Many people wish they could be more efficient, but they just can't seem to find a way to do it. However, organization is not as difficult as it seems! Just think about these simple tips, and you'll be better off in no time.
First of all, take a look at how busy you are. Try to accurately judge the demand on your time (don't write off the little things you do that really drain your time). Then, write down what takes you all that time. Do you work full time? Coach a soccer team? Do the family's grocery shopping? Figure out exactly what you do.
Then, look at what time you have that's flexible. Work likely isn't, unless you're lucky enough to have a boss who'll let you come in early and leave early (or come in late and leave late). Coaching may or may not be, depending on whether you get to choose practice times or if the league you work for sets them. Grocery shopping is generally flexible. Household chores are flexible. Make a list of ALL the things you do that are potentially flexible. Make a separate list of the things you do that are NOT flexible.
Get out a calendar (weekly or monthly) that's big enough for you to write all your appointments on. Start by writing down those things that are NOT flexible. Then, take stock of your free time. When is it? How long is it? Remember to consider things like bedtimes (your own or your kids'), commutes to work, mealtimes, etc. Although some of these things are flexible, they happen everyday, at roughly the same time. Make sure you plan enough time to complete these. Once you've done that, list the free time you have.
Take your list of tasks that are flexible, and prioritize them. Write a "1" by the tasks that must be done daily (such as the dishes) or that must be completed soon (research for a project that's coming up at work). Write a "2" by projects that are less urgent (giving the dog a bath). Write a "3" by those projects that are not particularly urgent (like cleaning out your closet).
Look at your list of 1's. What do you need to complete your tasks? To do the dishes or feed the dog, you obviously have to be at home. To answer those emails from your boss, you need your computer. Group the tasks together that are similar, such as all the chores at home, or all the computer work. If you need to go grocery shopping and there's a store right next to the soccer field, it might be convenient to list that after coaching soccer.
When you're scheduling these things, it's important to keep in mind that you want to multi-task as much as possible. Can you do that grocery shopping right after soccer practice since the grocery store is so close?
You won't have to do this sort of scheduling all the time. Doing it once gets you to start thinking about a more logical order to complete your tasks in, and in the future, getting stuff done will be easier! You can even schedule playtime, if you want.
Think of new ways to multi-task. Eat breakfast while checking your email and tying your shoes (difficult, but it can be done!).
Keep your things where you need them. If you need certain papers by the computer, stick them in a folder, label them, and leave them there. Keep all of your old receipts and such in folders in a filing cabinet (or box) somewhere. When you don't have time to file your new papers, stick them in an inbox somewhere (on your kitchen counter, in your bedroom, by your computer, etc.).
Don't fall to the temptation of sticking something "where it's convenient at the moment." You'll forget where it is when you need it, and you'll waste time panicking. Put it where you want it to be, even if that's not "away."
When things can't be done 100% of the time (maybe you don't have time to put the laundry away after you've finished it), try to still keep it organized. Have a laundry basket in each person's room that is for clean clothes. Stick the dishes in the dishwasher or in the sink with water in them so they're easy to clean later.
Keep a to-do list (prioritized by 1, 2, 3) of things you'd like to do, or have to do. Make a list of all the materials you'll need if you're even slightly afraid you'll forget anything.
Try to remember everything that's important. Write down everything that you have to remember, but that is less important to you (next week's meeting shouldn't be on your mind now; you need that brain power to concentrate on this week's stuff. Write it down so you don't forget). Yes -- you even have to prioritize what you're thinking about!
If you try all these tips -- arranging your schedule, prioritizing your tasks, and multi-tasking -- you will be more organized and efficient in no time!
