Motivating Yourself: Get Organized

Some of you may be asking how being organized can be a self-motivator. It is actually a very powerful tool in moving you forward and fueling the drive to get things done. Being organized is more than having files filed and the paper clips in their little holder. Organization includes the ability to break down a major project into bite-sized tasks. Organization means not only having a system in place for dealing with responsibilities, but also having the right habits and routines in place for implementing it. Having the most sophisticated online organizer in the world installed on your computer won’t do you any good if you never use it.

            There are many benefits to being organized—increased productivity, increased focus and efficiency being the most important. Being organized allows you to become more flexible. You can have more energy to pursue other tasks or even to enjoy recreation time. Without any physical or mental clutter, it becomes far easier thinking—and focusing—on the results you want. All this means less stress in life—and isn’t that something we’d all want to experience?

            So, how do you get organized? Beyond physically clearing away clutter, this means setting a system in place so each day you do a tiny bit of organizing. This beats the crazy, overwhelming overhaul that most of us experience when we let things or tasks pile up. Here are a few suggestions:

·        Choose your tool. There is a plethora of applications, lists, gadgets, and whatnot all promising to organize your life. Find a tool that will allow you to quickly jot down things as you remember them. For some, a simple pad of paper and pen is enough. For others, it may be something that can sync with their phone or some other mobile device. Whichever it is, pick just one. Having too many organization tools can actually end up derailing you from organizing.

·        Don’t be afraid to purge. Part of organizing means getting rid of unnecessary items. If the idea of throwing away stuff makes you hyperventilate, remember that physically and mentally letting go of what you don’t need opens up the mind and heart to receiving new ideas as well. This is a powerful motivator.

·        Delegate when necessary. Do you often find yourself inundated with dozens of tiny tasks that eat up a lot of time but not a lot of brain power? Try delegating some things or tasks to others. This is great practice in letting go of a need to control everything. The reality is—we cannot control everything. This frees you up to focus on the tasks that need your attention, and it also allows you to receive support people probably are willing to give you.