Time to take stock. Go home with some office supplies.

As businesses across the nation begin their annual reassessment period, many employees are taking the time to assess their workspaces and office inventory to ensure efficiency and productivity. A crucial part of this process is determining which items can be taken home for personal use or repurposing in a home environment.

For many professionals, this means acquiring office supplies that have served their purpose in the workplace but still hold utility outside the confines of the corporate world. The concept of “go home with some office supplies” is not merely a playful twist on conventional wisdom – it reflects an increasing awareness among workers about the value and versatility of these often-overlooked items.

One such item is the humble stapler, an indispensable tool in any office setting. While its primary function may be to secure pages together, the stapler can also serve as a makeshift paperweight or even a practical doorknob handle in certain situations. Similarly, paper clips – another ubiquitous office essential – have myriad uses beyond their intended purpose of keeping documents together. From acting as a makeshift clothes pin to being transformed into a miniature chain for use as a decorative accessory, these tiny yet sturdy metal tools are more versatile than they appear.

Post-it notes, another essential office item, are not just useful for jotting down reminders or leaving subtle messages for coworkers; they're also an excellent medium for creative expression and brainstorming sessions. Used to designate areas of interest on maps, create intricate patterns on walls, or even serve as temporary tattoos, Post-it notes offer an unlimited canvas for self-expression and problem-solving.

In addition to these well-known supplies, there are many other items that can be repurposed at home. For example, binder clips – typically used to keep folders closed or organize loose papers – can double as miniature clothes pegs, hair accessories, or even bookmarks for holding open pages while reading.

Staple removers – a seemingly mundane tool in the office context – can also be transformed into handy household items. Their ability to remove staples from various materials makes them indispensable for unclogging drains, removing stray staples from upholstered furniture, and even as miniature needle-and-thread replacements for mending small tears in fabric or leather items.

And let's not forget the humble paperclip – an office essential that can also double up as a makeshift clothes pin, hair accessory, or temporary jewelry decoration. Its ability to hold multiple documents together makes it an invaluable tool for keeping important papers organized and easy to locate.

In today's world of decluttering and minimalism, repurposing office supplies not only saves money but also reduces waste by giving these items a second life outside the workplace. By taking stock of their workspaces and bringing home items they no longer need or use, employees can become more mindful consumers while also discovering new ways to utilize everyday objects in both professional and personal contexts.