Do Not Resolve to “Get Organized” This Year

Organizing my Seed Stash

Organizing my Seed Stash (Photo credit: Chiot’s Run)

Happy New Year! I love the way a new year feels like a fresh start and a chance to try new things. I’ve written about throwing away your resolutions and instead turning them into goals, and I think that’s a great way to create a better and more productive and organized you in 2014!

Every year “get more organized” tops New Year’s resolutions lists and it’s a great intention but it can be overwhelming and difficult to focus on. The problem with resolving to get more organized is that it’s a vague goal that points to the negative and doesn’t give our brains something constructive to work on. What does “get more organized” mean to you? Think about it. What is the biggest pain point in your day? Focus on that. Read more

Throw Away Your New Year’s Resolution

Resolutions 2012

Resolutions 2012 (Photo credit: simplyla)

Happy New Year to all of you.  I hope 2014 brings you everything you desire!  But if you have a New Year’s Resolution — I urge you to throw it away.  Yep — that’s right.  I think there is a much better way to get organized, be healthier, become more productive etc. etc.

Get Rid of that Resolution

It Really Works

This tactic really works.  And the reason I know is because I used it last year.  I’ve been into yoga here and there but really wanted to incorporate it into my life.  So instead of resolving to “do yoga” — I made a goal for myself to “practice yoga for 10 minutes a day.”

This very specific goal turned out to be the best approach for me.  It’s not overwhelming — I’m not intimidated by 10 minutes a day like I might be to commit to an hour long class a few times a week.

So since last year — every day (ok, most days…but I don’t beat myself up if I don’t do it) I do yoga for 10 minutes in the morning.

What’s your goal for this year?

5 Ways to Remember Anything

Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I write down everything: To dos, books I want to read, groceries I need to get, websites I want to visit, gifts I want to buy, goals I’m trying to reach…I mean everything! Part of me does that so I can make the task or action a real concrete thing. Once I write something down it becomes attainable – it’s the first step of a plan to accomplish it. But the other part of me does it because I don’t want to forget it.

I rely on written list, emailed lists and lists in apps all day long to remember things. But what about when you are in a situation when you can’t write something down? You’re at the gym for instance and you have a great thought or remember something you need to do later… but there’s no pen and paper around. Or you’re taking a break from technology and don’t have your smart phone with you while you’re on vacation and inspiration hits you.
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I’m Hosting A FREE Webinar to Boost Your Productivity in 2014

I have loved sharing my favorite apps, productivity tips, and list making solutions with you at ListProducer.com over the past few years. Now, however, I think it’s time we take this relationship to the next level and meet face-to-face…so I’m hosting a free webinar!

If you want to do more in less time, the solution could be as simple as downloading the best app or making the right list. That’s why I’m here to help! Join me on Wednesday, January 15, 2014 at 8 pm ET to learn:

  • How to prioritize your lists
  • How to make the best lists for your life needs
  • Why list making is so beneficial
  • How to be more efficient day-to-day

Lists are the secret to success – join me to find out how! RSVP for free here.
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Never Be Late Again

Blue alarm clock

Blue alarm clock (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

When did it become okay for people to be late to everything? I consider being on time really important because it shows respect for others when you show that you value your time – not to mention, it’s just good manners! It seems to me like society has decided that certain situations (job interviews, movies, etc) warrant showing up exactly on time, but for everything else the time is just a guideline.

I had a close friend who was always late to everything and it drove me nuts! I would tolerate it because she was my friend but I really hated it. I think it’s inconsiderate – and it’s totally just not how I operate! If I say I’m going to call you at 11, I will call you at 11 on the dot!

If you’re someone who can never seem to do things on time, try one of these tricks: Read more