While there are many downfalls living with Anxiety and OCD tendencies, it also presents a few benefits when it comes to organising. Here are a few of my secrets to help keep on top of things and live my best life:
Scheduling is so important. Always set aside time for loves ones, even if its just a lazy Saturday at home with the husband, make sure to book out that slot. Always set alarms or reminders for important tasks and don’t ignore it. Keep an electronic calendar and book EVERYTHING- nothing is worse then double booking or even forgetting about an event.
Keep a Diary . Block out your time in each day to ensure you accomplish your tasks. Always keep this handy if you need to jot down some last minute thoughts, especially the ones you get just before you fall asleep and usually ends up keeping you awake.
Always plan ahead. To avoid last minute madness, planning for future events, well in advance, is always a great idea. Purchase those birthday, baby shower or Christmas gifts well before the time, to ensure you are sorted when that day comes. No stress no fuss.
Having a clean environment should always be at the top of your list. Setting a small amount of time aside each day to clean in little bursts, really makes a difference and is great for your over all health. Wiping your counter after you have cooked, and packing the dirty dishes in the dishwasher or sink straight away, not only creates a clean environment, but also eliminates mold or unwanted critters. Investing in reed diffuses, organic scented candles or air purifiers for a fresh clean smell around the home, not only promotes clean living, but also creates a calming environment.
Take care of your consumables. Creating weekly menus and accounting for your meals avoid unnecessary waste. Bulk buying fruit and vegetables might be good for the pocket, but go bad rather quickly if unchecked. Should you bulk buy, pre-cut and freeze extra fruit and veg for use next time. Why not start composting? Organic waste like vegetable peals, coffee grind and egg shells can be stored in a container right in your kitchen for easy access, and moved to your compost bin once a week.
Set aside your finances and work out a budget. One of the most important things anyone can do is making your money work for you. Setting up insurance for your cars and home, ensuring you have access to medical aid services, and putting money into a retirement fund as soon as possible, is ideal for long term security and is the best investment you can make. Track your income and spending patterns so that you are able to put finances aside for these things. Should you have some extra income, opening a savings account/ emergency fund is also great for your piece of mind.
Enjoy some leisure time. Set aside time at least once a week for that Netflix show, Youtube channel or your favourite hobby. Not only does this bring you joy, it will also re-set your mind and spirit. Like recharging your batteries, shutting off and doing something that brings you ease and enjoyment, will build your strength to tackle the week ahead.
Lastly communication. Staying in touch with your significant other is crucial to a happy life and healthy relationship. Checking in or sharing a funny picture, will let them know you are thinking of them. Always talk through your thoughts and feelings and ensure to debrief with each other at the end of every day (Talking about your day and laying out your frustrations is also great for you). Your bond will grow stronger and will continue to build your trust and affection for one another. Being open is sometimes difficult, but holding resentment or anger for days at a time, is destructive to any relationship. It might not come easy at first, but by putting in a conscious effort everyday, soon it will become second nature for both parties. Maintaining constant communication and transparency will make tackling life together a breeze.
I have found that by implementing the above strategies, i avoid allot of unnecessary stress, minimise my waste, have a cleaner peaceful home, spend my time efficiently and feel confident in my life and relationships.
Till next time…
Life Stuff with Tania Snyman 