We tend to wait for the New Year to make resolutions about being more organized. But recent studies show that organized people are less likely to feel stressed—and may even live up to four years longer. With the holidays just around the corner, why not simplify your life and set yourself up for success by applying a few simple strategies?
• Clean and purge. Start with your pile of papers. Shred what you don't need, and file what you do. Buy an accordion-type file folder and label each section. Then store your papers away for quick and easy access. This will also make tax time much easier and less stressful.
• Maximize your returns. Speaking of tax time, be sure to maximize your charitable tax credits and don't wait until the last minute. Organizations like UNICEF offer a multitude of ways to give and get back with life-saving charitable gifts. Choose Survival Gifts like two bed nets for $10, a survival food kit for $51 or girls' education kit for $120.
• One in, one out. For every holiday gift you receive, give something away. New oven mitts? Toss the old ones. New toys? Give the same number of old ones to charity. New clothes? Make room in your closet by donating what you no longer wear.
• Make a list, check it twice. Write down everything you need to do from now until the end of the year, including events, gifts to buy, food to cook, and concerts to attend. You'll alleviate the stress of trying to keep track of everything, plus you'll feel great as each task is crossed off.
