6 ways to finally get organized in 2016

We all have the best of intentions when we make our resolutions then a few weeks pass by and we slip back into our old ways and habits. Using the beginning of a new year is a great way to create momentum and set challenges to change our lives and behaviours for the better but there are ways we can improve our chances of success. Endeavouring to get organized is one of the most popular resolutions people make.

1. Many of the resolutions we make are tied to things we feel guilty about

Don’t make the mistake of repeating the same resolutions year after year tied to behaviours you have no intention of changing. You are setting yourself up for failure. This year, one of my resolutions is to learn how to cook using a cast iron pan. This is an achievable goal, one I can have fun working towards and something I have never resolved to do before.

2. The first thing you can do to set yourself up for success is to make your resolutions attainable

If you are completely overwhelmed with clutter and areas of your home are inaccessible, you probably won’t be able to turn the Queen Mary around in a week or so. It makes more sense to break your resolutions down into achievable projects and get inspiration by ticking items off your list. For example, resolve to organize one drawer or cupboard per day rather than the entire kitchen.

3. Commit your resolutions to writing

We are more likely to stick to goals if we write down specifically what we are aiming to achieve and re-read our resolutions regularly. For example, write, “I resolve to donate 10 bags of clothing to the Diabetes Association” rather than, “I should get my closets organized.” Write, “I resolve to meal plan for the upcoming week every Sunday night,” rather than, “I need to eat better.” Be as detailed as possible in what you resolve to do.

4. Tell a friend to share successes (and overcome obstacles!)

Resolutions are easier to keep when you have a buddy to motivate you and keep you accountable. A partner can inspire you and offer up tips and tricks that you had not thought of. If you think you’d like to take a walk every evening, make a commitment to do so with a friend or neighbour; when the weather is less than perfect, you will motivate each other to get up off the couch!

5. Get back on the horse!

If you slip up or slip back to your old ways, don’t sweat it. Resolve to do better tomorrow and move forward in a positive manner.

6. Finally, reward yourself.

Make sure the reward is appropriate for the resolution and something you are truly motivating. They say a person has to do something 40 times before something becomes a habit. If you have been eating clean for 40 days and you’ve dropped 10 pounds, treat yourself to a new pair of jeans. You’ve earned them!

Dartmouth’s Lisa Macdonald is a member of the Professional Organizers of Canada. Referred to as “Halifax’s Answer to Martha Stewart,” her organizing work consists of seniors downsizing, move management, estate organizing, setting up filing systems for small businesses, helping busy professionals and working with families to create a calm and clutter-free existence. Contact Lisa for a complimentary consultation at www.allorganized.ca.