Staying organized and working efficiently go hand-in-hand. If you’re having trouble keeping on top of things and need help with time management, consider these tips:

1. Back Up Your Files

If your computer crashed and you lost everything, what files would be the hardest to replace? If you’re already not backing up, I suggest that you save copies of important files to a separate location (e.g., an external hard drive, flash drive, or a cloud service like Dropbox). To avoid disasters, back up your important files at least once a week. If you’re not doing this, at least copy things like templates, photos, large projects, or anything that will be difficult or impossible to replace.

2. Update Software Weekly

I can’t be the only one who clicks “Remind Me Later” when prompted to do a software update. If I’m in the middle of something, I almost never stop. Instead, once a week, I make sure every program on my computer is up to date. If you keep all your software and apps up to date, you’ll be interrupted less often and avoid issues that can arise from using outdated services.

3. Clean Up Your Computer

Every week, my desktop becomes cluttered with files I needed to save quickly. The makes my desktop messy and files difficult to find. So, about twice a week, I clean my desktop. I delete anything I no longer need and make sure everything else is moved to the appropriate folder. Voila! My files are easier to find, and I don’t have to stare at an ugly cluttered desktop.

4. Clean & Organize Your Workspace

I love when things are organized. Tidying up my desk is just part of my daily routine, and I actually enjoy it (I’m not the only one, right?) I can’t focus if myworkspace is messy. That’s why, every day, when I’m finished working I clean up any messes I’ve made and put everything back where it belongs. You should, too. To keep clutter to a minimum, keep things you use often nearby. Put everything else away. The next morning you’ll have a clean space, a clear mind, and be ready to start your day.

 

5. Have a Plan, and Stick to a Schedule

I think I’ve mentioned keeping a physical planner in almost every blog I’ve written about staying organized. My planner is a huge help for me – and if you don’t use one, I strongly suggest you give it a try. It makes it simple to keep track of your day and stick to a schedule. Time management is much easier when you have a plan to stick to. I promise you’ll get much more accomplished in a day with a solid (written) plan than you will without one.

6. Make Lists

Lists are quick to make and easy to understand. I use lists for just about everything – work projects, things to get done around the house, things to remember, etc. Lists make it super- simple to prioritize tasks and stay on track.

I always love to hear what others are doing to stay organized, so, what are some of your tips?

 

 

Amy Ross is the Lead Graphic Designer for SCP Agency.

She specializes in designing for social media and marketing. She loves working with clients to help them visually communicate with their customers.