3 Keys Thursday: 3 Ways to Organize, One Chunk at a Time

Alexas Fotos via Pixabay

Yesterday, I wrote about finding a strategy for getting through the tower of papers I need to grade every December. Just as with strategies for organization, the first time isn't always the charm but, since big jobs can be overwhelming, finding a way to break them into smaller, more approachable tasks.

Have a big job you need to get done? Here are a few ways to overcome procrastination and dig in, one step at a time.

Choose a time frame. Whether you Give it Five! or have an hour to spare, dedicating time to make progress is always a win. In addition, just getting started can get you on a roll so that you might just decide to continue after your designated time is up....Or not. It's up to you.

Choose a number. When time is available only in snippets or when you need to see piles grow smaller or spaces grow less cluttered, try setting a target number of things to put away by the end of the morning, afternoon, evening or day. Don't have a lot of time? Every time you walk past something that's not where it belongs, pick it up and put it away. More than just a few things out of place? Pick ups something every time you walk past. Baby steps.

One isn't always the loneliest number. Just one drawer, just one shelf, just one pile...all of these are good places to start. Best of all, you know when you're finished.

Getting organized doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing proposition. Every little bit helps.