I read an interesting article the other day. It gave ideas that are used by really organized people. (i.e., How to keep from going crazy.) I have let my organization slide a little this summer so I thought I could use a refresher course. I checked the Internet and it said it takes 21 days to form a new habit….that means if we focus the kids and I can implement these ideas and make them habits before school starts the end of August.
1 Make your bed every day: If you make a habit to do this you will have accomplished one good thing a day. Besides your room just seems tidier with a made bed. It looks like somebody cared.
2 Write things down: I now have a pen and paper everywhere. In my purse, in my car, next to my computer, in my room and anywhere I might need to jot down an idea or information.
3 Manage your money: Try to minimalize your spending. See how many days you can go without spending a dime. If you are an online shopper, try using the wish list….if you still want and or need something buy it on payday.
4 Choose gratitude: Use that pen and paper to write three things you are thankful for each and every day. When you are in the middle of a bad day re-read your lists and realize just how lucky you are.
5 Drink, drink, drink: I don’t mean the hard stuff, fresh water is your best bet. I know so many people who suffer from headaches and stomach issues yet they never drink a glass of water. (For the record, pop is not water.) All your body wants is to get back what it has lost through dehydration. We are, after all, made up of more than 50 percent water. A toast to water. Cheers!
6 Plan your day: Make a “to do” list for the day. Start fresh in the morning deciding the top priorities for the day. Check them off one by one and move them to the next day if need be. Also keep a list of projects that can be done when you have some free time. I have a “honey do” list that I keep for my Dad so when he visits we can check them all off one by one.
7 Get up early: Studies show that early risers accomplish more than those who hug the bed until the last minute. Just 15 extra minutes in the morning can help you feel less rushed and less “crazy.”
8 Go to bed early: Plan eight hours a night just for sleep. That doesn’t mean going to bed with the TV on or curled up with your Kindle…the eight hours starts when all devices are shut off and you are falling asleep.
9 Tidy up: Make two rules…don’t go to bed with dishes in the sink or laundry in the washing machine. ‘Nuf said.
10 Get moving: Spend at least 20 minutes a day outside. A quick walk, a tour of the garden or tossing the ball around for the dog. Even in the worst of weather, fresh air is better than house air. Deep breaths….this will clear your head.
Hope this helps you with your crazy summer!
Taste of Home columnist Sandy (Anderson) Holthaus lives on a farm in South Haven, MN with her husband, Michael, and their children Zoe, Jack and Ben. Her heart remains on the North Shore where she grew up with her parents, Art and LaVonne Anderson of Schroeder. She enjoys writing about her childhood and mixes memories with delicious helpings of home-style recipes.
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