Getting Organized Can Be Fun… Well, Tolerable

SB: SB: Once again, my partner has the month off. In the spirit of starting out the New Year, I’m going to share some thoughts on how to tackle organizing tasks, even if you don't necessarily enjoy the process. You don't have to love (or even like) organizing to begin a project you have been dreading or putting off. By following a few simple steps, you can make the experience far more manageable and rewarding.

First, identify a specific, contained task, such as a junk drawer or a plastic dishware cupboard. Once you have chosen your project, schedule it in your phone or planner, deciding on a specific date and exactly how much time you are willing to dedicate, whether that is fifteen minutes or a full hour.

When the scheduled day arrives, it is important to put your blinders on and focus exclusively on that single task. For example, if you are working on the junk drawer, do not let that project pull you into trying to organize your entire kitchen. Staying focused ensures you actually finish the task, providing a sense of accomplishment that makes it easier to start again next time.

To help maintain your momentum, set a timer for your allotted time. If you still feel motivated when the timer goes off, feel free to set it again and keep going. While you work, I recommend incorporating some of your favorite things to make the time pass more pleasantly—whether that is a preferred beverage or snack, a podcast, music, or a favorite movie you have seen a thousand times.

I hope these tips help you tackle your next project with a bit more ease!