If you’re like most people, you’ve either thought of or actually made a happy New Years Resolution. Believe it or not, organizing is right up there in the top 10 list of resolutions. I love that!
The problem is, and I’m probably not telling you anything you don’t already know, that most people don’t stay with it. Whether it’s losing weight, eating healthier, going to the gym or getting organized, which are all great resolutions, it’s difficult to actually stay on track.
So, whatever your New Year’s Resolution is, to make this year better than last, here’s some tips to help you stay on track:
1. Determine what the goal is. If losing weight is the goal, determine how much weight so there is a definitive goal.
2. Make a plan. You know the saying “a goal without a plan is just a wish”. Put time on your calendar to get it (whatever “it” is) done. Even if you only have a few minutes, it’s better than nothing and it’s still inching you towards the goal.
3. Break “it” down into actionable steps. If organizing is the goal, determine what area(s) you want to organize. Let’s say it’s organizing the garage. Instead of trying to tackle it all in one day, try first looking at the garage from the outside and determine what can be thrown away immediately (garbage, empty boxes, broken furniture). Then figure out what you want to donate and put those items together. Now that you’ve got more room in the garage to you can move on to the next step. It’s a process and does NOT need to get done in one day.
4. Find someone to help. If you have a significant other or a friend that can help, ASK FOR HELP! If you’re going for the garage, which is a big undertaking, maybe you can offer to help the person you ask, with something that they need to get done.
5. Make it fun. Put on some music. Set a timer to see how much you were able to accomplish during that time. Take before and after photos so you can see the progress. Reward yourself when you’re finished (but only when you’re finished).
6. Set a deadline. Figure out realistically how long this project should take. Make an appointment with yourself and put it on your calendar. If it’s on your calendar it’s more likely to get done.
I think that people make resolutions, especially New Years Resolutions, because they really want to accomplish something that they haven’t been able to do. Make 2016 the year you actually do it. It’s not that hard. It just takes some a goal, a plan and some action.
If you need help with an organizing project of any kind, give us a call. We’d love to help!
Wishing you all an incredible and prosperous happy new year 2017.