Have you ever noticed how stuff tends to accumulate and pile up? If I looked in your office right now, I bet I’d find stacks of papers, business cards sticking out everywhere, extra marketing materials, and maybe some knick-knacks you picked up at the last networking or industry event you attended, or even a few spare tools.
When you started your plumbing, electrical, or HVAC service business you probably didn’t expect to have a lot of clutter built up in your office. It doesn’t matter what business you’re in, though – it’s easy for all that unnecessary stuff to pile up.
You’d be amazed what can happen if you clear the clutter. Too much stuff not only makes it hard to find what you need; studies have shown that it actually distracts you and makes it harder for you to focus on your job and process information. This can get in the way of learning about marketing, management, and sales techniques, which in turn can hold you back from making more money.
You know how taking a shower after being outside on a hot day leaves you feeling clean, refreshed, and ready for the next activity? Clearing the clutter in your office can have the same impact on your approach to running your business. If it’s time for a purge, use these four questions from Simple Practice to decide what should stay and what should go:
1. Does this item have a purpose?
I guarantee you’ve forgotten how some of the stuff in, or on, your desk got there. If you don’t know, either toss it or get it out of the way. Sentimental items should go on display somewhere away from your workspace.
2. Is it redundant?
How many pens and scribble pads do you really need? Get rid of excess numbers of any item.
3. Is it outdated?
Especially with technology, stuff changes all the time. Don’t hang on to things like rewritable CDs that you’ll probably never use again.
4. When was the last time you used it?
Haven’t touched an item in a year or more? You probably won’t use it again. Get it out of your way, or at least put it somewhere that others can use it too.
I promise, taking some time to clean out and reorganize your office will make you feel refreshed and ready for market domination.
Want to know more about taking your business to the next level? Be sure you register for my next Warrior Fast Track Academy.
Mike Agugliaro, “Business Warrior”
Founder of the Warrior Fast Track Academy and CEO Warrior Circle
