Okay. So you’ve got a business and a busy life, too. Why on earth would you want to get organized? I’m here to say: don’t.
Reason 1: It’s Expensive.
You might be tempted to get organized by taking a trip to your local Big Office Box. All those cool plastic things look like they might help, right? But if you fill your cart and plunk down cash (or worse, plastic) for things you don’t need, it’s money down the drain. It adds up. Be smart about which organizational products you need and don’t make product part of the problem.
Reason 2: It’s Frustrating.
Some folks like to watch those amazing makeover shows. Others flip through glossy magazines and closet-organizing catalogs and wish their office looked like that. But there’s a big disconnect between what’s on the page or TV and what your office actually looks like.
Frustration happens because you don’t know where to start or what it will cost (back to reason 1).
Reason 3: It’s Time-Consuming.
I know a lot of folks who clean off their desks just to find the same pile has accumulated again a week later. Do this repeatedly for too long and you start feeling like Sisyphus on a good day. And sadly, none of that time spent doing the same cleanup is billable.
For a lot of people, “getting organized” means parting with cash, time, and sanity. No wonder so many give up!
The truth is, that organizing can be a really valuable tool for your business when it’s approached with realism and intention. Instead of going for a grandiose organizing plan, you can save yourself time, money, and headaches by taking it one issue at a time.
An alternative to a Grandiose Plan
If you’ve tried to get organized in the past and gotten frustrated by the results, you’re not alone. It’s hard to stay motivated and maintain it! Instead, I recommend asking yourself two questions:
What’s your most pressing organizing snag today, right now?
Really think about it for a moment. Maybe it’s clutter an overflowing email box or other pesky problem. Once you’ve identified one issue, ask yourself the second question:
What’s one small step you can take today on this issue that will help you and your business?
Think small. Think do-able. What’s one thing? Make a date with your office (15-20 minutes) and do that one thing. You won’t believe how different your space feels – and how easy it is.
So, what’s one thing that you think you can do this week that’ll make a big difference in your home? Share with us in the comments below!
