Working from home has its own perks, but it also comes with challenges. One of the main issues you’ll face is staying organized in a small home office. A cluttered and messy desk can lead to a chaotic and messy mind, which is not conducive to productivity.
While you might think that you don’t have enough space to keep your home office organized, there are a few tricks you can use to make the most of your limited square footage.
Step1: Declutter your desk
A cluttered desk is the enemy of productivity. If you want to work effectively in your home office, you need to ensure that your desk is clean and organized. The first step in doing this is to declutter your desk. Get rid of anything that you don’t use regularly. This includes old magazines, post-it notes, and unused pens and pencils.
Once your desk is clear, you can start to organize the remaining items. Create a system for storing things to find them easily when you need them. For example, you might use a drawer for files and folders and a basket for loose papers. By taking the time to declutter and organize your desk, you will create a space that is conducive to productivity.
Step 2: Use small-sized tools and equipment
Step 2 in keeping a small home office organized is to use small-sized tools and equipment. This will help save space and keep your desk clutter-free. For example, opt for a new custom mini PC instead of using a desktop computer. This will take up less space on your desk and still provide you with the power and features you need.
In addition, invest in a good quality printer that can handle multiple pages at once. This will save you time and help you stay organized. Some printers have features that allow you to scan and copy documents, which can also be helpful.
Step 3: Get creative with storage
Once you’ve decluttered your home office and created a system for dealing with paper, it’s time to focus on storage. One of the challenges of a small office is finding enough space to store your supplies and files. However, with a bit of creativity, you can make the most of the space you have. For example, consider using an over-the-door shoe organizer to store pens, paperclips, and other small items. Or mount a magnetic strip on the wall to keep scissors and other tools within easy reach.
Using vertical space is also crucial in a small office. Install shelves on empty walls to store books and binders, or hang a corkboard to organize papers and create an improvised bulletin board. With a little effort, you can turn your small home office into an organized and efficient workspace.
Step 4: Add accessories that will make the space appear bigger
One way to make a small home office appear larger is to add accessories that create the illusion of more space. For example, a mirror can help to reflect light and make the room seem brighter and larger. Similarly, a large piece of artwork can draw the eye upwards, making the ceiling seem higher.
Another trick is to use strategic lighting to create the illusion of more space. For instance, placing a lamp in the corner of the room can make the room seem larger than it is. These are just a few ideas to get you started. However, make sure to consider the overall design of your space before adding any new accessories.
Step 5: Keep cords and cables organized
One of the most challenging things about working from home is organizing your space. It can be difficult to keep track of everything when you’re constantly surrounded by papers, books, and other office supplies. One way to help keep your home office organized is to keep cords and cables under control. Tangled cords are not only unsightly, but they can also be dangerous. You’re at risk of injury if you’re constantly tripping over cords or pulling out plugs.
To avoid this, take a few minutes each week to untangle cords and wrap them up neatly. You can also use cord organizers to keep everything in place. By taking a few simple steps to organize your cables, you can help keep your home office safe and tidy.
The bottom line
A small home office can be a challenge to organize, but it’s not impossible. You can make the most of your space by taking the time to declutter and create a system for storage. Additionally, using small-sized tools and equipment can help save space and keep your desk clutter-free. With a little effort, you can turn your small home office into an organized and efficient workspace.
