Sometimes, my desk is a real disaster zone. Books, papers, pens, and who knows what else are scattered everywhere. I need to find my notes for my upcoming exam, but I can't find them anywhere! I start frantically searching through the mess, but it's like looking for a needle in a haystack. Every time I think I'm getting close, something else distracts me. A stray comic book, a half-eaten snack, a random piece of jewelry...And yes, I know I should have cleaned up earlier, but now it's too late. I'm starting to feel overwhelmed and stressed. I just want to focus on my studies, but this mess is making it impossible.
This real-life story is familiar to most students and home office workers. The mess we create is what consumes our time, energy, and focus. On the other hand – an organized study space is like a well-stocked toolbox for the mind. It provides a clear and clutter-free environment that fosters focus, reduces distractions, and enhances overall productivity. Here is how you can organize your space in five very simple steps:
Step 1: Cleaning up the mess, keeping all the important stuff...
Clutter and dirt are the major distractions and simply unsanitary conditions for your study and work space. So, before starting an actual organization, you'll need to sort through your belongings, separating items into three categories: important, not-so-important, and trash.
In the important category are all of your documents, main notes, tools, and all of your up-to-date stuff. Not-so-important are the books, notes, and distracting things, that you can keep away from your workspace somewhere on distant shelves, drawers, and boxes. Finally, all the scraps and junk go into the trash pile. However, if you love journaling and try to stay sustainable, you can create a recycled journal from the actual junk!
Keep your space neat and organized by going through the drawers and surfaces every few days. Get yourself a mini-set with a sanitizer, ammonia- or alkaline-based glass cleaners, and a few tiny mops, so everything is tidy and dust-free. I like to keep one of my bottom drawers empty, so I can keep all the cleaning supplies close to the desk.
Step 2: It is time to create a functional layout...it's not easy...
If you thought that the de-cluttering part was the hardest, you were wrong. Coming up with a functional, comfortable, and well-organized layout is 10x times harder! But, it will definitely streamline your workflow and boost productivity.
Arrange your furniture to maximize space and minimize any possible distractions. No sharp corners and pinkie-cathing chairs here, only clean lines and ergonomic designs. An adjustable desk can help you maintain a comfortable posture while you are writing and reading. It might sound expensive, but in the long term, you'll feel the benefits on your very own spine.
For the best lighting position your desk near a window. If it is not possible, pick a couple of lamps that mimic natural light. They offer a gentle, eye-friendly illumination that reduces strain and fatigue, promoting longer, more productive study sessions. Try to avoid harsh, fluorescent, and neon lighting, as it can cause eye fatigue and headaches.
Step 3: Try minimizing all the distractions...
Loud sounds from the window, flashing lights, cats scratching and even bright-colored walls are some of the most common distractions that can derail your study progress. I'm not even talking about the constant social media notifications. They must be the worst! So, your next step should be identifying and eliminating (or minimizing) all of the distractions that bother you.
Additionally, you can try using noise-canceling headphones, website blockers, and apps that limit access to distracting websites during your study time. For instance, here are a few mobile apps you can consider:
- Focusmate: This app pairs you with a random study buddy for accountability. You both work on your tasks for a set amount of time, taking breaks together.
- Forest: A gamified app that lets you plant virtual trees while studying. The trees grow as long as you stay focused, and you can create a virtual forest over time.
- Focus Keeper: A Pomodoro timer app that helps you break down your study time into focused work intervals and short breaks.
For distracting pets, you might want to build a separate space where they can chill, play, and do whatever pets do, without distracting you from your studies.
Step 4: Invest in supplies like organizers, pens, and journals...
Investing in quality supplies can significantly enhance your study experience. Stock up on essential tools like pens, pencils, highlighters, and notebooks to keep your study area organized and efficient. Don't buy anything unnecessary, keep it minimum and effective. Consider buying some extra shelves to keep your books and copybooks away from your desk. I like to put them high, but still reachable without standing up from the chair.
Step 5: Add some personal details to your study space...
If you put a few finishing, personalizing touches to your study space, you'll get a significant boost in grades and creativity. Everyone says that! My personal recommendation here – is nothing too bright and distracting. Keep your painting and plants eye-relaxing, pleasing to look at, and calming. A few inspirational quotes perhaps, a frame with a famous art that reflects your unique style and interests. Choosing calming colors such as soft blues, greens, or purples can create a relaxing and focused atmosphere.
Concluding...
When everything has its designated place, the mind can finally concentrate on the task at hand without being overwhelmed by chaos. Everything feels more simple and quicker, once nothing distracts your eyes, back, and, most importantly, your mind. By following these five simple steps, you can transform your study space into a productive and inspiring environment.
