The Essential Office Supplies Every Successful Leader Actually Needs (And Why They Matter More Than You Think)
- linnearader
- Sep 22
- 4 min read
Some of my blog posts dive deep into complex leadership topics that make you really think. Today, I'm switching gears with something lighter, but no less important for your success as a leader.
It's back-to-school season, which means office supplies are everywhere you look. Stores, online, Amazon; you can't escape them. And here's my confession: I'm a total office supply nerd. I want to buy ALL of them. It's honestly a problem.
But here's the thing, while it might sound silly, the right office supplies can genuinely impact your effectiveness as a leader. Yes, we all know you need the basics: office, chair, desk, computer. I'm talking about the more intricate details that can make or break your daily productivity and organization.
"When you have systems and tools that work seamlessly for you, you free up mental energy for the bigger picture; strategy, relationship building, and the complex decisions that define great leadership."
The Perfect Pen: Your Leadership Extension
This sounds ridiculously simple, but stay with me. Don't we all have that one type of pen that just works? It writes exactly how you like, feels comfortable in your hand, and glides across paper in a way that makes you happy.
My weapon of choice? Paper Mate felt tip pens with medium tips. I'm pretty sure I own every color they've ever made. Those different colors satisfy my slightly creative side while offering practical benefits, easy color-coding for notes, edits, highlights, and keeping different topics separate.
During this year's union negotiations, I color-coded everything. Each session got its own color, so when I looked back through my notes, I could instantly see which topics were covered when and track how changes evolved. It helped me remember the nuanced details of how different situations were brought up, discussed, negotiated, and ultimately decided.
When I'm not using felt tips, a plain old BIC does the job perfectly. They're reliable, write smoothly, have that comfortable grip, and I don't feel terrible if I lose a few along the way.
Paper: The Three-Tier System That Works
"I scribbled down this entire blog post idea one night when I couldn't sleep!"
I always keep three different sizes and types of paper within arm's reach:
Standard Legal Pad (White)
For those "normal" meeting notes and everyday jotting. Clean, professional, and spacious enough for detailed thoughts.
4x6 Spiral Bound Notebook
This is my catch-all for meetings, training sessions, random thoughts, and breakthrough ideas. In fact, I'm referencing mine right now because I scribbled down this entire blog post idea one night when I couldn't sleep!
Pocket-Size Notepad
Yes, I know my phone has a notes app. It's not the same. I need that small physical notepad for when inspiration strikes, whether my husband's driving and my brain is churning, or I'm at work and suddenly remember something important for home.
The Game Changer: My Remarkable Tablet
Speaking of paper alternatives, my Remarkable tablet is... well, remarkable. This computerized tablet lets you write with a pen on the screen that feels exactly like writing on paper. The newer models are in color (and yes, I really want to upgrade).
You can create files, sort documents effortlessly, and everything syncs to your phone and computer. But here's the killer feature: you can upload PDFs and write directly on them. You then have whatever PDFs you regularly reference at your fingertips. For example, I keep our union contract loaded and annotate it as we encounter unclear language or misunderstandings, invaluable prep for our next negotiations.
A Quality Bag or Clipboard: Your Mobile Command Center
You need something reliable to carry your essentials when you're on the move. If you're in public works visiting job sites, a clipboard with built-in storage is your best friend. If you're like me and often take work home (whether for after-hours focus or remote work flexibility), invest in a good bag that keeps your laptop and paperwork safe and organized.
This might seem minor, but have you ever tried managing important documents without proper storage? You end up looking scattered. Papers fly around your car, documents get crumpled, and you lose that professional edge that matters in leadership.
Your Smile-Inducing Cup: Small Joy, Big Impact
"Work can be stressful. Having something that travels with you and consistently brightens your mood is simple self-care that compounds throughout the day."
Here's something that might surprise you: you need a cup that makes you smile. Whether you're team coffee, team water, or something else entirely, having a vessel that brings you a moment of joy matters more than you'd think.
I'm a water fiend, I easily drink multiple gallons per day. My two go-to cups both make me grin: one has a hilarious saying about autocorrect's epic fails, and the other features a bright, cheerful flower print.
Work can be stressful. Having something that travels with you and consistently brightens your mood is simple self-care that compounds throughout the day. Plus, if you're trying to increase your water intake, it's a win-win.
Calendar System: Paper, Digital, or Both
Everyone needs a calendar system, but the key is finding what actually works for YOUR brain and workflow.
I'm old-school and love my paper planner for writing down plans and schedules, there's something about physically writing that helps cement things in my memory. But electronic calendars are essential for sharing schedules with my team and family, ensuring everyone stays coordinated.
The best system is the one you'll actually use consistently.
The Bottom Line: Small Tools, Big Leadership Impact
These might seem like simple office supplies, but they're really tools that support your effectiveness as a leader. When you have systems and tools that work seamlessly for you, you free up mental energy for the bigger picture; strategy, relationship building, and the complex decisions that define great leadership.
What office supplies are non-negotiables in your leadership toolkit? I'd love to hear what works for you!
As always, carry social kindness with you everywhere you go. The world needs you and your positive mindset!
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269-621-5282
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