QUICK TIPS FOR TIME MANAGEMENT
Time Management Hacks to Boost Your Day
⏰ Prioritize with the 1-3-5 Rule: Start your day by listing tasks in this order: 1 big task, 3 medium tasks, and 5 small tasks. Focus on completing these first before tackling anything else. It keeps you on track and helps you tackle a variety of things without feeling overwhelmed.
⏰ Time Blocking: Break your day into chunks of time and assign specific tasks to each block. Think of it as making a reservation on your calendar—each block is reserved for a particular task, and no double-booking! This helps you stay focused and reduces that urge to multitask.
⏰ The 2 Minute Rule: If a task takes less than 2 minutes to complete, do it immediately. This rule is a game-changer for minimizing procrastination and clearing out small, lingering tasks. You’ll be amazed at how many little things you can get done in just a few minutes. I go so far as to put a post-it on my computer that says “DO IT NOW” 😅
⏰ Use a Timer for Social Media: Let’s face it, we’ve all fallen into the social media rabbit hole. Set a timer when you need a break but don’t want to waste hours scrolling. Ten minutes of Insta, then back to the real world!
September Reset - Your Pre-Holiday Hack
✔️ Batch Your Errands: Don’t waste time running to the store every other day. Batch your errands to one or two days a week, and stick to the list! You'll save time, energy, and probably a bit of money when you're not grabbing random things on every trip.
✔️ Weekly Reset Day: Choose one day a week to reset your space. Clear out clutter, reorganize your work area, and check your calendar for upcoming events. This small weekly routine prevents mess from building up and gives you a fresh start for the week ahead. Bonus points if you turn it into a family event!
✔️ Create a Command Center: Whether it’s a corner of your kitchen or a small nook by the front door, designate a spot where important things live—like mail, keys, chargers, and to-do lists. It keeps everything in one place, so you’re not running around like a maniac looking for your stuff when you’re already late.
✔️ 5-Minute Declutter Sessions: Don’t have time for a full-on organizing spree? No worries! Set a timer for five minutes and tackle one area—whether it’s the junk drawer, your desk, or the kitchen counter. These little bursts of decluttering will add up and keep things under control without the stress.
Mastering the To-Do List
📝 Keep It Realistic: We’ve all been there—jotting down everything under the sun only to feel overwhelmed by the sheer length of our to-do list. Instead, focus on what you can realistically accomplish in a day. Break down larger tasks into smaller, bite-sized steps so each item feels more manageable. For example, instead of writing "clean the entire house," break it down into "vacuum the living room," "wipe down the kitchen counters," and "fold laundry." That way, you can actually see your progress and feel the momentum build as you check things off. And let’s be honest, there’s nothing more satisfying than checking off those boxes! BTW, if you're looking for an easy way to streamline your cleaning routine, you should definitely check out my Ultimate Cleaning Planner Bundle!
📝 Prioritize Like a Pro: Not all tasks are created equal. Start by identifying your top three priorities for the day—those non-negotiables that must get done. Place them at the top of your list and tackle them first. If you’re not sure what should take priority, ask yourself: Which tasks will have the biggest impact or consequences if they don’t get done today? By focusing on these first, you ensure that the most important things are handled, even if you don’t get to everything else. And a pro tip? Leave a little room for unexpected tasks that might pop up throughout the day—because they always do.
📝 Batch Similar Tasks: Save time and mental energy by grouping similar tasks together. It’s called "batching," and it works wonders. For example, set aside a specific time in the morning and afternoon to handle all your emails or phone calls in one go, so you can stay in the zone and power through them without interruption. The key is to minimize context-switching, which can really slow you down. So if you have several errands to run, do them all at once instead of spreading them throughout the day. Your productivity will skyrocket, and you’ll avoid that scattered feeling that comes from jumping between too many different types of tasks.
📝 Review and Adjust: Life happens, and sometimes your priorities shift. Take a moment to review and adjust your list throughout the day. If something can wait or be delegated, move it to another day or pass it along. This is where a little flexibility goes a long way. If you notice that you’re consistently not getting certain tasks done, it might be time to re-evaluate if they really need to be on your list or if they can be handled differently.
Mastering Your Nighttime Wind-Down
✨ Set a Digital Curfew: Let’s face it, the endless scrolling before bed isn't doing us any favors. Turn off your screens at least an hour before you hit the hay. This helps cut down on that pesky blue light exposure, which can mess with your circadian rhythm and make it tougher to nod off. Instead, grab that book you’ve been meaning to read or put on some chill tunes. Your brain will thank you.
✨ Create a Cozy Environment: Turn your bedroom into the ultimate relaxation zone. Dim the lights and embrace the cozy vibes with soft lighting, comfy pillows, and calming scents like lavender or chamomile. Guess what doesn't create a relaxing retreat? CLUTTER! If you have piles of paper or unfinished projects laying around, or all of your surfaces are cluttered with “stuff”, you aren't going to create the space that promotes relaxation. It’s all about signaling to your brain that it’s time to unwind. Imagine walking into a spa-like retreat every night – who wouldn’t want that?
✨ Establish a Consistent Schedule: Being a night owl might sound fun, but your body loves consistency. Try to hit the sack at the same time each night. This helps regulate your internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep faster and get that delicious deep sleep. Plus, waking up feeling rested and refreshed is totally worth it. Set a timer on your phone to go off at the same time each night, signaling it's time to make your way to bed.
Make Your Mornings Not Suck
✅ Streamline Your Coffee/Tea Routine: Organize coffee pods or tea bags in a neat container, keep mugs and stirrers within easy reach, and pre-program your coffee maker the night before for a stress-free start. The goal is to have everything in arms reach…because less is more before that first cup, am I right?
✅ Prep the Night Before: Lay out your clothes, pack lunches, and set out any items you'll need for the next day. This will save you precious time and reduce morning decision fatigue. Whatever you can do to put your AM brain on auto-pilot will help you reserve your brain power for more important things later in the day.
✅ Create a Gentle Wake-Up Routine: Use a gentle alarm or a sunrise clock to wake up gradually (here's one I love). Stretch or do some light exercises to get your body moving and your blood flowing. Why not take your cup of coffee outside and soak up some sun to get your circadian rhythm in check.
✅ Set a Positive Tone: Start your day with something you enjoy, whether it’s a few minutes of reading, listening to your favorite music, or practicing mindfulness. A positive start can set the mood for the entire day.
✅ Keep Breakfast Simple: Plan quick and healthy breakfast options like overnight oats, protein smoothies, or a quick avocado toast with eggs.
Election Day Efficiency—Time-Saving Tips for Busy Days
🚗 Pre-plan your errands
Take five minutes in the morning to map out your route for the day. Group errands by location, starting with the furthest one, and work your way back home. It’s a quick way to shave off travel time and avoid unnecessary backtracking.
📱 Declutter your digital life on the go
Waiting in a long line line to cast your vote? Perfect time to do a quick digital sweep. Delete old emails, clear out your photo gallery, or unsubscribe from those “holiday sale” emails. These small wins add up and keep your phone (and mind) feeling lighter.
⏰ Time blocking and task batching for the win!
Instead of jumping from one task to the next, try batching similar activities together. Group small, repetitive tasks—like returning calls or handling paperwork—into a single time block, so you stay focused and finish them faster.
📆 Set your future-self up for success
As your day wraps up, take 10 minutes to organize for tomorrow. Choose your outfit, set up breakfast, and make a to-do list. These little steps make tomorrow morning easier, helping you start the day strong and ready to go.
QUICK TIPS FOR DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME
The Hidden Cost of Keeping Things “Just in Case”
✔️ The 90/90 Rule: Let’s make this decision easy. If you haven’t used an item in the last 90 days, and you don’t see yourself using it in the next 90, it’s probably safe to let go. We often overestimate how much we "might" need something, but this rule will help you be more realistic and intentional with what you keep.
✔️ Would You Buy It Now?: If you saw this item on the shelf today, would you actually spend money on it? This question helps separate the items we’re holding onto out of habit versus what we truly need. If you wouldn’t pull out your wallet for it today, it’s time to say goodbye.
✔️ The “Maybe” Box: Struggling to let go right away? Try a “maybe” box. Put items you’re unsure about in a box and stash it out of sight for 30 days. If you don’t think about or need anything from that box during that time, it’s a sign you don’t need those things in your life.
✔️ Consider the Hidden Costs: Keeping things isn’t free—storage, maintenance, and even the mental energy spent managing clutter and cleaning add up. Ask yourself, is it worth the cost to keep these things around? More often than not, letting go is cheaper and frees up space for what truly matters.
Foolproof Guide to a Seasonal Closet
👚 Clear the Space: If you have the time, take everything out of your closet—yes, everything. Starting with a completely empty space allows you to see what you’re working with and gives you a fresh canvas to work from. But if that feels too overwhelming, no worries! You can break it down by tackling smaller categories each day. Start with shoes, then move to tops, pants, or accessories. Either way, clearing space ensures you’re only putting back what you really want or need for the colder months, while also giving you a better idea of how much space you have and how to organize everything effectively.
👗 Declutter Ruthlessly: Now that your closet is empty, take a second look at your Summer wardrobe. Did you reach for that sundress more than once? Are those sandals still in style, or are they looking a little worse for wear? Set aside anything you didn’t wear this summer and ask yourself if it’s worth keeping for next year. Decluttering now makes the next summer swap easier and leaves you with only the items you truly love and wear. Be honest with yourself—if it didn’t get worn, it’s time to donate or sell.
👙 Store Summer Items Smartly: When storing your summer clothes, think long-term. You want to make sure your warm-weather items are protected, so opt for breathable bins or garment bags. Avoid storing them in plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew or odors. Also, make sure everything is clean before storing it away—any stains or dirt left untreated can set in during storage. Fold lighter items like tank tops and shorts, but hang more delicate pieces like dresses or blouses to avoid wrinkles.
🧣 Organize Fall/Winter by Category: As you bring your fall and winter wardrobe out, think strategically. Group similar items together: sweaters in one section, pants in another, and outerwear in its own designated spot. This not only makes your closet look more organized, but it also makes getting dressed in the morning a breeze. You’ll know exactly where to find your favorite sweater or the perfect pair of boots. Grouping by category also allows you to quickly see what you might be missing or need to replace for the upcoming season.
🛍️ Hire a Personal Stylist: As you swap your closet for the new season, consider bringing in a personal stylist for extra help. A stylist can help you curate a wardrobe that fits your lifestyle, body type, and taste, while also streamlining what you already own. Hiring a stylist doesn’t just upgrade your look—it keeps your wardrobe organized and functional. With fewer, more versatile pieces, you’ll have less clutter and an easier time getting dressed every day.
🤩 BONUS TIP: If you're considering hiring a stylist, I know a great one! Emily Burnette is an LA-based (+ virtual) personal stylist. Elevate your personal brand with custom styling tailored to your unique vision for a powerful and lasting impression. Emily offers styling packages, closet edits, digital styling lookbooks and digitizing your wardrobe- making it more seamless than ever to get ready each day and feel good about it!
To learn more, visit: emilyburnette.com.
Swapping your closet from season to season can feel overwhelming, but it’s a great chance to create a functional, organized space. If you're looking for more detailed help, I’ve just released a brand-new guide that covers everything you need to know about making the seasonal closet swap. From decluttering to organizing and storing your clothes the right way, this guide will help you tackle the transition with ease and keep your closet working for you all year long! GRAB IT BELOW! ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️
Reset Your Workspace in 5 Minutes
🗑 Clear Off Your Desk Start by removing anything that doesn’t need to be there—cups, snack wrappers, random papers, you know the drill. Toss what you don’t need and neatly stack or file the rest. Bonus: Keep a small bin nearby for quick cleanups like this.
✍🏻 Declutter + Organize Take a quick scan of your workspace tools—pens, notebooks, chargers, etc. Make sure everything has a home. Keep the essentials within arm’s reach and stash anything you won’t need for tomorrow. Remember: a clean desk equals a clear mind!
🖥️ Tide Up Your Digital Space Don’t forget about your virtual workspace! Close any unused browser tabs, declutter your desktop, and organize files into the right folders. My brain always feels like I have 25 tabs open…anyone else??
📆 Prep For Tomorrow Finish by setting out what you’ll need first thing in the morning—whether it’s your to-do list, an important document, or just a fresh notebook. This helps set you up for a smooth start and saves you from scrambling.
QUICK TIPS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR HOME
Pool & Beach Essentials Storage Solutions
☀️ Utilize Mesh Storage Bags or Bins: Use mesh bags or bins to store pool and beach toys. These allow air to circulate, helping the toys dry quickly and preventing mold or mildew from forming. Great for storing sand toys in a garage.
☀️ Install Wall-Mounted Racks or Hooks: Save floor space by installing wall-mounted racks or hooks in your pool area or garage. Use these to hang larger items, like floaties, noodles, and beach chairs.
☀️ Use a Storage Box or Deck Box: Invest in a waterproof storage box or deck box to keep your pool and beach toys safe and protected from the elements. Choose a box with adequate ventilation to avoid moisture buildup. Here are two great options: this one is inexpensive but will get the job done, and this one is extra large if you need a lot of storage space.
☀️ Repurpose Laundry Baskets: Grab a few plastic laundry baskets for an inexpensive and portable storage solution. They’re perfect for toting toys to and from the pool or beach, and they drain water easily.
☀️ Create a Grab-and-Go Bag: Pack a designated bag with beach and pool essentials like sunscreen, towels, and snacks. Keep it ready to go for those last-minute trips, ensuring you have everything you need without the hassle.
The Power of a 10-minute Tidy
🕒 Set a Timer Literally set a timer for 10 minutes and see how much you can get done. You’ll be amazed at how fast you move when you’re racing the clock. It turns tidying into a game, and before you know it, a cluttered space becomes neat again.
🗑 Focus on Hotspots You know the places where clutter just grows? Like the entryway where shoes pile up, or the kitchen counter that collects mail? Focus your 10-minute tidy on these high-traffic areas and nip the clutter in the bud before it spirals out of control.
🧺 Grab a Basket If you’re overwhelmed by stuff scattered around the house, grab a basket or bin and walk room to room, collecting items that are out of place. Once your 10 minutes are up, return the items to their homes and enjoy the instant transformation.
👧 👦 Make It a Family Affair Get the kids involved! Turn on some music, set the timer, and see who can pick up the most. This makes tidying fun and takes the load off of you. Plus, teaching kids to tidy in small bursts helps them build long-lasting habits.
View Organization as a Journey, Not a Destination
✨ Embrace Continuous Improvement: Organization isn't a one-time achievement; it's a continuous process. Start by setting small, manageable goals for yourself. Each step, no matter how small, contributes to your overall progress.
✨ Learn From Setbacks: Inevitably, there will be days when things don't go as planned. Instead of viewing these moments as failures, see them as opportunities to learn and improve your organizational strategies.
✨ Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your milestones, no matter how minor they may seem. Each bit of progress is a step forward on your journey, reinforcing a positive mindset and encouraging further development.
QUICK TIPS FOR ORGANIZING tech
Organize Your Phone Like a Pro
📱 Purge Unused Apps: Let's be real—if you haven't opened that meditation app in over a year, it's time to let it go. Take a few minutes to swipe through your screens and delete any apps you no longer use. Not only will this free up space, but it will also make navigating your phone much smoother.
📱 Organize by Category (or by color, if you're a little extra like me): Group similar apps into folders by category—think "Social," "Work," "Health," and "Entertainment." This way, you can quickly find what you’re looking for without scrolling through endless screens. Or, if you like things looking aesthetic and love a little ROYGBIV 🌈, you can create folders based on the color of the app. You might think that you'll never know where to find things, but I guarantee you know what color to look for to find your Facebook app 💙. However you decide to categorize, be sure to keep your most-used apps on the first page for easy access. Here's mine, to show you how my brain works.
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📱 Clear Out Your Photos: How many screenshots and duplicate photos are clogging up your camera roll? Set aside some time each week to go through your photos and delete what you don’t need. Consider using cloud storage or a photo organizing app to keep your pictures safe and sorted.
📱 Manage Notifications: Do you really need to know every time someone comments on a post or every single update from that random game? Go into your settings and turn off non-essential notifications. This will help reduce distractions and keep your screen clean. Bonus - this will significantly increase your productivity because you won't be wasting time with these interruptions and then need to get back into what you were trying to focus on.
Use apps to make sure nothing slips through the cracks
✅ Use apps like Trello, Asana or Todoist to create and manage task lists and projects. These apps allow you to break down larger projects into smaller tasks, set deadlines, and track progress. Visual boards and checklists help you stay on top of your to-do list and ensure nothing is overlooked.
✅ Synchronize your schedule using digital calendars like Google Calendar or Outlook. These tools let you set reminders, create recurring events, and share your calendar with others. Integration with your smartphone ensures you receive notifications on the go, helping you manage your time effectively.
✅ Apps like Evernote, OneNote, and Google Drive allow you to store and organize notes, documents, and ideas in one place. Use these apps to capture important information, clip web articles, and organize your notes into notebooks or categories. This makes it easy to access and reference your notes whenever needed, enhancing your overall productivity.
QUICK TIPS FOR meal prep organization
Snack Prep Like a Pro
👩🍳 Batch Prep on Sundays: Spend some time on Sunday to wash, chop, and portion out fruits and veggies for the week. Store them in clear containers in the fridge so they're easy to grab and go. To keep things fresh, add a splash of lemon juice to sliced apples or pears. For veggies, try pairing them with small containers of hummus or ranch dip for a ready-made snack. I have this set of fridge storage containers, which help keep the fridge nice and neat, while keeping the food fresh much longer than if I toss in the drawer and forget about them 🤦🏻♀️
👩🍳 Use Reusable Snack Bags: Invest in reusable snack bags for nuts, trail mix, or crackers. They're eco-friendly and you can easily toss them in your bag for a quick snack on the run. Pre-portioning snacks can also help with portion control, ensuring you have just the right amount without overindulging. These are perfect!
👩🍳 Make Your Own Snack Packs: Create your own DIY snack packs by pairing protein and fiber. Think apple slices with almond butter, cheese cubes with whole-grain crackers, or yogurt with granola. Use small, airtight containers (like these) to keep things fresh. Having a variety of options prepped means you won’t get bored and will always have something delicious to look forward to.
👩🍳 Freeze Smoothie Packs: Prepare smoothie packs by portioning out your favorite fruits and veggies into freezer bags. In the morning, just dump a pack into the blender, add some liquid, and blend for a quick and healthy breakfast or snack. To boost nutrition, add a scoop of protein powder or a handful of spinach to each bag before freezing.
👩🍳 Prep Energy Bites: Make a batch of no-bake energy bites with oats, nut butter, honey, and your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chia seeds. Store them in the fridge or freezer and grab a couple whenever you need a quick, nutritious snack. They’re perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-workout treat.
QUICK TIPS for back-to-school organization
Back-To-School Routines To Keep You Sane
📚 Create a Morning Launch Pad: Designate a specific spot near the door for backpacks, shoes, and any other essentials your kids need to grab on their way out. This "launch pad" saves you from the morning scramble and ensures nothing gets left behind. To make it even more effective, set a routine where the kids pack up everything they need the night before—homework, gym clothes, and any permission slips—so mornings are smooth sailing.
📚 Set Up a Homework Station: Establish a dedicated spot for homework, whether it's a corner of the kitchen or a desk in their room. A consistent place helps kids focus and keeps school supplies organized and easy to find. Stock the station with all the essentials—pencils, erasers, paper, chargers, and maybe even some snacks—so there’s no need to interrupt study time to hunt down supplies. Consider adding a timer to help them manage their time effectively and break tasks into manageable chunks.
📚 Meal Plan for the Week: Back-to-school season can easily disrupt dinner routines, so take control by planning meals ahead of time. Start by planning simple, quick-to-prepare dinners that don’t require much fuss. For busy nights, consider making large batches of family favorites on the weekend that can be easily reheated during the week. If mornings are hectic, prep breakfast and lunch the night before, too. This approach not only saves time but also reduces the stress of figuring out what to cook every night.
📚 Unpack Immediately: As soon as the kids get home, make it a habit for them to unpack their backpacks right away. Designate a specific place for papers—like a tray, folder, or wall organizer—so you can easily review them later. This prevents the dreaded buildup of crumpled assignments and forgotten permission slips, and keeps you in the loop with what’s happening at school. Plus, it teaches the kids responsibility and helps maintain an organized home. There are so many great options from The Container Store!