I want to challenge you with the idea that productivity is affected by the space in which you live or work. In fact, you set yourself up for success when you ensure that the space in which you operate is orderly. Now sure, creative types will be able to work in a much more seemingly cluttered environment and what one person thinks is tidy is messy for another but making sure your space is in order will definitely help you to be more productive.

Here are 3 secrets that will help you manage your space productively:

1. One Space, One Use

If you have read James Clear’s book Atomic Habits you will have come across the phrase: One space, one use. He shows how environmental design shapes our behaviours and that we need to dedicate specific locations to single, defined activities. Here are some suggestions: Your main workspace should be set aside for work and not be used for hobbies; your bedroom should not be used as a work station; one room in your lounge can be your reading area; etc. Such a clear space distinction helps to streamline your workflow and reinforce the desired mindset for each task, making it easier to switch gears and maintain productivity in each space.

2. A Place for Everything, Everything in its Place

The second thing that that will help you to be more productive in your space is to make sure that everything has a place and that everything is kept in its place. Apparently this idea was suggested by Benjamin Franklin. This means you will know where something is when you need it and not waste time looking for it. This takes 2 skills: (1) Identifying a place where everything “lives”; and (2) Putting thing back in its place once it has been used. Try this and see how much time you save yourself!

3. Clean Space, Clean Mind

The third thing is to keep your space neat and tidy so that it supports your ability to focus and have a clean mind. Taking a few minutes to clean up your workspace at the beginning of the day will give you a much better chance at being productive as it will help you focus on the task at hand and lessen how much you move things around and look for things that you need. Check out a great article on clearing up your work space HERE using the T.E.S.S.T. strategy.

Remember to manage your space for greater productivity!