There’s something about January that makes people want to get their lives organized.
Holidays are over, things are quieter, and people are craving simplicity, structure, and ease.
Organization is a big topic right now for my executives, so I thought I’d share some ideas to help you bring some organization into your life.
Being organized will absolutely make you a better leader.
By being organized, planning in advance, minimizing last-minute scrambling, looking for things, and playing catch-up, you’ll have more energy to put toward higher-order initiatives – like strategy and creative ideas for your business.
Overwhelmed and don’t know where to start? Pick one small thing, do that for 10 minutes, and after the 10 minutes, I’d be shocked if you weren’t intrinsically inspired to continue.
In my coaching, I help my clients tackle organization projects and develop systems for staying organized.
Before you dive in and start any organization project, first do a little work to get yourself in the right headspace. Go in with the “What serves me?” mentality – only keep those things that serve a purpose in your life.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Closet
Simplify your wardrobe. If you really want to do a thorough job, take everything out of your closet and put back only what you want to keep. For the rest, donate or throw away. - Books, books and more books
Many of my clients have accumulated a huge collection of books over the years, many of which haven’t been touched in decades. Consider donating some of them. - Paperwork taking over your office?
Create three piles: File, Recycle, Shred. Create an action/urgent folder for things that need your attention. - Organize your email inbox
Set aside time to go through your email and delete or archive any old ones that are no longer relevant. Create folders for important emails to help keep your inbox clutter-free. - Empower everyone in your household to get organized, too.
You can’t take on everyone else’s organizing, but you can inspire them to organize their own things. - Prepare more.
Spend more time planning, preparing, and being intentional.