Life can feel chaotic and overwhelming at times. Whether it’s juggling work, family, or just trying to get through the day, we all reach moments where we feel stuck or out of control. But here’s the good news: with a few small, practical steps, you can start sorting out your life right now. Let’s dive into 12 ways you can do that, with clear, real-life examples to help you take action today.
1. Declutter Your Space
Your surroundings have a massive impact on how you feel. Ever noticed how much lighter you feel after tidying up? A clutter-free environment can clear your mind too.
Start Small (One Room at a Time)
Example: If the thought of cleaning your entire home feels overwhelming, start with your bedroom. Clear out your bedside table or wardrobe. Take everything out, sort it into ‘keep’, ‘donate’, and ‘throw away’ piles. Have you been holding onto clothes you haven’t worn in years? Let them go! This small win will give you momentum to tackle the next room.
Adopt a Minimalist Approach
Example: When you buy something new, make it a rule to get rid of something old. This stops clutter from building up again. Let’s say you buy a new pair of shoes—give away an old pair you never wear. Trust me, you’ll feel a sense of freedom with less ‘stuff’ weighing you down.
2. Take Control of Your Finances
Money stress is something we all face at some point. The key to feeling more in control is to get organised and be honest about your spending.
Create a Budget and Stick to It
Example: First, track your spending for a month. Write down everything—from rent to that cheeky coffee on the way to work. Break it down into categories like rent, groceries, entertainment, and savings. Here’s a simple example:
Income: R25,000
Rent: R8,000
Groceries: R3,000
Transport: R1,500
Entertainment: R1,500
Savings: R2,000
Seeing everything in black and white helps you identify where you can cut back. Try an app like 22seven or MyFincheck to help manage your budget and keep track of your money.
Build an Emergency Fund
Example: Life is unpredictable. Saving even a small amount each month can make a world of difference when the unexpected happens. Aim to save 5-10% of your income. If you earn R25,000, start by saving R1,250 to R2,500 each month. Set up an automatic transfer into a savings account so it’s out of sight, out of mind.
3. Develop a Routine
Routines give your day structure and make life feel less overwhelming. Start with something simple—morning routines can set the tone for the entire day.
Prioritise Your Tasks
Example: You’ve got a long to-do list, but not everything is urgent, right? If you’re working from home, tackle your top priority tasks first thing in the morning. For instance, if a work project deadline is looming, focus on that, and leave less urgent tasks like cleaning the house for later. This way, you’ll avoid the guilt of procrastinating on the important stuff.
Use a Planner or App to Schedule
Example: Start blocking out time in your day for specific tasks. Use Google Calendar or a simple to-do list app. Block out work time (like 9 AM – 12 PM for that project), and also set aside time for personal tasks (like 3 PM – 4 PM to run errands). When you allocate time, it’s easier to stay focused.
4. Set Clear Goals
Without goals, life can feel aimless. Having a clear direction—no matter how small—gives you something to work towards.
Break Big Goals into Smaller Steps
Example: Let’s say you want to buy your first home. That’s a big goal, right? Break it into smaller steps:
Month 1: Research home loan options.
Month 2: Start saving for a deposit.
Month 3: Talk to estate agents and start looking at properties.
By breaking it down, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more motivated to move forward.
Review Your Goals Regularly
Example: Every few months, take a look at your goals and see how you’re progressing. If you planned to save R50,000 in six months but you’ve only saved R20,000, don’t beat yourself up. Reassess and adjust the timeline to make it more achievable.
5. Improve Your Health
It’s easy to let health slide when life gets busy. But remember, your physical and mental health are your foundation.
Start with Simple Exercises
Example: You don’t have to hit the gym seven days a week to get fit. Start with something simple, like a 30-minute walk each day. Or, try this basic bodyweight workout at home:
10 squats
10 push-ups
20-second plank
Do this two or three times a week to build strength. It’s small, but over time, you’ll feel the difference.
Focus on Balanced Nutrition
Example: Don’t overhaul your entire diet overnight. Start by making one or two healthier swaps. For example, instead of grabbing a packet of chips, snack on nuts or fruit. Instead of sugary cereals for breakfast, try oats with some peanut butter and bananas. Small changes add up.
6. Manage Your Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and we need to make time for it.
Incorporate Mindfulness Practices
Example: Set aside five minutes each morning to breathe deeply and clear your mind. Apps like Headspace and Calm can guide you through simple mindfulness exercises. This small practice can help you feel more centred and calm throughout the day.
Seek Help if Needed
Example: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s talking to a therapist, a friend, or even using online resources, taking that first step can make all the difference.
7. Strengthen Your Relationships
The people in your life shape your emotional wellbeing. Nurturing positive relationships and setting boundaries with negative influences is key.
Set Boundaries
Example: If you have a friend who constantly leans on you for emotional support and it’s starting to drain you, it’s okay to say, “I need some time to recharge.” Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re being selfish—it’s about protecting your own mental health.
Surround Yourself with Uplifting People
Example: Take a look at your circle. Who inspires you? Who drags you down? Make a conscious effort to spend more time with the people who uplift you. It could be as simple as meeting up with a friend who always leaves you feeling energised and positive.
8. Declutter Your Digital Life
Your digital life—like your physical space—can easily become cluttered.
Unsubscribe and Clear Out Emails
Example: Start by cleaning up your inbox. Unsubscribe from newsletters you no longer read and delete old emails. You’d be surprised how much mental clutter this can clear. Apps like Unroll.Me can help you batch unsubscribe quickly.
Organise Your Digital Files
Example: Create a folder structure on your laptop or in Google Drive. For instance:
Work: All documents related to your job.
Personal: Bills, receipts, and important documents.
Photos: Organise by year or event.
This way, you can easily find what you need without wasting time.
9. Simplify Your Wardrobe
Ever heard of decision fatigue? The more choices you have, the harder it is to make decisions. Simplifying your wardrobe can save you time and energy.
Invest in Quality Over Quantity
Example: Instead of buying five cheap T-shirts that wear out after a few washes, invest in one high-quality piece that lasts. Classic, versatile items—like a black blazer or a well-made pair of jeans—will serve you better in the long run.
Create a Capsule Wardrobe
Example: Limit your wardrobe to around 30-40 items that you can mix and match easily. Stick to neutral colours like black, white, grey, and navy. This makes getting dressed in the morning quicker and stress-free.
10. Prioritise Self-Care
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and spa days (though they help). It’s about taking time to recharge and care for your own wellbeing.
Schedule Time for Yourself
Example: Block out an hour each weekend just for you. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or binge-watching your favourite series, this is your time to recharge.
Practice Daily Gratitude
Example: Each night before bed, jot down three things you’re grateful for. It could be as simple as “I’m grateful for my health” or “I’m thankful for my supportive family.” Practising gratitude helps shift your mindset to focus on the positives in life.
11. Create Work-Life Balance
Finding the balance between work and personal life is crucial for long-term happiness and productivity.
Set Boundaries Between Work and Personal Time
Example: If you work from home, set clear boundaries. For instance, stop checking work emails after 6 PM. Setting a clear “clock-off” time helps create a balance and prevents burnout.
Learn to Say No
Example: If your workload is getting too heavy, or friends are asking too much, it’s okay to say no. Saying, “I’d love to help, but I’m at capacity right now” protects your time and energy.
12. Reassess Your Habits
Habits make or break your life. If something’s not working, reassess it and make adjustments.
Replace Bad Habits with Good Ones
Example: If you find yourself scrolling through social media late into the night, replace that habit with reading a book for 10 minutes before bed. This will help you wind down and improve your sleep.
Track Your Progress
Example: If you want to build a new habit, like drinking more water, start small. Set a goal to drink 1 litre a day and track it using an app like Habitica. Tracking helps you stay accountable and motivated.
Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact
Sorting out your life doesn’t happen overnight, but small, practical changes can have a huge impact. Whether it’s decluttering your space, managing your finances, or creating better habits, start small and keep building. Over time, these little actions will add up to a more organised, balanced, and fulfilling life.
FAQs
How do I start organising my life? Begin by tackling one small area, like a messy desk or your monthly budget. Then, slowly work your way through other aspects, like routines and relationships.
What should I focus on first? Focus on the area that’s causing you the most stress—whether it’s financial, physical clutter, or your mental wellbeing.
How can I manage stress while sorting my life? Break big tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate the small wins along the way, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
How often should I reassess my goals and habits? Every 3-6 months is a good timeframe to review your progress and make adjustments.
What tools can help me stay organised? Try apps like Trello for task management, YNAB for budgeting, and Google Calendar for daily scheduling.
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