While I generally dislike making resolutions for the New Year, if done properly, creating goals for the upcoming year can be quite powerful (see New Year's is a New Opportunity). This year, I'm trying a new approach, creating 12 themes, one for each month, all working toward my ultimate goal of a clear and simple year. If getting organized in 2014 is your ultimate goal, below are my favorite 12 Tips to keep you on track. I've included some from a newsletter I sent out a couple of years ago and some new ones I found very useful.
1. One In One Out - Whenever something enters your home, let go of another similar item.
2. One Minute Rule - Anything that can be handled in a minute or less, should be done immediately.
3. Single is Better - Consolidate all your lists and/or schedules to one, unified location, either on your phone or on your desk.
4. Use the Proximity Meter - Store items based on how often you access them; pens in your desk, tax returns in the basement.
5. When in Doubt, Toss it Out - If you hesitate whether to keep or toss....it's probably not a keeper.
6. Thou Shalt Not Transfer - Don't clutter the bedroom, to save the living room.
7. Handle it Now - Indecision is the root of chaos. Make a decision on a task or item and move on.
8. Less clutter, Better system, Improved Habits - You need all three.
9. It's Never about the Amount of Time - Instead of wishing for 25 hours in a day, agree to fewer, say no, delegate.
10. Say No to Zig Zag Organizing - Have a container handy in the doorway to hold and move items to their rightful location only once you're DONE.
11. Love to Travel - Keep a sturdy bag at the front/back door to hold small items such as returns to library or store.
12. Be Number One - Put yourself at the top of the list; if you're falling apart, you're no use to anyone.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
