Spring Cleaning for Leaders

Two minute read

Spring cleaning is one of those slightly cliched activities that can provoke an audible groan for many, it has some real benefits.

And those benefits extend beyond more space, clean work-tops or desks and well-ordered cupboards. It has been associated with improvements in mood, lower stress levels, and heightened creativity.

A cluttered and messy work-space increases our stress levels because it creates distractions and stimuli that can easily overwhelm us and limits our brain’s ability to process information, especially when there are other stressors in our life.

Researchers have discovered that people are less irritable, less distracted, more productive, and better able to process information with an uncluttered and organized work area.

That pile of paperwork on the desk reminds us of all the tasks we still need to get through.

The stack of letters and bills at home that we can see every time we walk past the dining room table makes it harder to switch off and relax in the evening or weekend.

It can be challenging for even the most organized and efficient person to keep on top of these activities. This is mainly because we rightly reserve the energy and brainpower this task needs for other more critical tasks.

And this is precisely why a spring clean is such a great idea. It gives us a chance to catch up and clear out those niggling admin tasks, both at work and home that are stealing our focus and adding to our stress.

But just as dogs are for life and not just Christmas, a Spring clean is for each quarter, not just the end of winter.

So, what if your entire team, department or business could move into the Spring with more clarity, less stress and heightened creativity?

And if this is what’s up for grabs in return for just a few hours of sorting, tidying and filing, why wouldn’t we set aside time for everyone to participate?

What if we spent the last few hours of each quarter Spring cleaning our desks (at work and home) and offices?

Give it a go, and let me know how you get on.

#LeadOn