Comments on: Operation Office Overhaul: Diana’s story

By: Christina Katz

Christina Katz — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 22:10:56 +0000

I love that you shared this! I was just apologizing to a neighbor who followed the girls into my office to meet our new cat.

“Er, sorry about the mess,” I said. She said not to worry about it. But seriously, when you have to step OVER things, I don’t know about you, but for me, that’s when I get ready to clean up and clear out.

I don’t know if this will anyone or not, but one time—I believe it was the last time my office was in this state (or perhaps a bit worse, actually)—my husband started me off by pulling everything OUT of the room, helping me clean the room, and then ONLY bringing back in what was necessary.

I thought he was a genius.

I don’t think of myself as a packrat (though maybe I should). It’s just that I don’t like to get rid of things until I’ve VERY sure I don’t need them any more. If I’m remembering correctly, we filled a couple recycle bins last time. I can probably fill at least one this time…and so it goes.

By: Deborah

Deborah — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 20:32:46 +0000

Thanks for sharing! I’m working on a similar project. What really frustrates me is how much of it goes into the garbage. Then I ask myself, “WHY was I keeping this?”

By: Bradley Apling

Bradley Apling — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 02:06:40 +0000

I’ve faced the same many times (after failing each New Year resolution). Almost missing an insurance bill is what prompted me. Two weeks before the end of 2008, I faced multiple piles and began first tackling my file cabinets to remove what wasn’t needed and to reorganize what was left. That took three days. Then I tackled one pile. Still have ‘piles to go before I sleep’ and two closets also filled with papers and such, but I decided to not push too hard and figure out what made sense for me when I handle papers and/or mail at then end of a long day and I’m feeling beat. Take one hour (you really can afford it) and figure out what flows best with your day. For me, it was handling paperwork first thing in the morning with a cup of coffee in hand. Once you get this hammered down for yourself, your office will be back in your control. Lots of encouragement heading your way!

By: AlisonSteinWellner

AlisonSteinWellner — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 17:02:07 +0000

I hereby attest to Diana’s supreme organization on the road!

By: Chris Clark

Chris Clark — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 15:41:44 +0000

Thank you for sharing. I feel much more organized now. Of course, I have no filing system whatsoever and it is the top of my list for the new year. I am looking forward to seeing your progress! It always feels really good to have a clean slate for working. I know I get so much more done when my office is nice and tidy. Of course, cleaning up my office is a frequent procrastination technique as well, so I have to be careful on that one.