Well now in 2008 it will be the last time on the list. Why? Because there's something new in the world of Getting Organized
A plethora of personal organization software and strategies have risen recently across the Internet that point the way to modern day efficiency systems that go way beyond standard 'get organized' techniques.
Did you know that the top 10 list of new years resolutions includes 'getting organized' every single year? I'm sure it will be the same in 2009 and 2010, because no one ever seems to actually accomplish it to their satisfaction.
Well here's something new. In 2007 I surprised my professional organizer clients with the notion that they should not aim to get organized at all, but rather should aim to 'be efficient' instead.
In 2007 I published a New Years Kick-Start Guide which delved deep into the process of setting new years resolutions in a very sophisticated yet simple to follow step by step system. The main steps were:
1. Decide on your big ideal vision. 2. Detox your self of negative feelings, and experiences in life. 3. Set realistic milestones. 4. Review potential obstacles. 5. Create an implementation plan.
The worse possible thing to do is simply writing 'get organized' on a piece of paper along with 9 fabulous other dreams. You absolutely must break each one down into it's own project, with milestones, outcomes, obstacles to overcome, and action steps.
Through those steps you can achieve success with New Years Resolutions in 2008. Replace 'getting organized' with 'be efficient'.
The reason? Because getting organized is impossible in today's society of busy lifestyles. Face facts, there will always be more to do than you can possibly manage.
So rather than be neat and tidy and get a very limited amount done, the far more practical approach to getting organized is only to get organized enough that you can get a whole ton of stuff done that is satisfying, and leave the rest go to hell.
Being efficient will allow you to succeed. A much better approach to succeeding with new years resolutions in 2008.
