Getting organized does not have to be an all or nothing endeavor. It's OK to start small! When you find something that works for you, keep doing it. Getting organized takes practice, just as all new habits take some time to form.
Here are ten simple organizing tips that you can start doing today. Pick a couple that you might like to try and see how it goes. As you begin to implement one or two ways to be more organized, you will begin to change your habits and notice the benefits. Then, you can add more.
1. Open your mail by a recycling bin so that you can dispose of junk mail immediately.
2. When you open your mail, immediately place it into one of three piles – FILE – if you need to keep it in your records, TOSS – if it's junk mail, ACT – if you need to pay a bill or RSVP. You do not have to "ACT" on those items immediately, but do mark any important "ACT" dates in your calendar as a reminder.
3. Tear out magazine articles you want to read and ditch the rest of the magazine. Keep the articles in a folder that you keep in your briefcase or purse so you can read them when you have a spare moment.
4. Post a family calendar in a central location (like the refrigerator) to keep track of events and appointments the whole family needs to be aware of so that everyone is on the same page.
5. Keep a master notebook for to-do lists and phone messages so that you are not chasing, or losing, little note papers around your office or home.
6. Be specific in the subject line of your emails. It will make it easier to file appropriately and reference when needed, for both you and the recipient.
7. Schedule a few moments for yourself to get organized for the next day. Make a to-do list, grocery list, pack lunches, lay out clothes or whatever you can do today to help tomorrow run smoothly.
8. Overstuffed filing cabinet? Cleaning out files can be overwhelming, so break it down into smaller tasks. Schedule 15 minutes a day to tackle one or two folders and discard any outdated information.
9. Group like items together. This goes for your closets, refrigerator, cabinets, garage, and more. It is easier to find things and avoid buying duplicates when similar items are stored together.
10. Know what is important to you and make sure your to-do lists reflect that. Is spending time with your family a priority? Then be sure to schedule a date with your spouse or a fun activity with the kids and treat it as a solid appointment.