Posts Tagged ‘overwhelm’

Staying Motivated Through Overwhelm

Saturday, April 3rd, 2010

Have you ever been totally overwhelmed by a big project, like cleaning out a garage or craft room? Be honest. Of course you have.

Avoid total overwhelm by dividing up the project and doing just a little at a time, rather than trying to chew the whole thing in one bite. Instead of simply walking away in frustration, stay encouraged and motivated by setting a time limit and focus on finishing one drawer, one box or one desktop.

Keep like things with like. Use clear bins rather than cardboard.  Remember that more isn’t always better; it’s just more. Once you taste the positive results of making hard decisions you will love the feeling of being in control.

You will accomplish more in just 2 or 3 hours when you stay on task than you will all day spinning in circles deciding what to do about your stuff. Keep it? Toss it? Give it away? Even if you spend one hour after work every day for a week clearing out the clutter versus watching TV, the results will amaze you. 

The secrets? Stay focused.  Only do a little at a time. Be willing to make decisions and move on. Set a time limit. When time’s up, it’s up.

Until next time,

Happy Organizing!

Be Realistic and Effective with Your Time

Friday, March 12th, 2010
Use your calendar for weekly time mapping

Use your calendar for weekly time mapping

One of my favorite things to do with clients is helping them navigate through the murky waters of overwhelm. Being able to get more done is always a first priority – so I decided to share some secrets.

Time Mapping is a technique highlighted in Julie Morgenstern’s book, Time Management from the Inside Out. It expands on a best practice recommended by nearly all time and task management experts:

•Identify when you’re best at doing something

•Schedule those times throughout the week

So, if your mind is freshest in the morning then try to schedule daily planning and task time in the morning at the same time each day. During your task time, look at your list and see what can be completed in the time allotted.

If you like “open office” time after lunch to be available for coworkers and subordinates, then schedule that time in your calendar at the same time every day. Remember to add in time for checking emails, returning phone calls and other last minute issues that pop up.  

It’s obviously impossible to keep the exact same schedule every day; but time mapping will help you to develop the habit of actually doing whatever activity you have scheduled.

Until next time,

Happy Organizing!