Our desktops are surfaces we see and use practically every day and yet do we really notice them? It's helpful to evaluate how the items on our desktops are supporting or hindering our progress when we're working. Of course, I'm referring to the real physical desktop, not the so called "desktop" on your computer screen — that's a different topic altogether. Let's look at some ways we can make sure our desktops are arranged to give us the best possible focus, clarity and boost in productivity.
First, let's consider what might be present on the desk: a computer, a keyboard, papers (stacks of them), pens and pencils, a lamp or two, a clock, photographs, a telephone, knickknacks, coasters, old cups of coffee, new cups of coffee, staplers, tape dispensers, note pads, leather or vinyl blotters, receipts, file folders, bins, etc. You get the idea —there's lots of stuff and very often all of that stuff can weigh us down and keep us from working at peak capacity. If you are having trouble focusing on or completing work, an overloaded desktop could be the problem.
Begin by clearing everything off the desk. Yes, remove every single thing and give your desktop a good cleaning, whether it needs a polish (for wood), a good scrub (for manmade materials), or a glass top wipe down. Clean out the drawers of old cracker crumbs, papers you no longer need, stray pennies, and broken pens and pencils.
Now, only put those items back on the desktop that you use constantly — perhaps the computer/keyboard, a holder for pens/pencils. a reading lamp, the telephone and a few desk accessories such as an inbox that are absolutely necessary for you to function on a day to day basis. Other items that you use only occasionally can go on a table or bookcase near your desk or in desk drawers. These would include items such as checkbooks, coasters, extra rolls of tape or staples, extra pens and pencils, and stamps. The less frequently you use an item, the further away from your desktop it can be stored. For example, reference books that you use once a year do not need to be on or near your desk.
After you've completed the cleaning and put back only necessary items, you can make enhancements. Be sure a corded telephone is on the side of your desk where you actually hold it to your ear. It's irritating to have to pull the cord across your body while talking. A writing pad (called a blotter) is a great enhancement if you don't already have one. A dark blotter creates depth of field when you're looking at white papers and is easier on the eyes. Lamps should not be so large as to interfere with movement around the desk nor be in your "head" space while seated. Also, remember that one photo of each family member is plenty for the office. Enhancements can personalize the space, but take care that your desk doesn't become a place where large numbers of personal items draw your attention away from your mission.
You might be amazed once you clear off the desk how much more energy you have for actual work! Could this mean you become so efficient that you can cut back on your hours? One never knows until one tries.
(Tracy Renée Miller is a certified feng shui consultant who has been working with both residential and business clients since 1997. She is the owner of Gazelle Feng Shui and produces and hosts the local cable program "Natural Living" which explores professions that bring people balanced, healthy lives.