Even the smallest of decisions can add up and make a big difference. Often the most difficult thing about feeling disorganized is that sense of being overwhelmed by our stuff, our space, our time.

This is when it is important to realize that progress begins with one little step, one small decision.  And when you make that one decision, it is equally, if not more important to reward yourself.  Why are rewards important?  Because that decision you make, although it may seem easy or insignificant to someone else, may not have been something you’ve been able to do in the past… and that makes it significant to you.

It can be as small as actually filing a folder away, rather than leaving it on your desk; spending 3 minutes sorting through your mail when you first get home, instead of tossing it onto the counter where it will be ignored; placing your keys on the hook, instead of leaving them in your coat pocket where they will have to be searched for later; putting a mug into the dishwasher now, rather than leaving it in the sink all week or even that you finally made that phone call to schedule an appointment that you’ve been putting off all month.

All of these are decisions that you make to change your habits.  Small decisions lead to big changes.  They are significant, and you should reward yourself.  Give yourself a pat on the back, smile and tell yourself “good job”.  Give yourself permission to take a 20 minute break, make some tea and just relax.  Make a deal with yourself that if you make one small decision each day for a week and act on them, you will schedule that manicure or massage, and know that it was well-deserved.  Now that sounds good, doesn’t it? Reward yourself, keep yourself motivated.  You deserve it.

Need a Little Extra Motivation?

“Dreaming is wonderful, Goal Setting is crucial, but Action is supreme. To make something great happen you must get busy and Make It Happen. Take that action step Today that will put you on your path to Achievement.” – Greg Werner

“Make each day count by setting specific goals to succeed, then putting forth every effort to exceed your own expectations.” – Les Brown

“Success is steady progress toward one’s personal goals.” – Jim Rohn

Image: Unsplash

Revised and edited from the original article written by Chandra Manibog, one of Living Peace Professional Organizing’s Alumni