Get the motivation to start, keep going, and finish the task or project you want.
For those of you who are not challenged with doing the things you need to do to stay organized, you can skip this article. For the rest of us, read on.
Identify your reasons for doing the task or project in the first place. Does it support a goal? Will you feel better once it's done? Will accomplishing the task enhance your day? Make a list of why you should even bother doing it and make a list of why you should stop putting it on your to-do list. Let go of everyone else's expectations and focus on what you want. Focus on your motivation.
Add some fun. Spice up mundane tasks with music, color, games, rewards, or imagination. You could wear a tiara like one individual does when she washes her dishes. Turn up some dance music and shuffle along to the beat when you're sorting through a box or bag. I had one client use her favorite color to tag her least favorite tasks and projects to make them more attractive to her.
Beat the clock. Set a timer and see how much you can accomplish in 15 or 20 minutes. Some of your least favorite tasks may not take that long. In fact, you may spend more time dreading a task then it takes to accomplish. Maybe It's Time to Get Real(istic).
Rename it. Rather than housework or chores, call it home care. Instead of putting in maintenance time to stay organized, consider practicing your organizational skills. Most importantly, accept the fact that it is your choice. You don't have to, must, or should do anything, but you could, want, or might.
Make is social. Find ways to make your task or activity more social. Commit to clearing out your pantry on the same day and time as a friend, then meet for coffee, lunch, or a drink afterward to celebrate. Join a Paperwork Party™ and sort through that stack of paperwork. Ask your partner to join you in clearing out that leaning stack of plastic ware in your cupboard or getting through the home care chores so that you both can move on to more creative endeavors.
Finally - Start. Start small. Start at the beginning. Start in the middle. Or start at the end. There are times when you won't feel like doing the task or project, but the motivation will come after you start. Sometimes you have to take action to feel motivated. So just start. Now.