Introduction:
As we head into 2017, many of us will be making resolutions and setting goals for the new year. One of the most common goals is to become more organized. With the right tools and strategies, you can transform your life into a well-oiled machine. Here are 17 things that will help you make 2017 your most organized year yet.
1. Create a daily routine
Having a daily routine can help you establish good habits, save time, and achieve more throughout the year.
2. Learn to prioritize
Understand the importance of prioritizing tasks and focus on completing high-priority tasks first.
3. Use planners or apps
Invest in either a physical planner or use an app on your smartphone to keep track of appointments, reminders, and deadlines.
4. Implement the “one-touch” rule
Don’t leave items out of place – put them back where they belong right after you use them.
5. Cut down on clutter
Regularly declutter your living and working spaces to avoid unnecessary stress caused by disorganization.
6. Set short-term and long-term goals
Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for yourself throughout the year.
7. Break tasks into smaller steps
Divide larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps to tackle one step at a time.
8. Utilize the power of lists
Create lists for groceries, chores, errands, and more to help you stay on top of all your day-to-day tasks.
9. Organize your digital life
Clean up files on your computer or smartphone regularly to free up storage space, improve efficiency, and reduce stress.
10. Designate specific areas for specific items
Ensure that every item in your home or workspace has a designated spot to keep track of everything easily.
11. Plan your weekly meals
Planning your meals in advance can save you time and money while encouraging healthier eating habits.
12. Organize your finances
Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to track your expenses and savings, ensuring financial stability throughout the year.
13. Set designated “maintenance days”
Choose a specific day each week or month to address tasks such as cleaning, organizing, or updating files and documents.
14. Create an “inbox” system
Establish an inbox for physical items like mail and an email folder for digital messages to review and process regularly.
15. Use time management techniques
Incorporate methods like the Pomodoro Technique to better manage your time and increase productivity.
16. Develop routines for household chores
Develop consistent routines for household chores to maintain a clean and organized living space.
17. Learn to delegate tasks
Know when to ask for help or delegate tasks to others, enabling you to focus on more important tasks without burning out.
Conclusion:
With these 17 organizing tips in place, 2017 can be your most organized and productive year yet. By adopting new habits, utilizing helpful tools, and developing efficient routines, you’ll be on the path to achieving all of your goals while enjoying the benefits of a well-organized life.
