Expert Advice Tip Sheet -- Tips For A Workable Workspace -- OnlineOrganizing.com

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	Tips For A Workable Workspace

	By Ramona Creel

Feel free to use this tip sheet / checklist as you tackle your own ""do-it-yourself"" organizing projects. If you would like to REPRINT or DISTRIBUTE this information, please click here for reprinting instructions.

LAYING OUT YOUR WORKSPACE

"L" and "U" shaped desks are the most efficient workspaces
store your equipment -- phone, computer, etc. -- on one "wing"
leave the another wing free to spread out while you work
you can have everything you need within arm's reach
put your phone on the side of the desk opposite your writing hand
that way you can hold the phone and take notes at the same time
add a hutch for extra storage for books, supplies, and equipment
avoid cluttering your work space with too many personal items

PUTTING ERGONOMICS TO WORK FOR YOU

pay attention to your body -- aches and pains aren't normal
you shouldn't have to bend, squat, or stretch
your monitor should be at eye level -- if not, raise your monitor
your wrists should be flat when typing or using a mouse
if not, use a keyboard tray or wrist rest
when sitting, your thighs should be parallel to the floor
calves perpendicular to the floor with feet on the ground
if not, adjust your chair or bring in a raised footrest

SUPPLY STORAGE

try not to hoard supplies at your desk
keep only as much as you need right now at your workstation
create a separate supply area for storing bulk amounts
store extras in labeled containers and group like items together
ex: writing utensils, clips, notepads, etc.
store flat items (paper, sheet protectors, folders) in stacking trays
use drawer dividers to keep small items in order
store envelopes and note cards in a small vertical rack
set up bracket shelves above your desk for additional storage

Copyright 2000-2009 Ramona Creel -- you are welcome to reprint any article, but you MUST include this resource box and a link to www.RamonaCreel.com.

Ramona Creel is Professional Organizer, NAPO Golden Circle Member, and the original founder of OnlineOrganizing. A former Social Worker, she has always enjoyed helping people find the resources and solutions they need to improve their lives. Ramona now travels the country as a full-time RVer, sharing her story of simplicity with everyone she meets. She leads by example -- having worked for more than 10 years as a Professional Organizer, and having radically downsized and simplified her own life as a full-time RVer. Ramona now considers herself a "Renaissance Woman" -- bringing all of her passions together into one satisfying career. As a "Virtual Organizer", she can create a customized organizing plan for your home or office. As a "Simplicity and Accountability Coach ", Ramona provides a proven program for making every area of your life a little bit easier -- perfect for those who want to make the time and space to focus on their true priorities. As a Professional Photographer, Ramona captures powerful images of places and people as she travels. And as a freelance writer and blogger, she shares organizing techniques, travel tips, and social commentary with others. You can see all these sides of Ramona -- read her articles, browse through her photographs, and even hire her to help get your life in order -- at www.RamonaCreel.com. You can also follow her on Twitter, check out her Facebook profile, and subscribe to her blog feeds.

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