Is a Messy Desk holding you back?

Aha! This is why I'm not the CEO of a Fortune 500 company - I have a messy desk. At least that's what the "Productivity Specialist" in this CNNMoney.com article is saying. That a messy office is a reflection on you, much the same way your wardrobe is.

Perception is reality, and my reality is that I'm a disorganized slob. Another column from a couple years back says pretty much the same thing - with some research to back it up. She points to the long line of top-notch managers churned out by GE, and how they have a policy requiring folks to have a clean desk when they leave work each night.

Perhaps I'm doomed to a relatively mediocre career. Maybe I will be able to rise above my messiness to conquer the corporate world. Who knows? I did find this list of reasons why a messy desk is better - and I'd like to believe that it will one day save a life.

11. Crumbs of food in the keyboard could keep you alive if you ever become trapped in your cubicle.
10. Annoying OCD coworkers will give your cubicle a wide berth.
9. Tons of visual aids in reach to use for explanations about last night's episode of Alias.
8. Much more likely to trip and injure yourself for your entry into the lawsuit lottery.
7. Ability to waste an entire day cleaning your office.
6. In case of hostage situation, plenty of makeshift weapons.
5. Perfect camouflage for your unwashed clothes.
4. Taking bets on rat races can be highly profitable.
3. You can pretend to lose the file that will delay the meeting much more easily.
2. If you spill your coffee, there are always crumbs to soak it up.
1. Makes you look busier than neatnik coworkers.