Whether you’re a freelancer working from home, a student powering through assignments, or a professional in a corporate setting, your workspace can significantly influence your productivity. A well-organized desk drawer can be a game-changer. It not only saves you the hassle of rummaging through a mess to find that one tiny stapler but also helps maintain a clean, clutter-free desk that’s conducive to focused work.
Here are 13 items I always keep in my desk drawer that help me stay organized, productive, and ready for anything.
1. Notepad and Pens
There’s an undeniable charm in jotting down thoughts and ideas on a piece of paper. A notepad is perfect for everything – from random doodling to brainstorming ideas, making to-do lists, or jotting down important points during a sudden phone call. A good quality pen complements the notepad. I prefer pens that provide a smooth writing experience without causing any strain on the hand.
Also, having a notepad and pen handy helps in quickly noting down thoughts before they escape your mind. Many successful individuals have highlighted the importance of writing down ideas as they strike, irrespective of the time or place. So, this combination is a must-have in your desk drawer.
2. Sticky Notes
Sticky notes, the unsung heroes of organization, are an essential part of my desk drawer. They are perfect for jotting down quick thoughts, reminders, or important tasks that need immediate attention.
Sticky notes are versatile. They can be stuck around your workspace as visual reminders or used to bookmark important pages in documents. Also, color-coded sticky notes can be used to categorize tasks or information. For instance, you can use different colors to differentiate between work tasks, personal reminders, and ideas.
3. Stapler and Staples
A compact stapler is a must-have for keeping documents organized. Whether you’re compiling reports or just need to keep related documents together, a stapler does the job effectively.
Remember to keep a box of staples handy as well. There’s nothing more frustrating than needing to staple something urgently and realizing you’re out of staples. I recommend buying staples in bulk to avoid this situation.
4. Paper Clips
Next on my list are paper clips. They’re a lifesaver when you need to group documents together temporarily. They’re especially useful when you can’t (or don’t want to) staple the papers.
Paper clips also come in handy in unexpected ways. For instance, they can be used to reset electronic devices or to unclog the nozzle of glue bottles. So, having a few in your drawer can be beneficial.
5. Highlighters
Highlighters are essential for emphasizing important information in documents or books. They help in visually separating and quickly identifying key points.
Having a set of different colored highlighters can be useful for color-coding information. For example, you can use one color for definitions, another for examples, and a third for important facts. This technique can be especially useful for students.
6. Scissors
A pair of scissors in your desk drawer can be quite handy. From cutting paper to opening sealed packages, scissors are an all-around utility tool.
Ensure that you have a high-quality pair that’s sharp and durable. I recommend getting a pair with a safety cover to prevent accidents when rummaging through the drawer.
7. Tape
A roll of tape is a staple item in my desk drawer. It’s perfect for sticking together torn papers, sealing envelopes, or even for quick fixes around the workspace.
I prefer having a small tape dispenser for ease of use. It eliminates the need for scissors and ensures a clean cut each time.
8. USB Stick
In this digital age, having a USB stick in your desk drawer can be a lifesaver. It’s perfect for backing up important files, transferring documents, or carrying presentations for meetings.
It’s advisable to keep a dedicated USB stick for work-related files to maintain privacy and security. Also, remember to periodically back up your USB stick to avoid data loss.
9. Hand Sanitizer
In the wake of the current health scenario, a hand sanitizer has become a must-have. It’s perfect for maintaining hand hygiene when you can’t wash your hands immediately.
I prefer using a sanitizer with a mild fragrance that doesn’t overpower and one that has moisturizing properties to prevent the skin from drying out.
10. Snacks
Having a small stash of snacks in your desk drawer can be a lifesaver when hunger strikes during work. They provide the necessary fuel to your body and mind, helping you maintain productivity levels.
Opt for healthy snacks like nuts, protein bars, or dark chocolate. These not only satiate your hunger but also provide essential nutrients.
11. Mini First Aid Kit
A mini first aid kit is an essential item in any desk drawer. It should contain band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a small tube of antiseptic cream for treating small cuts or abrasions.
Having a mini first aid kit handy ensures that you are prepared for any small injuries, preventing them from becoming a distraction.
12. Spare Charger
Having a spare charger for your laptop or phone in your desk drawer can be a lifesaver. It ensures that your devices are always powered up and ready to go.
It’s advisable to invest in a high-quality charger to ensure safety and longevity of your devices.
13. Personal Items
Last, but certainly not least, I always keep a few personal items in my desk drawer. These can range from a favorite family photo, a small motivational quote, or a souvenir from a memorable trip.
Having personal items in your workspace can make it feel more comfortable and welcoming. They serve as a reminder of your personal life and can provide motivation and comfort during stressful times.