Many of us begin our day feeling rushed and stressed- feelings that persist throughout our busy days. Being better organized, prioritizing, and just taking care of yourself can lead to a more successful and focused day. Here are nine easy steps to reducing stress, improving your mood, and feel more organized:
- Prepare your things the night before: Decide what you are going to wear, make your lunch, and pack a snack. By taking a few minutes to plan ahead, you can start your day less rushed and stressed. Having a routine for basic tasks, leaves margin for more creative thinking in other areas.
- Make a list of things you need to do and prioritize them. Do your most important tasks first every day and get them over with. “Eat that Frog” by Brian Tracy is an excellent book on this subject.
- Learn to say “no”. Acknowledge that you can’t do everything. When you say yes to everyone, you will leave yourself trapped with little time. By saying no, you will have more time to focus on your top priorities and obligations.
- Make your bed every morning. Not only can making your bed create a calm environment, it can help you start the day feeling productive and organized.
- Wake up 15 minutes earlier. Give yourself time to make a good breakfast or take a longer shower, reflect, etc.
- Listen to music that makes you happy. Music can not only boost your mood, but also reduce stress and help lower your blood pressure.
- Turn off your electronics for at least an hour or two a day in the evenings. You may also consider using the “Do Not Disturb” setting so you can check emails and texts at your leisure, rather than feeling as if you must address every notification that comes through your devices.
- Organize and declutter your desk- at least the surface. Clear random papers cluttering your work space to help increase focus and concentration.
- Do something nice for others. Whether you hold the door for someone or offer a sincere compliment, you can boost you own mood by boosting the mood of others.
“What you do today can improve all your tomorrows” –Anonymous