7 Ways to Keep Your Life in Order ...

1. Lists

There are so many ways to keep your life in order, but I usually have to start with a list. List everything you need to do and even want to do, and discover which list style works best for you! I like to use an app on my phone for everything, a To Do list in my email inbox and handwritten lists when running errands. Each list serves a purpose: general ideas and to-do's, wishlists and wants, tasks for work or purchases to make. Make sure to have a way to 'check-off' or 'cross-out' items on your lists — or toss the list completely! It's gratifying!

2. Routine

Do you tend to make routine purchases? Use an online ordering system or remind yourself to walk by those aisles at the store each time you go in. It's the worst to forget something like cat food or paper towels when you were just at the market. If you get a general idea of these 'necessities' listed in your memory, you most likely won't forget to mentally check on your stock when shopping. I even like to do a "walk through" my house to make sure I have everything I need! This keeps your home functioning without much effort!

3. Reminders

We can't remember everything! Make a reminder system for yourself as a safeguard. You can integrate this with your lists, or do it separately. These days, there are ways to set reminders via text, phone and email. Or, leave notes on your door or in your purse. Start by reminding yourself of everything and anything you typically forget. I also like also set reminders whenever I know I'll be super busy or rushing around. You may need to rely more on reminders as you use them, and that's okay!

4. Think Ahead

Thinking ahead is a habit. If you always spend too much time picking an outfit or making lunch, do it the night before. Find which things take the most of your time, and which most help you become more efficient. Then, make a process and stick to it! You'll soon get into the habit of thinking ahead about a lot of things.

5. Calendar

Keep a digital calendar or written planner. It's so much easier to schedule around already filled-in dates. This always frees space in your mind: you will no longer have to remember events and important dates... just check your calendar! With a planner, you can also schedule in important time that we often miss: me-time, meditation time or a chance to take a run!

6. Steps

If you've got a big project or goal in the near future, break it up into steps. What can you do now to get started? Even brainstorming weeks before may help! Or purchase the items you'll need to begin. Think in terms of steps and final goals, and the chance that something big upsets your life will lessen! Use lists, notes, a folder or binder to keep all of your initial thoughts organized.

7. Do It

So you can plan and plan, but you also just have to do it! I like to make myself get to my 'To-Do's first thing on my free days. If I get through a few things on my list with my morning coffee, I already feel accomplished and with a freed mind. This sets the groundwork for a better day! Things you need to get done to keep your life in order can start to weigh down on you, so it's important to also have a plan for tackling these points!

There are many methods and ways to keep your life in order! Try some of the ideas and see if your life runs even smoother! What other tips and tricks work for you?