I know it might sound odd, but there are times throughout my hectic schedule that working in my home office is really going to my “happy place.” I think it is because it is a space that offers limited distractions and maximum efficiency. Plus, I have made small decorative touches that are personal, motivational and aesthetic. Despite being somewhat of a cramped space, it has a good vibe.

One of the ways that I help keep it an efficient and productive space, is the handy reach and purposeful storage of some of my favorite office supplies. In a wide spectrum of functional to sentimental, pricey to pretty cheap, here are my must-haves in no particular order:

Red swing line stapler, the stand up model. Mine has lasted practically twenty years. They don’t call them Swingline for nothing.
Pica pole (but a good ruler is a must). Pica poles are mostly used by graphic designers, but they provide a great metal straight edge.
Erasable pens. These Frixion Pens by Pilot have been a game changer for my calendar.
3-hole paper punch. Keep those holes lined up for quick storage of papers.
Label maker. A must for any organized home.
White out. Because sometimes mistakes happen, the old fashioned way.
Hook style push pins. I love how these allow me to hang things from my bulletin board.
Extra large rubber bands. They help keep folders and journals closed.
Exacto knife. For what a scissors can’t cut.
See through highlighters. A relatively new product, they allow you to keep your highlighting on track.
Post-it-Notes. Ummm…. the only question is what size and how many?
Stapler remover. You don’t know you miss this handy tool until you need it. Your fingernails will thank you too.

OFFICE SUPPLY HONORARY MENTION

Stepping up your office supply game I recommend these tools as well.

Laminator. I don’t use mine that often, but when I need to seal a paper or picture to preserve it, or, make it dry-erase writable, plastic laminating is the perfect solution.

Paper cutter. For trimming stationary photos or other items that need a fast cut.

Digital scanner. These are a pricy investment but the ability for me to quickly scan multiple documents at once, my Fujitsu Snap Scanner has been a work-horse. It has allowed me to keep paper clutter from accumulating in my home, without having to worry about getting rid of important information I might need or want to refer to later.