As the weather starts to get warmer, business slows from its hectic pace to something a little calmer, which means it’s finally time to go on vacation!

I have been looking forward to this family trip to Florida for months now. But as the date creeps up, I can’t help feeling slightly overwhelmed by my ever-growing to-do list. It’s already Thursday afternoon and my flight leaves first thing Saturday morning.

The truth is, I can hardly even function at my desk these days. There are stacks of printed papers everywhere. We finished our first quarter reviews almost a month ago, and yet the reports are still scattered everywhere I look. I just haven’t had the chance to do any office spring cleaning.

It’s time to face the facts: I’m going to have to delegate if I want to get anything done on time.

I pick up the phone and dial the number for Brigid’s extension. She answers after the first ring. “Brigid speaking.”

“Hi Brigid, it’s Rona here, would you mind coming to my office?”

“Sure, be right there.” She hangs up and I immediately hear the click of her heels on the linoleum tiles in the hallway.

Seconds later, she peeks her head around my door. “You rang?” She says teasingly.

“Yes, thanks for coming so quickly. I’m wondering if you could help me out here.” I hold out my hand, palm facing up, and gesture towards the disaster of paperwork that has swallowed my desk. It’s as if I’m the host of a magic show; of course, the magical part would involve a disappearing act.

“I’m trying to tie up some loose ends before I leave for vacation, and my desk could use some serious organizing. Any chance you could work your magic?”

“No problem, boss.” She says with a smile. “I have just the solution, actually. Our order from the Office Plus flyer came in earlier this week with a fresh stock of recycled storage boxes, printable indexes and reversible file folders. Not only are the products totally affordable – they’re eco-friendly and perfect for office organization.”

Rona

I let out a sigh of relief. Suddenly the afternoon feels slightly more bearable. “You must be a wizard in disguise.” I tell her, gathering my laptop and a couple hours worth of work. “I’ll be in the board room if you need me for anything.”

“Shouldn’t take me long at all,” Brigid responds. “I just did some office spring cleaning yesterday, so I have the whole system down pat.”

I flash her a grateful smile.

“I just ask for one thing in return,” she continues. “Could you bring some of that southern sunshine back with you?”

I laugh. “Unfortunately, you’re the only one with the magical powers here!” I say with a wink. “But I’ll see what I can do.”