Organization is not my strong suit. I don't know what it is. Laziness, a certain chaos of the mind, distraction, trouble making decisions? Actually, I think it's mostly fear of tackling what looks like a huge project. But I'm getting better.
At work, I have begun a routine of things I have to get done -- or check on -- in a fixed order. I have also issued myself a "tackle it now" policy. I answer emails right away instead of sitting on them in a quandary of indecision. Sometimes I just admit I'm not sure, but it's a lot better to let people know that than to lose sight of the question! After meetings, I now follow up immediately on any points raised instead of tossing my notes aside with an "I'll do it later" attitude. I am finding that some things get logjammed by other people, but that's okay. At least I know I tried, and I have the documentation.
I'm getting better at home, too. Every night it is so tempting just to crash, but I make my meal, clean up, and decide what to make tomorrow so I can thaw, chop, whatever. I force myself to go through my train bag and put away stuff. I get my mail (yes, I've had a bad habit of ignoring the mailbox) and go through it, wastebasket at my side. I decide what to wear the next day. In the morning, after showering and dressing, I have a routine: get the weather report, feed fish, check cat food, put on makeup, pack breakfast/lunch, clean litter box (so I can take the bag of clumps out to the dumpster as I leave), water flowers (if needed). I methodically go through the house and turn off the lights and open the shades. The only thing I'm not getting to yet is making the bed every day, but that's coming! I'm almost there!
I've always been good about keeping tabs on financial things; now I'm trying to bring that discipline to the rest of my life.
Hopefully, it will even expand to paper filing at home, which is my biggest nemesis!
I spent almost nothing yesterday -- $1.50 for 7-Up from the vending machine, which only made me have to rush to the bathroom between trains. So I need to remember to hydrate during the day so I can avoid that scenario. However, I did find a dime by the vending machine!
I'm Really Trying to Be More Organized
October 9th, 2013 at 05:33 pm
October 9th, 2013 at 05:44 pm 1381340697
October 9th, 2013 at 05:47 pm 1381340827
October 9th, 2013 at 07:16 pm 1381346181
The paper monster is less demanding when we keep telling ourselves 80% of retained paperwork is never looked at again! For the past 5 yrs I've only kept paper that experience has taught has potential for dispute, contracts, legal documents and tax related receipts. It's been such a relief to be able to find what I need when I need it because it's easy to locate
October 9th, 2013 at 10:59 pm 1381359592
You are really embodying the golden rule for organizing: Why Not Now?
October 10th, 2013 at 02:40 am 1381372812
It's hard when you're tired, but so worth it.