For me, keeping my space clutter free also clears my mind, making it easier to stay focused and productive. Over the years, I have made it a priority to keep physical spaces like my desk or kitchen cabinets organized. That part really isn’t a problem. However, the digital spaces in my life are a work in progress. 

With all the emails, photos, documents, and notifications – it’s easy for data to turn into digital clutter. So here are a few tips I found to digitally declutter and organize that data. 

Delete and condense what you don't need.

Start by combing through your device for things you no longer need. Maybe it’s an app you no longer use or duplicate photos or screenshots you should have deleted months ago. Reducing that data will not only help declutter, but it will likely improve the efficiency of your device. 

On your computer, sort your files by date to find older files you may no longer need. Look through your phone for contacts that can be combined or check for any downloads that can be cleared.  

Also, make it a point to close browser tabs, delete cookies, and clear the cache on your devices to free up space for data you need most. 

Get organized with a filing system.

Whether you are storing documents on your computer or apps on your phone, folders are a great way to keep things in order and similar items in one place.  

You can organize computer files and emails in folders by date or topic. Apps on your phone can also be placed into folders to free up space on your home screen. 

For instance, I made folders on my phone for work, shopping, finance, and social media related apps. These categories make it easy to find what I’m looking for and reduce visual clutter on my screen. 

Unsubscribe and turn off notifications.

Junk emails and advertisements take up space in your inbox and take time to delete. Free up that space and time by unsubscribing from unnecessary lists and newsletters no longer interesting to you.  

While you’re at it, check your notifications. It is easy to get bogged down with a ton of notifications throughout the day. Some are essential, while others tend to distract from more important things. Silencing unnecessary notifications can reduce those interruptions and lead to a more productive day. 

Make data organization part of your routine.

Just like your house, you cannot organize your devices one time and be done with it. Keeping your digital space tidy requires a regular routine. Make a checklist of weekly or monthly digital chores and set a reminder to follow through with them.  

A little effort will go a long way, and your battery life may thank you for it!