Everyone reacts to workspace clutter differently. Some employees even report working more effectively around a bit of it. But if that is not you, realize that research exists to explain clutter 's effect on productivity, and it's not good. Clutter distracts. All that stuff around you - mail, sticky notes, scattered supplies, food, gadgets, personal items, files - they all compete for your attention even if you aren't engaged with them. They contribute to distraction, cause you to lose focus, make it harder to get back on task, create irritation, and increase your stress. To declutter your space, end your day with a five-minute decluttering ritual. Over ensuing day, notice the impact of how you feel arriving at your workspace. Do your feel more energy? Do you feel more control? Has your ability to concentrate increased? Do you feel less depressed, more engaged, and/or more positive about your job?