Being Organized Is a Habit
Being Organized is a Habit
How many times have you wished that you were more organized? You have heard the saying “everything has to have a home”. This is really true. When everything has a home, you know where to look for it (and everyone else will know where to look also)….you’ll save time and energy looking for it and you frustration will disappear.
What is forgotten though is that you have to build the habit of putting things back into the same place in order for this to happen. It is a wonderful concept to have everything in its place and it can happen and does make a huge difference in your daily life.
How do you build this habit thought? This can be the tough part. This is why so many people believe that being organized really doesn’t work. They become organized then don’t build the habit of putting everything back into its proper place. This takes a conscious effort on the part of everyone who lives or works in the space that just became organized.
It has always been said that it usually takes 21 days to form a habit, but I think that 30 days is more realistic. It’s just like anything and everything else in life, consistency and habits take time, dedication and persistence.
In order to really see the effects of becoming organized the habits must be formed. And there has to be a method to follow in order for this to happen. Here are some ways to transition into new habits to stay organized:
1. Get a white board that lays out a month at a time and jot down a list of habits that you are working toward.
- Mondays – Pay Bills
- Tuesday – Do Laundry
- Wednesday – File Paperwork
You get the idea….
2. Lay out what needs to be done weekly. This could be something like:
- Update school calendar
- Household or office cleaning schedule
- Shopping
3. Keep a running list of things that you need to purchase. Usually white boards have a space on the side for notes. Use this space to write down a list of supplies/food items that you need to purchase when you go out shopping.
4. Keep these Rules in mind:
- If you drop it, pick it up
- If you make a mess, clean it up
- If you use it, put it away
You get the idea…hold everyone responsible for their own activities. This will teach good daily habits that will make a lifelong impression.
Forming Habits to stay organized takes time, energy and persistence. Don’t give up! The first time that
that you try to form new habits may not work. Be persistent and start over again. The great thing about holding yourself responsible is that you can restart your habits at any time. There isn’t anything wrong with acknowledging that you didn’t get everything perfect the first time. Don’t give up! It is all part of growing as a person and I have faith that you can do it!
Linda Clevenger
Organization Direct
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