a portion of your allowance or salary to give to a charity or cause you care about.

Day 8: Help someone with yard work

Offer to help a neighbor with their yard work. You can rake leaves, mow the lawn, or do some weeding.

Day 9: Call a grandparent or friend just to say hi

Give someone you haven’t talked to in a while a quick call to say hello and check in.

Day 10: Read to a sibling

Spend some time reading to a younger sibling or cousin.

Day 11: Do an extra chore

Offer to do an extra chore at home, like washing the dishes or folding laundry.

Day 12: Bake cookies

Make a batch of cookies and share them with your family, friends, or even your neighbors.

Day 13: Write or paint kind words on rocks and leave them at a park

Write positive messages on rocks and leave them at a park for others to find.

Day 14: Let someone go ahead of you in line

If you’re in a line, let someone go ahead of you if they only have a few items.

Day 15: Smile

Smile at someone, whether it’s a stranger passing by or someone you know. It’s a small gesture that can brighten someone’s day.

Day 16: Create care packages

Make care packages for those in need, whether it’s for the homeless or for someone going through a difficult time.

Day 17: Put change in a vending machine

Leave some change in a vending machine for the next person to use.

Day 18: Write letters to the military/veterans

Write letters to members of the military or veterans to thank them for their service.

Day 19: Eat with someone new at lunch

Invite someone new to join you for lunch, whether it’s a co-worker or someone new at school.

Day 20: Encourage someone

Give someone a pep talk and remind them of their strengths and abilities.

Day 21: Help clean up a mess

If you see someone struggling with a mess, offer to help them clean it up.

Day 22: Tell your parents you love them

Take a moment to tell your parents how much you love and appreciate them.

Day 23: Clean your room without being asked

Surprise your family by cleaning your room without being asked.

Day 24: Donate food to a local food bank

Go through your pantry and donate non-perishable items to a local food bank.

Day 25: Write a letter to grandma or best friend

Write a heartfelt letter to someone you care about, whether it’s your grandma or your best friend.

Day 26: Give a hug

Give someone a hug to let them know that you care.

Day 27: Sponsor a child

Sponsor a child in need through a reputable organization.

Day 28: Bring dessert to the neighbor

Bake some cookies or a cake and bring it over to your neighbor as a kind gesture.

Day 29: Make a birdfeeder

Create a birdfeeder to hang in your yard to provide a source of food for birds.

Day 30: Ask others to continue acts of kindness

Spread the message of kindness by asking others to join you in doing daily acts of kindness.

Each task takes only a few minutes, but can make a big difference in someone’s day. And who knows – you might just find that doing something kind for someone else makes you feel pretty good too. The 30 Days of Kindness Challenge is a great way to spread positivity and kindness in the world. So why not join the challenge today and start making the world a kinder place, one random act at a time?

Are you tired of living in a cluttered and disorganized space? Do you feel like your belongings are taking over your home, making it difficult to find what you need and causing stress and anxiety? If so, it may be time to embark on a decluttering journey.

Decluttering is the process of removing unnecessary and unwanted items from your living space. By getting rid of things you no longer need or use, you can create a more functional, organized, and peaceful environment. We thank our long-term supporter, Terry Currie for contributing to the themes in this article.

If you’re ready to take on the challenge, here are 30 key areas to tackle and stay on top of clutter:

Day 1: Spice Cabinet

Go through your spice cabinet and get rid of any spices that are expired, duplicates, or that you no longer use.

Day 2: Under Kitchen Sink

Sort through cleaning supplies, sponges, and other items stored under your kitchen sink. Toss anything that’s empty, expired, or no longer needed.

Day 3: Freezer

Check the expiration dates on the food in your freezer and discard anything that’s no longer safe to eat.

Day 4: Refrigerator

Do the same for your refrigerator. Get rid of any expired or spoiled food and organize the remaining items.

Day 5: Pantry

Sort through your pantry and get rid of any expired or stale food. Consider donating unexpired items that you won’t use.

Day 6: Silverware Drawer

Go through your silverware drawer and get rid of any mismatched or damaged utensils.

Day 7: Junk Drawer

Everyone has one! Take some time to sort through your junk drawer and toss anything that’s broken, expired, or no longer needed.

Day 8: Pots & Pans

Do you have any pots or pans that are damaged, rusted, or that you no longer use? It’s time to let them go.

Day 9: Food Storage

Take inventory of your food storage containers and get rid of any that are missing lids, stained, or cracked.

Day 10: Kitchen Counter

Do you have appliances or other items taking up valuable counter space? Consider whether you really need them, and put them away or get rid of them.

Day 11: Dresser Drawers

Go through your dresser drawers and get rid of any clothes that are stained, ripped, or no longer fit.

Day 12: Night Stand & Top

Clear off your nightstand and get rid of any clutter that’s accumulated on top.

Day 13: Kids or Adult Clothes

Sort through your own clothes or your children’s clothes, and get rid of anything that’s outgrown, damaged, or no longer worn.

Day 14: Coat Closet

Sort through your coats and jackets and get rid of anything that’s damaged, no longer fits, or that you no longer wear.

Day 15: Kids Toys

Go through your children’s toys and get rid of anything that’s broken, missing pieces, or no longer played with.

Day 16: Clothes In Closets

Go through your closets and get rid of any clothes that no longer fit or that you no longer wear.

Day 17: Shoes

Sort through your shoes and donate any that are in good condition but no longer needed. Throw away any shoes that are worn out and no longer usable.

Day 18: Under Bathroom Sink

Take inventory of the products stored under your bathroom sink and discard any expired or unused items.

Day 19: Bath

Go through your bath towels and get rid of any that are old, worn out, or stained. Consider donating or repurposing any that are still in good condition.

Day 20: Laundry Room Cabinets

Sort through your laundry room cabinets and get rid of any cleaning products that are expired or that you no longer use.

Day 21: Linen Closets

Go through your linen closets and get rid of any old or unused bedding, blankets, or pillows.

Day 22: Cars

Declutter your car by getting rid of any trash or unnecessary items. Organize your glove box and center console.

Day 23: Family Paper Work

Organize your family’s paperwork and shred any unnecessary documents.

Day 24: Email Inbox

Sort through your email inbox and delete or archive any old or irrelevant messages.

Day 25: Computer Files

Go through your computer files and delete any old or unnecessary documents, photos, or files.

Day 26: Photos On Phone

Sort through the photos on your phone and delete any duplicates or blurry images. Consider organizing your photos into folders or albums.

Day 27: Purse & Wallet

Declutter your purse and wallet by getting rid of any old receipts, expired cards, or unnecessary items.

Day 28: ½ of Garage

Organize one half of your garage by getting rid of any items that are broken, unused, or no longer needed.

Day 29: Other ½ of Garage

Do the same for the other half of your garage. Consider donating any items that are in good condition but no longer needed.

Day 30: Stereo Cabinet

Go through your stereo cabinet and get rid of any outdated electronics or cables that are no longer needed.

To get started, set aside some time each day to work on the task for that day and declutter one area of your home each day for 30 days. You might find things that you forgot you had or that you thought were lost. You may even find some treasures that you can put to use again. You can break up the decluttering into smaller chunks of time if you need to, but try to stay focused and avoid getting sidetracked by other tasks. If you’re having trouble deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, a good rule of thumb is to ask yourself if you’ve used the item in the last year. If not, it’s probably time to let it go.

Once you’ve finished the challenge, you may feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders. You can enjoy your newly decluttered space and feel less stressed in your home. And, if you continue to declutter regularly, you can maintain that feeling of peace and tranquility in your space.

Is your home a never-ending mess that you can’t seem to tame? Are you tired of the clutter, disarray, and chaos that seem to take over every room? Fear not! In today’s post we recap ten interesting approaches to help you transform your living space into a serene, organized haven.

1. The KonMari Method: Discover how this Japanese-inspired method, created by Marie Kondo, can revolutionize your home organization by focusing on tidying by category and keeping only items that spark joy.
2. The Four-Box Technique: Learn how this simple yet effective technique (see section below) can help you declutter each room in your home by separating items into four categories: trash, give away, keep, and relocate.
3. Vertical Storage Solutions: Maximize your living space by implementing creative vertical storage solutions like floating shelves, pegboards, and wall-mounted racks.
4. Multi-Functional Furniture: Discover the benefits of investing in multi-functional furniture pieces like sofa beds, storage ottomans, and expandable dining tables to save space and maintain an organized home.
5. Color-Coding: Explore the visual and psychological benefits of color-coding your belongings, from clothing to kitchenware, to easily locate items and create a visually cohesive space.
6. Digitize Your Life: Go paperless and reduce clutter by digitizing important documents, photos, and mementos with the help of cloud storage services and digital organization tools.
7. Daily Maintenance Habits: Uncover the power of daily habits like making your bed, implementing a 10-minute tidy-up routine, and designating a ‘landing zone’ for everyday items to maintain a consistently organized home.
8. The 80/20 Rule: Apply the Pareto principle to your home organization by focusing on the 20% of your belongings that you use 80% of the time and prioritizing their organization and accessibility.
9. The OCI-OGO Rule: Cultivate mindful consumption by committing to the one-comes-in, one-goes-out rule, which involves removing an existing item from your home for every new item brought in.
10. Seek Inspiration and Support: Get inspired and motivated by joining online communities, following organization influencers, and engaging with like-minded individuals on your journey to a more organized home.

The Four Box Technique

The Four-Box Technique is a practical and straightforward method to declutter and organize your living space. As the name suggests, it involves using four separate boxes (or bags) to sort your items as you go through your belongings. Each box is designated for a specific category:

1. Trash: This box is for items that are damaged, broken, or no longer usable. These items will be discarded as garbage or, if possible, recycled.
2. Give Away: This box is for items that you no longer need, want, or use, but that are still in good condition. These items can be donated to charity, given to friends or family, or sold in a garage sale or online marketplace.
3. Keep: This box is for items that you use regularly, have sentimental value, or that genuinely bring you joy. These are the items you will keep and find a proper place for in your home.
4. Relocate: This box is for items that belong in another room or area of your home. It helps you ensure that each item ends up in its appropriate space.

To implement the Four-Box Technique, follow these steps:

1. Choose a room or area of your home to declutter and organize.
2. Set up your four boxes, clearly labeled for each category.
3. Go through your belongings one by one, carefully considering which box each item belongs in. Be honest with yourself about the value and usefulness of each item.
4. Once you have sorted all items, take care of each box accordingly:
   • Dispose of the trash box.
   • Donate, give away, or sell items in the give away box.
   • Organize and find proper homes for the items in the keep box.
   • Move items in the relocate box to their proper rooms or areas and organize them accordingly.
5. Repeat this process for each room or area in your home until the entire space is decluttered and organized.

The Four-Box Technique promotes mindful decision-making and helps to simplify the decluttering process, making it easier to let go of excess items and create a more organized living space. We use this in our 30 Days to an Organized Home program.

Make a start

Getting organized at home is not only about tidying up but also creating a comfortable, functional, and inviting living space. By incorporating one or more of these approaches into your daily routine, you’ll be on your way to transforming your home into the peaceful and organized sanctuary you’ve always dreamed of.

But most importantly, make a start. If you’re looking for a quick way to make daily impacts, take a look at our Organize In 5 program (a daily free organizing tip).

We asked ChatGPT to suggest a blog post title and content, based on it’s understanding of our site.

It came up with the title, and these are the 10 points it created:

1. Start by decluttering: Remove everything from your closet and sort items into keep, donate, or toss piles.
2. Categorize your items: Organize your clothing by category, such as tops, pants, dresses, and accessories.
3. Use the right hangers: Choose the right type of hanger for each item, such as padded hangers for delicate items or wooden hangers for heavier items.
4. Fold sweaters and knits: Knits and sweaters can stretch out on hangers, so fold them instead.
5. Invest in a shoe rack or shoe cubby: Use a shoe rack or cubby to keep shoes organized and off the floor.
6. Use hooks for bags and accessories: Hang bags, belts, and other accessories on hooks to save space.
7. Use storage baskets and bins: Use storage baskets and bins to corral smaller items like socks, scarves, and belts.
8. Label everything: Label shelves, bins, and baskets to make it easy to find what you’re looking for.
9. Use vertical space: Make use of the vertical space in your closet with hanging organizers or shelving.
10. Store off-season items: Store off-season items in plastic bins or garment bags to free up space in your closet.

Overall, we’re pretty impressed – that’s a very reasonable set of tips.

What do you think?

Daily tasks = Fulfilling life

Organization and neatness are important aspects of a productive and fulfilling lifestyle. In order to maintain a consistently organized home and personal life, it is essential to incorporate daily tasks that promote organization and tidiness.

For example, here’s a few small daily tasks that provide surprisingly large results: 

• One of the best ways to start the day off on the right foot is by making the bed every day. This simple act sends a powerful message of self-care and organization to your subconscious and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.
• Another important aspect of maintaining a tidy home is to put things away immediately after using them. This includes clearing out any items that are broken or not used or loved. Keeping your home clutter-free not only saves time and energy but also reduces mental clutter, allowing you to feel more focused and motivated.
• Another daily task that is important for maintaining a clean and organized home is wiping down the kitchen surfaces, such as the sink, counters, and dining table, after dinner. This simple act will help you feel organized and refreshed as you head to bed and start the next day. In addition, running the dishwasher or washing the dishes after dinner is a quick and easy way to keep the kitchen tidy and free from dirty dishes that can be demoralizing.
• Vacuuming the kitchen and living-area floor is another simple task that can make a big difference in the appearance and feel of your home. Quickly running a cordless vac over the floor takes just a few minutes but will make a noticeable impact on the overall cleanliness of your home.
• It is also important to check for items that need replacing in your kitchen, bathroom, or office, and add these items to your shopping list. Refilling coffee beans and water in the espresso machine before bed is another small task that can help reduce morning stress and increase productivity.
• Lastly, it is essential to be kind to your clothes and shoes by putting them in the hamper or hanging them up to air after wearing and putting laundered or aired clothes away. These simple daily tasks may take a little bit of time, but the rewards are significant, including increased organization, setting a good example for others, increased energy and motivation, and an overall feeling of wellness.

Put simply, incorporating daily tasks into your routine is the key to a consistently organized and tidy home and personal life. These tasks may seem small and insignificant, but they can make a big difference in the way you feel and live your life. 

Avoiding problems associated with disorganization

It’s not just about improvement though, it’s also about avoiding disorganization.

When you neglect your daily organization tasks, it leads to a cluttered home, a disorganized lifestyle, and increased stress and disarray. Emotionally, neglecting to make the bed, put things away, or keep the kitchen and living areas clean, can result in a feeling of being overwhelmed and bogged down by the mess. 

The benefits of being organized

Organizing your home and personal life can often feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Imagine your home as a well-oiled machine, where each component must work in harmony to achieve maximum efficiency. Similarly, your daily tasks play a crucial role in maintaining order and reducing clutter. By consistently following simple habits like making your bed, putting things away after use, wiping down kitchen surfaces, and vacuuming floors, you can keep your home and life running smoothly.

Alternatively, think of it like taking care of a garden. Just as a gardener must regularly water, prune, and fertilize the plants, you must take care of your home by adhering to these daily tasks. These small investments of time will result in a flourishing environment, free of chaos and disorganization.

In conclusion, by making these daily tasks non-negotiable, you’ll see a consistent improvement in organization, increased energy, a boost in productivity, and an overall better feeling. Don’t let the fear of a big project hold you back. 

Start small, with one or two tasks, and watch as your home transforms into a neat, tidy, and organized haven.

Putting this into practice

Organizing your home and personal life can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, it’s more effective to focus on small, daily actions. 

Just like brushing your teeth, these organizing tasks can become a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Here are some ways to be neat, tidy, and organized every day:

1. Make your bed every day. This simple action sets the tone for organization and serves as a form of self-care.
2. Put things away immediately after using them. This helps prevent clutter from accumulating. If you don’t have a designated place for an item, consider getting rid of something else to make room.
3. Take care of broken items. If something is broken and you know you won’t repair it, dispose of it or donate it.
4. Clear out items that are not used or loved. Holding onto these items takes up time, space, energy, and mental space.
5. Clean the kitchen after dinner. Wipe down the counters and sink, run the dishwasher or wash dishes, and quickly vacuum the kitchen and living-area floor.
6. Stay on top of supplies. Check to see if anything needs to be replaced and add it to a shopping list.
7. Prepare for the next day. Refill coffee beans and water for the espresso machine, and put clothes in the hamper or hang them up to air after wearing.

These tasks may take a little bit of time, but the rewards include increased organization, a good example for others, more energy, and a better overall feeling.

The positive impacts to well-being of being organized

Adhering to daily tasks for being neat, tidy, and organized can have a significant impact on one’s life and general well-being. 

By taking small steps every day, a person can maintain a consistently organized home and lifestyle. This, in turn, can result in increased energy and motivation, improved overall feelings, and even setting a good example for others, such as children.

Making the bed every day serves as a form of self-care and organization, and putting things away immediately after using them helps to reduce clutter and maintain a tidy space. Clearing out any broken or unused items further adds to the sense of order.

Keeping the kitchen clean and tidy by wiping down surfaces, running the dishwasher, and vacuuming the floor adds to the sense of organization and cleanliness in the home. Checking for items that need replacing and making a shopping list helps to ensure that essentials are always on hand.

Refilling coffee beans and water for the espresso machine can help to ease morning stress, putting clothes in the hamper or hanging them up to air after wearing, and putting away laundered clothes helps to keep them in good condition.

Financial benefits of being organized

And let’s not forget the financial impacts as well:

• Implementing daily tasks to maintain neatness and organization can lead to savings in the long run, as items are less likely to be misplaced or damaged.
• Having a clean and organized home can increase productivity and efficiency, leading to potential income gains.
• Consistently maintaining a neat and organized lifestyle can lead to a better impression and potentially increase opportunities for career growth.
• Investing time and effort into daily tasks for home organization can lead to a better quality of life and reduced stress, potentially leading to reduced healthcare costs.
• The implementation of daily tasks for organization can lead to a more mindful and intentional use of resources, leading to sustainable consumption and potential cost savings.

In a nutshell

In conclusion, by taking small daily steps to be neat, tidy, and organized, one can improve the overall feeling of their home and life. The benefits of these tasks are well worth the small amount of time it takes to complete them.

While the holidays are supposed to be a time of great joy, they can also be a period where busy moms feel some of the most stress they’ll experience throughout the year. 

There are so many tasks to keep track of during the holidays, with gifts to pick out and wrap and then figuring out meals and decorations. The last thing you’d want is to be bogged down by a cluttered home in the aftermath of holiday celebrations. 

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to decluttering your home after the holidays. Follow them to reduce your stress levels and keep your home a more manageable space for the new year.

1. Choose What Area to Start With

We get it. You can feel overwhelmed when you see that every room in your home is messy with holiday clutter. Pick one area or room to start. Focusing on the living room or guest bedroom will help you finish one task, which will make the next cleanup chores feel less daunting.

2. Out With the Old, in With the New

Look for broken items and things that are out of style or that you have backups for already, and get rid of them. If they still function and look good, donate all before heading to the dump or recycling center.

3. Use Boxes

Make use of boxes and label them, such as “give away” or “throw away.” The more boxes you fill up, the less clutter you and your family will have to put up with after the holidays.

4. Clean and Sanitize Items You Plan to Keep

Everything that you put out during holiday meals and parties has been touched by countless guests, from neighbors to friends and visiting relatives. Make sure that you scrub it all before organizing and putting them away. Putting away items that are dirty will just depress you when it’s time to use them again next year.

5. Organize Your Stuff

If your stuff is all over the place, it’s hard to see exactly what you own or what’s in short supply. For example, you might think you’ve lost some Christmas tree ornaments, but it turns out they’re in a box underneath a goofy-looking holiday sweater that someone dropped.

6. What Worked and What Didn’t Work

Take note of the things that worked and didn’t work for the past year. For example, do you have some holiday decorations that weren’t a hit with your family and friends? There’s no shame in getting rid of items if they don’t bring you and your loved ones plenty of joy.

7. Remember to Relax

Give yourself a break if you find that you can’t keep up with your post-holiday decluttering tasks. The whole point of making your home clean and free of clutter is so you can relax and not waste time looking for stuff that invariably gets lost in the mess. 

So follow your schedule exactly as planned, and go easy on yourself. As long as you eat away the clutter at a modest pace, you’ll find your home transformed before you know it!

There’s a cold crisp in the air, and you are starting to see signs of the fast-approaching Christmas holiday season all around. When shopping, you notice that businesses are decorating their establishments to help usher in a season of good tidings. 

As we get closer to gathering with loved ones to celebrate the birth of Christ, you can reinforce the festivities by sprucing up your dwelling. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you make your home look a lot like Christmas!

1. Outside Your Home 

While you will be spending much of the holidays indoors, given the weather, it’s important to decorate the exterior with Christmas in mind, as it will put you in the right mood as you arrive home each day from work, errands or school. And making your home look a lot like Christmas on the outside will help you share the joy with all your neighbors and visitors.

Select some festive lanterns and hang them outside. You can get versions that are solar-powered, with LED lights that will last a long time.

These lanterns will, of course, supplement the strings of Christmas lights that you hang on the roof and intertwine around the trees and bushes. You might want to add to the display by installing lawn and roof decorations too, such as inflatable Santa Clause and elves figures.

And remember to hang a lovely holiday wreath on the home’s front door.

Change out your ordinary welcome mat at the front door with a Christmas-themed mat, to further set the mood before people enter your dwelling.

2. Inside the House

You can never go wrong with setting up your Christmas tree earlier rather than later, no matter what the size you and your family prefer. 

In fact, you can use any type of plant – be creative if you are looking for some vegetation that goes beyond the traditional tree.

Make sure to festoon the tree with plenty of lights and some tinsel. Family heirlooms as well as new ornaments will help to round out the beautification of your Christmas tree.

Place candy canes as decorations, to further get into the holiday spirit.

On the table, place a winter-themed bouquet with your local plant life.

In anticipation of Santa’s visit, you’ll want to hang up some stockings over the chimney, where you can then stuff them with treats such as candies, fruits and little toys.

For even more coziness in the living room, put out some luxurious red or green blankets and pillows. And remember to put holiday-themed pillowcases and sheets in the bedrooms.

3. ‘Tis the Season for You and Your Family to Have a Merry Time Together

Decorating your home now for Christmas will give you and loved ones plenty of time to spend time together and getting everything ready for the upcoming celebrations. 

We hope that these tips will help make you and your family feel merry and bright,  as what this season is about.

That special day when we pause collectively to give thanks for all that we have is soon upon us. Don’t get caught off-guard by the impending Thanksgiving holiday. This can be quite a busy time of year, so planning ahead now will make it much easier and less stressful when you want your space ready for family and guests to enjoy time together.

Here are things you can do to get your house ready for Thanksgiving that are easy to start doing now, so you won’t be feeling rushed closer to that much-anticipated fourth Thursday of November!

1. Make a List of Who Is Coming

“Who will be my guests?” should be top of mind. This will give you a head count, so you’ll know if you need to put out a second dining table, for example, and how many chairs you’ll be needing to entertain the crowd. 

You’ll also want to stock the guest bathroom with extra towels, soap, toilet tissue and candles, since more people than usual will be using the facilities.

2. Determine What Food to Prepare

When you have a pretty good idea of how many people are coming over, you’ll be ready to plan how much food to purchase for the main event. Of course, there are no worries if you overestimate, since you’ll then have some delicious leftovers to look forward to. 

At this point, you’ll also want to keep in mind what types of food to prepare, which is crucial if you have guests with food allergies.

If a large crowd is coming, check that you have enough dishes and cutlery. When you are in short supply, borrow extras from a neighbor, friend or relative.

3. Pin Down a Schedule to Clean the House

There’s an old saying that, if you fail to plan, you are planning to fail. So, it’s important that you actually make a schedule so you and your family can get the whole house cleaned up, inside and out, before Thanksgiving arrives.

Put up the details on a calendar or a planner, such as on the kitchen wall, to keep everyone on track. It’s easy for people to forget about their duties when they are busy with end-of-year tasks!

4. Delegate Chores to Your Family Members

You’ll find that the Thanksgiving holiday preparations to transform your house will go much more smoothly (and faster!) when you enlist the entire family. 

Assign chores to each person based on their abilities and interests, such as one child may make decorations while another one is in charge of moving furniture to make space in the living room for additional guests.

5. Have a Wonderful Thanksgiving Celebration

Getting your home squared away in plenty of time before Thanksgiving should go easier when you try the above-mentioned tips. And when your home is ready, you will breathe a sigh of relief that one more item on your holiday to-do list is checked off.

Here’s hoping that this will be a memorable Thanksgiving holiday for you and your loved ones!

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, people are eagerly anticipating getting together with friends and family to share some great food and catch up with the loved ones they haven’t seen in a while. But another aspect of the holiday that excites people is the promise of some amazing Black Friday deals.

If you’re pressed for time, here is some advice to help you prepare for Black Friday shopping, so you get the best possible deals to fit your budget:

1. Set Your Budget

First, list all the necessary items you’ll be buying, based on your budget. This will let you see at a glance that you’ve arranged something for each person on your list, and you can adjust the ideas to make room for another item as needed.

2. Source Items Depending on Brands 

If you already have a preferred brand in mind because you trust and respect its current line of products, you’re ahead of the game. It’s a good idea to look for items on your list, such as a watch, bathrobe, toy or woodworking equipment according to the manufacturers you prefer.

If you have a lot of items to buy, consider breaking them out into different lists, each for their own store. That way, you won’t forget to get something and need to rush out at the last minute to complete your shopping on Christmas eve.

3. Search Online to Get More Information

Knowledge is power, so it’s in your best interest to carve an hour or so out of your busy schedule as soon as you can, to go online and look for the most enticing offers.

You’re not just looking at various prices. Going online can help you find the layouts of stores so you will be able to quickly navigate the aisles later in person, to help you find the items on your list as efficiently as possible.

Remember to follow your favorite manufacturers, brands and stores on social media, because they may put out announcements about special offers close to Black Friday. So, check Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at the very least, to learn about some potential bargains and opportunities to buy everything on your shopping list.

4. Do Reconnaissance

If you have time, check out prices not just online, but also by going into stores. This lets you also check out the quality of the merchandise you have in mind ahead of time. If a product doesn’t meet your standards, you’ll still have time to look for an alternative item and keep your recipients happy.

5. Giving Thanks for Family, Friends and Great Deals

The day after Thanksgiving has become a ritualized day of over-the-top shopping, as consumers go online and flock to brick-and-mortar establishments in search of great deals. Preparing well in advance for your Black Friday shopping excursions, whether via the Internet or in shops close to home will help you stretch your budget. This means you can buy more things for the people you care for, while adhering to your established budget.

You want to get in shape, have a clean house, finish an important project at work…but things just keep getting in the way. If this sounds familiar, procrastination could be preventing you from moving forward and getting things done. In many cases, we procrastinate because we either can’t decide what to do next or are simply getting distracted from the things that need to get done. The tips below can help hone your focus and ensure you are able to avoid some common procrastination pitfalls — and boost your productivity as well. 

1. Define Success

What do you actually want to achieve? Sometimes it can be difficult to get started if you are not even sure what you want the end result to be. Whether you want to complete a single task or a step in a more involved project, defining what your goal is and what success looks like is critical to getting started. In some cases procrastination isn’t about not wanting to do a task — it’s simply not knowing where to begin or what to do. 

2. Dump Distractions

Life can quickly intrude, making it difficult to stick to tasks. While some emergencies or urgent situations could disrupt what you are focusing on, keep everyday distractions to a minimum. Turn off the phone (or at least turn the ringer off), don’t check your email or socials and avoid launching any new project while you are trying to complete the one you are focusing on. You’ll be far more productive if you can focus on the task at hand and complete it. 

3. Take Baby Steps

A task can seem overwhelming if it is too large or lacks focus. “Clean the kitchen” sounds like an easy thing to do, but if you’ve just cooked a big meal or haven’t tidied up lately it can be tough to know where to begin. Break big things down into smaller steps and you’ll be more likely to meet your goal. Some smaller steps for the kitchen task above might include; 

• Throw away all trash
• Put away leftovers
• Put dishes into the dishwasher
• Clean countertops

Each of these steps will move you towards your overall goal — and listing out specifically what needs to be done also makes it easy to see your progress. You’ll find it easier to stick to any task, even a simple one like this, if you break it into manageable steps. 

4. Spot your Most Productive Times

Make the most of the best hours of your day, If you are a night owl, then projects that require your attention and focus may be easiest to complete later in the day, when you feel fully alert and awake. For morning people, the best time to get things done is likely right after breakfast. Your peak time of focus and attention is uniquely yours, and identifying when you are most productive allows you to best allocate your time.

Take a few days to really tune into the time of day when you seem to get the most stuff done. Chances are you’ll discover you are most productive at a specific part of the day. Use this info to make sure tasks that require your full attention and brain power are getting the attention they deserve.  

Focusing on the things you want to achieve will help you get past any procrastination and roadblocks. Once you begin to see progress, tackling tasks at the right time, with the right amount of focus will help you eliminate procrastination for good. 

An ergonomically safe home office delivers many valuable benefits. A variety of statistics prove that it enhances productivity, enables people to avoid serious health problems and decreases missed days of work. By preventing fatigue, it also reduces mistakes. These tips can help you improve the ergonomics of your office:

1. Table or Desk

Consider using an adjustable work surface that lets you choose between sitting and standing. People generally experience less neck, shoulder and back discomfort when they spend less time sitting. Try to alternate between standing and sitting every half-hour. Just standing one more hour per day could substantially improve your health.

2. Computer Screen

Try to place your monitor or notebook computer screen about 50 to 100 centimeters away from your face (20 to 40 inches). Its height also holds great importance. Your eyes should line up with the upper portion of the display when you look straight ahead. It’s best if you can see everything on the monitor without moving your body.

Only use two screens when it’s truly necessary. This is rarely as ergonomic as using a single monitor. Center the primary display on your desk, and put the second monitor next to it. You should still follow the above-mentioned distance and eye level recommendations.

3. Office Chair

Select a cushioned adjustable chair that supports your lower back and allows you to place both feet on your office’s floor. An alternative is to use a separate footrest. This accessory helps promote healthy blood circulation. Armrests are optional; try to set them at a height that doesn’t strain your shoulders.

4. Lighting

It’s wise to choose a highly adjustable desk light. You should be able to change the angle and move it around with ease. Overhead lighting and excessively bright bulbs often cause eyestrain. If you experience problems with glare, experiment with different monitor brightness settings and color combinations.

Light from windows can also strain your eyes. Work on arranging your home office so that there should be at least one meter or yard between your monitor and the nearest window. Consider using a combination of blinds and curtains on sunny days. Polarized filters and monitor visors can help counteract some types of glare.

5. Keyboard, Mouse

Your keyboard and mouse or trackball ought to be easily reachable. You shouldn’t have to bend your wrists or stretch out your arms to use these devices. Make sure your wrists aren’t pushed against a hard surface (like the desk or keyboard edge). If necessary, reposition your equipment or buy wrist rest(s).

Your keyboard ought to be placed at approximately the same height as your elbow. Both your elbows and knees should remain bent while you work. This is only possible at the right desk and chair heights. Optimal positioning can prevent carpal tunnel syndrome as well as shoulder and back pain.

Regardless of how ergonomic your home office becomes, it remains important to take breaks. Remember to look away from the screen and blink your eyes. Stand up for a minute or two at least twice every hour. This may seem insignificant, but it will make a difference in your health and long-term productivity.

It’s no secret that happiness and productivity are closely entwined. When employees aren’t happy, they are distracted; they can’t be their best or most efficient when they are worried or frustrated. But more to the point, what can managers and employers do to boost employee happiness? How can employees improve their mood?

1. Employees: The secret to productivity is work-life balance

Employees must manage their work-life balance rather than overworking themselves. When employees overwork themselves, they frequently find they are less effective and productive; instead of doing 2 hours of work, they will do eight, and get the same amount of work done. Employees must learn to take breaks effectively, schedule their work at their most productive time, and reach out for help if they find themselves frustrated.

2. Employers: Supporting the mental health of employees

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for employees to feel overwhelmed and stressed out. Employers can provide support and resources to help employees manage their mental health by way of implementing policies that promote a healthy work environment, such as flexible work schedules, or maybe promote a culture of open communication where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health with their supervisors.

Employers can’t control their employees or what happens to employees out of work, but they can provide support and assistance.

3. Managers: Employees don’t leave jobs; they leave managers

Managers play a crucial role in employee happiness. After all, employees don’t leave jobs; they leave managers. If an employee is unhappy with their job, it’s likely because they are unhappy with their manager specifically. But managers can foster a better company culture by leaving the pathways of communication open.

Talk to employees and schedule one-on-ones with regularity. When you meet employees during a one-on-one, discuss how they are doing and what they need to get their job done. Gone are the days when managers are expected to “whip their employees into shape.” Instead, managers are expected to give employees the tools that they need to thrive.

4. Conclusion: Happiness and Productivity are everyone’s responsibility

There will always be issues throughout any industry and any career path. Employees, supervisors, and employers will have to work together not just to achieve business targets but also a healthy and motivating workplace.

Organizing a small home with an even smaller office can be challenging, but it is possible with a little creativity and effort. You may find that, as you organize, your tiny home office is even more efficient and productive than a larger office might be.

Follow the below tips to organize your tiny home space and make it as comfortable and effective as you can.

1. Use vertical space.

When you have limited square footage to work with, it is important to make use of every inch of space available. This means utilizing the vertical space in your office by installing shelves and hooks for storage. Shelves can be used to store things that you don’t actually need very often, such as extra office supplies.

2. Keep it simple.

When it comes to organizing a small space, less is definitely more. Avoid cluttered surfaces and instead focus on keeping things tidy and streamlined. This will help to make your office feel more spacious and open. Schedule some time at the end of every week to put things in their place. Where you can, label your storage; you’ll spend less time wondering “where things need to go.” If there’s something you aren’t sure what to do with, consider whether you need it at all.

3. Get creative with storage.

There are many ways to get creative with storage in a small office space. Use baskets and bins to store items such as office supplies, documents, and files. Utilize the space under your desk for storage as well. If possible, invest in furniture with built-in storage, such as a desk with drawers or a shelving unit. Don’t neglect the space that’s under things; rather than having an end table, consider an end table with storage.

4. Keep up with your organization.

One of the most important things to do when organizing a small office space is to keep it organized. This means having a place for everything and keeping things in their proper place. Invest in some organizational tools, such as labels and folders, to help you keep things tidy. You’ll find that a stack of papers takes up less space when it’s all in folders.

5. Be selective with your decor.

When it comes to decorating a small office space, less is definitely more. Stick to a few simple pieces that will help to make the space feel open and airy. Avoid clutter by hanging only a few wall decorations and keeping desk items to a minimum.

6. Get multi-purpose office equipment.

In a small office space, it is important to get multi-purpose office equipment. This includes items such as a printer that also scans and copies or a desk that doubles as storage. Investing in multi-purpose furniture and equipment will help you save valuable space in your tiny home office.

By following these tips, you can successfully organize a small office space in your tiny home. With a little effort and creativity, you can turn even the smallest office into a functional and stylish space.

It’s hard. When work is always present, it’s very easy to constantly start more work. But it’s also not healthy. When you don’t have an appropriate work life balance, you start to hate your work… and feel resentful about what you aren’t accomplishing in your daily life.

There are a few things you can do to have work life balance when working from home.

1. Set regular hours for yourself and stick to them.

This will help you create a routine and keep your work life separate from your personal life. Let everyone know your hours too; this tells them when they shouldn’t be bothering you with home-related tasks. Sometimes, work-related balance goes the other way, and you find you can’t get work done because of your home life.

2. Take breaks throughout the day to relax and rejuvenate yourself.

Go for a walk, take a nap, or just step away from your work to clear your head. This will help you come back to your work refreshed and ready to be productive.

3. Make sure to schedule time for fun activities outside of work.

Make plans with friends, go on dates, and do things that you enjoy. This will help you stay balanced and prevent burnout. Try to make sure that you are truly balanced; take a look at how much time you’re spending on both work and play.

4. Talk to your friends and family.

It really helps to have a strong support system. Let them know what you’re struggling with and ask for their support. They can help hold you accountable and make sure that you’re taking care of yourself. You can also talk to your colleagues.

5. Eliminate additional distractions.

Distraction is everywhere. Scheduling can help manage these distractions. Set your working hours and let your family members know. This will help keep you from getting distracted.

6. Continually reassess whether you need to improve your work-life balance.

As your life changes, so will your needs. Make sure that you’re always taking a step back to see if the way you’re doing things is still working for you. Ask family and friends if it seems like you’re working too hard or too little and what you can do to better be there for them.

7. Talk to your boss.

Today, it’s one of an employer’s responsibilities to make sure you have opportunities for appropriate work-life balance. If you find that your work is constantly infringing on your life, it may be something that your employer has to address in terms of workload and processes. Keep them looped in, as they don’t want you to experience burnout either.

Working from home can be tough, but we are tougher. We just have to remind ourselves that we can do anything we put our mind to and remind ourselves of our own personal goals other than that of our career. Let us take care of our health mentally just as much as physically.

It’s easy to get stuck in a rut when it comes to our home offices. We tend to spend a lot of time in these rooms, so it’s important to make sure they are comfortable and inviting. Here are some simple ways to refresh your home office décor and make your office just feel a little more friendly.

1. Start by Decluttering Your Space

The first step to refreshing your home office is to get rid of any clutter that has built up over time. This can be anything from old magazines and newspapers to empty coffee cups and half-used notebooks. If you have any decorative items that you don’t use or need, consider donating them or storing them away until you have a use for them. Once you have decluttered your space, you will be amazed at how much more open and inviting it feels.

2. Add Some Greenery

Another way to refresh your home office décor is to add some greenery. Plants can help to purify the air and they can also add a splash of color to your space. Plants can also help you relax and soothe your eyes after hours of being in front of your computer monitor.

3. Change Your Lighting

If you often find yourself working late into the night, then it’s important to make sure you have good lighting in your office. This will help to reduce eye strain and it can also make your space feel more inviting. Consider adding a lamp to your desk or investing in some good quality lights.

4. Add Some Artwork

If you’re looking for a way to personalize your space, then consider adding some artwork to your walls. This could be anything from family photos to paintings and prints that you love. Adding artwork is a great way to make your office feel more like your own.

5. Rearrange Your Furniture

Sometimes, all it takes to refresh your home office décor is to rearrange your furniture. This can be as simple as moving your desk to a different wall or swapping out your chairs for something more comfortable. Open up your office a little if it feels stifling.

6. Try Out New Wallpaper or Paint

If you’re feeling really adventurous, you could try out some new wallpaper or paint. This is another way to freshen up your home office without spending more money. Just be sure to choose colors that you find calming and that won’t distract you from your work. There are proven psychologies to colors; green and blue, for instance, are calming, whereas yellow and red may produce anxiety.

These are just a few simple ways to refresh your home office. By making a few small changes, you can make your office feel more motivating and comfortable.

If you work at home, you face a double threat when it comes to organizing your office — your work stuff and things from other parts of the home that migrate in. Taking some time to get organized can help you find what you need, when you need it and make your office space one that you can truly enjoy working in. Here are 5 simple and nearly instant ways to reorganize your workspace.

1. Set your mind to declutter regularly.

Make a decluttering routine. If it isn’t something you use regularly, need or absolutely love, it needs to go — or at least leave your office space. Tackle decluttering a drawer or shelf at a time and purge anything that is not directly related to your work. You’ll create more room for the things you do need and a more comfortable work setting, too 

2. Keep a trash bin handy.

Put a small trash bin right next to your primary workspace or desk. Discard junk mail, printouts you no longer need, packaging and more as you work. These items can build up quickly and create a chaotic mess on your desk if you don’t get rid of them. 

3. Go digital.

If you haven’t already, make the switch to digital storage instead of paper printouts. Not only will this dramatically reduce the amount of paper clutter you have, it will also make it easier to find what you need. When you store items in the cloud you can search by keyword to find what you need instantly, you can also collaborate more readily with others. Best of all, your workspace will be far more organized when you get rid of big stacks of printed papers. 

4. Corral cables and cords.

Your laptop, phone, printer and other items all need cords – but if those cords are a tangled snarl they’ll be difficult to use. They’ll also make your office look like a cluttered mess. Cable minders or keepers are inexpensive and hold all your cables together in one tidy strip — you can also use zip ties to get the same effect and keep the cables where they belong. 

5. Optimize your file storage.

If you have important documents you need to use regularly or that are essential for your business, make sure they are readily available. Throwing them all into a folder entitled “documents” with every other item you save will make it messy and tough to retrieve what you need. Instead, make a special folder just for these items and put it in an accessible place — and you’ll be able to instantly retrieve what you need, when you need it. 

Each of the above organization steps for your home office takes just a few moments to do but has an immediate impact on the way your space looks and functions. Tackle one step a day and you’ll have a more organized and comfortable office space in a week, without spending hours cleaning. Once you’ve finished you’ll have a space that is far more enjoyable to use and more useful to your work. 

Organizing your home office doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little effort and the right system, you can easily make some organizational changes that will help you find everything and get more done. Here are some of the best ways to get your home office into shape.

1. Create a Filing System

If you’re the type of person who prefers paper documents instead of digital options, a filing system is essential for good organization. That doesn’t mean you can’t use a digital file system, of course. But if you have a lot of paper around, it’s even more vital that you create a system that lets you find things quickly.

2. Consider Color-Coded Options

Color-coding your files and important documents can help you see at a glance where everything is. If financial records are green, for example, and bills are red, you’ll easily be able to locate the folder you need and find the right documents fast. That lowers frustration, and raises peace of mind.

3. Make Use of Containers

There are always items in a home office that don’t really have a place to go. These are usually small items, and ones that have odd shapes. If you need a place to store those items, using containers can make it much easier to keep everything organized and looking neat and orderly. You’ll also be able to grab what you need efficiently, which is important when you’re working.

4. Keep Frequently Used Items Handy

Items you use often shouldn’t be put away where you can’t get to them quickly. That just takes more time out of your day, and makes it more frustrating for you to work in your home office. You can use containers, trays, or other organizational options to keep those frequently used items right where you can reach them.

5. Use the Space On Your Walls

Your walls aren’t just for artwork, or the latest soothing paint color. You can also use them to help organize your home office more easily. By putting up a mail station, small baskets, floating shelves, or other storage and organization options, you’re better able to see what you need and still have it neat and clean. Using wall space is a great opportunity to reduce clutter.

6. Divide Personal and Business Documents

Your personal and business documents are probably both in your home office. That makes sense, but doesn’t mean they should be mixed together. Keeping a separate file drawer for personal items is one of the ways to keep them separate. You can also have a separate filing cabinet or other storage option, so you aren’t mixing the two areas of your life.

7. Clean and Declutter as You Go

As you move through your home office to organize it, cleaning and decluttering at the same time means you won’t have to go back through it and clean or declutter afterward. By doing it all at the same time, your home office will be a great space to enjoy working in, and everything in it will be something you need and want to keep.