Entrepreneurs´s Journal

January 1, 2003
A Clean Slate!
By Emily McHugh

One of the most immensely satisfying experiences is the act of cleaning. Yes, the cathartic process of eliminating the superfluous, freeing oneself of clutter, just chucking junk.

Before I can think, I have to be able to see the bottom of my desk. It is my New Year’s resolution not to end or start the day without a clear and unobstructed view of the varnish on my desk. At the very least, this gives the comforting illusion of control and completion; two concepts most illusory indeed for an entrepreneur. Order, organization, and a system, are essential components to steady progress. Since there are so many factors totally out of our control, the least we can do is to take charge of what we can. It may appear almost naïve to suggest that a clean desk can simplify life, but it does.

I am no stranger to mounds of papers, books, and magazines strewn about like confetti. My productivity is at its ebb under such oppressive conditions. One of the hardest things I found when first going into business was learning how to become organized and being able to develop a system that could work for more than a week. As one’s needs evolve, so does the system, hence the recurring messy desk. Being able to keep on top of your needs as they evolve, are signs of the ability to adapt under more significant circumstances. After all, if the clutter on your desk controls you, how can you possibly control your business?

Do keep in mind that it takes a while to find a comfort zone between necessary clutter and absolute distraction. Will I need it, should I keep it, suppose next month…? Nonetheless, there are certain records you do need to keep. For example, businesses should keep receipts of all business expenses (this is especially important for start-up companies because what you spend is your equity in the business and your receipts are the only way to prove it).

If we set up guidelines for what we are trying to accomplish, that helps us decide future value of an item. One of my rules of thumb is, if it doesn’t save me money or make me money, or at least make me really happy, out it goes. Suddenly, my desk is totally clean. This may sound somewhat mercenary, but in actuality you have to be laser focused on why you are in business. In order to achieve maximum potential and success, efficiency and productivity have to be maximized.

Then there are the clutter-bugs who acknowledge their disorder but justify it by saying, "I know where everything is". Just being able to find something should not be the only incentive. When systems are in place, they serve as de facto helpers which facilitate your life and business.

Here are some helpful tips to get us started on the road to organized entrepreneurial excellence:

1- Buy computer software that will automate organizational needs, e.g., Quickbooks for accounting/inventory, Act! for sales leads and contacts, and Outlook connected to your PDA to plan your schedule. (Please note that there are other programs that may be more appropriate for your particular company. These suggestions are meant to serve as examples only.)

2- Make lists and prioritize — easier said than done, because it feels like everything is equally important. But here is a trick, whatever directly leads to providing you with a sustainable means for food, clothing, and shelter, should be pretty high on your list.

3- And finally, don’t delay, start cleaning today!

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