Scattered papers, stacks of file folders and random sticky notes frequently overtake the surface of my desk. I try to keep it organized, but like many of you, I’m usually working on 3 to 4 projects at one time. Before I know it, the piles of “stuff” have become quicksand. Pens, highlighters, post-its, etc. seem to just disappear. Then the phone rings and as I answer, “This is Amanda,” the thought of pens and sand traps race through my mind. I begin the frantic search for my pen (all the while doing my best to keep a calm phone voice). I usually find it while I’m digging through the stacks of paper. Unless it rolls onto the floor, in which case it takes a little longer to locate.

To keep my frantic search episodes to a minimum, and achieve better desk organization, I’ve developed a few simple “rules” to work by.

• Always keep extra pens in the drawer – at all times

• Arrange files in a hanging wall file organizer – that’s at arms length

• Loose paper is a no-no. Use a notebook for notes and title the page