Six tips to structure unstructured time

Finding time to do a little organizing around the house can be difficult. We will explore ways to use your unstructured time (when you have no planned activities). We will discover how to make the most of free time and get things done around the house.

Unstructured time might be earmarked for organizing, but without a plan, you have to make decisions on the spot. This can make it harder to accomplish your organizing goals.

1. Pick times to organize. Get out your day planner and figure out when you can make time to go through a closet or work on another organizing activity. Even if you only might have 15 minutes, you can do a quick cleaning of your medicine cabinet, go through the fridge and take out food that is expired or other small organizing tasks. Larger chunks of time are reserved for bigger projects.
2. Keep it real. Be careful not to cram too many activities in a small amount of time. Know how much time you have, how long your organizing chores will last and plan accordingly. If you are not sure about how long it will take, give yourself a little more time than what you think you will need. You will feel wonderful if you finish ahead of schedule.
3. Set reminders. Cell phones have a lot of great features. You can set a reminder for your organizing tasks. No smart phone? No problem! Sticky notes placed in critical locations (bathroom mirror, back of the front door, refrigerator, etc.) can do the job just as well.
4. Distractions are time killers. Turn off the television, and don’t answer the phone. Many cell phones have a setting for incoming calls. You can set it so a text message goes to the caller saying you will call them back when you are available. The person knows you saw that they called and understands you will return the call when you can.
5. Prioritize your tasks. Create an action list of what needs to be done and decide what should happen first. The organizing should be done logically. Getting to clutter that is in the way is more important than organizing the contents of a closed cabinet.
6. Admit when you need help. Not everyone has the ability to organize effectively. There is no shame in asking for assistance. When you hire a professional organizer, that person can help you make the tough decisions on what you should keep, figure out what to sell or donate and what should be trashed. Professional organizers are experts on making the most of available time.

Stick to these simple rules and you will figure out a way to structure your unstructured time in a way that works for you. You will find it is easier to focus and achieve your goals when your home is organized.