Tips for Staying Organized When Things Get Messy

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Hi, Ken Lear here.

Sometimes work gets so busy that we forget to stay organized. Desks get messy, calendars aren’t updated, and suddenly we feel out of sync. One of the easiest ways to deal with stress when things get messy is by staying organized. Next time you are in a pinch, try these tips to stay organized and get things back to normal:

Don’t Multi-Task

When things get hectic, it’s best to just focus on one thing. Multi-tasking can feel useful and efficient, but when things are busy, it’s better to narrow your focus. Make a list of everything that needs to be done, prioritize it, and do it in that order.

Clean Up Your Space

A messy desk or office isn’t the best work environment when things are stressful. Put things away, clean up any dishes, and make your space workable.

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Update Your Calendar

When things get busy, it is easy to forget about small tasks or meetings. Keep a calendar (online or a print version) that lists out when projects and deliverables are due, what time you have meetings, and any other items you need to remember. That way, you’ll always know how your day will go.

Delegate

You never know until you ask. See if any co-workers have some extra time or would like to do a project that you don’t have time for. It is hard to stay organized when there is simply too much to do; delegation is key to staying sane especially if you’re a manager.

Be Realistic

Don’t pretend something can get done that really can’t. Be realistic about your tasks by setting realistic goals about what you can control and what you need to stop worrying about. If there’s a deadline you know you can’t currently meet, talk to your supervisor or coworkers to figure out a way that you can make things work.