4 Reasons Why Cleaning Up Your Desk Will Make You More Productive at Work

It shouldn’t be a surprise that, when the average full-time worker spends approximately 37.5 hours a week at their desk (which adds up to around 150 hours a month), things can start to get cluttered. However, a messy desk can hinder your productivity more than you’d think. Here are four reasons why tidying up your desk can make you more productive at work:

Save more time. When you know exactly where that vital piece of feedback is from that big important client of yours, you’ll save the time and stress of having to frantically hunt for it. If this seems like a far-fetched dream of yours, it’s best to get your desk organised. Designate homes for all your documents, notes and personal items; be it a color-coordinated filing system, a desk drawer or the bin – if necessary. That way you’ll know exactly where to find them when you need them, saving valuable time when it comes to completing tasks.

Less sick leave. The fastest way to be more efficient at work is to actually go to work – which, may not be possible if you get sick. Your desk can become host to a plethora of unwanted germs and bacteria that may affect your overall health if you don’t keep it clean. So, if the company you work for doesn’t employ a cleaner, invest some time in cleaning and disinfecting your desk regularly. This can mean you are less susceptible to unnecessary germs and can check important things off your ‘to-do’ list, meet deadlines and just generally enjoy a better sense of overall well-being.  

A better atmosphere. Working in an environment where everything is clean and organised can improve the approach you take to your work. In fact, new research from RAJA suggests that 51 percent of Brits find de-cluttering to be therapeutic and feel it benefits their general mental health. Take the time to create an environment where you feel comfortable, relaxed and happy, as this can help boost your morale and productivity in the long run. Not only that, but when you don’t have to rummage around looking for things on your desk, you’re more likely to complete work on time.

Stay focused. Notifications flashing on phones, other pieces of work in eyesight and even little keepsakes from your personal life cluttering your desk can provide unwanted distractions and lower your efficiency level. While you may think you’re getting more done by multitasking, it may just mean that you’re not giving the task your full attention to. A tidy desk means that you have fewer distractions and less opportunity for your mind to wander to another task and leave others by the wayside. By only keeping the items that are absolutely necessary next to you, you can stay focused on the task in hand.