Clutter vs. Clarity

Some things I’ve noticed:

• It’s hard to wash the dishes when the sink is full of dirty ones.
• It’s tough to focus on the project at hand when my desk is cluttered, my inbox is overflowing, and there are 7 instant messages blinking for my attention.
• I’m more likely to complete a prioritized list of to-do’s than I am a random list of tasks.
• I listen better to friends and family when there are no electronic devices nearby.
• I work best when I’m in contact with others who are working, too.

You may not experience these exact circumstances or dynamics. But you probably have your own version of them.  We need certain elements to do our best work, and to relate to others well.  Those elements vary person to person, but they typically include:

• a workspace that helps you pay attention (and maintain concentration) on the things that matter most
• a headspace that helps you to be focused, collaborative, creative & courageous 
• access to people who nurture your best attributes and challenge you to grow

A great environment can’t do the work for you. But a disruptive one can slow you down.

How much attention do you pay to your environment?

What would it take to make your environment 10% better?

• A new personal strategy for responding to email?
• A better lamp, a cleaner desk, or a filing cabinet?
• Sitting near (or far from) the right people?

If you made this change, what would be the impact on your work? Your peace of mind? Your level of satisfaction?  Imagine the possibilities...