Only Handle It Once (The OHIO method)

Do you ever find yourself getting lost in the mountain of things on your to do list?

It can be hard to stay focussed on the task at hand when you have so much to do, but the OHIO method can work really well, especially if you are easily distracted.  It can also be particularly beneficial for individuals with ADHD, who often face challenges in managing attention, prioritizing tasks, and avoiding procrastination.

The idea is to address tasks, emails, or documents as soon as they come up, instead of putting them off or letting them pile up and only handle it once.

Here are some benefits of the OHIO method:

– Saves time and mental energy by not having to come back to an item later to decide what to do with it.

– Helps you stay on top of your workload, making more efficient use of your time.

– Helps you avoid clutter building up.

– Helps you avoid forgetting things by getting them completed.

Here are some tips for using the OHIO method:

– Identify the key areas of your home or room e.g. your desk where clutter is piling up.

– What is your desired outcome? More space or calming your stress levels?

– Get prepared. Have boxes/files ready for items to shred; recycle; donate; action to help you make the most of the time available.

– Make an immediate decision – don’t add it back into the pile, telling yourself that you will make a decision later.

– Create placeholders.  If a task is too complex to handle in less than three minutes, record the actions you need to take.

– Set reminders.  If a task will take longer, set a reminder to work on it at a scheduled time.  I recommend putting these tasks in your diary, just like an appointment as you are more likely to actually complete them.

As with any method of organising, as you use it more consistently it helps you build it as a new habit.

I’ve helped 100s of people over the last 5 years reclaim their home and time and each solution is tailored to your individual needs. If you’d like to get your life more organised and feel less stressed, get in touch for a free discovery call on how I can help you.

 

Email – hello@louisesimpsoncoaching.co.uk

Call – 07986 049291

Louise Simpson has been helping people organise their lives and homes for 5 years across Essex (and the UK by Zoom). She has shared her expertise on BBC Radio 4; BBC Essex; podcasts and was also a co-author on Amazon Bestseller ‘Ready to Rise’. Louise is also a 5 year member of the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers (www.apdo.co.uk) – yes, Home Organising as an industry has been in the UK for 20years!

As a Professional Organiser and Life Coach, she will help you tackle both the mindset and practical changes required. Louise helps restore balance in your home, reduce overwhelm and make your home work for you.

 

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