Digital Declutter: Tips to Get Organized

(NC) A tidy, well-ordered home is a priority for many of us. But while we tend to focus on closets, drawers and cabinets, one often neglected area is our digital properties – everything from our desktop computer to our smartphone.

Hoarding digital clutter can take up space on your device, affect your productivity and make finding files more difficult. To bring some order to your tech chaos, try these simple tips.

Hit unsubscribe. Make sure any marketing emails you receive are for services and products you truly need and are interested in. Otherwise they’re clogging up your inbox and tempting you to spend unnecessarily. The same goes for any channels or people you follow on social media – don’t be afraid to let go of things and people that don’t interest you anymore or stress you out.

Upgrade your system. It’s easy to get annoyed at recommended update notifications and dismiss them, but your operating system and applications function better and more securely when upgrades are installed. Updates can also eliminate unnecessary files using up valuable device space.

Delete your downloads. This is a folder that can get real messy, real fast. Don’t let your downloads folder get out of control by regularly going through it to move and rename files you do need and delete the ones you don’t. After doing this, don’t forget to empty your recycle bin.

Back up your files. Whether it’s with an application that’s on the cloud or an external hard drive, make sure to back up any important files you need. You don’t want to accidentally delete the photos of your child’s first step without having a backup somewhere.

Simplify your music. Between leftover mp3 files and the plethora of music out there these days, it’s easy to feel like your music has become more complication than recreation. A great way to get organized and streamline your music is with SiriusXM. The service gives you access to commercial-free music, artist-dedicated channels and more. And it’s not just available in your car anymore. Through the new app, you can enjoy your music, news, comedy and sports at home or on-the-go.

Find more information and sign for a trial at player.siriusxm.ca.