Coaching | Collaboration | Connections

Paper Files, Coffee Rings, Dust Bunnies – Oh My!

in Cathy's Blog

Spring has sprung! My tulips are coming up, the snowdrops and crocus have bloomed and the buds on my magnolia tree are but a couple weeks away from their magnificence!

After such a long, cold winter (yes, we had snow on the west coast!) it is such a treat to feel the sun on your face and be able to open up the windows and let that fresh air in.

Every year I pick a couple of weekends to clean and de-clutter not only my home but my office as well. It can be downright dusty and challenging but the sense of accomplishment is worth it!

It’s been proven that clutter suck the energy right out of you and productivity takes a nose dive among piles of ‘stuff’.  Researchers at the Princeton University Neuroscience Institute published the results of a study they conducted that directly relates to uncluttered and organized living – when your environment is cluttered, the chaos restricts your ability to focus.

“The clutter competes for your attention in the same way a toddler might stand next to you annoyingly repeating, “candy, candy, candy, candy, I want candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, …” Even though you might be able to focus a little, you’re still aware that a screaming toddler is also vying for your attention. The annoyance also wears down your mental resources and you’re more likely to become frustrated.”

A 2011 survey by retailer OfficeMax of over 1,000 adults found that 90% of Americans believe clutter has a negative impact on their lives and work. A surprising 77% said clutter damages their productivity, in line with previous studies revealing that executives waste six weeks a year searching for items and information. Additionally, more than half of all respondents said disorganization impairs their state of mind and motivation levels, while two out of five people said it hurts their professional image.

Want to ‘Clear the Clutter and increase your Productivity’? Listen up!

I’ve put together a Spring Cleaning Checklist Challenge for Your Business with helpful ideas and tools. Log into your premium TCWA member resources and download the Spring Clean Challenge! Not a member? Consider joining us! www.theconnectedwoman.com

Now Go Get  Connected!

FaceAbout Cathy Kuzel
As a successful Entrepreneur and Business Development Strategist, Cathy teaches entrepreneurs how to let go of limiting beliefs and “Stand Up & Stand Out” to have the business success they dream of. Cathy is recognized across Canada for her expertise on “All Things Small Biz”. Named one of the Top Ten Mentors in Canada, Women of Worth Leader of the Year, the Founder of The Connected Woman Association, Author of “Are You a Collector or a Connector?”; “I’m on the Phone!”; the internationally known “Daily Espressos” and is a networking maven. (whew!)