Author and professional organizer Cyndi Seidler suggests that a work environment that is clutter-free with a functional workspace helps individuals focus better. "Clutter interferes with an individual's sense of tranquility," says Seidler. "It disrupts the energy flows in the room that contribute to lethargy, procrastination and feelings of overwhelm. And, lack of organizing solutions will only generate more problems."

Since clutter isn't the only thing that contributes to work woes, it is important to establish proper systems to help individuals function better in their work space and keep clutter from happening. A home office needs to have systems that provide "a flow" to the paper and things that find its place there. These systems lay the foundation for organization and, with proper organizing solutions, will enable a person to be more productive and make work easier.

According to the latest U.S. Census American Community Survey, there was an estimated 4.5 million people working at home in 2003, an increase of 1.1 million since 1990. In 2004, The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor reported that 20.7 million persons usually did some work at home as part of their primary job.

It is evident that home offices have become an integral part of our homes and, to function better, we must be better equipped to deal with work. The home office area requires certain elements for this: an ergonomic work space, proper storage, necessary equipment situated near by, and adequate lighting. But, it's also in the accessorizing that allow a person to build the groundwork for organization: stacking tray baskets, vertical file holders, utensil containers, CD holders, and any other product that provides a place for work-related items. Seidler also recommends utilizing wall space for things like shelving, bulletin boards to post important notes, or wall-mounted file pockets.

Seidler offers these tips in organizing a home office:

• Clear out all paper clutter around the office.
• Use organizing tools (storage products, files, etc.) to store items that are on the loose on the desk, shelves, or cabinets.
• Organize your office space so that tools and equipment are within reach.
• Use computer software applications to organize your finance, contacts, and documents and information.
• Establish a good filing system so that documents can be easily stored and swiftly retrieved.