Gaining Control by Terry J. Coyier

Do you feel overwhelmed by responsibilities and tasks that seem to be out of your control? Does your mind reel when you think of all the things you need to complete in a day, a week, or a month? Is your mind constantly spinning, trying to keep track of everything that you feel you cannot possibly start, no less finish?

There is a solution. It's time to get organized. I used a day planner for fifteen years to keep myself organized and my mind clear of everyday nuisances. You don't have to go out and purchase an expensive day planner, though they are extremely helpful, you can simply purchase an inexpensive calendar or even a notebook that will fit into your purse easily. Once you do this follow these easy steps to alleviate the stress of trying to keep everything in your head.

Step 1

You need to divide the tasks that need to be completed by dates. Items that need to be completed on a daily basis need to be addressed first. List them out. Then, once they're all listed, go back and prioritize them into what must absolutely be completed and what you would like to complete. Put the letter A next to the absolute items and a B next to the rest. Now your day is organized and you can work your way through all of your A items first, then if time allows, work on your B items. Any tasks not finished at the end of the day should be moved forward to the next day. I always organized my day the night before. This way I knew what was in store.

Step 2

Using your calendar or a separate section in your notebook, list out the tasks that need to be completed within the next week or month. Again, prioritize these items into an A and B section. Next, fit these items into your daily task list a little at a time. You can do this each night as you plan your day ahead. If needed, break these larger tasks down into sections to fit them into your daily schedule.

Step 3

Sit back and relax. You've now prioritized all of those things that kept your mind spinning. Now that they're all down on paper you free you mind to think about other things. You should keep your list with you at all times so that you can refer to it on a regular basis. Also, as you complete your tasks and line them off, you are rewarded with a feeling of accomplishment that will encourage you to keep plugging on.

Don't let piles of work and responsibilities keep you from being productive because you can't get a handle on them. Make your list, fill in your calendar and gain back the control over your life. You'll never feel better than you do when you've crossed off those items on your list!

About The Author

Terry J. Coyier is a freelance writer who writes about a variety of self-help topics. She lives with her son in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex. Terry is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Writers and her personal portfolio can be viewed at http://terryjroo.writing.com