January: Obstacles to Organization

It’s a brand new year and you’ve made a resolution to get organized, a resolution you have made several times before.  You may have the best of intentions, but often obstacles get in the way.

1. You don’t have enough time or you over-schedule your time.  Be realistic when you are estimating how long a project will take, then add more time to account for unexpected delays. Schedule 2 to 3 hour organizing sessions on your calendar and keep these appointments with yourself.
2. You find the projects overwhelming. Start with the one project that is most meaningful to you, and then break it down into smaller steps that can be accomplished in the 2 to 3 hour sessions that you have scheduled.
3. You get distracted or interrupted.  You need to identify the distraction (i.e. ringing phone, family members interrupting your project), and then plan ahead to avoid them.  Let the answering machine pick up your calls, ask family members to give you uninterrupted time to complete your task or plan your project for a time when you will be alone.
4. You procrastinate.  Most people procrastinate because they have set unrealistic expectations for the task, and are afraid that they will be unsuccessful.  Break your task into small, manageable steps that will foster success.  Success will build upon itself, especially if you commit to working on the project on a regular basis.
5. You feel unmotivated.  You need to have your own reasons for becoming more organized.  Someone else cannot set goals for you.  You must decide for yourself what you want more of (i.e. space) or less of (i.e. paper) in your life.  Set your goals from here.
6. You can’t see visible results of your efforts.  Try to start with an area that is visible to you everyday.  This will help keep you motivated to continue your efforts.  A neat and organized attic or basement is great, but is it really your first priority if you can’t see your kitchen table?