For most of my adult life I’ve been an overthinker. I’ll blame it on my perfectionist Mum. I’m always weighing up the pros and cons of things, the smartest option, the best way to use my time . Thinking in this way for everything that I do can be exhausting.
I’ve created lots of routines and systems for getting the everyday stuff done to cut down on the daily decisions that need to be made. The checklists and preparations I make for my family are a big part of why I became a professional organiser. I love to help others take control of their day. I find that if you’re in control of your day, it’s much easier to be in control of your stuff too.
If you’re someone that overthinks things too much or you can’t get started on tasks on your to-do list, some of the things I do at home may be helpful to you.
Morning and afternoon routine
My alarm goes off each weekday morning at 5.40am. I jump out of bed and go for a run 3 days a week and walk with a neighbour twice a week. This is not negotiable, which means this is one less decision I have to make. The kids get up at 6.30 so we have plenty of time to get ready for school. They have a list of jobs to do each morning and each afternoon after school. On that note, we have made the deliberate choice for our kids only do one after school activity each for each term to make our weeks manageable. Homework, dinner, reading and then I’m in bed by 9.30. See how to create a morning and afternoon routine here.
The week ahead
I’ve talked about this a lot in a number of blogs. I just find it so important to make time and sit down to have a look at what’s coming up in the week ahead. Making plans in advance stops the rushing around at the last minute. For example the day before going to a meeting, make time to gather the information you need to take with you. Check out how long it’s going to take you to get to the appointment so you know what time you need to walk out the door. Don’t underestimate amount of time it takes to get out to the car (especially it the whole family is going with you ). If you need to leave home at 10:30 for an appointment everyone needs to be heading to the car at about 10:20.
A daily review
Another thing that I’ve started to do recently is a daily review. There are two parts to this. Firstly it’s a practice of gratitude for all the wonderful things that are happening in my life. Secondly as I quietly sit and look back at the day, I mentally check that I’ve done all the things that I said I was going to do during the day. I’m surprised how much comes to mind when I think back over the day. I’ve just been really enjoying this display of gratitude for my day and as a way of bringing closure to the day.
Try the routines and systems above as a way of overcoming anxiety, overwhelm and procrastination.
If you find you need some help putting some of these things into place in your home contact me – info@spaceandtime.com.au or check out my Time Management services here.