Go for the Goal
While the Winter Olympians are preparing to go for the gold, what better time to go for your goal? According to Statistic Brain, getting organized is the second most popular New Year’s resolution—and goal-setting can be a highly effective way to get there (and make sure you’re among the select group of just 8% that actually keep their resolutions!). So grab that notebook, and let’s get to goal-tending.
Mark your calendar in indelible ink. As they say, “Goals without deadlines are only dreams.” Give yourself a call to action by setting a deadline that will propel you toward realizing your goal this year.
Put pen to paper. A Harvard study found that people who’d written down their goals were earning 10 times as much as those who hadn’t—pretty compelling reason to record your goals, right? Making a high-level “to-do” list will also provide a sense of satisfaction as you check off those tasks (whether it be purging the closet or organizing your photo collection). Make sure to review your list frequently so that you can monitor your progress and stay on track for your deadline!
Get specific. Setting a vague goal like “get organized” may feel too overwhelming, so it’s helpful to break things down into bite-sized tasks. (Remember: “SMART” goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound!) Good examples: spending 15 minutes everyday going through old files, clearing flat surfaces of all piles before going to bed, or spending two hours on the weekend de-cluttering the closet.
Now comes the fun part. Once you’ve achieved your goal, it’s time to reward yourself! Plan something fun, like a movie night or meal at your favorite restaurant. If you’re like me, maybe you’ll take a trip to the Container Store and treat yourself to a fun, new organizing product. (Subliminal hint to stay organized!)
