To-Do Lists and other resources to help you (me) stay motivated

Did you read yesterday's post?  That has been the story of my life for the past several months.  Also missing from that inner dialogue is the constant self-reminder that I have job applications I need to turn in, a job on Elance that I need to continue with, and lessons plans to make for both my private students and a ministry I'm helping out with.

Here are some tips to help you and me stay motivated!  (Especially for those of us who work from home)

1.  Get up and get dressed immediately - I am less likely to get back in bed if I actually get up, put some clothes on, wash my face, put on some makeup, and fix my hair.

2.  Eat some food immediately - Food gives energy, and energy = productivity.

3.  Optimize your work station - We don't have air conditioning in our living room, so I find myself working on my bed (where there is air conditioning).  But working in bed, even if I'm being productive, makes me feel like I'm being lazy.  I have realized that I need to bring our small table into the bedroom and sit at that, and immediately I get more stuff accomplished!

4.  Have to-do lists, and write something down as soon as you think of it - I often think of things I need to do at random times, and I think to myself, "I'll remember that tomorrow."  But guess what - I won't!  Have a to-do list (or several) in visible places throughout your house so that you always have a place to write down your ideas.

I can't wait until we move back to the States and I can create a customizable calendar/to-do list/shopping list/etc binder (something like this).  Here in Brazil, things like binders, office supplies, printer ink, etc. are soooo expensive.  I'm so looking forward to having a functioning "home office," filled with beautiful supplies!  I can't wait to have an organized life, period.  Our apartment in Rio is so small, and home items (from furniture to decor) are so expensive.  It's a shame, really.

In the meantime, I've decided I'm going to try to keep a detailed to-do list.  I've scoured Pinterest for the prettiest, free, printable to-do lists.  Maybe you'll find them inspiring, too?

From The Creativity Exchange

Also from The Creativity Exchange

From I should be mopping the floor

From A Pair of Pears

From Squidoo

From Little Boxes and Bows

From World Label

From Tricia Rennea

From Clean Mama

Also from Clean Mama

Also from Clean Mama

From Free Homeschool Deals

From Psycho with 6

From Monica Joy Designs

From Chasing Chickens

From Idlized

From Every Day Inspired

From Pretty Little Inspirations

Home Binder Inspiration:

From Free Homeschool Deals

From The Butterfly Mom

From Ask Anna

I hope this post has inspired you to get organized and get your to-do list done.  I know I'm feeling ready to take on the world!  ;)

XO,

Julie