10 Tips on How to Be a More Organized Person

Getting organized can feel like an impossible goal, especially when clutter and chaos seem to multiply overnight. Yet, studies show that consistent routines can cut stress by up to 40 percent and boost productivity dramatically. Most people assume organization is about buying fancy bins or downloading the latest productivity app, but the real secret comes down to understanding your habits and making small, targeted changes you can actually stick with.

Understand Your Current Organization Habits
Set Clear Goals For Organization
Declutter Your Physical And Digital Spaces
Create A Daily Schedule And Stick To It
Use Organizational Tools And Apps
Prioritize Tasks With A To-Do List
Break Down Large Projects Into Smaller Steps
Set Regular Review Sessions For Progress
Develop Routines For Consistency
Seek Support And Accountability From Others

Quick Summary

Takeaway	Explanation
Understand your organization habits first	Track daily routines to identify clutter and stress triggers for effective improvement.
Set clear, realistic goals	Break down your organization objectives into specific, manageable tasks to ensure measurable progress.
Regularly declutter physical and digital spaces	Tackle clutter methodically in both environments to reduce stress and enhance focus.
Create and maintain a daily schedule	Use scheduling to allocate your energy effectively and minimize decision fatigue.
Seek support and accountability	Involve others in your organizational journey to boost motivation and share insights.

1: Understand Your Current Organization Habits

Becoming a more organized person starts with honest self-reflection about your current habits. Most people struggle with organization not because they lack willpower, but because they haven’t taken the time to understand their unique patterns and challenges.

To begin your organization journey, you need to track and analyze your daily routines. Spend a week observing how you currently manage tasks, space, and time. Take notes about your specific behaviors. Where do things tend to get messy? When do you feel most scattered or overwhelmed?

Key areas to examine include:

Personal workspace clutter
Time management challenges
Recurring disorganization patterns
Stress triggers related to disorder

According to Psychology Today, understanding your current habits is critical because organization is deeply connected to personal psychology. Your existing patterns aren’t random—they’re often rooted in comfort, past experiences, and learned behaviors.

Consider creating a simple daily log to document your current organizational struggles. What tasks consistently slip through the cracks? Where do you waste the most time searching for misplaced items? This self-awareness becomes your roadmap for targeted improvement.

Remember, organization is a skill you can develop, not an innate talent. By first recognizing your current habits without judgment, you create a foundation for meaningful change. Your goal isn’t perfection but progressive improvement that makes your life smoother and less stressful.

2: Set Clear Goals for Organization

Once you understand your current organizational patterns, the next critical step is setting clear and realistic goals. Without specific targets, your efforts to become more organized will remain vague and ineffective.

Goal setting isn’t about creating an impossible standard of perfection. Instead, it’s about establishing measurable and achievable objectives that gradually transform your daily life. Research from Harvard Business Review shows that breaking larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks significantly increases your likelihood of success.

Consider crafting goals that are:

Specific and concrete
Timebound with clear deadlines
Realistic given your current lifestyle
Flexible enough to adapt

For example, instead of a broad goal like “get organized,” you might set a precise target such as “Spend 15 minutes each evening clearing my work desk” or “Sort through one drawer or closet each weekend.”

Your organizational goals should address multiple areas of your life. These might include:

Personal workspace management
Digital file organization
Time management strategies
Home or living space decluttering

The key is to start small and build momentum. Consistent small wins create lasting change. As you accomplish each mini-goal, you’ll develop confidence and establish new habits that naturally make you more organized.

Remember that goal setting is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Regularly review and adjust your objectives, celebrating progress and learning from challenges. Your organizational journey is about continuous improvement, not achieving a mythical state of perfect order.

3: Declutter Your Physical and Digital Spaces

Cluttered spaces drain your mental energy and create unnecessary stress. Effective decluttering transforms both your physical environment and digital landscape, creating clarity and reducing daily overwhelm.

Begin with your physical spaces. Look around your home and workspace with fresh eyes. Which areas consistently collect unnecessary items? Start small by focusing on one space at a time. This might mean clearing a desk, organizing a closet, or tackling a single drawer.

For physical decluttering, consider these strategies:

Remove items you haven’t used in the past year
Create designated spaces for frequently used items
Implement a “one in, one out” rule for new acquisitions
Use storage solutions that maximize space efficiency

Digital spaces require similar attention. According to MIT Technology Review, excessive digital clutter can significantly impact productivity and mental well-being. Clean up your digital environment by organizing files, unsubscribing from unnecessary emails, and deleting unused applications.

For those struggling with limited time, our guide on decluttering when you don’t have time offers practical strategies to make the process more manageable.

Digital decluttering tips include:

Organize computer files into clear, logical folders
Delete old emails and unsubscribe from unnecessary newsletters
Clean up smartphone apps and digital storage
Use cloud storage to reduce local file clutter

Remember that decluttering is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Schedule regular maintenance sessions to prevent future accumulation of unnecessary items in both physical and digital spaces. By consistently applying these principles, you’ll create environments that support your organizational goals and reduce daily stress.

4: Create a Daily Schedule and Stick to It

Consistent scheduling is the backbone of personal organization. Without a structured approach to your day, even the best intentions can dissolve into chaos. Creating and maintaining a daily schedule transforms how you manage time and reduces decision fatigue.

A powerful schedule isn’t about filling every minute, but about strategically allocating your energy and attention. According to Harvard Business Review, the most successful professionals understand their peak performance windows and plan accordingly.

Key elements of an effective daily schedule include:

Prioritizing most important tasks during your peak energy hours
Building in buffer time between activities
Setting realistic time estimates for each task
Including short breaks to maintain productivity

Digital tools can be incredibly helpful in maintaining your schedule. Consider using apps or digital calendars that allow you to track tasks, set reminders, and visualize your day. However, some people still prefer traditional paper planners—choose what works best for your personal style.

When creating your schedule, be honest about your habits and limitations. Don’t overschedule or create unrealistic expectations. Start with a basic framework and adjust as you learn more about your natural rhythms and productivity patterns.

Consistent scheduling tips:

Review and adjust your schedule weekly
Be flexible but committed
Track your progress and productivity
Learn from what works and what doesn’t

Remember that sticking to a schedule is a skill you develop over time. Be patient with yourself. Some days will go perfectly, others won’t—and that’s okay. The goal is progress, not perfection. Each small step toward consistent scheduling brings you closer to becoming a more organized, efficient version of yourself.

5: Use Organizational Tools and Apps

Technology offers powerful solutions for staying organized and managing complex tasks. The right tools can transform how you track projects, manage time, and maintain productivity. However, selecting the right apps requires careful consideration.

According to Productivity Research, people who strategically use digital tools are 40% more likely to achieve their organizational goals. The key is finding tools that genuinely simplify your workflow, not create additional complexity.

Consider these types of organizational tools:

Task management apps
Digital calendars
Note-taking platforms
Cloud storage systems
Time tracking applications

Digital tools work best when they align with your personal workflow. Some people prefer minimalist apps with simple interfaces, while others thrive on feature-rich platforms that offer detailed analytics and tracking.

Important considerations when choosing organizational tools:

Ease of use and intuitive design
Cross-platform compatibility
Integration with other apps you regularly use
Privacy and security features

Some popular organizational apps include project management platforms like Trello, note-taking apps like Evernote, and time management tools like RescueTime. Experiment with different applications to find what suits your specific needs.

Remember that no single tool is a magic solution. Technology supports organization, but it doesn’t replace personal discipline and consistent habits. Choose tools that feel natural and motivating, not overwhelming. Start with one or two apps, master them, and gradually expand your digital organizational toolkit.

6: Prioritize Tasks with a To-Do List

Creating an effective to-do list is more than just writing down tasks – it’s about strategically organizing your priorities and managing your energy. A well-crafted to-do list becomes a powerful roadmap for daily productivity and personal organization.

According to Forbes, the most successful professionals use prioritization techniques that go beyond simple task tracking. The art of effective list-making involves understanding your most important objectives and allocating your attention accordingly.

Key strategies for creating impactful to-do lists include:

Focus on 3-5 critical tasks per day
Break larger projects into smaller, manageable steps
Assign realistic time estimates for each task
Use a method like the Eisenhower Matrix for prioritization

Consider using different methods of task prioritization. Some people prefer digital apps with complex sorting capabilities, while others find traditional pen and paper more effective. The goal is finding a system that feels natural and motivating to you.

Important to-do list principles:

Always include a mix of urgent and important tasks
Review and adjust your list daily
Celebrate completed tasks
Be flexible and kind to yourself

Remember that a to-do list is a tool, not a rigid contract. Some days won’t go exactly as planned, and that’s okay. The most important aspect is maintaining momentum and consistently moving toward your goals. Your to-do list should inspire and guide you, not create additional stress or feelings of inadequacy.

7: Break Down Large Projects into Smaller Steps

Large projects can feel overwhelming and paralyzing, causing many people to procrastinate or abandon their goals entirely. Breaking complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps transforms seemingly impossible challenges into achievable milestones.

Research from Stanford University reveals that individuals who systematically divide projects into smaller steps are 50% more likely to complete them successfully. This approach reduces psychological barriers and builds consistent momentum.

Effective strategies for breaking down projects include:

Identify the ultimate project goal
Create a reverse-engineered timeline
Estimate time required for each mini-task
Establish realistic deadlines for each step
Build in buffer time for unexpected challenges

Visualization can be a powerful tool in project management. Imagine your large project as a staircase, where each step represents a smaller, actionable task. By focusing on climbing one step at a time, the entire journey becomes less intimidating.

Consider these additional breakdown techniques:

Use project management tools for tracking
Reward yourself after completing each mini-milestone
Review and adjust your breakdown strategy regularly
Stay flexible and adapt as you progress

Remember that progress is more important than perfection. Some steps might take longer than anticipated, and that’s completely normal. The key is maintaining forward momentum and not getting discouraged by temporary setbacks. By consistently breaking down large projects into smaller, actionable steps, you’ll develop a powerful organizational skill that serves you in every aspect of life.

8: Set Regular Review Sessions for Progress

Progress isn’t a destination, it’s a continuous journey of reflection and adjustment. Regular review sessions are the compass that helps you navigate your organizational goals, ensuring you stay on track and make meaningful improvements.

According to Harvard Business Review, professionals who conduct consistent self-reviews are 35% more likely to achieve their personal and professional objectives. These sessions are not about criticism, but about understanding your patterns and celebrating your growth.

Key elements of effective review sessions include:

Scheduling dedicated time for self-reflection
Analyzing both successes and challenges
Documenting your insights and observations
Identifying areas for potential improvement
Adjusting your strategies based on your findings

Choose a review frequency that works for your lifestyle. Some people benefit from weekly check-ins, while others prefer monthly or quarterly deep-dive sessions. The most important factor is consistency and genuine self-assessment.

Consider these review session strategies:

Use a journal or digital tracking tool
Be honest and compassionate with yourself
Look for patterns in your productivity
Celebrate small wins and milestones

Remember that organizational skills are like muscles – they grow stronger with regular practice and mindful attention. Your review sessions are an opportunity to recalibrate, learn from your experiences, and continuously refine your approach to personal organization. Embrace these moments as valuable investments in your personal growth and effectiveness.

9: Develop Routines for Consistency

Routines are the secret weapon of highly organized people. They transform sporadic efforts into automatic behaviors, reducing mental energy spent on decision-making and creating a sense of predictable structure in your daily life.

Research from Psychology Today demonstrates that consistent routines can decrease stress levels by up to 40% and significantly improve overall productivity. The key is designing routines that feel natural and supportive, not restrictive.

Strategies for developing effective routines include:

Start with small, achievable habit formations
Connect new routines to existing behaviors
Track your progress consistently
Be patient with yourself during implementation
Allow flexibility for unexpected changes

Morning and evening routines can be particularly transformative. A structured start to your day sets a positive tone, while an evening wind-down routine helps you reset and prepare for restful sleep. These bookend routines create a sense of predictability and control.

Consider establishing routines for:

Daily task planning
Home maintenance
Personal hygiene
Work preparation
Mental and physical wellness

Remember that developing routines is a skill that improves with practice. Some routines will work perfectly, while others might need adjustment. The goal isn’t robotic perfection, but creating supportive structures that help you feel more balanced and in control of your life.

10: Seek Support and Accountability from Others

Becoming more organized is not a solitary journey. Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals who understand your goals can dramatically increase your chances of success. Accountability transforms personal intentions into tangible achievements.

According to American Psychological Association, people who share their goals with others and establish regular check-ins are 65% more likely to accomplish them. The power of community can turn individual efforts into collective motivation.

Ways to build organizational support include:

Join online productivity groups
Find an accountability partner
Share goals with trusted friends or family
Participate in workshops or coaching programs
Connect with like-minded individuals

Professional and personal networks offer different types of support. Some people thrive with structured accountability from colleagues, while others prefer informal check-ins with friends who understand their personal growth objectives.

Consider these accountability strategies:

Schedule regular progress discussions
Use shared tracking tools
Create mutual goal-setting sessions
Offer reciprocal support
Celebrate each other’s achievements

Remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Vulnerability in sharing your organizational challenges can lead to unexpected insights, encouragement, and collaborative problem-solving. The right support system transforms personal organization from a solo effort into a shared, inspiring journey of growth.

Below is a comprehensive table summarizing the ten key strategies and benefits discussed in the article to help you become a more organized person.

Tip Number & Focus	Core Action/Step	Key Benefit/Outcome
1. Understand Current Habits	Track routines, identify clutter and stress triggers, log specific organizational struggles	Creates self-awareness for targeted change
2. Set Clear Goals	Define specific, realistic, and measurable objectives across various life areas	Achievable progress and sustained momentum
3. Declutter Physical & Digital Spaces	Regularly clear unnecessary items, organize environments one step at a time	Reduces stress and enhances focus
4. Create & Maintain a Daily Schedule	Structure daily activities during peak energy, review and adjust as needed	Improves time management and consistency
5. Use Organizational Tools & Apps	Select tech solutions or simple tools that streamline tasks and match your workflow	Enhances productivity and efficiency
6. Prioritize with a To-Do List	List 3-5 key tasks daily, break large projects down, use prioritization techniques	Sharpens focus and supports progress
7. Break Down Large Projects	Divide complex goals into smaller, time-estimated steps with clear deadlines	Prevents overwhelm, increases project success
8. Set Regular Review Sessions	Reflect on progress, adjust strategies, and document successes and challenges	Ensures continuous improvement
9. Develop Supportive Routines	Build consistent habits, connect routines to existing behaviors, allow for flexibility	Promotes balance and predictability
10. Seek Support & Accountability from Others	Engage with support groups, accountability partners, share goals, track progress together	Boosts motivation and achievement rates

Reclaim Control and Calm with Simple Neat Home Solutions

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by clutter, missed deadlines, or scattered routines? If you found yourself nodding while reading about daily schedules, decluttering, and creating effective to-do lists, you are not alone. Many people struggle to break the cycle of chaos and want practical steps that actually last. The good news is that meaningful change is possible when you have the right support and real-world strategies at hand.

At Simple Neat Home, we go beyond tips by offering real solutions for those seeking a life with less stress and more order. Dive deeper with our Organization Archives and discover actionable guides that fit your unique challenges. You can also explore our Decluttering tips to create more space and peace in every room. Ready to turn your new motivation into results? Start transforming your routines into effortless habits—because you deserve a home and life that finally feel organized.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I start tracking my current organization habits?

To track your current organization habits, spend a week observing your daily routines and note where you struggle with tasks, time management, and clutter. Create a simple daily log to document these patterns and identify areas for improvement.

What are some clear goals I can set for becoming more organized?

Set specific, measurable, and realistic goals like “Spend 15 minutes each evening clearing my work desk” or “Sort through one drawer each weekend.” Focus on small, achievable objectives that you can gradually build upon for sustained progress in your organization efforts.

What is an effective method for decluttering my physical and digital spaces?

Start decluttering by tackling one area at a time, such as a messy desk or overflowing digital files. Remove items not used in the last year, organize files into logical folders, and consider using a “one in, one out” rule to maintain an organized environment.

How should I create a daily schedule to improve my organization?

Create a daily schedule by identifying your most important tasks and allocating specific time slots for them, especially during your peak productivity hours. Include breaks and buffer times between activities to prevent burnout and maintain focus throughout the day.

What should I include in my to-do list for maximum effectiveness?

For a more effective to-do list, focus on 3-5 critical tasks each day and break larger projects into smaller steps. Assign realistic time estimates for each task and periodically review your list to celebrate completed items and reassess priorities.

How can I ensure consistent progress in my organization journey?

Regularly schedule review sessions to reflect on your progress, celebrate successes, and identify challenges. Adjust your strategies based on your findings, ensuring a continuous loop of improvement in your organizational skills.