Starting small

One of the main dynamics I see working with disorganized people is a huge amount of overwhelm.  I think one reason for this is lofty expectations and constant multitasking and interruptions.  There's a wonderful satisfaction that comes from finishing something, and that comes from staying focused on simple, sequential tasks.  In fact, the "Ovsiankina Effect" marks the brain’s fixation on uncompleted to-dos – we have a deeply rooted need to finish things.  

So, pick one thing you can finish with whatever time you have available.  It could be as small as cleaning out a silverware drawer.  Empty the contents, sort the items into categories, set aside what you no longer find useful or special; then put things back in a thoughtful way, adding containers and labels, if needed.  I always like to clean something when it's empty, too. Then enjoy the mood and energy boost and let that carry you into the next task.

Mindset tips:

• Strive for more self-compassion (letting go of ridiculous expectations) without becoming prey to self-indulgence (consistently choosing the easy road)

• Try to be laser-focused on completing tasks – every time you change gears you lose time once you get back to the task, having to remind yourself what you were doing; your mind gets overwhelmed, also

• “Assembly-line” whatever you can – could this recipe be doubled and half put in the freezer for later?  Could you pick out a week’s worth of outfits instead of just one? etc.

I hope you'll join me in my quest for progress over perfection. Celebrate each small victory, knowing they will start to snowball if you stick with it!