When there's less mess, there's less stress. As stress can be a barrier to creativity and productivity, keeping things neat and tidy can be invigorating and limits distractions. A 2010 study showed increased stress levels and reduced productivity in disorganized workplaces, so although for some an unsavory workspace might aid creativity, hoarding experts, psychologists and academics insist a bit of clearing and cleaning can improve one's ability to create or solve. Some professionals also tell us that being too attached to things we don't really need can block emotions, a key source of creativity for many different lines of work.

a bit of clearing and cleaning can improve one's ability to create or solve

Beginning with a daily sweep of paper, cups and perishables goes without saying, but moving items that are only occasionally used into storage containers or bookshelves nearby, such as rulers, washi tape, spare pens, unused notebooks, will free up a lot of space to get things done. Below are seven more easy ways to stave off a messy desk, control clutter, feel more relaxed and make things happen.

7 Easy Ways to Keep a Clean Workspace

• Consolidate and transfer scattered notes into a dedicated paper notebook or document in a text editor, OneNote or Evernote.


• Use an app, a whiteboard, to do list or journal to stay on top of tasks, brainstorm or jot down random notes. Leave the Post-Its for books, magazines or articles.


• Only keep daily essentials on your desk, such as frequently used pens, journal, scratch paper or said notebook from the previous point, a glass of water, phone, computer, headphones and a good lamp.


• Place books back on shelves when you know you won't refer to them that day. You'll also get in more steps this way!


• Keep your desk surface clean to avoid nasty germs and to welcome unexpected workspace guests.


• Tidy up before leaving your workspace each day, so that your morning self will be ready to go.


• Work or study at a cafe, library or hot desk at a coworking space.