My desk before the clean up
I sure am! But things were getting a little too hairy and I was afraid I might fall into my piles of paper, notebooks, binders, and file folders and not come out. My in-laws’ visit this past weekend gave me an accountability date and I filled our recycling bin with over 100 lbs of crap after my cleaning spree. Not looking forward to having to roll that sucker out onto the street. Why did I wait so long in order to clean out my files, the top of my desk, the bottom of my desk, the sides of my desk, etc.
- I didn’t want to take the time which I felt could be used for doing client and my own work
- It was easier to let things pile up than take the time to sort it all into categories
- I didn’t want to feel exhausted after cleaning
- I was scared that once I started I wouldn’t stop and there’d be more to clean! (kinda true)
- My filing cabinet was stuck
Yes, it did take more than a few days, hours at a time to pare down my office, but now I can see what I’m doing and feel so much better!
Yes, I was tired after the cleaning and my allergies perked up thanks to all of the dust, but I moved some serious energy! I also didn’t to buy any organizing supplies. Turns out I had enough hanging file folders, notebooks, folder labels, and notebooks. I pulled out papers I didn’t need, filed the ones I do need and saved the outer coverings. Bonus!
Now the only challenge I have it maintenance, which I’m going to do a better job at than last time!
So , if your paperwork is getting piled into a cool tent-like structure, your books-to-read own their own dust fence, and your spouse is embarrassed to know you—then it’s time to ditch your work at the moment and clean! I promise, you’ll have renewed energy and confidence—after you take your nap.
After the clean up!