Cluttered Mess to Organized Success Workbook summary

Recognizing your goals is the first step in acknowledging that your life is in desperate need of organization. We all have goals, but we don’t always know how to approach them. It may seem overwhelming and time-consuming to set these goals – but it doesn’t have to be. You might not even realize it, but you probably set little goals every day. These could include deciding to get out of bed as soon as your morning alarm goes off, or eating a healthy breakfast.

To start setting goals, first identify the big ones – your dreams. Once you’ve done that, you can start breaking them down into easier, more manageable goals. It’s important to write them down. Simply making note of it in your head is likely why your current organizational efforts aren’t too successful. Writing down your goals instantly gives you the motivation to complete them. You will feel more accomplished and will be motivated to keep moving forward.

After you’ve written down your goals, create a timeline that details when you would like to complete them. Don’t be too ambitious (or too hard on yourself) at this stage. Make these goals attainable and realistic. What are the steps you need to take in order to meet this goal? Be sure to write those down too!

Once you’ve done that, you have a plan of action. Now, let’s walk through an example.

What’s your dream? Is it to become an organized stay-at-home parent? Is your dream to spend more quality time with your family? Maybe your dream is to be an executive chef. No matter what your dream is, the concept of goal-setting stays the same. It starts with this main, overarching goal.

Next, you determine the steps that are necessary to get there. Say you want a more organized kitchen. How can you do that? For one, maybe you need more storage. This might require you to buy some containers for your pantry, so you can organize your collection of cereals or spices.

Another step to an organized kitchen would be to organize your cupboards. Maybe you already have cupboards dedicated to specific items: one for cups and glasses, one for plates and bowls, and one for Tupperware. If so, great! The next step would be to get rid of anything you don’t need. Decluttering is an essential part of becoming an organized individual.

In making a detailed list of steps, you’re creating a full plan to complete your goals. Remember: not everything has to be perfect right away. Pat yourself on the back for each little step you complete along the way.