before:
after:
what i did:
- removed every book that i have not/will not use
- removed wall hangings (notes/record albums/college degrees)
- removed all paper clutter from desktop (stored in my top drawer)
- removed all office equipment from desktop (stapler/tape)
- removed noncurrent clutter from bulletin board
- removed misc clutter from bookshelves (souvenirs/sports memorabilia)
- painted
results:
- able to focus / less distraction (my mind matches my activity)
- a vision for the future (no longer tied to the past)
- more energy (clutter is so mentally draining)
- endless possibilities…
Keeping the lava lamp made me laugh! I like the new look. I agree with the comment about artwork. The right piece can be helpful. Oh, and always keep the family photos. We update my husband’s frames regularly. He’s a pastor, too. I’ll show him your before and after photos. Hopefully, he’ll be inspired to get on the minimalist ride. His desk is almost always a disaster.
Wow. I noticed how I felt with both pictures. The burgundy is a beautiful color. The office felt cozy, yet stressful, like I don’t want to stay long. The new color, and having so much less stuff leaves the office feeling peaceful, like I would want to spend time there. I didn’t expect to like the color so much. I know a lighter color adds to the visual dimension of space, but combined with a clear desk, the difference is striking. It feels almost like you actually have time for the person coming to visit. That last statement just stunned me. I’ll write that down as a motivator for my new minimalist journey.
Have you thought about adding an inspirational art piece to the wall? The right piece might help you visualize a bright future or help you develop new, creative ideas. If not a landscape, then maybe something abstract?
Even a year after you posted this it is still inspiring people. I love it! Thank you for the visual.
very inspiring
I don’t have an office, office equipment or office supplies, because I use a handheld computer. I’ve never print papers, because I send emails. Memory is stored in the cloud. I can work anywhere at any time.
I prefer to sit in the park, at the beach or in the backyard.
THis is very nice and makes alot of sense – You cannot think in clutter.
Wow, what a difference! Good idea on repainting too.
I love it! It is true Especially in an office that the cleared clutter makes working easier. Thanks for the pictures. rlmays
Looks good, I like Burgundy so I would have left that. Either way, your clutter free.
Oh-oh, I messed up on my posting location….please refer to the “100 things” below posting about a TV reality show idea that should have been posted under the “before & after office” pics…..
what a huge difference! Your “new” office enviroment is inspiring. is that a lava lamp?