eve and home:10 Steps for Getting Organized

1. Always make a list of your tasks for the day.

2. Divide that list into things you “must do”, “should do”, and “want to do”.

3. Think about what will happen if the things on your “must do” list are not done. When we are aware of the consequences of not doing something, we are reminded of the importance of that task.

4. Take into account the good things that could come from getting your important tasks done. The feeling of fulfillment and achievement is priceless!

5. Give yourself time limits for your “to do’s”. For example, if you have to go to the mall to get your friend a birthday present, give yourself an hour or two to finish that task. This will help you stay connected to your goals and will prevent you from staying too long at a place where there are so many distractions.

6. Remove items from the designated area.

7. Sort the items by grouping like things together.



8. Toss or recycle the things you no longer need. Ask yourself why you are keeping it and if it still serves a purpose. If you are still having trouble "letting go," then ask yourself what is the worst thing that could happen if you toss it? If you can live with your answer, then get rid of it.

9. Containerize items to keep similar items together and make it easier to retrieve them. Use drawer dividers, file folders, binders, and appropriate storage boxes for this purpose.

10. Replace items in the designated area.