Organization First Step To Simplifying Life

     Start by getting organized. That may sound easy but lack of a plan, lots of clutter, and procrastination may complicate it.

     Getting organized requires establishing a routine. A routine saves time and energy. Develop your schedule around key times when things must be done, such as times your children need to be at the bus stop, you need to be at work, and when you need to be home, etc. Then fill in necessary tasks around that schedule. For instance, if it’s difficult for you to get out the door in the morning, consider making lunches each evening rather than taking time in the morning while you’re trying to get dressed. Or set out your clothing the evening before to reduce dressing time for you and your family. Once you’ve planned a routine, write it down and try it for a few days. Then make any necessary adjustments after the trial period.

     Keep a large calendar in a central location to help you and your family keep track of the dates and times of important events and activities. Purchase a calendar that has room so you can record appointments and other pertinent information.

     To keep your home organized, eliminate unnecessary items. Consider having a garage sale or donating unused equipment, clothing and other items to charitable organizations. Once clutter is reduced, set up a practical maintenance schedule. Consider dividing housework into separate tasks which may be accomplished in a short period of time. For instance, clean bathroom sinks and floors one evening, dust your home another evening, and vacuum a third evening. Other tips for managing housework include:

     * Put together a carry-along kit with the supplies you need for cleaning. Take it with you as your work in each room.
     * Prioritize what needs to be done in each room. If you only have five minutes, complete the most important task first.
     * Leave an area as you found it. Establish a routine that you and your family will always put away things when you are finished using them.

     When shopping, take time to create a list.  Organize your list around your schedule for the day. For example, if you are attending a meeting in the afternoon, pick up any supplies you need from stores in that area on your way home. Try to minimize the number of trips to the store. Buy supplies in multiples (three boxes of cereal, two rolls of tape) if you can store and use them in a timely way.

     Organization will save time and reduce stress. Establishing routines, reducing clutter, prioritizing tasks and creating shopping lists are a few ways to simplify your life so you have time to do the things you’d like to do.
 
Karen Thomas is a family and consumer sciences educator for Penn State Cooperative Extension in Lackawanna County.