Organization isn’t something you can learn overnight. It’s a lifelong process.
There’s always more to do than time to do it. There’s always more to think about than time to think about it.
That’s why it’s important to get organized. To help yourself stay on top of things and get a little more done every day, here are some tips for getting started.
#1: Create a weekly to-do list.
It sounds simple, but creating a weekly to-do list is one of the most effective ways to stay on track.
Every Sunday night, write down the top three things you need to do the following week. These can be anything from “finish up a project” to “get a haircut”.
#2: Schedule time for yourself.
This is the best way to avoid falling behind.
Every morning, set aside an hour for the tasks you need to complete that day. This is the ideal amount of time. Don’t feel like you need to spend all of your time on this, but it’s important to schedule enough time so that you actually get everything done.
#3: Make a list of everything you need to accomplish.
If you don’t have a calendar or task management app, then you’ll probably need to create a list of everything you need to accomplish.
Use bullet points to make it easy to scan through your list. Then, every day, review your list.
#4: Prioritize tasks.
Trying to do too much at once can lead to procrastination, stress, and failure.
Create a list of tasks you need to complete. Then, choose which tasks are the most important.
#5: Break large tasks into smaller ones.
Some projects take longer than others. But it’s important to get them finished before moving on to the next one.
Once you’ve finished a task, break it down into smaller steps. For example, if you have to create a blog post, write an introduction, write the first draft, edit, proofread, etc.
#6: Work on the biggest task first.
Start your day by tackling the biggest task on your list.
If you have multiple tasks on your list, prioritize them based on your level of urgency.
#7: Use a timer.
If you try to do everything without a timer, you’ll probably end up doing nothing.
Set a timer for 15 minutes. Then, after that time, you can continue working on a different task.
#8: Give yourself rewards for completing big tasks.
Small rewards can help motivate you to keep working.
Give yourself something nice if you finish a big task. If you feel like you’ve been slacking off, then give yourself something small as a reminder to get back on track.
#9: Check off completed tasks.
Keep track of your accomplishments.
After you complete a task, check it off your list.
#10: Write down everything you need to do.
Keeping a notebook or taking notes during meetings is helpful for when you get home.
#11: Take a break.
Sometimes, we get so focused on finishing a project that we forget to take a break.
Take a moment to stop and smell the roses.
#12: Don’t burn out.
Stress is one of the biggest causes of burnout.
Don’t let it take over your life. Make time to take care of yourself.
#13: Have a plan.
Have a plan in place for when you run out of time.
A weekly or monthly to-do list is useful for keeping your priorities straight.
#14: Know what you need to do.
Knowing what you need to do is half the battle.
If you know what you need to do, then you’ll be more likely to actually do it.
#15: Learn to say no.
Don’t feel guilty if you don’t want to do something.
If you can’t afford to do everything you want, then you can’t afford to do everything you want.
#16: Don’t let other people dictate your schedule.
The key is to find the right balance between doing what you want and doing what you have to.
#17: Don’t put off important tasks.
There’s always something else that needs to be done.
But if you wait until the last minute, it might be too late.
#18: Start now.
When you have a few days to spare, start now. You’ll have more time later.
#19: Learn to delegate.
If you don’t know how to delegate, then find someone who does.
The faster you get your work done, the faster you can move on to the next project.
#20: Don’t do it alone.
If you’re working on a project by yourself, it’s important to get feedback from others.
Ask a colleague to look over your work.
Ask a friend to look over your work.
#21: Be realistic.
You can only do so much.
Don’t expect to accomplish everything on your list.
#22: Keep your eyes on the prize.
It’s not realistic to expect yourself to do everything on your list.
#23: Be consistent.
If you want to get something done, you need to keep doing it.
This means staying consistent with your weekly to-do list.
#24: Give yourself a deadline.
Set a deadline for yourself.
For example, “Finish this project by Friday.”
#25: Don’t underestimate your ability.
You’re a smart person. You can accomplish anything you put your mind to.
#26: Be grateful.
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, ask yourself how lucky you are.