5 Tips for Organizing Your Home Office

culled from:michigansthumb.com

1. Start by making sure you have furniture that can adequately store your stuff, including plenty of space for files, reference books and computer equipment. Pieces need not be costly to be functional, and there are plenty of attractive options available at major retailers.
2. Arrange the space with its intended use and your own work style in mind. Do you need ample space to spread out over a large flat workspace? If not, eliminate that space – it’s simply an invitation for piles of clutter.
3. Place items you rely on frequently, such as a calculator or ruler, within arm’s reach so they can easily be put away between uses. Capture these items in containers and bins to keep the space looking neat and free of clutter.
4. Establish a filing system that lets you keep track of important papers you need to keep, and have a shredder handy to help you discard any sensitive documents. Whether you alphabetize, color code or use some other method, group paperwork into segments for categories such as bills, banking, healthcare, auto, insurance and so on for easy access in the future.
5. Tangled cords can make even the most organized space look messy, and they may even pose a fire or tripping hazard. Get control of your cords by storing devices you don’t use regularly and securing the remaining cords with twist ties or clips. Remember to use a surge-protected power strip to minimize the chance of future damage.