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The do-a-little-everyday approach to office organization
Q: Every summer, I say I'm going to use my down time to clean up and organize my office. How do I motivate myself to actually do it this year? What's the best way to make this project manageable?
A: It's going to be difficult for you to truly enjoy the beautiful weather, knowing deep down that the office needs some attention.
Determine what needs to be done. Then make a list of those items, such as weed out a file drawers, go through the mail pile, clear off the desk, etc.
Each day spend a mere 20 minutes doing one of the tasks on your list. Make this your very first "to do" each morning and get it out of the way.
If you don't complete the task, that's okay. Just pick up on it again tomorrow. Once the task is completed, cross it off your list.
Use the nice weather and fun activities with your family as rewards for all your hard work. If you promise yourself that you'll only reap those rewards, IF you do your 20 minutes of organizing that day, you'll be more enthusiastic about your organizing session.
And you'll truly enjoy the summer, knowing that when it's time to work your organized office will be waiting for you!
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