Bite-Size To-Do'sLots happening between now and Cousin Freddy’s high school graduation in June? Don’t let panic ensue! Instead, take some time to transform those upcoming to dos into bite-size, manageable pieces. This will free up time so you can smell the spring flowers, encourage your expressions of  logistical bliss, and help you take care of the responsibilities on your plate. Today consider adopting one, some, or all of the following steps and turn that mountain of to dos into manageable experiences:

1. With your to do list in-hand, prioritize action items into three categories: Immediate, In The Next Two Months, and Future.

Be choosy as you prioritize things. Of course, the work project that’s due tonight and the muffins you’re making for tomorrow’s bake sale fall into the “Immediate” category. Buying that graduation gift for Cousin Freddy should happen within the next two months. But does cleaning the garage have to happen this week? Next month? Only you can answer these questions. Be patient, logical, and realistic as you ascertain what needs to happen – and when.

2. Now, take five minutes to scroll through your electronic calendar. Take into account when you’re free and consider assigning larger scale projects to a few specific dates. That will help you carve out doable deadlines – windows of time in which you can joyfully and effectively finish these tasks. This will also keep said tasks from hanging over your head, helping you embrace a greater sense of peace in your daily experiences.

3. Going forward, continue prioritizing your to dos on a regular basis. Allow action items and time frames to change as needed, reflective of your current adventures. In doing this, you’ll be able to capitalize on organization motivation. And if that weren’t great enough, the peace and sense of organizational bliss that ensues will further encourage you to complete the to dos on your radar in a time frame that works well for you.

After all, an organized life isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being peaceful.

* Photo by Jonathan Eggers