Get Organized! 7 Ways To Streamline Life

If you consistently find work and obligations getting in the way of fully living life, it’s time to take a step back and figure out the best way to streamline your to-dos. We all have them – those commitments and chores on our plate that won’t go away anytime soon.

Image: sxc.hu

So where do you start? Well, first you should consider the way you think (right brain? left brain?) and what your days are like. If you have a set routine of work and play, it might be easier to schedule spare minutes for personal productivity. But, then again if your days are less predictable, you may have the same chance…provided you are prepared.

Declutter. If live in messy surroundings, you will inevitably be messy yourself. “Scatterbrained” is a way of life, and the only way to get out of that ineffective rut is to clean up and get set up for a properly managed day.

Organize. Now that you have eliminated the clutter, invest in the organizational tools and accessories to keep it that way. Piles of neatly stacked “things” and heaps of clean clothes will easily slip into “messy” again if you don’t have a place for your things.

Pace Yourself. Don’t tackle everything at once. You will set yourself up for failure by pushing your expectations to unachievable heights. There is no sprint to a productive lifestyle; it takes effort, time, and patience to get into the habit.

Make Lists. I imagine you are shocked I would suggest this one! Lists are the best way to get those slippery details out of your mind and on paper (or in your backberry, or on your computer) so you don’t forget anything. You also get the mini validation of checking things off throughout the day…that’s motivation you can’t get from storing things up top!

Force Breaks. If you try to operate at high speed all day, you will burn out. No question. Make sure you take breaks (however brief) throughout the day to keep your mind fresh. You’ve made it this far, efficiency is almost a habitual thing…don’t run it by pushing yourself to exhaustion. Schedule ten minute breathers throughout the day if you need to – whatever it takes, just don’t neglect this part.

Celebrate. You’re organized! You’re efficient! Reward yourself! A new wallet or necklace? How about a massage? Whatever your indulgence, you deserve it.

Cheat. Every once in a while (not every day!) let yourself go a little and scrap the schedule. When you get to the point that you feel like a rebel ignoring your timelines and to-do lists, that’s when you know you are an efficiency expert…enjoy your new found control over life’s hurdles and stresses..and throw it out the window occasionally.