Whenever I am faced with a specific task, say, organizing and purging my magazines, and it feels too overwhelming. I set my oven timer for 10-15 minutes. My goal is to focus specifically on the task for only that time period. This helps me to stay on track and not get distracted with something else which keeps me buried. Once the bell goes off I can choose to quit or set the timer again. Just knowing that this bit of structure is in place helps me to know that I have a limited time and I have a choice once the bell rings. I find that when I do this that I'm actually resetting the bell and extending the time. I can even make a game out of it, like; how much can I get done before the bell rings!
"Oops, gotta go... the bell just rang and there is more work to be done!"
~ declutter tip from Mackay
pt matthews comments:
"I agree that timing oneself can help you accomplish household tasks. I find I do much better with work around the house if I say: "OK, it is now 11:20 in the morning, I am going to do housework until 12:20." When the hour is done, I can give myself a break in clear conscience, and then begin again with a new hour!"
