What Does Your Desk Say About You?

Is your desk sloppy or streamlined? Messy or immaculate? Consider whether one of these three desk descriptions fits you.

Desk #1
Topsy-turvy and turbulent
The top of your desk is piled high with magazines, unopened mail and bills. If someone wants you to see something, they leave it on your chair. Eventually you’ll feel it when you sit down.
Your desk screams: You’re a creative person but you seem a bit scattered, unreliable and easily distracted.
Desk makeover: The goal isn’t to be a perfectionist or a neat freak. Instead, create some order. Use desktop file holders for the files you’re working on now, put stacking bins on the floor to hold materials for certain projects, hang bulletin boards and wall pockets to help you get and stay organized. Get in the habit of clearing out your office every few weeks.

Desk #2
Slick and sparse
Your desk screams: Only the bare essentials, thank you. Your computer, printer and handheld are on your desk while everything else is tucked away.
Desk makeover: Add a picture of your family, pet, or friends to the wall or add colorful artwork. A plant wouldn’t hurt either…just remember to water it.

Desk #3
Stacked and stodgy
Your desk screams: You have trouble making decisions, especially when it has to do with papers. Magazines you want to read are stacked neatly in one corner, while in another corner are papers you need to file and supplies that need a home.
Desk makeover: Add a bookcase near your desk to hold magazines stored in magazine holders or get rid of magazines altogether and subscribe to the online versions. Make decisions about paper by using the P-A-P-E-R system: Put papers in a file, Act on them, Place them in a stacking bin, Enter any action you need to take on your To Do list and toss (or file) the papers, or Recycle them. Keep extra supplies in your bookcase, stored in colorful baskets or containers.

Do you know what your desk is saying about you?