January 04, 2022

The importance of taking a break and how it can help with motivation and focus

January 04, 2022/ Janine

When was the last time you took a break?

Taking a break is more important than ever as we approach year-end deadlines, vacations and a new year. Many of us are also working from home which has distrubed many of the daily rhythms that might trigger taking a break. With that in mind, let’s take a look at why it’s important to take a break when it comes to your mental and physical health. Then we will learn how taking a break boosts motivation and focus.

Taking a break is important for your health

When you’re working, you slowly lose concentration and focus. In fact, studies show our attention span really only lasts anywhere from 15 to 40 minutes. We also slowly develop decision fatigue.

“Willpower and focus and concentration and working on problem-solving are all coming from the same pool of cognitive resources. More significantly, it’s really a scarce resource that’s easily depleted,” said expert Kathy Sierra.

Taking a break resets your baseline. When you take a break, your body can refuel your levels of concentration, problem-solving and focus. Without breaks, your brain is running on fumes.

While you’re working, you are under stress. Sometimes that’s healthy stress, sometimes it’s more severe. Either way, it’s clear that you, your body and your brain are not relaxed while working. Researchers have found that breaks can reduce stress and even prevent it if done right.

Taking a break is perhaps as important for you physically as it is mentally. For example, your eyes operate differently when looking at a computer screen for a prolonged amount of time. That means less blinking and more strain. So, taking a break allows the eye muscles to relax. Likewise, your wrists and arms from typing and using the mouse can become fatigued in unnatural positions and prolonged usage. Sitting too long is hard on certain muscles and can even raise the risk of a heart attack. On the contrary, if you can make active breaks a habit, you can really help your health.

“It’s clear that you, your body and your brain are not relaxed while working. Researchers have found that breaks can reduce stress and even prevent it if done right.”

Taking a break is a motivation hack

When you’re working, your brain is constantly engaged to help you achieve the task or goal at hand. That’s very taxing so when you take a break and let your mind rest, it renews your motivation all on it’s own. You gain motivation by switching your brain into a different mode. Our brains have two modes: “focused mode” and “diffuse mode.” The focus mode is where our brains are on a set path and mode of thinking. In diffuse, we allow our minds to wander and follow natural trains of thought. Both modes are good and necessary, but diffuse mode is often when we have breakthroughs (think of how often you’ve had a great idea in the shower or on a walk), improved creativity and when we solve problems. When something like that happens on your break, you’re more likely to go back into focus mode motivated and ready to tackle the task at hand!

Breaks can also motivate many people to focus and finish in order to earn a brief respite.

Need help focusing? Breaks are the answer

As we’ve seen, our brains and bodies do not have an endless supply of energy and power. They need breaks to reset and refresh. By mindfully planning and engaging in breaks, you are giving your brain the ability to focus by taking it off task, letting it wander a bit and then allowing it to refocus with renewed energy.

Taking a break is defined simply as “a brief cessation of work, physical exertion, or activity.” With that in mind, don’t over-complicate taking breaks, but be sure to work them into your day. If you need ideas for taking breaks, try the five ideas listed here.

December 26, 2021

How to Redecorate to Fit Your Lifestyle

December 26, 2021/ Janine

Guest Blog by Shirley Martin:

I’ve always been a self-proclaimed “neat freak,” which is why I decided to become a home organizer and creator of the website Tidy Life Today. Where you live plays such a vital role in your overall well-being; if you don’t love the place you call home, then you’re going to suffer as a result. So, if you’re not 100% satisfied with your surroundings, take some time to redecorate and reorganize this space — you’ll be amazed by the results. Below are some helpful tips and ideas that can get you started.

Working From Home

If you're working from home, you'll likely need to set aside space as a home office and decorate it. Select a spot that's free from distractions. Bring in a stylish desk large enough to hold your equipment and give you some writing space, a comfortable chair, and some shelves for storage. A home office doesn't have to be dull, though. Liven up the space with colorful artwork, a few mementos, and a creative desk lamp.

Playing With Your Kids

If you have children, you may want to set up a special place in your home just for them. An extra bedroom or part of a finished basement can make an ideal playroom. Paint the walls in a bright color and hang up posters reflecting your children's interests. Fill the space with interactive and imaginative toys like dollhouses, kitchen sets, train sets, or race tracks. If your children are especially interested in reading, create a book nook with shelves and cozy seating.

Relaxing

Sometimes you just need to sit back and relax, so design a place in your home just for this purpose. Bring in a couple of easy chairs. Mount a television on the wall for watching movies, and install a speaker system for music. You might even include a small table for crafts or jigsaw puzzles and a shelf for books. Keep lighting soft except for one bright lamp you can use for close-up work or reading. Choose muted tones to emphasize relaxation, and be careful not to make the room too cluttered.

Entertaining

If you love to welcome guests into your home, you'll want to focus your decorating choices on entertaining. Start with your dining room and bring in a table that expands to fit your dinner party needs. Also, create several seating areas throughout your home that are perfect for conversation. You may want to set up a game room or media room where you and your guests can enjoy a round of cards or a movie night. If you have an extra bedroom, make it into a guest room for visitors, and fill it with soft fabrics, warm lights, and cozy furniture to make your guests feel extra welcome.

Finding a New Place

If you've discovered your current home just doesn't meet your needs, you may consider looking for a new living space in San Diego, California. Determine your housing budget, your new-home wish list, and your target area. Then do some research on the housing or rental market and what you can get within your budget. If you can afford to move to a better place, proceed with searching for your new home.

Enjoying Your Home

A well-decorated, comfortable living space can be a real pleasure, so get started making your home into a place you truly enjoy.

December 15, 2021

Unsubscribe to get your email inbox organized

December 15, 2021/ Janine

If you are annoyed by never-ending spam emails, subscriptions and constant dings from your notifications, consider unsubscribing to declutter your mailbox and take your peace back. To manage your inbox and organize it, means to divide it into categories and start tidying, just like physical stuff. You want to say goodbye to clutter and only keep things that are important or spark joy. Ideally, your email inbox is empty and only has new emails that have not been read and/or emails that need to be answered. Here are some tips to get your email inbox organized:

Unsubscribe from subscriptions. Remember that one time you signed up at a store or inline to receive a discount? Well, the company has automatically subscribed you to their email list and is not authorized to send you advertisements daily. You can manage your subscription preferences either in your customer account by the company or unsubscribe through your email provider.

Spam emails. Mark as spam and delete them right away. If there is not an unsubscribe button and the sender keeps sending you unsolicited offers, you can block the email and/or flag them, so they won’t show up in your inbox anymore.

Archive Important emails. Emails that are important, such as order confirmations, client correspondences or anything else that you need to get back to in the future . The Archive action removes the message from view in the inbox and puts it in the All Mail area, in case you ever need it again. When you archive an email, you file it away for future reference. And if someone responds to an email that was archived, it will reappear in your Inbox. Archiving is the best solution for emails that you want out of the inbox but for which there's a good chance you might need them later.

Maintaining your inbox. Be cautious about revealing your email address. It is a piece of personal information that scammers like to get a hold of, some even sell it to third parties that keep the spam coming. Alternatively, you can create a “throwaway” email account to sign up for offers and discounts or use a temp email service to keep your personal information safe. Schedule some time (15-30min) each month to edit and organize your inbox to keep it neat and tidy.

December 11, 2021

Six Eco-friendly gift ideas for your enterpreneur, mom or zero waste friend

December 11, 2021/ Janine

Only two more weeks until Christmas and if you still have some gifting to do, look no further. We made a list of six sustainable and green gifts to give this season that won’t break the bank and do good for the planet. These gifts are great for the hardworking entrepreneur, busy mom or your zero waste-oriented friends. Whether they live in San Diego or Chicago using these items will reduce waste and make sure to spark joy.

Laundry detergent sheets. Say goodbye to single-use plastic jugs and packaging that pollute our landfills and oceans; even the package is made from natural materials, is recyclable, and is septic safe. The concentrated sheets have strong cleaning power and are biodegradable. They work in all water temperatures and are compatible with front and top-loading, high-efficiency washing machines. 
Reusable straws. Whether you choose metal or bendable silicone straws, they are both eco-friendly alternatives to one-use-only plastic straws. One set of reusable straws can be used for years, replacing hundreds or thousands of plastic straws. They usually come with a travel bag, cleaning brush and are dishwasher safe. 
Mesh produce bags. Skip the plastic bag in the produce isle and use these lightweight high-grade organic cotton bags with double stitching that can carry over 20 pounds. These kitchen reusable grocery bags are zero waste and fully biodegradable. Forget about any plastic or heavy metal toggles and closure beads. Use these drawstring mesh bags hundreds of times and they will still retain their quality. Each reusable bag is safe for the storage of food. The mesh allows for easy identification of contents and provides excellent air circulation. You can hang full bags of onions, potatoes, and garlic by the drawstring for extra pantry space. 
Reusable Make up remover pads. Ever wonder what happens to all the disposable cotton rounds when you throw them in the garbage? They take several years to degrade and impact our environment. These washable cotton rounds not only save you money but make a substantial reduction in waste.  
Beeswax food wrap. These reusable food wraps are ideal for any family that packs a lunch for school or work. They are not only environmentally friendly and highly sustainable but also make sure your food stays fresher for longer.  
Eco-friendly beauty bars. Over 40% of the plastic comes from product packaging; 80 Billion plastic bottles disposed of around the world each year are from shampoo & conditioner alone. Beauty bars are made for the hair, face and use biodegradable ingredients and compostable packaging so all solid bars leave no trace.

December 03, 2021

Three eco friendly and zero waste inspired gift ideas

December 03, 2021/ Janine

With the upcoming holidays, we thought a gift guide inspired by the zero waste lifestyle would be a great way to remind ourselves that we are all responsible for keeping our planet clean and healthy. Adding some zero waste items to your everyday routine might sound like a small change but in the long run, can inspire others to do a little more themselves to live a bit more eco-friendly. Here are three gift ideas from professional organizers for creating less waste:

1. Janine from Tidy Closet recommends Reusable Make up Remover Pads and Eco-friendly beauty bars. Ever wonder what happens to all the disposable cotton rounds or face wipes when you throw them in the garbage? They take several years to degrade and impact our environment. Aside from the environmental impact, face wipes are often formulated with preservatives, which can damage the all-important skin barrier too. Many won't actually cleanse your skin and remove make-up effectively, while others are formulated with ingredients that can be abrasive and too harsh on sensitive skin types. Washable cotton rounds not only save you money but make a substantial reduction in waste. They are just as soft, if not softer than single-use cotton pads, and gentle on your skin. Another impact for less waste can be made with beauty bars that can be used in conjunction with reusable Makeup remover pads. 40% of the plastic comes from product packaging; 80 Billion plastic bottles disposed of around the world each year are from shampoo & conditioner alone. Beauty bars are made for the hair, face/body, and use biodegradable ingredients and compostable packaging so all solid bars leave no trace. They will also use less storage room in your closet and in the shower/bath because they are usually smaller than plastic bottles that are filled with liquids.

2. Professional Organizer and Konmari Consultant Kimberly from Tidy Spruce swears by her new favorite cleaning product L'AVANT Collective :

My new favorite love has been L'AVANT Collective. It may seem odd to give hand soap or dish soap as a gift, but L'AVANT' Collective's products make for a major upgrade to your everyday essentials. L'AVANT Collective is a women-owned small business, and their products include non-toxic, plant and mineral-based candles, hand soap, dish soap, multi-purpose cleaner, cleaning wipes, and eco-friendly refills, that are people, pet, and planet safe. They don't contain any parabens, phosphates, or phthalates, and are cruelty-free.

“Ever wonder what happens to all the disposable cotton rounds when you throw them in the garbage?”

These luxury products work and are safe to use on your marble, granite, and other stone surfaces. Not to mention, the bottles they use are gorgeous and come in environmentally friendly glass and post-consumer resin (PCR). Their Minimalist Collection nixes all the usual branding and gives a more elevated look to your space.

The 100% natural fragrances are absolutely HEAVENLY. I will literally spritz my home and car with the multi-purpose cleaner like its perfume because it smells that good. They just launched a new Limited Edition Winter Fir scent for their products, and I already have my order in. Beyond the holidays, they make for wonderful client gifts, housewarming gifts, and hostess gifts, and the company ships them to your door in recyclable and compostable packaging. “

3. Flavia, the owner of Alter Decorum, suggests a non-materialistic gift alternative this season is an E-book subscription; this is an absolute zero waste gift for a friend who is an avid book reader. In this service, there are hundreds of thousands of bestseller titles and constantly new releases to explore. This is a great alternative for people who might end up reading a book only halfway through, but at least it won’t become dormant on their bookshelf like it always happens with physical unread books. We all know how hard it can be to let go of almost any book, just because we paid money for it or once had really intended to read them. By even reading an entire e-book, the readers won’t ask themselves if that book is worth keeping anymore. Some people prefer to read more than one book at a time, which is great for balancing the pleasure of reading with the required reading for work or school. Either way, an E-book subscription is a zero-waste or clutter for someone who wants to stop spending a lifetime accumulating tons of books while continuing to read more. They cost less than printed books obviously because there’s no printing or packaging cost involved, cannot be lost or damaged, can be stored for offline reading when wi-fi isn’t available. The more good news about these e-books is that all the authors are paid when a book is read through this service, based on agreements. Just like Spotify for your eyes!

November 22, 2021

5 Tips to Keep Holiday Clutter at Bay

November 22, 2021/ Janine

What is your vision for this holiday season? Here at Tidy Closet, we are betting your vision includes words like joyful, warm, family and generosity. One thing we bet is not on the list is clutter! Nope, no one is writing to Santa, asking for clutter for Christmas. Unfortunately, clutter can be one of those things that seem to come with the holiday territory. From busy schedules to gift-giving to Christmas cards, clutter can easily creep in. We’ve got five tips to help you keep it at bay this holiday season.

1. Declutter first. Before everything happens, take the time to declutter! The holiday season coincides with an upcoming new year, weather change and more. That makes it a great time to go through what you’ve got and discard anything that is worn out, not used, unneeded and certainly anything that is not sparking joy any longer. This will be a particularly helpful tool if you target the categories that you’re most likely to receive items like toys, clothes or your pantry.

> > > You can also apply this step to your holiday decor. Declutter the decor when you go to put it up. Choose to keep only what’s cherished, meaningful and truly adding to the spirit of the season. Don’t put decor up just because you have it. Instead, declutter and save yourself time so you can enjoy time with your family afterward. Oh, and it’ll make putting decor away much easier too! Likewise, be very selective about buying any new decor. The average American spends about $269 on Christmas decor each year. Can you imagine how much stuff that can add up to in your garage or attic?

> > > You can also apply this step to gift giving. Declutter your gift giving routine by choosing to give experiences or consumables over just things and choosing quality over quantity.

2. Budget your time. One of the biggest reasons holiday clutter creeps in is because we lose our daily discipline of tidying up. Add to that the sheer volume of things, mail, invitations, presents, food and everything else coming in your home and you’ve got a cluttered mess in the making! Your schedule can also seem cluttered with all of the parties, family events, baking and other activities that happen over the holiday season. So, decide now to see your time as a limited resource and be discerning about giving it all away. Choose to say yes only to things that are the most meaningful to you and your loved ones. If you can reserve time to spend at home and enjoy your home, you’ll be much more able to keep up with putting things away, clearing counters and keeping it organized!

3. Assign homes. Holiday clutter can spread throughout the house if you don’t assign homes to different functions and items. For example, you might designate a very specific holiday wrapping station. You might also decide exactly where all holiday cards or Christmas cookies go when they come in the home. All the gifts you buy to wrap might have a specific location as well as the holiday serving platters and dishes.

> > > You can also apply this step to your decor. Replace your normal decor with your holiday decor and put it in the storage area it came from so there is less stuff out. Likewise, assign a home for holiday decor such as a few plastic totes. Then, limit your decor to that amount of space and be sure to put everything holiday in it when the season is over!

4. Get one give one. You’ve probably heard of this one. If you get a new book, perhaps you can give away one you no longer feel attached to. If your child gets a new video game or dress, perhaps there’s one that can be given away. If you get new hand towels, can you let go of the raggedy ones you’ve got? Apply this tip to everything that comes into your home over the holiday season and you’ll prevent clutter.

5. Regift. Regifting might be frowned upon but if you truly consider that an item someone gave you is going to sit on a shelf until you throw it away, regifting sounds like the nicer option. In fact, one etiquette expert tells us it’s rising in acceptability.

“Regifting is perfectly acceptable, especially with the rising popularity of second-hand and sustainable goods,” Lisa Gache of Beverly Hills Manners told Good Housekeeping.

If things come into your home that you know aren’t going to be used, loved or cherished, think about who might find a better use for it and regift it immediately. Sometimes regifting may even come in the form of food (maybe your niece and nephew would like that poundcake?) and drinks (someone hosting a party might find that champagne useful).

“Regifting is perfectly acceptable, especially with the rising popularity of second-hand and sustainable goods”

— Lisa Gache

> > > Apply this tip as soon as you receive something before you bring it into your home. Be very selective about what makes it through the threshold into your home.

Remember how you want to feel this holiday season and let that be the motivation to tackle these tips in order to keep clutter at bay!

November 13, 2021

Fifty Tidying Affirmations

November 13, 2021/ Janine

Lately, there has been an increased awareness of the power of affirmations. We hear them in songs, podcasts and see them on Billboards and Social Media. Therapists and researchers have long known that practicing affirmations on a regular basis can help reduce depression and increase self-esteem. But what are Affirmations? Affirmations are positive statements you tell yourself by either reading, saying them out loud, or by writing them down. Affirmations are a powerful tool to challenge negative or sabotaging thoughts. If you have been struggling with clutter in your home and creating lasting organizing habits, consider practicing positive affirmations for productivity. Here are 50 examples of what a Tidy Affirmation might look like, feel free to change or personalize them to your own liking:

I can learn the skills to be tidy
I believe in myself and trust in my abilities
Being productive brings me joy
Action is the foundation of success
An organized space makes me feel calm
I will not allow impulse spending to ruin my finances
I am good at setting and accomplishing my goals
I can solve any challenge this day brings on
I will finish what I started
I am productive, motivated, and highly driven
I am goal-oriented
I am becoming the person I want to be
Being productive comes effortlessly to me
My mind is focused and free from distraction
I make great decisions
I am focusing on my ideal lifestyle
I put my energy into things that spark joy
Good energy is flowing through me
I am an achiever
An organized space is cleaned easier and faster
Being organized saves me time
Less debt equals less stress
I can achieve financial independence
Instead of spending money on x, I will put it in my savings/investment account
Mastering organization makes me feel like I can do anything
Tidying is a way of showing affection to my belongings
Time management comes easy to me
I keep my workspace tidy
I always show up on time
I am learning to become more organized each day
I organize my life so I can relax, knowing everything is in order
Consistent planning and organizing helps me to succeed
I envision a clutter-free life
Staying organized and on top of things makes my life run smoother
Having the space in my home, office, and car in order helps me think clearly
I have the discipline and stamina to declutter my home, one step at the time
I choose gratitude for the things in my home and say goodbye to the things that no longer serve me
I can appreciate things without possessing them
I have everything I need
Being organized allows me to do more in life
I attract abundance in life by being organized
I am in control of my life and belongings
Only good emotions are allowed to stay in my home
Owning too many things weighs me down
I welcome abundance rather than fear scarcity in my life
Being organized makes me feel empowered
Tidying is a form of self-care for me
I make progress every day by choosing to practice tidying for 30 minutes
I never have to look for things because all my belongings have a home
I feel peaceful and happy because I only own things that I cherish or that are useful

Do you have a favorite affirmation that is not listed here? Feel free to share in the comments :)

November 13, 2021

Ten tips on how to have an organized gift giving that won’t break the bank or create clutter

November 13, 2021/ Janine

The months before the Holidays are often stressful and last-minute shopping can break the bank. Having a plan for gift giving and budgeting will save you time and money in the long run. Here are 10 Tips on how to have an organized gift-giving that won’t break the bank or create clutter.

1. Create a budget for holiday gift spending; Practice saving throughout the year, so your December paycheck does not get hit so hard with extra expenses. December comes around once a year and ideally, we should be putting aside a little bit of money every month, all year round (even $30/Month will bring $360 by December for gifts if you start saving in January). Christmas is not an emergency, try not to use your emergency fund or a credit card to buy gifts (It will cost you more in the end if you go into debt, because you will have to pay interest on borrowed money). If you have a small budget this year that’s ok, make sure you stick to a number that will not break the bank. There are many great gifts that are low-cost or even free (We will list a couple in this article).

2. Make a gift list and stick to that list before you go shopping. In 2020 the average American spent $650 on Christmas gifts. Don’t just go into the store without a plan, I guarantee you will overspend. Ask the person you want to gift something to if there is anything they need or want before you make your list. It is so much more satisfying to receive a gift one really needs/wants instead of random stuff that usually ends up somewhere in the back of a closet anyway and creates unwanted clutter.

Related: How to organize your finances

3. Shop early and look for sales. When you are looking for a specific item, wait for sales throughout the year, you will get a better price most of the time. Best sales are usually during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but with shipping and product delays caused by the pandemic make sure to check out Slickdeals.net on a regular basis. Ideally have all presents bought or ordered by the end of November, so you can steer clear of overcrowded stores and long lines.

“ In 2020 the average American spent $650 on Christmas gifts.”

— Capital Counselor

4. Gift Consumables; What if you don’t know what the person on your list wants or needs? Consumables, like homemade cookies, chocolate, or wine are usually very welcomed gifts that can be used up without creating clutter (just be aware of food allergies such as nuts and berries).

5. Try experience gifts. If your family is really outdoorsy they might enjoy a membership to the Zoo or a coupon for Paddleboarding/Canoeing. Maybe you have that friend that’s really into hiking/walking and has been asking you to join them on their weekly endeavor. This is your chance to pick out the route and spend time with them as well as get some exercise (and it’s free).

6. We all need more self-care but often just don’t take the time to actually schedule it or might even feel guilty about doing something for ourselves. A massage, facial, manicure or pedicure are all great clutter-free gifts for the caretakers in our community that also deserve some “rest and relaxation”.

7. What about Gift Cards? Yes, some may say that’s not very creative but as a former teacher let me tell you that Starbucks and Target gift cards always made my day a little brighter (because, you know, teachers run on coffee and get all their supplies at Target/or the Dollar Tree ;D). If you know the person’s favorite store or restaurant, a gift card will surely be used and appreciated.

8. Cleaning, Babysitting or Lawn service; hire the neighborhood kid that cuts lawns or babysits (or do it yourself = free) to give your spouse a day off. Cleaning and professional organizing services have also been a popular favorite for clutter-free gifts.

9. Lotto/scratcher tickets are a budget-friendly yet playful way to gift, add a card and/or a photo for good luck, maybe they’ll hit the jackpot.

10. Do something nice in their name. This is a great gift for someone that already has everything or someone that is a minimalist. You can give money to a charity of their choice, volunteer by serving meals in a soup kitchen or help clean up the beach in their name. This is a thoughtful way to give back and show appreciation and could possibly only cost your time.

If these ideas inspired you to gift something new or create a holiday budget (maybe for next year), I would love to hear from you in the comments. I hope you have safe, joyful and happy holidays.

October 25, 2021

Take a break to get more motivation & focus

October 25, 2021/ Janine

We all want to be more productive, don’t we? In America, most of us work more than 40 hours a week. In fact, according to the International Labor Organization, ”Americans work 137 more hours per year than Japanese workers, 260 more hours per year than British workers, and 499 more hours per year than French workers.” More and more, we are trying to get faster and get more efficient. We’re trying to get more done in less time. However, research is piling up that is very counterintuitive to this “hustle” culture that has permeated our society. Your brain is not built to run at full speed all day, it needs to rest and recover. That research shows us what happens to the brain without breaks, which includes loss of creativity, productivity and even retention. However, research on taking breaks shows all kinds of benefits. Breaks help you perform better, feel more motivated, they improve focus and reduce stress.

Here are some suggestions to get the most bang out of your break! Remember, checking email or returning a business phone call is not a break. That’s still work! In fact, if you can avoid technology during your break, you’ll be better off!

Take a walk. A study done at Stanford University showed that 81 percent of folks were more creative after taking a walk break during their work. Even more, the creative boost stuck with them even after they sat back down to work.
Get in nature. Whether it is a place like the beach or even a city park, nature can improve your cognitive function. It can also have major physiological benefits like reducing your blood pressure, heart rate and stress levels. Nature can also improve your mood and make you feel more positive.
Try a micro “power nap.” This one may not be possible or everyone and it may even require practice. But there is no denying the benefits that come from a power nap. These naps are like rebooting your computer: they refresh your memory, energy, patience and stress levels.
Have fun at lunch. If you’re flying solo, consider doing a puzzle, Sudoku, an adult coloring book or bullet journal. In a tem environment, a book club or exercise group during your lunch break could be fun. You may even consider a fun workshop or arts and crafts activity at lunch like what we offer at Tidy Closet.
Do anything else, really! One study published in 2011 found that the longer you’re at a task, the more your performance “steeply declines.” The researchers suggested that

“More and more, we are trying to get faster and get more efficient. We’re trying to get more done in less time. However, research is piling up that is very counterintuitive to this “hustle” culture that has permeated our society. Your brain is not built to run at full speed all day, it needs to rest and recover”

“deactivating” by switching tasks and then later “reactivating” back to the original task or goal kept performance from taking such a nose dive. So, switch it up here and there to give yourself a break! A real break would be great but even a different type of work task will help.

If you’re like most people, you will not take a break unless you have some sort of reminder or trigger. Many people plow right through the day, sometimes even eating lunch at the desk. If you want to change, if you want to be more productive, more focused and even less stressed, make it a priority to try one of the break examples we’ve outlined. You can write your break times on your daily planner, schedule them in your digital calendar and even set alarms on your phone. Consider it an experiment. Test yourself to see if you get better by implementing these changes.

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October 20, 2021

Simplify and Streamline: Tips for Downsizing Your Home

October 20, 2021/ Janine

Downsizing your home can help homeowners in many ways. Whether you’re selling your home or not, downsizing offers many benefits. It’s a great way to simplify your life by unloading the burden of accumulated possessions and creating a new living space. And if you have decided the time is right to start looking for a smaller home, or if you intend to begin researching senior care facilities in the area, shedding unneeded items will make it easier to attract a buyer and allow you to make a fresh start in your new home. If you're planning to sell your home as a means of downsizing, check these items off your list to get the most out of selling your home.

Start purging

Prospective buyers want to see a home with good flow and plenty of space, an environment they can envision making their own. Going room by room, make a list of things you’ll throw away, donate, or give away to others, and arrange everything based on that criteria. Make a point to get rid of anything you don’t need anymore, especially any duplicate items. Don’t forget to move out any excess furniture or decorative items that make it difficult to move around easily or make your home’s interior too busy. Remember, you want buyers to see your space through their eyes, not yours, so do as much as you can to create space. If you keep your interior as simple as possible, you should be in good shape. You can always put things into storage while you’re showing your house.

Ridding yourself of things you no longer use or need shouldn’t limit you to the kitchen, your basement, or attic. Take a broader view and get rid of old clothes and shoes, as well as any worn furniture that doesn’t fit in anymore. Old dresses and suits take up a lot of space and can make your closets look overwhelmed and disordered. Consider giving them to Goodwill or placing them in consignment. And remember, you can do the same thing with the furniture you no longer need or want. A good rule of thumb is to unload anything you can do without or that doesn’t have considerable emotional significance for you and your family.

Start early and plan ahead

Sorting through your belongings can be a difficult and emotional task. It’s not something you want to be doing at the last minute or if you’re up against a looming deadline. Take your time and do it right by planning ahead and starting as soon as possible. It’s also a good way to avoid making a mistake and purging or losing something you want to keep.

Timing

Connect with your agent to check the market conditions before committing to selling. The last thing you want to do is head down that path if it means your chances of getting top value are less than ideal. You may find that you’re unlikely to even cover your current mortgage. Check out recent sales to see if similarly sized and priced homes have sold in your area. That will help you make a final decision and establish a selling price.

The condition of your home

Another key criterion is the state of your home. If your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, or if there’s a problem with your foundation, you may need to shift priorities and invest in some needed renovations before you can place your home on the market. It’s a considerable investment, but a new roof will make your home much more attractive to potential buyers who are apt to look elsewhere if they’ll have to pay for repairs later.

Opportunity for a fresh start

Downsizing is an important task if you’re moving to a smaller home or care facility, simplifying your life, or just trying to be environmentally responsible. Do it in your own time and at your own pace, bearing in mind what you want your home to look like once you’ve finished. Whatever your motivation, see it as an opportunity to make a fresh start.

Are you in need of a professional organizer to help tidy up your place? Tidy Closet provides home organization, workshops, retreats and other resources to help declutter and clarify your living spaces. Contact us today

September 24, 2021

3 Ideas for Employee development events and why they help everyone grow

September 24, 2021/ Janine

Your employees are your company’s most valuable asset. Therefore, the more you increase the knowledge, skills and growth of your employees, the more you increase the value of the company.

What is Employee Development?

Employee development specifically aims to improve an employee’s skills and foster an employee’s growth in both the professional and personal sphere. Many companies have a robust plan that includes training, mentorship programs and more. However, events are a great way to add team building and fun to the development process. We will share a few ideas to get you started below.

Why Employee Development is Important.

Employee development can improve employee performance and enable employees to respond better to unexpected situations according to one source. A great employee development program may also attract high-quality employees. Finally, employee development makes economic sense as it increases employee retention and loyalty, which means companies do not have to pay to replace employees as often.

“The only thing worse than training employees and losing them is to not train them and keep them.”

— Zig Ziglar

3 Ideas for Employee Development Events.

1. Goal setting and vision casting. Motivation is a key driver to the success of employees and therefore the company. One study published in the DIU Journal of Business and Economics found that “well motivated employees are more productive and creative.” You can increase motivation by taking time with employees to set goals and cast vision for their personal and professional life. Doing so allows everyone to step back from the day to day hustle and see exactly why they’re doing what they’re doing. That motivation may include everything from family goals to sales goals. Casting a vision for their future in the company and in their personal life also gives employees motivation.

“Average companies give their people something to work on. In contrast, the most innovative organizations give their people something to work toward”

— Simon Sinek

2. Get creative. Events that focus on ways for your employees to be creative can help them to blow off steam. These types of events, like painting, scavenger hunts and escape rooms, can increase innovation and even enhance problem solving skills. Moreover, these activities can be a really fun way for employees to get to know each other and enhance their working relationships.

3. Learn a new skill. A unique event to consider adding to your employee development plan is a skills-building workshop. You may consider helping employees to sharpen skills they already use on the job like accounting or design. Or, you may consider having employees cross-train and learn a skill that a different department uses in the company. Finally, you may consider an event that helps employees develop an entirely new skill. For example, Tidy Closet teaches a Home & Business Organizing and Productivity workshop that helps your employees get more done by being more organized, focused and productive. Some skills, like organization, can translate at work and home and truly contribute to the overall growth of the employee.

Boosting morale while boosting business outputs is a win-win for any company. Choosing to incorporate employee development events into your plan can make work more fun and even catapult your organization to the next level.

September 13, 2021

Pocket folding tutorial

September 13, 2021/ Janine

Pocket folding is the new trend following vertical folding taught by Marie Kondo. The Konmari Method™ is a great first step to learn how to appreciate one’s belongings and take great care of them. Pocket folding has an added benefit, it does not fall apart when pulling from the drawer. It is a great solution for travel packing as well because we all know how much a suitcase gets tossed around during transport. So how do we pocket fold? For shirts fold both sides with arms in and turn the arm either out or down depending on the sleeve length. Then take the bottom and fold it down3 3-4 inches to create a pocket. The top part will be folded up 2-3 times and the last fold will be tucked into the pocket. For pants it is similar, we want to create a rectangle. One leg will be folded onto the other, and the waist will be folded down to create a pocket. The legs fold up 3-4 times depending on the length and the last fold will be tucked into the pocket. The pocket prevents the piece of clothing to fall apart even when tossed in the air. This folding method prevents messes in the drawer and keeps it tidier than just the vertical fold alone. Watch the video for a visual folding experience and try it next time you fold your own laundry. I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments about pocket folding and if it made a difference in your tidying routine!

September 10, 2021

How to organize your finances

September 10, 2021/ Janine

When you think about organization, we tend to imagine tidy spaces such as offices, kitchens and bedrooms. But what if I told you one can take the concept of tidying and apply it to finances? It is true, organizing your finances will help you become more aware of your habits, and you will learn to become more intentional about your purchases. Becoming financially independent means getting off the hamster wheel and living life on your own terms. Here are six steps to take toward your financial independence journey.

1. Envision your Ideal Lifestyle

Really think about what you value in life, what your passions are and what people are most important to you. Where would you like to live if money was not an issue and what would you be doing for a vocation or in your free time? What does financial independence mean to you? This answer is different for everyone, so really take some time to think about what you imagine for yourself (and your family if you have one). Creating a vision board often helps to visualize and manifest these desires and remind our subconscious about our goals to stay motivated.

2. Create a $1000 Emergency fund

To make sure you have money for an unpredictable emergency such as being able to fix a flat tire on your car or an unexpected medical bill, it is most important to create an emergency fund. This is money you have in your savings account that is available to you only for emergency use.

3. Pay off all your consumer debt

It would be ideal to pay off your highest interest ticket items first to save the most amount of money on interest payments. The way to pay off your consumer debt when you have multiple credit cards or car payments is to create a budget. Calculate your base cost of living which includes housing, utilities, groceries, transportation costs, childcare, insurance etc. Cut out as many optional costs as possible for example memberships, subscriptions, cable TV and eating out, and add this extra money to your monthly debt payments to speed up your debt recovery. Another solution is the debt snowball method; Dave Ramsey suggests paying off your smallest debt first and make minimum payments on all other debts. Once the smallest debt is paid off, the second smallest debt is paid off with the original payment plus everything extra one can throw at it. This is a psychological strategy of positive feedback. It feels great to have a quick success by paying off the smallest debt first. This will help keep you motivated until all debt is paid off.

4. Build a 3-month emergency fund

Now that you do not have consumer debt it is important to create a 3-6 months emergency buffer for your living expenses. If you or your spouse loses their job due to unseen circumstances (like we have seen with COVID last year) it is important to be able to pay living expenses for a couple of months until recovery from illness, finding a new job or have readjusted living situations.

5. Invest and create wealth

Now that you are debt-free and have a stable emergency fund it is time to invest. Learn how to invest in stocks, real estate, and yourself. Personal development is priceless and building a successful business or career only helps you become financially independent in the long run. Make friends or look for mentors that are on the path to financial independence themselves or have already obtained it. There is nothing better than a supportive community that you can ask for advice.

6. Give and change the world

You don’t have to wait until step six to give, you could have a budget for donations to your favorite charities, but once you create wealth and are financially independent, you have the power to make a real difference for an organization by giving money for social service purposes, medical research, or innovative technologies.

September 09, 2021

Living Little: Tips for Downsizing

September 09, 2021/ Janine

Guest Blog by Eva Benoit:

When people say they’re “living the dream,” they’re usually referring to a big home with lots of valuable possessions and some discretionary income. The traditional American idea of a happy life is one of affluence and acquisitiveness, but there’s a fast-growing trend toward a more simplistic and manageable lifestyle with fewer belongings and financial responsibilities, and a smaller living environment: downsizing.

Typically, downsizing is a choice made by senior citizens who need to move into a home that’s easier to get around in and doesn’t require a lot of upkeep and cleaning. Yet today it’s a decision that a great many people have made, both young and old. Discover what they have discovered: There are a great many benefits to living a simpler, less stressful life.

Financial

The ever-increasing costs of living, of retirement, and of sending children to college place a premium on saving and thrift. Living in a smaller space means there’s less room for frivolous spending and acquiring things you don’t really need. This is an especially important point if you tend to buy on impulse. As such, downsizing forces you to be more responsible with money and encourages a more prioritized approach to life, which is a good thing if you’re trying to set some money aside. For some people, it’s the only way they can reasonably hope to retire.

Less space, less stress

Being responsible for a large house can be very stressful. High mortgage payments, utility bills, and the cost of home maintenance make it very difficult to feel like you’re in control of your life. Keeping it all together gets to be a strain, elevates blood pressure, and increases anxiety. With less home to pay for and worry about, you'll have more leisure time and greater flexibility in your life. No need to worry about getting that big lawn mowed before the weekend’s over.

More family time

With more free time comes more family time--the positive kind, with games and playing and laughter. Living in a smaller home encourages more interaction, sharing, and bonding. Kids may need to share bedrooms, which means compromising on closet and drawer space. Cleaning becomes easier, and there’s less need to continually remind teenagers to clean their rooms. Remember, clutter can become a major problem very quickly in a small home, so make sure everyone is aware of their cleaning responsibilities.

More time for personal pursuits

Have you ever wished you had more time and money to do things you enjoy? Downsizing can help you make time and save the money you need to travel abroad, put together a woodworking shop, or indulge in an artistic or musical interest. If you’ve always wanted to complete a college degree you began years ago, downsizing can help you make it a reality. You can spend more time away from home without having to worry that you’re letting things slip.

If you’re downsizing because you want to move in order to accommodate working from home, whether part-time or full-time, consider the many job options available. As a result of the pandemic and the shift toward remote work, more work-from-home ventures than ever have popped up. ZenBusiness lists 15 part-time business ideas, one or two of which may be right up your alley, including becoming a virtual assistant and starting your own pet services business.

Living local

Downsizing to a smaller home in an urban center is ideal if you enjoy having stores, restaurants, and other conveniences within easy walking distance. Parking may be a challenge, but presumably, you’d be walking most places or taking public transportation. Having to drive less will save on gas and car maintenance costs.

The task

Downsizing your household is physically demanding and can be an emotional ordeal. If you have belongings accumulated over many years, it’ll take some doing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by it all, hire a professional to help you get organized.

One of the most important changes will involve your furniture. There’s less room (and need) for chairs, tables, and sofas in a smaller residence, so you’ll likely want to sell or donate a number of pieces. In some cases, you may want to hire a reputable furniture cleaner because you have something that you want to keep but that is starting to look worn. A properly cleaned item will be desirable enough to keep, which may save some money if the piece is something that cannot be discarded without being replaced (like a sofa or kitchen table).

Downsizing can benefit anyone, regardless of age or circumstances. Less house means less spending on mortgage and upkeep. And it means more time for you and your family to have fun together.

Are you in need of a professional organizer to help tidy up your place? Tidy Closet provides home organization, workshops, retreats and other resources to help declutter and clarify your living spaces. Contact us today

August 27, 2021

Marie Kondo is sparking joy again on Netflix

August 27, 2021/ Janine

Are you ready for more Marie Kondo and her magic of changing lives? Marie Kondo’s new Netflix series promises to inspire you to get started for yourself. This show goes beyond organizing and teaches the life-changing magic of the KonMari Method to achieve your ideal lifestyle. The road to happiness is not linear, it gets a little messy and emotional in between and it is a lot of hard work, but no one else is going to do it for you. If you loved Marie’s “Tidying up with Marie Kondo” on Netflix, this is a must-see!

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Wanting to get organized is often the first in making changes in your home, routine, habits, and life. Once you have envisioned your ideal lifestyle it is easier to decide what you want to keep and let go of, this is applicable to household items, hobbies, habits, and relationships as well. When we love something we should take good care of it and this includes self-care. Being mindful of one’s own needs and wants will help make better choices and can also make you a happier person.

Gratitude is one of important the tools in the KonMari Method™. Oxford dictionary defines Gratitude as “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness”. In tidying, we exercise this practice with our belongings and comes naturally to carry it over to other aspects of life.

I am super excited to see what her new show is all about including her home and office organization tips, wisdom on life, and the change the participants experience in their life when following the Method. The new season will air on August 31st. 2021 on Netflix.

June 19, 2021

Five Tips to Get & Stay Organized This Summer

June 19, 2021/ Janine

Summer is upon us! You probably did a wonderful job getting your home in order and cleaned up over Spring and you may now be wondering what will happen when everyone is home, visiting, traveling and relaxing this summer. Here are five tips that can help you pregame to enjoy your summer and stay organized!

1. Cast the Vision. As always, you can’t get anywhere if you don’t know where you want to go. So, start the summer by deciding exactly what your priorities and schedule will be. What do you want to do? What do you not want to do? Add any trips, activities, travels and even downtime onto your calendar. If you’ve got children, you might also consider creating lists and charts for summer projects, chores, routines and activities so they know what to expect. While summer can mean we slow down and simply enjoy our time, be sure to identify what things need to happen in order for you to keep that “grillin’ and chillin’” summer vibe. Keeping that vibe will be more difficult if your home turns into a mess! This might mean minimum baseline cleaning tasks, work schedule or even educational activities for children. It’s your summer, so decide now what you want!

“While summer can mean we slow down and simply enjoy our time, be sure to identify what things need to happen in order for you to keep that “grillin’ and chillin’” summer vibe. Keeping that vibe will be more difficult if your home turns into a mess! ”

— Quote Source

2. Say Goodbye to Last Season. Pack away your winter and spring items including clothing, decor and household items. Be smart about packing it away by labeling it and keeping it together so it’ll be easy to grab when the weather changes. Next, pull out your summer gear and take stock of what you’ve got. This is a great time to discard items that no longer fit, have holes, are broken and so forth. While you’re at it, be sure to go through all school papers, books, projects and discard what you don’t want to keep.

3. Have a Garage Makeover. The garage usually houses a lot of the things we need for summer including bikes, water gear, baseball bats and kites. Summer is going to go more smoothly if those things are both easy to access and easy to put away. In addition, 55 percent of homeowners say their garage is their home’s main entryway, which will make it even more important to have organized.

First things first with this job. You’ll want to decide what you want the garage to look like and how you want it to function. Then, you’ll gather all like items and go through them, one by one. You’ll decide what to keep based on what sparks joy (remember that joy can come from things that are functional and necessary in your life!) Go through items category by category and then discard or donate what’s not staying. Finally, organize what you’ve decided to keep according to your original vision. Place items where they make sense according to who needs access, how often they are accessed and other considerations that will make your life easier.

4. Create Summer Gear Zones. Once you know what you’ll be doing during the summer it’s important to make sure the fun won’t be responsible for making your home a mess! One way to do this is to create zones for all the summer items you’ll be needing. For example, you might create shelves or bins that are in the transition parts of your home (entry, garage, etc) where all the sunscreen, towels, bug spray and other summer items go. This way, whether you’re coming or going you can find exactly what you need and everyone can put it back in its home to be ready for the next adventure. You might consider also creating a mini summer gear kit in your car as well. Likewise, you may create a zone in your pantry or outdoor space where all things grilling live or on the patio for all gardening items.

Create your zones from what you have already by gathering all items from the different homes they may have been living in your home. This is an important step since studies show Summer is the second most expensive season of the year. Once you know what you’ve already got, consider stocking up on your essentials so that you can start fresh. Finally, have a show and tell session for everyone in your home so they can get in on the organization plan!

5. Build in Reset Time. Whether it’s just a day at home or a trip to the beach or pool, build in time to clean and reset your space. For example, you might establish a ten minute pick up that everyone participates in after breakfast and after dinner. Likewise, when you get home from any fun summer activity, set the expectation that the first ten minutes home will be spent emptying the car and putting things away. Adding these little blocks to things you’re naturally going to be doing like eating, coming and going, will make it easier to set and establish the habit.

There you have it, five tips to enjoy an organized summer!

May 17, 2021

Tips for a happy and productive home office

May 17, 2021/ Janine

How much time or thought have you put into creating a happy and productive home office? So much of the time we are so busy in the throes of work that this sort of consideration is put on the back burner. But imagine what it would be like to have your home office be a place where you’re happy and productive! If you’re going to work, it may as well fit into those parameters! There are some simple solutions you can work on to increase your happiness and your productivity while working.

The first tip for a happy and productive home office is to create an environment that you will actually want to work in! If you can create a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing space you will be much more likely to be productive and happy while you’re working! In order to do that, you will want to design a space that sparks joy, that helps you focus and that is functional so you can efficiently do what you need to do.
In order to create the perfect working environment, you’ll want to declutter and organize your space. If there are items in the home office space that do not belong, remove those. Then decide what tools and items you truly need to do your work. Keep the items used most frequently in the easiest places to access. Next, put the items that get used less often but are necessary for your work in the drawers or cabinets that are a little more work to get to. Remember, the less stuff you see, the more likely you’ll be able to focus. A tidy office will require maintenance and discipline, so be sure to plan keeping it tidy into your workday.
At this point, you should have a pretty clear canvas. That gives you the ability to add in some items that spark joy. This may be a plant, a lamp or even a motivational poster of some sort. It may take time to find the right items or you might already have them. The idea is to create an office space that you’re looking forward to walking into every day. You might also consider adding equipment that helps you physically as that too will help you be productive. This might mean a great ergonomic chair or a switch to a standing desk.

Creating a workday routine will help you be productive and help your brain transition from home life to work from home life. One key component of the workday routine is what Michael Hyatt calls the “Workday Start Up Ritual.” This ritual is a container for you to get ready for a productive day. It can vary with every person, but may include previewing your calendar, reviewing your to-do list and clearing your inbox.
The startup ritual can also include sensory habits such as your warm cup of coffee, starting a diffuser and opening blinds. You might also create a music playlist for your workday. Ambient noise is known to help you get work done, though you might experiment with the type of music or noise that gives you the optimal level of focus. Tying your transitions to sensory habits can also really help get your brain on board for what you’re about to do.

“The idea is to create an office space that you’re looking forward to walking into every day”

Your routine might also include the different types of work you do in blocks throughout the day. Having an ideal schedule for your work that you aspire to each day can help boost your productivity. Breaks are also a great thing to add into your routine. If possible, a walk in your neighborhood is a great option for your breaks. Not only are they good for your health, Stanford University also proved that they boost creativity!
You can also include a Workday Shut Down Ritual. This is the time of day where you can include things to help you end the workday well, set yourself up for success in the next day and clearly transition to being present while at off work. Your shut down ritual might include reviewing tomorrow’s to do list, reviewing your goals, closing out any communications and tidying your area. Cal Newport, author of Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World even recommends having a phrase that you say such as, “I’m outta here,” or “Shutdown complete.” Other successful people have been known to take a moment to pray or meditate at the end of their workday.
One final tip to consider is to accept that distractions are definitely going to happen. With that in mind, plan for them. Consider ahead of time what sort of distractions might happen including other people or pets in the home, doorbells and even laundry. Decide ahead of time how you want to handle them, what your process for getting back to work can be and have a ground-rules conversation with family members.

Pick at least one of these tips to implement this week and see how it improves your workplace productivity and mood.

April 29, 2021

Clutter Free Gift Ideas for Mom

April 29, 2021/ Janine

Mothers Day is almost here and you might want to know what to get your mother that shows your appreciation, but won’t clutter up her home. You have come to the right place, here are ten minimalist and clutter-free gift ideas for mom:

Meal delivery service. Give your mom a break from cooking and order her a week worth of freshly cooked meals. This is the gift of more free time and a delicious meal. Get $40 off your first order
Flowers. Flowers are a wonderful reminder of nature's precious beauty. Flowers are a sign of recognition and they add temporary beauty to any space.
Chocolate-covered strawberries. This is my personal favorite! The saying “love goes through the stomach” definitely is true for me. These are a non-guilty and delicious treat for every mother.
Event Tickets. Whether Mom likes to attend an arts and crafts workshop or an outdoor jazz music festival, you can’t go wrong with giving her some fun and enjoyment.
A Class or digital course. There’s a class for anything from yoga to canoeing. Digital courses are able to be accessed from anywhere in the world, regardless if mom wants to learn about history or gardening.
A travel gift card. Airlines, cruise ships and travel websites all have options for travel gift cards. This way you don’t have to plan the trip but support your mother in traveling the world, wherever she wants to go.
Digital Books. If your mom likes to read on a device buy her some extra credits from kindle, audible, or any other audio-book app.
Charity donation. If your mom has everything and does not want anything for mother’s day or any other holidays, consider donating to a charitable foundation in her name.
Spa Day. Invite her to a day at the spa, schedule her a facial or get a Mani/Pedi together. She will love spending time together (or alone) and getting pampered.
Wine tasting/Brewery tour. Take mom out for a day of wine tasting in wine country or the winery. If mom is into beer take her out for flights at the local microbrewery and support small business.

April 29, 2021

Weekly, monthly and annual cleaning check list

April 29, 2021/ Janine

Hi Tidy Friends,

Remembering when to clean and what to clean, can be a daunting task when you don’t have a routine schedule for home management. The biggest lie I tell myself every day is that “I will remember that”. If this reminds you of yourself you might find the lists I created below helpful in scheduling home cleaning tasks. They are suggestions on when to clean what, but of course, they can be personalized to your own needs. Let me know what you think, I hope they will help you stay on top of things!

Happy cleaning,

Janine

“All time management begins with planning ”

— Brian Tracy

Free Download here

April 15, 2021

Habits that will help you get things done at work

April 15, 2021/ Janine

Everyone wants to be more productive at work right? Or, at least, everyone’s boss wants them to be more productive at work. Today let’s do a deep dive into the habits that, if you set them up, will not only make you more productive at work but maybe even help you feel less stressed and more satisfied with your work.

Have a morning routine. What? The first habit to be productive at work needs to hapen before you even get to work? That’s right. You have the option to get your mind, body and soul firing on all cylinders before you even get to work by incorporating a morning routine. Things like exercise, reading, journaling, praying or meditating can help you set the tone of the day and enable you to be even more productive once you’re at work.
Work day start-up and shut down rituals. Well, since we’re talking about routines, this habit is a natural next step. Michael Hyatt has coined the term, teaching that you should start your work day the same each morning so that your brain can transition to “work mode.” You should put activities in that morning ritual “container” that will set you up for the most success. That might include reviewing your to-do list or your goals. It might also include checking your email or social media account so that it’s not constantly interrupting you throughout the day.

In the same way, you might consider setting up a workday shut down ritual so that you make it easy for yourself the next morning when you start work. It also helps you to be able to tell your brain “work mode” is over which will help you ensure you have downtime when you’re off so that you can show up energized at work the next day. Some of the things you might include in your workday shut down ritual are responding to any incoming messages, emails or other notifications you received throughout the day, reviewing your calendar for the next day and even tidying your workspace.

3. Match time & tasks. Brainstorm on which part of the day you are the most energetic and productive. For some people, that may be the morning, some is in the afternoon. Next, consider your most important or challenging tasks. Finally, stack most challenging tasks in your most energetic time of day.

“If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And If it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.”

— Mark Twain

Another key tip under the time and task umbrella is to “Eat The Frog.” This concept comes from Mark Twain who said “If it's your job to eat a frog, it's best to do it first thing in the morning. And If it's your job to eat two frogs, it's best to eat the biggest one first.” The concept, explained by Brian Tracy in his book, is that you should do your biggest, most important task first in the day so that you eliminate the possibility of procrastination. It also gives you the satisfaction throughout the rest of the day of knowing you got the hardest thing over with.

Finally, give yourself time limits to accomplish certain tasks. To do this, you must first know what the outcome of each task is. That is, you must know what you need to produce. It may be a report, 10 phone calls, one graphic or training item. Next, give yourself a time limit. Be realistic but not over generous here. Finally, sit down knowing the end result and the time limit you’ve allotted and get it done! You might have to have a conversation with yourself about doing B+ work but getting it DONE rather than being a perfectionist about the work which tends to lead to procrastination according to Life Coach Brooke Castillo.

Once you’ve done all these things, it’ll be easy to get into the next habit of scheduling your to do list. If you have specific to do list items or tasks, put them in your calendar or planner next to the time you’re actually going to have availability to get them done. Many times we put more things on our to do list than we have time in the day. Setting aside time to get specific tasks done will make you much more productive than hoping to find time throughout the day. It will also help you to be more realistic about what you can actually accomplish in a day.

4. Don’t multitask. Multitasking seriously drains your productivity. Interestingly, multitasking is a myth. Your brain cannot actually do two things at once. Instead, it has to switch back and forth between tasks. In fact, the proper term might be “multi-switching” according to one author. Multitasking can make you up to 40 percent less productive according to researchers because your brain has to go through the process of “goal shifting” and “rule activation” before it can actually bring the new task. Basically, your brain has to completely reset itself every time you switch tasks, which makes you lose momentum.

5. Turn off distractions. If multitasking doesn’t work and decreases productivity, then it must be true that turning off distractions will help you. Distractions include anything that requires you have to refocus on your task. This typically includes anything on your phone, office chatter or noise and maybe even music. While you may not be able to put your phone completely away, there are certain settings that can allow only important notifications to come through. You can also pick certain tasks that require the most focus to put your phone in airplane mode or lock in a drawer until you finish. Likewise, you may be able to close your office door or put on white noise headphones if necessary. Finally, if you like working with background music on, pick music that helps you focus and doesn’t distract you.

6. Build in buffer time. Scheduling your day jam-packed full of tasks, meetings and other activities will eventually wear on your productivity, energy, mood and pretty much everything else. So, build in buffer time where you can take a break and go for a quick walk or grab a cup of coffee. Buffer time also helps you in the case that one of your tasks or meetings runs over the time you allotted.