“Organized people,” or what I like to call – “more organized people” are not perfectionists (far from it). Instead, they tend to follow a few simple rules. Habits that all of us can follow, we just need to know what they are! I took some time and I came up with five habits to start and five habits to stop.
These 10 habits of highly organized people are all things that more organized people tend to do. So look over the list and see which ones you need to start (or stop) doing. A couple changes could make all the difference in the organization of your health and home!
No. 1 – Start making peace with imperfection.
“Efficient people give “A-level effort” to the most important projects (say, work assignments or a kitchen redesign), and for the rest they do just enough to get the job done,” says Renae Reinardy, PsyD, a psychologist who specializes in hoarding disorders.
No. 2 – Stop shopping clearance, sales, and bargains.
Before making any purchase ask yourself, “Is this a need or a want?” A five dollar shirt that doesn’t match anything is not a “deal”. Nor is it necessary to buy something in bulk that you’ll never be able to use up before the expiration date.
No. 3 – Start decluttering and organizing in regular sessions.
This is the concept behind my Seasonal Organizing Challenges, you don’t have to organize in eight-hour chunks, 10-15 minutes sprinkled throughout your week can make a big difference. Focus on one drawer, one basket or one closet at a time. Set a timer and organize!
No. 4 – Stop trying to do everything on your own.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You are one person with only two hands. Call for backup when necessary or change plans if necessary. Be willing to expose yourself and be real with what you can or cannot do by yourself.
No. 5 – Start sticking with what works for you.
If you have a favorite shampoo, vacuum cleaner or cell phone – stick to it. Don’t waste time, money, and energy, continuing to try to find the best.
No. 6 – Stop combining emotions with possessions.
It’s more than healthy for you to be attached to certain things, such as important memory items. But those 25 t-shirts from college, every letter you’ve ever received, or decorations you don’t like anymore, all need to GO! (See how I personally addressed this with my hope chest.)
No. 7 – Start with knowing where to donate.
Research where you can donate items that you no longer need. If you have a plan, then you can better stick to the plan. Have a list of options for where you can take any and all items that you no longer need. A quick search via google should help get you on your way!
No. 8 – Stop labeling things “miscellaneous.”
Everything has a place, and everything in its place! Label everything (well) so that you can accurately store AND keep things organized.
No. 9 – Start a “dump zone.”
Create a spot near your door that will allow you to drop whatever you bring in with you from day-to-day. This will then provide a place for you to refer back to when you need to re-locate what needs your attention.
No. 10 – Stop reacting.
If you look ahead and foresee potential problems or hiccups, you’ll be better prepared. Take a few extra minutes to set yourself up for success. This could mean packing and umbrella, making sure you charged your phone, or giving yourself extra time to follow directions.
Tell Me: What do you need to start doing or stop doing?
And…looks what’s coming in the MWM shop…
(eBook release date Tuesday, July 21!)
