One of the biggest temptations in almost every area of life is the impulse to try to take on too much, too fast. This is a huge problem when it comes to homes. Instead of trying to tackle organizational problems in small, manageable steps, people are often tempted to try to take on the whole project at once — to plan a kitchen remodel while organizing the bathroom, sweeping the garage, and vacuuming the living room.

When too much is taken on too fast, people quickly experience “crash-and burn” syndrome. One can quickly become discouraged, paralyzed, and exhausted, collapsing on the sofa and looking around with despair. But it doesn't have to be this way!

By keeping your expectations in check — and generating only small, manageable goals, such as to spend five minutes a day sorting the bedroom closet — you are more likely to keep going, even when you feel tired. After all, small, achievable goals don't weigh on you as heavily as larger ones can. You know that your goal is realistic when it feels doable. A sense of despair is a good sign that your goals are too lofty and that they need to be cut back down to size.