Organised apartment living in Foshan, China | Photo Credit: Jennifer Venter of Fleetingtime Photography
As a child, I was so disorganised and untidy which would drive my poor sister mad since we shared a room. I watched how she would organise her cupboard, her studying and her thinking. At the time, I thought she was mad but when I got older, I soon realised that there was a method to her madness. This post is dedicated to my Sister.
Here are some simple ways to get more organised:
- Write a list every time you buy groceries. Saves time and money.
- Use your diary to track your To-Do list and appointments.
- Break down big tasks into smaller ones.
- Keep up to date with emails: read, action, archive or delete.
- Deal with paperwork immediately: read, action and file/shred.
- Keep documents in labelled folders whether electronically or in hard copy.
- Back up e-files every month in case of computer crashes.
- Close any accounts which are not needed.
- Hang a large clock in your kitchen to be mindful of time.
- Cancel subscriptions (email or snail mail) which are not needed.
- Declutter and clean out your bag weekly.
- Keep a notebook and pen at hand for reminders and tasks.
- Sort laundry and plan when to do the washing to use best use of time.
- Create a vision board with your hopes and dreams. Keep this updated.
- Keep photos organised: download, cull and store in labelled folders.
- Make sure closets are kept clean and tidy.
- Use baskets to place together things with similar functions.
- Find a home for everything and return things to their home after use.
- Choose a dedicated space for a home office with all your files and stationery.
- Change your linen on a set day each week.
- Wash dishes and put them away after each meal.
- Take the trash out every day.
- Budget for monthly spending and savings.
- Diarise to pay bills on a set date.
- Make exercise a daily/weekly routine.
- Plan meals ahead of time which saves money in the long run.
- Tidy your home before leaving each day.
- Practice a clean desk policy when leaving work each day.
- Diarise to clean your home on a specific day each week.
- Make sure you have spares of vital items so you are never left in the lurch.
- Diarise for self-care: weekly, monthly and annual.
- Make your bed as soon as you rise each day.
- Donate whatever you no longer want/need.
- Plan outfits the day before.
- Make sure your insurance policies are valid and up to date.
- Hang your keys on a hook in your entrance hall.
- Pack a small first aid kit and have it handy in the home. Keep it stocked.
- List emergency numbers on the fridge.
- Carry the contact details of your next of kin in your wallet.
- Throw out expired food, makeup and medicine.
- Note all important birthdays and anniversaries in your diary.
- Use different bins for recyclables.
- Take stock/reduce any unhealthy or toxic relationships.
- Plan birthday and Christmas shopping well ahead of time.
- Automate as much as can be automated.
- Diarise to wash curtains and carpets.
- Diarise to clean out the fridge.
- Prioritise your tasks and chores.
- Value your time. Learn to say No more often.
- Delegate tasks/chores if possible.
- Declutter your wallet every week.
- Keep your car tidy and well maintained.
Find some calm in your day. Photo Credit: Jennifer Venter of Fleetingtime Photography
I hope this post gives you some ideas and inspiration especially as we head towards the end of another year.
Stay Fabulous!
“For every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned.” - Anon.
