As the academic year begins, many feel inspired to make positive changes in their lives. This sense of renewal drives individuals to find new ways to enhance their productivity and organization. It’s a time when people reflect on their routines and seek tips that can help them manage daily challenges more effectively.
In this quest for improvement, everyone has their own small strategies that make a difference. Insights from busy professionals, parents, and community members reveal simple life hacks that help them stay on track. Each of these suggestions offers a practical approach, hoping to inspire others to find the methods that work best for them.
1. Set Up a Greeting Station
Gather all greeting cards, postcards, and envelopes in one designated box or drawer. Include stamps to complete the setup. This simple organization helps keep everything tidy and makes sending notes easy and convenient.
2. Disable Self-View on Video Calls
Turning off self-view can help reduce distractions. Participants can focus on others without worrying about their appearance. This change makes conversations feel more natural.
3. Use a Three-Part List
Creating a structured list can boost productivity. Each day, choose three tasks:
- One annoying task (like mailing a letter)
- One uncomfortable task (such as going to the gym)
- One difficult task (for example, cutting out sugar)
This approach encourages tackling easier tasks first, making the harder ones feel less daunting. A mix of challenges can help maintain motivation throughout the day.
4. Organize Your Containers
Spend 10 minutes sorting through the plastic containers and lids in the kitchen. Recycle any mismatched pieces to reduce clutter.
5. Establish and Communicate Financial Limits
Creating clear financial limits is crucial for everyone, especially with close friends and family. It is vital to express these limits clearly to prevent pressure to make financial decisions that could impact personal goals. Simple actions, like avoiding lending money unless confident it won’t disrupt personal budgets or prioritizing savings over social expenditures, can help maintain these boundaries. Communicating these choices helps ensure respect for financial needs.
6. Designate a Spot for Your Keys
A designated place for keys can save time and frustration. Using a hook or a bowl makes it easy to find them. Keeping keys in a convenient location ensures they are always ready when needed.
7. Labeling Other People’s Items
It is important to label items that belong to others. A simple label can help avoid confusion. For example, using tags on belongings, like keys, keeps things organized and clear.
8. Embrace the Refill Habit
Refill shops offer a wide range of products, including shower gel and snacks. Many people appreciate that they can use any container they have on hand. It’s not necessary to have perfect Tupperware. Instead, old bottles or even plastic bags work well. The key is to get started and return regularly.
9. Organize Your Mail
To keep mail from piling up, it helps to act on it right away. Placing a paper recycling bin near the entrance allows for immediate disposal of junk mail. She also suggests using an identity protection roller stamp by the door. This tool quickly hides personal information on any unwanted mail before discarding it. By taking these simple steps, managing mail becomes easier and more organized.
10. Prepare for Dog Walks
Before heading out, take the poo bags off the roll and open them. This is especially helpful in winter when wearing gloves.
11. Track Passport Expiration Dates
Set reminders to renew passports six months to a year before expiration. This timing depends on pending travel plans. Additionally, store digital copies of all passports in an accessible location for easy retrieval when needed.
12. Review Subscriptions
It is important to regularly check bank statements for unclear charges. Individuals should identify any ongoing payments for subscriptions they no longer desire or need. Canceling unnecessary services can help save money and simplify finances.
13. Use Subscriptions Wisely
Automated subscriptions can simplify regular purchases. Items like diapers, dishwashing tablets, contact lenses, and pet food are great candidates. Setting these on autopilot saves time and helps manage expenses, ensuring important items are always on hand when needed.
14. Pre-Sorted Laundry
Using a laundry hamper with multiple sections helps keep clothes organized. Each compartment can hold darks, lights, and whites. This method allows for easy washing since one can start a load as soon as a section is full.
15. Focus on One Task
Anita encourages taking small steps daily. Completing a single task, like making a phone call or sending an email, helps manage personal responsibilities. This approach can prevent overwhelming feelings and promote better organization.
16. Disable Alerts
Notifications can harm concentration and focus. They often distract the mind by pulling attention away from important tasks. Instead of allowing email providers or apps to dictate what needs attention, it is better to turn off unnecessary notifications. This way, there is more control over what truly matters throughout the day.
17. Allow Extra Time for Travel
Adding 10% to the estimated travel time can help ensure punctuality. This extra time accounts for possible delays and minimizes stress during journeys.
18. Plan Your Digital Future
It’s important to make arrangements for your online accounts after you pass away. Choose someone you trust to manage them. For Apple users, it’s possible to pick a legacy contact for their Apple ID. Websites like My Wishes allow people to create a digital will at no cost.
19. Keep Track of Expiration Dates
Using a magnetic calendar on the fridge can help manage food expiration. When groceries are put away, write each item’s name next to its use-by date. This system allows for quick checks, making it easy to see what needs to be used soon.
For example, if sausages need to be cooked tonight, it’s easy to remember. Items like curry or ravioli can be frozen if they expire soon. This method not only helps reduce waste but also simplifies dinner planning. It provides a clear view of what to cook next based on urgency.
20. Evaluate Your Wardrobe Passively
At the beginning of the year, she should turn all the hangers in her closet backward. As the year goes by, any item that remains facing the wrong way can likely be removed. If she hasn’t worn it in a year, it’s time to let it go.
21. Keep Emergency Cash
It’s wise to have cash on hand for emergencies. Always carry enough money to afford a taxi ride or similar expenses. This ensures safety when other options may not be available.
22. Monitor Scissors Location
Scissors can easily get lost in a home. A practical solution is to tie them to a drawer using string, as done by Arianna. This keeps them accessible and prevents misplacement.
23. Remove Subscriptions
Each week, they make time to click the “unsubscribe” option for unwanted emails. This simple act helps to clear clutter from their inbox, making it easier to focus on important messages.
24. Make a Single Decision
Kendra Adachi suggests simplifying life by making one-time decisions. This method allows a person to choose how to handle tasks and then stick with that choice. For example, when selecting gifts, someone might decide to give olive oil for housewarming events, books for younger kids, and cash for older ones. This way, they can focus on other priorities.
25. Be Ready for Gift Challenges
Keeping a few nice, non-perishable gifts can help when unexpected occasions arise. Good choices include bath items, basic candles, or a decorative kitchen towel. It’s also useful to have recycled wrapping materials or elegant bags stored with the gifts. Choosing no wrapping at all supports eco-friendliness.
26. Tips for Effective Sun Protection
To ensure sunscreen is always handy, place it near door keys. A lip balm-style sunscreen is useful to carry in a handbag, jacket pocket, or laptop case for easy access on the go.
27. Start Quick Cleanups
Setting aside short bursts of time for cleaning can make a big difference. Just three to five minutes can be enough to tidy up a specific area. It is easier to commit to a brief session, making it more likely to complete the task and maintain a tidy space.
28. Create Jars of Mixed Nuts and Seeds
Mixing nuts and seeds offers a simple way to increase plant diversity in the diet. Having dedicated jars makes it easy to add them to meals or enjoy as a quick snack.
29. Use Data to Make Decisions
Tracking purchases helps evaluate habits and choices. For example, creating a list of items can reveal spending patterns. This insight can discourage impulsive buying by highlighting the quantity already owned, prompting individuals to think twice before making new purchases. Using data fosters better decision-making.
30. Bulb Planting
Planting bulbs is a satisfying task that brings joy months later. Even without a garden, bulbs like muscari (grape hyacinths) thrive in pots on a windowsill, adding cheer to any space.
31. Design Attractive Areas of Order
Some people find joy in a tidy sock drawer. Others prefer snugly folded underwear. Making the bed each morning can also create a sense of neatness and calm.
32. Create a Holiday Packing List
Making a holiday packing list can save time and reduce stress. Instead of trying to remember every item, it is helpful to have a printable checklist. This list can include essential items such as:
- Pyjamas
- Toothbrush
- Coats
By checking off items as they are packed, nothing important, like passports, will be forgotten. This setup may take some time at first, but it greatly simplifies the packing process for future trips.
33. Organize Your Spice Collection
Arranging spices alphabetically makes finding them easier. It prevents buying duplicates, like purchasing multiple jars of cumin. An organized spice rack can streamline cooking and help manage inventory effectively, ensuring a more enjoyable experience in the kitchen.
35. Reduce Morning Discomfort
To start the day right, plan ahead. Set out clothes and pack work bags the night before. This way, individuals can quickly get ready in the morning.
Creating a separate pile for each family member can help streamline the routine and reduce stress. A short power nap during the day can also boost energy and improve mood.
36. Reduce Kitchen Items
Keeping fewer kitchen items can lead to a neater space. It encourages more frequent cleaning and helps prevent clutter. Consider storing some items away to simplify daily use.
37. Set Aside Money
Many people find it helpful to save money by using a simple envelope system. By organizing cash in labeled envelopes, they can plan for special events like holidays, birthdays, and family outings. Each envelope serves a purpose, ensuring they have funds ready for those occasions without stress.
38. Choose the Right Time for Planning
When making plans for projects or activities, it is important to consider timing. She should assess her energy levels and avoid making decisions when she feels tired or hungry. This helps ensure that she accurately identifies key steps and commitments needed for success. A clear mind leads to better planning and outcomes.
39. Master Stain Removal Techniques
Nancy Birtwhistle shares effective stain removal tips that promote eco-friendly living. To tackle sun cream, fake tan, and makeup stains, mix a teaspoon of eco-friendly washing-up liquid with a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the stain until it lifts. This simple method yields impressive results.
40. Keep a Simple First-Aid Kit Handy
It is practical to have a basic first-aid kit with items like adhesive bandages, wound dressings, and blister plasters. These supplies are useful for minor injuries. Including a dental floss is also a good idea.
41. Ways to Make Hydration Easier
To make drinking water more enjoyable, one option is to use a smaller glass. This can seem less daunting and encourage more frequent sips. Another idea is to have different flavored drinks available. Mixing flavors can make hydration feel less like a chore and more rewarding.
42. Focus on One Task at a Time
Many studies show that multitasking is not as effective as it seems. When planning the day, it’s best to set aside dedicated time for focused work. Inform colleagues and friends about this plan, saying, “I need to concentrate on this task, please do not interrupt me.” This approach helps maintain concentration and ensures the task is completed efficiently without distractions.
43. Take a Breath
Catherine places notes around her home that simply say “breathe.” Whenever she notices these reminders, she takes a moment to focus on breathing slowly. This practice not only calms her heart rate but also helps reduce her stress. Meditating or praying can help deepen this relaxation through mindfulness.
44. Keep Sewing Supplies Handy
Create a container, like a Royal Dansk biscuit tin, to store loose buttons, extra supplies, thread, needles, and pins. This will help in sewing tasks.
45. Set Up Phone Reminders
She automates reminders on her phone to stay organized. A helpful reminder she uses is for waste collection, which repeats every two weeks. This way, she always knows when to take out the trash.
Important dates, like birthdays, are also saved in her calendar for notifications a week in advance. Along with these, she has reminders for meal planning, cleaning tasks, and exercise sessions. Additionally, she sets reminders for her son’s sports kit. Using these reminders reduces mental clutter and helps her manage her daily tasks more easily.
46. Store reusable shopping bags in the vehicle
When going shopping, it is important to have reusable bags ready. Whether it is a bag from home, a bike basket, or a handbag, having them on hand helps reduce waste. Keeping these bags in the car makes it easy to grab them whenever needed.
- Convenience: No need to remember to bring bags.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces the use of single-use plastic bags.
- Variety: Different types of bags can fit various items.
47. Set Up Automatic Savings
Setting up automatic transfers to a savings account each payday is a smart choice. This simple step helps build a financial cushion without needing to remember to save each time. Over time, these regular deposits can play a key role in reaching financial objectives.
48. Maintain Store-Bought Basil
To keep supermarket basil thriving, first remove it from the pot and gently separate the roots. James Wong suggests dividing the plant into four sections. Trim the weakest sprouts and retain about five strong ones. Each portion can then be planted in quality compost and watered adequately.
49. Emergency Information on Your Phone
Adding emergency details to a phone is useful. The term ICE means “in case of emergency.”
Users can store vital medical information such as allergies, blood type, and health issues. They should also include a contact for emergencies.
For Android, find this under Safety and emergency. For Apple, it’s located in the Health app.
50. Create a Routine for After School
To reduce morning stress, children should follow a routine after school. They can unpack their bags, prepare clothes for the next day, and hand over any important papers before enjoying some time to unwind.
51. Establish a Visual Record of Important Documents
It is wise to photograph essential papers like permission slips and forms as they come along. For better organization, they can create a dedicated album on their phone for quick access.
52. Find Accountability Online or in Person
Engaging in a livestreamed study session, like Study Together or StudyStream, can boost focus. They might also share their goals with friends and family, asking for support to stay true to their plans. This connection promotes responsibility.
53. Create a Bills Account
Opening a separate bank account for bills helps manage monthly expenses. Change direct debits to this account and transfer enough money to cover bills on payday. Whatever remains is for personal use.
54. Connect with the Earth
Standing barefoot on the ground can help a person feel more present. Many individuals struggle with feelings of invisibility or low self-worth. Making contact with the earth can reconnect them to those who came before. This simple act can serve as a reminder that they belong and have a rightful place in the world. Taking time to connect with nature fosters a sense of grounding and acceptance.
55. Always Keep a Backup
To avoid running low on essential household items, maintain at least two of each supply. When the first one is used, add it to the shopping list for replacement.
56. Combine Coffee Making with Planking
They can use the time while brewing coffee to do planks. It takes about 1 minute and 18 seconds to make a cup. This short exercise can help with strength and flexibility while keeping them active during their morning routine.
57. Organize Socks
It can be helpful to keep socks paired up to save time. One simple tip is to hang sock pairs together on the dryer. This makes it easier to find matching pairs when putting laundry away.
Benefits of Pairing Socks:
- Saves time during laundry
- Reduces the chance of losing socks
- Makes it easy to spot mismatched pairs
Using this method can make laundry days smoother and less frustrating.
58. Bedding Organization
Alexandra suggests using one color per bed. This helps keep things simple. Podcaster Alex Morgan recommends storing complete bedding sets inside matching pillowcases. For mismatched sets, a colored tag can be sewn or ironed on for easy identification. This can save time and reduce the hassle of changing sheets.
59. Put on Clothes
Getting dressed daily prepares anyone for unexpected events. It helps establish a routine and boosts confidence. A simple outfit can make a big difference.
60. Update Your Passwords
It is important to change old passwords. Using a password manager can help. Options include built-in managers from Google and Apple, as well as Bitwarden, Dashlane, and 1Password.
61. Create Lists on Post-it Notes
Using Post-it notes for task lists can be very effective. Each note can hold about six tasks, making it easier to focus on what matters most. This method allows for flexibility depending on the time available and energy levels.
When feeling low on energy, shorter, easier tasks can be listed to provide quick wins. Completing these tasks can boost motivation before taking on larger challenges.
62. Gather Spare Change
She suggests starting the school year by filling an envelope or jar with pound coins. This can be helpful for unexpected collections.
63. Optimize Freezer Usage
Keeping a notebook on top of the freezer can help track items stored inside. Each shelf should have a dedicated page where food items are labeled clearly. When something is used, it gets crossed off. If notes become difficult to read, transferring the details to a new page helps maintain order. This simple method removes confusion about what’s available in the freezer.
64. Develop Single-Category Storage Solutions
Using plastic boxes can simplify organizing items. For example, a dedicated storage box for swim gear ensures easy access to costumes, snorkeling equipment, and other necessary items. This helps streamline trips to the pool or quick swims.
65. Respond with a Quick No
Saying no promptly allows the requester enough time to seek other options. Quick responses show respect for both parties’ time and needs.
66. Financial Plan
For thirty years, she has created a monthly financial plan. Each month, she sets aside clear amounts for essential categories like food, bills, toiletries, and children’s expenses. To stay on track, she regularly updates her budget every few days. This is especially important when managing expenses for three children and using a card at checkout. At the end of each month, she reviews her spending in every category to see if she has stayed within her limits. Though it may seem mundane, this careful planning has helped her manage tough financial situations and live within her means.
| Category | Budgeted Amount | Actual Spending |
|---|---|---|
| Food | $XX | $XX |
| Bills | $XX | $XX |
| Toiletries | $XX | $XX |
| Leisure | $XX | $XX |
| Kids’ Items | $XX | $XX |
67. Combining Habits
Habit stacking involves linking a new habit to an existing one. For example, placing a vitamin D spray next to teabags makes it easier to remember to use it. This method helps people build routines by using what they already do as a foundation for new positive actions.
68. Bring an Extra Book While Traveling
Delays during trips can lead to more reading time than planned, or a person may find they dislike their chosen book. Packing an extra book serves as a useful backup, providing options for enjoyment.
69. Treat Your Home Like a Café
Keeping a tidy home can make life easier. A nightly routine of 10-15 minutes of cleaning helps maintain order. Tasks can include:
- Cleaning the kitchen: Wipe down surfaces and wash any dishes.
- Tidying up the living room: Put away items that are out of place.
- Preparing for the next day: Ensure everything is in order for the morning.
Treating a home like a café ensures a pleasant and welcoming environment. A clean space enhances daily experiences.
70. Keep Track of Your Reading
Logging reading activities helps maintain a sense of intellectual engagement. It can involve books, podcasts, or TED Talks. This practice supports personal growth and lifelong learning.
71. Get the what3words App
This precise geo-location tool is useful not just for hikers. It helps emergency services locate accidents quickly and can assist delivery drivers who may be lost. Downloading it can enhance safety and efficiency.
72. Make the Call
Ending a discussion with a call can save time and clear confusion. Instead of sending endless emails or texts, picking up the phone can lead to quick answers. In just about 33 seconds, issues are often resolved, and connections with others can deepen.
73. Pause for Reflection
Setting aside even 10 minutes each day for quiet can enhance happiness. This time allows individuals to step back from daily chaos. Moments of silence can foster laughter and smiles, improving relationships and mental well-being.
74. Check Your Pantry
Before shopping, it helps to look through your pantry. This can stop clutter and prevent buying items already at home. A quick check can save time and money.
75. Create a Reminder Sign
Making a reminder sign can be helpful for children. A parent had their child create a “Have you got?” sign to hang on the door. This sign serves as a final check before leaving the house. Allowing kids to forget things occasionally teaches them responsibility. Experiencing the result of forgetting can be a valuable lesson for their growth.
76. Organize Your Documents
To manage documents effectively, divide them into seven clear categories: household, financial, medical, technical, motor, important, and mementos. Keep important papers in a safe and limit mementos to truly valuable items, avoiding clutter.
77. Manage Blankies Wisely
When a child forms a bond with a soft toy or blanket, steps should be taken to prevent loss. Consider cutting blankets or scarves into smaller portions for easier handling. If it’s a toy, buy multiple copies. Parents can also suggest gifts to friends and family for duplicates.
78. Visit Your Local Tailor
Taking clothes to a tailor for quick fixes can save time and enhance your wardrobe. They often offer same-day repairs without extra charges, making it convenient.
79. Keep Extra Parts Organized
Spare parts and important additional items for tools and machines should be stored in a labeled freezer bag right away. This method helps keep everything tidy and easy to find.
80. Restore Your Sugar Clumps
To fix clumpy sugar, place it in the microwave for one minute while covered with a damp kitchen towel. After microwaving, use a fork or wooden spoon to break it apart. Alternatively, if a microwave isn’t available, set the sugar in a warm oven (50°C) for about 30 minutes.
81. Track Praise and Gratitude
Keeping a record of praise and thanks can give a boost during challenging times. Sarah, a teacher, cherishes every thank-you card she has received. She looks through them when her day is tough to remind herself of her impact on others. Similarly, Lewis collects positive messages about himself. When he feels down, he reviews these notes to recall the good things others have said. Making a habit of saving these tokens of appreciation can be uplifting and reinforce feelings of gratitude.
82. Use the Pomodoro Technique with Flexibility
Pomodoro is a useful method for managing time, but it should not be followed too strictly. The suggested 25-minute working period may not suit everyone. If someone is in a productive flow, they should continue working instead of stopping. During breaks, it’s best to avoid distractions like social media. Instead, engaging in conversations or spending time outside can help clear the mind and fully recharge. These activities provide a better balance and promote relaxation.
83. Use an Apron
Wearing an apron can keep clothes clean while cooking and eating. It makes the task easier and helps avoid messy spills, especially for those with young children.
84. Task Management Journal
The bullet journal is a popular method for organizing tasks using simple bullet points in a notebook. Created by Ryder Carroll, this system allows users to track daily, weekly, and monthly activities, events, and thoughts. It serves as a flexible tool for personal management and reflection.
85. Use Hand Cream Before Sleep
Applying hand cream before going to bed can keep hands soft and smooth. Many people find that this routine helps maintain skin health and leaves a pleasant feeling.
86. Use a ‘Sunday Basket’
This method involves gathering all items needing attention into a single basket. Set aside a specific time each Sunday to sort through the contents and address them, making tasks more manageable and organized.
87. Monitor Your Baby
Using an app like Baby Tracker can help new parents manage the stress of caring for a baby. It allows them to keep track of feeding times, including which breast was used, and naps, especially when they are tired.
88. Gather Silica Gel Packs
Silica gel packets offer many benefits. They can prevent tools from rusting and protect important documents from moisture. Keeping a stockpile of these packets is useful for various purposes.
89. Register to Donate Blood (If Eligible)
In the UK, blood supplies are critically low. Signing up online at blood.co.uk only takes five minutes. Donating blood helps others and can provide a fulfilling experience for donors.
90. Identify Items in Storage
To save time and reduce confusion, it is wise to label storage items. Using clear bags allows for easy viewing of contents. For cardboard boxes, writing a list of items on the outside with a black marker is helpful. This practice makes retrieval straightforward when needed.
91. Utilize Idle Moments
Finding small pockets of time can lead to productivity. For instance, one can tackle tasks during a short wait. Tasks like scheduling appointments or organizing paperwork can fit into these quick intervals. By doing so, individual items can be checked off a to-do list with little time commitment. This approach reduces the pressure and maximizes productivity in daily routines.
92. Meal Planning
Planning meals is essential for making the most of available ingredients. Instead of waiting for inspiration, take time to organize meals for the week. This can be as simple as listing what is in the fridge, what meals to prepare, and what items need to be purchased. Using a notebook or a digital app can help keep track of ideas and grocery needs, ensuring a smoother cooking experience each day.
93. Spend Time Outdoors Daily
Getting outside brings fresh air and sunlight. Many find it essential for mental health, whether it’s a morning ritual, a lunchtime break, or an evening stroll. Nature can provide a refreshing escape from daily stress.
94. Create a Travel Organizer
Having a travel drawer helps keep essentials ready for trips. It is useful to store adapters, local currency, clear toiletry bags, and transport cards. An extension lead with multiple sockets is a smart choice for accommodating various plugs.
95. Selecting Clothing with Pockets
Choosing outfits with pockets can enhance convenience and offer extra space for belongings. Pockets are useful for carrying small items like phones, wallets, and keys.
Here are some benefits of wearing clothing with pockets:
- Storage Options: Extra space is always handy.
- Easy Access: Items are secure and within reach.
- Style Variety: Pockets can add a trendy look to outfits.
96. Plan Vacations in Advance
Booking holidays early offers better prices, more options, and easier payment plans.
97. Create a ‘Quick Task’ Plan
Natalie uses a simple method to view chores as quick tasks. She references the song “American Pie,” noting that jobs that take about the song’s length—eight and a half minutes—are seen as easy. By finding a time benchmark, like vacuuming or washing dishes, she simplifies her approach to household tasks. No need to play the song repeatedly; the time comparison is enough.
98. Use Convenient Healthy Options
Ready-to-use ingredients can save time and effort in meal preparation. Items like pre-chopped frozen vegetables or stir-fry mixes allow for quick cooking. When convenience meets nutrition, it can make healthy eating more manageable, fitting into a busy lifestyle effectively.
99. Give Everyone a Laundry Basket
Each person should have their own container for clean laundry. This helps keep clothes organized and makes it easier to put them away. It’s important that everyone takes responsibility for their own items.
100. Embrace That Life Will Always Be a Work in Progress
Accepting that life may never come together can be freeing. Oliver Burkeman highlights the idea of “imperfectionism.” This means recognizing that one might never fully master tasks like work or health.
Instead of comparing oneself to unrealistic expectations, it’s healthier to forgive personal flaws. By abandoning the need for perfection, they can focus on valuing small improvements each day. This shift can help reduce feelings of failure and create a sense of relief.