Go For a Walk to Clear Your Clutter

Here is a tip to build Getting Organized into your daily routine.

Like most people I don't have a tremendous amount of time to exercise. I do value exercise both for the health benefit but also to clear my mind. My goal is to walk daily and hike at least once monthly.

By walking daily you build a habit that supports Getting Organized.

If you are lucky enough to live in a walking neighborhood then you make your walk a "destination walk". This is where you walk with a purpose. For example, you go to Bartells to purchase something to help you get organized. Alternatively, break up your weekly menu requirements into smaller shopping trips suitable for a walk to the store. Pick up a few items to cover you for a day or two. Destination walks are productive and reinforcing since they have the added benefit of rewarding you for your walk. The next time you take your car on a short excursion to the grocery store, or to rent a movie, etc., think about walking there instead.

Thinking about walking beyond the pure exercise benefits will have you revisiting your menu, planning on which movie you will watch, how you will reorganize the garage, etc. Remember, it takes 30 days to form a habit. Walking daily is easy to add to the other daily habits you've formed like the morning cup of coffee, checking your email, or watching your favorite television show. After 30 days don't be surprised to find your walking time to be some of your most productive time towards clearing your clutter. Also, walking increases your energy level preparing you to combat the tasks at hand.

Idea! Start a walking calendar and mark the days that you walk. Use an existing calendar or download one from Excel Templates in Microsoft Office or use your favorite search engine to find one; there are plenty of calendars available for free online.

Mix it up and share your walk with a child, a neighbor, a friend, a parent, or dog.