Get organised, get your ducks in a row!
When it comes to both personal and professional success, being organised is crucial as it makes life less stressful if we are prepared for what’s to come (not that we can plan for every eventuality!). Having everything in order and running smoothly on a daily basis can help us achieve our goals and make the most of valuable time. But for many of us, getting organised can feel like a daunting task. That's where the phrase "getting your ducks in a row" comes in. It means getting everything in order and under control. Here are some tips for getting your ducks in a row and getting organised:
Set clear goals: The first step in getting organised is to know what you want to achieve. Set specific, measurable, and achievable goals for yourself. This will give you a clear sense of direction and help you stay focused.
Create a plan: Once you have your goals in mind, develop a plan for how you will achieve them. This can include setting deadlines, identifying resources, and establishing a timeline for completion.
Prioritise: With a plan in place, it's time to prioritise your tasks. Focus on the most important tasks first and work your way down the list.
Stay organised: Use tools such as calendars (I put absolutely everything on my Google calendar!), task lists (pen and paper are fine or Google Keep or Trello - whatever works for you as long as you use it consistently), and project management software to keep track of your progress and ensure that everything is running smoothly (Asana and Click Up are our favourites).
Eliminate distractions: Distractions can be a major obstacle to getting organised. Identify the things that distract you and take steps to eliminate them. For example, during busy periods turn your notifications off to allow you to concentrate. When I need to concentrate I need silence so I have to turn off the music and any distractions. Any notifications that pop up on my screen act as ‘shiny object’ syndrome to me and draw me in, making me lose focus on what I should be doing!
Delegate: If possible, delegate or outsource some of your tasks to others (we know some amazing people that can help you with this!) This will free up your time and help you focus on the things that only you can do.
Be flexible: Even with the best plans, things don't always go according to schedule. Be prepared to pivot and adjust your strategy as needed. Kids especially love to throw a curveball into the mix as you can guarantee it will always be a full-on back-to-back week for me when one of my children is ill!
By following these tips, you can get your ducks in a row and take control of the small daily tasks, which by taking control of these will help you stay on track with the bigger tasks both at home and at work. Remember that getting organised is a process and it takes time. Be patient and celebrate small wins as you progress. With a little effort, maybe some outsourcing, and a lot of determination, you can achieve your goals and live a more organised, productive, and enjoyable life!
