We’ve all heard the saying “All work and no play make Jack a dull boy.”  But even Jack knew that there was a time for play, and that was after the work was done! When you are faced with a never ending to-do list, you can get overwhelmed and have little desire to get the tasks done.

But there are ways to combat those feelings and get it done! By setting priorities and goals, especially when it comes those dreaded household chores, you’ll find that you can get your tasks done quickly and efficiently. This will leave Jack (or Jill) with plenty of time to play!

Write down all the things that need to be done in order of their importance. The greater the importance of the task, the higher it goes on the list. Put your distractions in their place, which is at the very bottom of the list, after all your chores have been successfully completed.

Don’t look at a big task as a big task.  This can be completely overwhelming! Instead break up your tasks into smaller more manageable segments.  Commit to completing your list a segment at a time. Pretty soon you’ll have crossed-off one large project effectively and efficiently completed.  This works especially well to tackle the chores we’re dreading the most, like cleaning the bathrooms.  We can easily handle an unpleasant task if we know it’s for a short time and in small doses.

Have all your materials and supplies ready before you begin. Use a daily schedule, like the Daily Cleaning Checklists, and have them with you at all the times. If needed, post reminders to yourself in conspicuous spots, and commit to others verbally that you’ll complete the project.  But most importantly, commit to yourself that you’ll complete the project!

Celebrate, pat yourself on the back, smile, and let yourself enjoy the completion of even the smallest of tasks. Don’t minimize your efforts; recognize even the smallest accomplishment.  

By following the simple steps above, you will be crossing off your to-dos on your list! Making a dedicated commitment to meet your goals will not only will you have reduced stress level but also gives you plenty of free time to pursue the things you want to do.

Need some help getting ready for the holidays?  30 Days to Christmas: Procrastinator’s Edition is a guide to making the most of the holiday season with a daily countdown including checklists and printable worksheets.  Find out more here.