Battle of the Desks: Clean vs. Messy
Ever wonder what your desk says about you? Whether you’re the “everything in its place” type or someone who thrives in organised chaos, your workspace style might reveal more about you than you’d think.
Some swear by a spotless desk to stay focused, while others insist a bit of mess fuels their creativity. So, what’s the verdict? Let’s dive into the psychology and practicalities behind tidy and messy desks – and see which camp you fall into.
The Psychology Behind Your Desk Style
How Environment Influences Behaviour
Does a cluttered desk equal a cluttered mind? Well, maybe – but not for everyone. Research by psychologist Kathleen Vohs suggests that a tidy desk encourages disciplined, conventional behaviour. You’re more likely to finish tasks, follow schedules and maybe even snack on something healthy.
On the other hand, messy desks appear to foster out-of-the-box thinking. Creativity thrives in a bit of disorder, as your mind has the freedom to wander without constraints.
The Link Between Desk Style and Personality
Your desk style might not just be a habit; it could be part of your personality. Type A personalities, who value order and control, are likely to keep their desks immaculate.
Creative types, however, might find that a bit of clutter encourages ideas to flow more freely. If your desk looks like a mini tornado hit, it could be a sign that you’re a big-picture thinker – someone more focused on ideas than details.
Clean Desk vs. Messy Desk – The Pros and Cons
The Benefits of a Tidy Desk
There’s something satisfying about a clear, organised desk. It reduces visual distractions, making it easier to focus. We’re also now in an age where we can work from anywhere, so often our ‘desks’ are not our permanent desks. Some people thrive on working in busy or noisy environments like a café, while others like the more quiet and far less busy library.
Studies have shown that tidy desks can lead to better productivity and lower stress levels, not to mention you’ll always find your pen when you need it. Clean desks can give a sense of control and efficiency – and they’re definitely easier on the eyes!
The Downsides of a Tidy Desk
For some, an overly clean workspace can limit creative thinking, making it harder to “think outside the box.” It can also take time and effort to maintain a spotless space, which, for some, feels like a chore that eats into productive time. Let’s be honest, there’s a certain pressure to keep up appearances if you’re committed to tidiness!
The Benefits of a Messy Desk
If your desk is a bit, let’s say, lively, don’t worry—there’s merit to this too. Some research suggests that a messy environment can lead to fresh ideas and creative solutions. The chaos might just be what gets you thinking in ways a clean space couldn’t.
Plus, there’s the thrill of “controlled chaos.” If you know where roughly things are, it might be all the order you need to do your best work.
The Downsides of a Messy Desk
Too much mess can quickly become overwhelming. Cluttered desks often make it harder to find things, which can lead to wasted time and frustration. A messy environment might also contribute to stress for some people and it can create an impression of disorganisation or lack of professionalism – a potential drawback in certain work settings.
Famous Figures with Iconic Workspaces
Did you know Albert Einstein was known for his messy desk? And he’s hardly a cautionary tale. He famously wondered why anyone would keep an empty desk—what does that say about an empty mind?
Steve Jobs, on the other hand, was all about clean lines and minimalism, which was apparent in all their products. He believed that less clutter led to clearer thinking. So, if it works for a genius, maybe a messy or minimalist desk could work for you too.
Does Desk Style Affect Health and Well-Being?
The state of your desk can impact both your mental well-being and daily habits. For many, cluttered spaces increase stress levels by raising cortisol, the stress hormone, leading to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.
Whereas tidy desks are often associated with healthier habits and productive routines, a clean environment can promote a sense of control and clarity.
However, not everyone finds clutter stressful; for some, a bit of mess is comforting, adding a personal touch and fostering a relaxed approach. Whether neat or messy, your desk style may influence your mood and habits in subtle yet meaningful ways.
Tips for Every Desk Style
Team Clean Desk
If you want to keep things neat, here are a few ideas to keep your clean desk from becoming sterile. A splash of colour or a personal object or two might keep your workplace from looking overly clinical. Also, utilise organisers or trays to keep supplies organised and prevent them from spilling across your workspace.
Team Messy Desk
If a little chaos keeps you motivated, embrace it – but set some limitations. Use boxes or folders to keep papers accessible but contained. Set up zones for different goods, such as pens and notebooks, so they are readily available without taking up too much space. Controlled chaos is about getting your way without causing a complete mess.
Whether your team clean or team messy, your desk should work for you. Productivity, creativity and comfort come in different forms. Maybe you’ll stick with your tidy or messy tendencies or perhaps try a hybrid approach. Either way, try to have fun with it and remember it’s just a desk!