Stay Organized with a Daily Journal

Stay Organized Every Day with a Daily Journal

There is so much to distract us in today’s society. Our plates are full of things To Do and there just isn’t enough time to get it all done. One of the biggest concerns that I am experiencing right now with both business owners and homeowners is the increased number of responsibilities in their daily lives. Life just doesn’t seem to be that simple any more. Why it that? Here are my thoughts:

1. We obligate ourselves to too many projects, meetings, obligations and commitments. One of the hardest things to do is to delegate. In order to continue to do more and stay organized, it is necessary to delegate those tasks that someone else can do – instead of you! This is a lesson that I have learned over the last two weeks. My husband and I had taken on some Sunday morning duties at our church for the last 5 months. We were greeters, ushers and the hospitality committee (while taking care of a toddler). While we didn’t mind doing it – someone had to step up, right? This week it felt SO good to train other families to help with these tasks. We were actually able to spend time working on another bigger project that needed our attention. Delegate, delegate, delegate. And, most importantly, don’t expect them to do the job just like you did. Don’t judge!

2. Typically, both parents are now working outside the home – or working from a home office – and while you would typically think working from home is easier, I disagree. It was actually easier when I reported to the office each day. However the “home” was when I left in the morning is the exact way it was when I returned home! I wasn’t distracted by other “chores” that need to be done every day. Avoiding distractions is much easier when you have a “boss” looking over your shoulder!! Being an Organized Entrepreneur, business owner and/or homeowner has many challenges.

3. Systems and processes should be a part of your everyday life. And a place for everything and everything in it’s place.

Here are my tips to Stay Organized Every Day using a Daily Journal!

1. Set a daily schedule and routine for yourself. Break down your list of To Do’s into categories. “Have To Do”, “Need To Do” and “Want To Do”. Make sure that your are critical in how you determine what goes into each category. Be realistic about making this determination.

2. Next – take those lists and dispense them into either your morning, afternoon or evening calendar. This will give you a realistic view of what you “Have To Do” and how you can fit it into your day – without feeling overwhelmed.

3. It is also a good idea – especially if you are taking on a new task or obligation – to monitor the time that this Project takes. Document the amount of time that you think tasks will take – and then also document the actual time that it took to complete this task. This will be your reality check as to how much you can do and designate to yourself every morning, afternoon and evening.

Keeping a daily journal will help you track your daily progress and success. If you are interested in receiving a copy of our Daily Tracking Journal, just visit our website – we’ll be happy to email it out to you ASAP!

Linda Clevenger, Professional Organizer

Organization Direct