The topic of habits came up repeatedly with clients last week.
We can all agree that bad habits can be tough to break, but we also need to recognize that good habits may be tough to establish, requiring consistent time and energy and intention. Research says that a new habit needs 3 weeks of adherence before it is likely to stick.
Yet, to get and stay organized, we need to make those Good Habits stick.
We set out with the best intentions to get organized. We analyze our process, spend hours purging clutter, buy the right containers, and organize our lives and brains and homes. But if we don’t create habits around maintaining that organization, we’ve wasted a lot of energy, time and money.
Ooh, ouch. Re-reading that last statement, I hope it doesn’t sound too harsh. It is true, though, friends, harsh or not.
I recognize that the rush that accompanies a big success or a finished project is difficult to maintain for the long term. And so we have to rely on other forms of motivation to keep us on the path to Good and Organized Habits. What can we do about this?
Use technology.
If I wanted to add home organizing tasks to the App, I could add habits like Take out the Recycling, Change the Bedding, Pay the Bills, etc. to the list, too., with dates and reminders attached.
You’re never too grown-up for a gold star.
A client, a retired educator, uses a star chart just like a student might, to track progress on good habits and keep her motivated to keep up the good work. A star for each day a certain task is completed, and a full week of stars on the chart earns a prize for the weekend (Special outing with a friend, fresh flowers for her home, perhaps a special snack or prize?). This tried and true motivator works for kids AND adults!
Use reminders that play to your strengths.
Some of us learn by saying things out loud, too. If this describes you or a family member, try describing your habits to others, or creating a mantra or single sentence to repeat to yourself to help you focus on your good habits.
Good Habits may take time and energy to create, but having them and sticking with them will serve you well for years to come. Find ways to make those Good Habits stick!