Some days I sit down to work and I’m distracted by the piles of papers on my desk – invoices, notes from interviews, brochures from travels and Post-It notes of all colours. Books from a random array of topics have accumulated from research for various projects, leaving just enough room for my laptop. As a writer, I have to say that these kinds of distractions really affect my productivity and often send me to places like Starbucks, where I can work on a table that is clutter-free.
Inspired to make some changes, I called on the services of Margarita Ibbott of Downshifting: Professional Organizing Solutions in London, Ontario, to help me work my way out of my mess. Margarita gave me a virtual consultation and some tips to finding my desk again. After our call I set to work. Her tips turned out to be easy to follow and have proven to be completely sustainable. Weeks later, I am still enjoying a clean workspace.
Upon her recommendation, I also removed my wall calendar where I used to keep track of due dates (they are now in my Google Calendar). In its place I have put up some inspiring quotes, cards and photos – things to keep me focused and excited about life and my job.
You can read all about these improvements in my latest article, Calling the De-Clutter Therapist, on tujawellness.com.
Thanks Margarita!
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Margarita is a great organizer.
I could use some of these tips. The piles on my desk seem to be taking over the entire space. The kitchen table is looking better and better.
Let me know when you’ve put some of them into action!
There are also clutter free tables at non-chain coffeehouses in Banff – and you may feel better about yourself by supporting a local business.
Sorry, perhaps I shouldn’t have mentioned Starbucks over my local, non-chain coffeehouse. Anyone who knows me here in Banff knows that my second home is my locally-owned coffee shop and I do feel very good about supporting them. However, as a writer, I need a consistent internet connection and so far the local joint hasn’t been able to guarantee that for me. If I need to get online away from home, I head to Starbucks. They give me great service, call me by name (and locals work there, too!) and give me a great place to work. Plus, I tend to see fewer people I know there, which can be a good thing when I really need to get stuff done. The great thing about a small town like Banff is how frequently you bump into people you know. Unfortunately sometimes that’s a major distraction when you’ve got deadlines.
For all the coffee shop options in Banff, you can check out this java guide: http://meghanjoyward.com/2010/11/23/java-life-in-banff/