15 Minute Tasks that Keep You Organized
Would you be surprised to know that in just 15 minutes you can make a difference in your organizing? It is true! There are many small tasks that can make it easy for us to maintain systems and processes that we have established. Check out these small ways to make a big difference.
Put away items you purchased
Busy lives have a lot of items coming in. These come from Amazon subscriptions and routines purchases, as well as projects and upcoming events. Take 15 minutes to put away what you have purchased and consolidate the items. Counters and floors stay clear and your home stays organized.
Try on items you purchased
You run to the store for that one item to complete an outfit. Maybe you purchased more exercise clothes to add new tops and bottoms. It was easier to try on at home, you thought, than in the store. Try these on within the week of purchase to return and credit back your extra purchases.
Return items you purchased by mail
It is easy to over purchase items online. You might have purchased multiple sizes or styles or a variety of the same item. Order using one email account and print the return slip within a week of purchase. As you might already know, Amazon has a 30 day return policy. This way you don’t accidentally “own” more than you need of any item.
Drop off items and make returns frequently
With my planner pad, I look at the week ahead to see where I can drop off items when I am in the vicinity. During your weekly planning, check ahead to group your errands and drop offs. If you have noticed, there are more drop off bins for donations than ever. Drop off at one of these you pass with just a 15 minute stop.
Consolidate items you purchased
We are preppers! With all the uncertainty, all of us are purchasing ahead. Consolidate what you purchase and rotate your “stock” to be sure it is all kept together to know what you have.
Review your calendar at night
A quick review of your calendar for the night before makes your next day more predictable and you are prepared for what is ahead.
Check your calendar in the morning
It might seem redundant to check at night and in the morning. However, it is about being prepared. Overnight you might have remembered something to add to your calendar or thought about an extra task. Checking your planner twice a day makes for your best work.
Keep a master list of tasks, errands and projects
I advocate to write stuff down either digitally or on paper. Keeping your master list clears your mind. Not everything can be done on the list, however you are keeping your thoughts for deep thinking. It saves your working memory from being over taxed.
This list of 15 minute tasks is just the beginning of small ways to stay organized. Choose one or more to keep you organized and productive.
I just found out at a MOPS party last night that Whole Foods accepts Amazon returns. I also know that Kohl’s does. These places are making it more and more convenient to make those returns so we don’t “end up owning” something we don’t want. This is a great topic – thanks for sharing!
I’m always amazed how much can be accomplished in 15 minutes. Much of what you describe has to do with what I refer to as ‘full circle thinking.’ It’s the completion of a task. As you described, putting the purchased items away or returning a non-keeper online purchase before the return warranty expires. Doing small things regularly keeps life flowing more smoothly.
I like to check my calendar and to-do list multiple times throughout the day in addition to the start and end of the day. I like to end the day with a clear to-do list. If there are tasks I wasn’t able to complete, I shift them to another day.
@Linda – I love the idea of full circle thinking. It’s the last step in the process of completion. Thank you for sharing!
@Seana – finding the easiest way to get a task done makes life better! I did not know that and will share that with clients too.