By Tina O’Conner

The third in our series for National Stress Awareness Month is the idea of organization.  The idea of organization will have a different definition for each of us.  Being organized makes a huge difference with our stress level.

Take a moment to think about this.  How do you feel when you walk into your workspace Monday morning, and your desk is uncluttered, dusted, and each item is in its’ place.  Now think about how you feel when you walk into your workspace, and there are papers and files in three different piles, four phone messages, and last week’s coffee still in your cup.  Which scenario increases your stress level?

Clutter increases stress; regardless of personality and preference.  Having an organized workspace is similar to how we manage our thoughts and feelings.  Multitasking is a quality that is valued in the workplace and our personal lives.

The more we accomplish, the more success we achieve.  The opposite is much more healthy.  Human beings are not designed to multitask.  We function best when we have one issue to focus on; whether it is a project at work, time spent with family or taking the time to do something nice for ourselves.

In the workplace, think about the tools that work for you.  Develop a work routine that suits your personality and maintain it. Set aside a certain amount of time to answer email and return phone calls.  Then move onto a project or prepare for a meeting.  Take time to eat lunch away from your desk.  As you return, answer emails and phone calls.  Focus on a project or another priority.

Take a moment before you leave at the end of the week, to organize your workspace.  Getting your desktop organized will make Monday morning much easier to breathe and focus.

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Tina L. O’Connor, MS, NCC is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a private counseling practice in Parkesburg. Tina attended college in Phoenixville and West Chester. Tina and her husband Doug have three amazing adult stepchildren and two beautiful grandchildren. Tina can be reached at Experience Positive Therapy via telephone at (610) 857-8089 or email at exppostherapy1@verizon.net.
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