Getting Organized

We need to be prepared for what the world hands us. Living an organized life helps prepare you not only for planned events, but also for the unexpected.

Where do we begin to get organized?Ground zero. Get out two of the most common instruments of organization—a pencil and paper.

You can start with the essential formula for becoming organized:
Organization = Planning + Routine +Refinement.
This may seem simple, but it does work.

1. Close the door and swicth off your cellular. Getting organized requires the time and space to concentrate.


2. Determine the time that it usually takes you to start and complete the task. Then list the time of day by which the task must be finished; align those tasks in order, beginning withthe earliest time of day.


3. Try giving your tasks a priority level, such as A, B, and C. If you have two A priorities, choose A1 and A2, and so on. You obviously can't do them all at once, so this will add order to what may seem like chaos. Repetition of your routine will allow for refinement. Trust your abilities to prioritize and schedule your obligations.

Caution! There are ways to solve problem:

1. Delegate--If you have subordinates, do they appear to have more free time than you? You might be able to assign some of your tasks to them.


2. Get proper training--Do you rely on others to help you finish certain tasks? Ask for or get additional training in weak areas.


3. Turn off the noise--It's easy to get distracted by the problems of others, telephone calls, and even impromptu meetings. Set your schedule (with flexibility built in) and make it clear to colleagues.


4. Put in quality time--Are you getting to work on time? Are you putting in the number of hours expected of your position? Make the most of it by being organized. An asset of good organizational skills is the ability to identify problems and act on them accordingly.

Source: 10 Minute Guide to Getting Organized