I need a fresh start. Where do I begin? It’s true. We know we need to start fresh, but the concept of starting paralyzes us so much that we never begin.
Getting started is often times the hardest part. Did you know that people with perfectionist personalities often have the hardest time getting started? You may think they should be the most likely people to be organized, but often they are the ones who fear they wont do it right, so they rather not start at all. They are paralyzed by their need for perfection.
Whether you are a perfectionist or other enthusiast, and struggle to get started, now is your time! Now is the time for all of us!
What’s getting in your way?
Honestly, you are probably the one getting in your own way. Stop over thinking and making lists and plans to start. Just start. Back in my school days, when I would be stuck on a school assignment, my mom would always say, “Just start! You can always go back and change it, but get started.” These simple and wise words reign true in so many areas of my life.
What do you want to accomplish?
Deciding what you want to accomplish is important. You don’t need to know how to get there, but you do need to know the overall result you desire. Be specific so it’s manageable: A better morning routine. To get more rest. To keep the counter clear. To have a place for the kids school work. To improve communication with the family. What is it you want to accomplish?
When do you want to accomplish it by?
If it’s not time sensitive, then make it time sensitive. Set a date, put it on the calendar to see, or tell a friend for accountability. When we have deadlines we are more apt to make progress and move forward. Give yourself time to get it done (but not too much!). Once you know the end destination and timeline, break it down into bite size pieces with smaller deadlines so you have practical ways of meeting your goal.
How realistic is your goal to a fresh start?
If you want to overhaul the whole house, have a new routine, lose weight, and learn a new language, that’s really admirable, but very overwhelming! Take one thing at a time and break it into a doable goal. For example, instead of organize the house. Re-phrase it to be more specific. Create functional flow in the mudroom or purge the kitchen cupboards. That is a task that is clear and gives you direction and it’s clear what it means to have the task completed. Once that is done, you can move onto the next goal or room. One area at a time.
Are you being true to yourself and your values?
We can easily jump on the bandwagon of new order, clothes, diets, and styles because that’s what media is telling us to do. Take a good inventory of what will bring joy to your life and set goals that will move you towards that joy. Our values are a good indicator of what is off kilter in our lives.
When are you going to realistically start? I’d say, just get started!
Need help getting started? Contact Michelle, Organizer + Coach to be your guide. Let’s make life easier, together!
