How to Simplify and Declutter Your Desk

Recently I received an email asking the question: Shanice, how do I declutter my desk? I have to be honest… I got a little excited and before I knew it my brain went into decluttering mode. This is a classic question that everyone has. Decluttering is something we need to do but the question is where we may find the struggle. The thought is great but what is the process to actually do so? That is what I am going to share today.

Minimal Items

Let’s start at the top. On top of your desk should be only the items that you need most, this includes a computer, computer accessories such as a mouse and keyboards along with pencil and paper storage. However, of course, we love to personalize our desks so we include a photo or two and decorative items. Make sure not to add too many decorative items to your desk.

Use dividers in drawers to give a collection of items their own sections such as a paper section, pin, paper clips and more.

Remove

Go through your desk surface and get rid of floating papers, mail, paperwork and organize your tax information into a folder separate from everything else or in a file cabinet. If you have items for kids have a designated area to keep their artwork, important school information or homework. If you have the option to receive email versions of school newsletters, I recommend doing so because the newsletters can add up and start becoming a collection of clutter.

Move most books to your bookshelf unless it is two or three you need every day constantly. You can make it look like a part of your decor by stacking it up like a wedding cake.

Avoid

It is essential to take out old notebooks, planners, receipts, business cards and coupons that you don’t need or use. Those things can cause clutter very quickly in drawers or on top of a desk. Avoid collecting old pens or broken office supplies. If you happen to have a dried plant that can’t come back to life then you might want to consider removing it.

File Cabinet

Take out things you do not need. A simple trick is to only keep the essentials in your filing cabinets such as tax information, important health documents and more. Use file folders and label each so that you know what each folder is being used for. All the rest can be scanned and filled onto a USB or onto your computer.

Final Thoughts

Ready to simplify and declutter your desk? I am all for the neat and tidy look of a desk. It almost makes it look like you are sitting in a store display. The best part is that you can go to your desk without feeling squished by your items. Simply apply minimal items to your desk surface, and remove and avoid items you do not need from both your desk and file cabinet. These are the best way to get to your goal of having a declutter desk.

Related:

• 6 Ways to Make your Home Office More Productive & Enjoyable
• How to Organize your Cloffice in the Best Way?
• 30+ Cloffice Ideas to Inspire You & That Will Change Your Life
• How to Design A Small Office in A Shared Space