I’ve had a month to settle into the online aspect of my project, so I want to make some changes to help me work more efficiently and effectively. Last month I had no real plan, I just tackled things in front of me. But this month I want to be more purposeful. I’ve been thinking a lot about what I want to do next, so I can maximize my results. This month’s goals are intended to help me build better overall habits which will help with the rest of the year.

Here’s my list:

1) Time management: This has been an ongoing struggle. I don’t know if it’s because I spent so many years as a teacher, where I was given a clear, specific schedule and not a lot of unstructured time, but I’m still finding it tough. If I have a deadline or need to be someplace at a certain time, I’m fine. But when I have a bit of free time, I don’t always use it well.

2) Laundry: I have a rare gift in my husband, because he does our laundry. Every Saturday he sorts (!) all our clothes into piles and washes and dries everything. Folding is my job, and if it was a paying gig I would be so fired. I have a feeling another approach would be better. But he works all week and I don’t feel it’s fair to change a system which is working for him because I drag my feet with my part. And I prefer not having any other big chores during the week, so I feel I need to make more effort.

Guess what I’m doing after I post this?

3) General decluttering and donating: I scheduled a pickup for tomorrow and they expect at least four bags. I have close to that much already and will try to add to it. I also have a few bags of books I need to drop off; they’ve been sitting in my car for too long. Most of our useless stuff is crammed into the attic and garage and I am glad it’s getting warm enough to work in those spaces.

I need to drop these off before they find their way back to the shelves.

4) Meal planning: On Monday night I parked a pen and notepad next to my plate at the dinner table. I realized I tend to ask Bob what he wants to eat at inopportune times, so I decided to try a new approach. When we were both finished eating I asked for some ideas, which he was happy to give. We’re all planned out through next Monday. Mostly what I need in this area is more consistency. One successful week does not constitute victory.

5) Establishing routines: I’m stuck in a cycle of cleaning, messiness, cleaning again, and so on. I need to establish simple routines to help us maintain the house. I think getting rid of things will help a lot but the house will still need ongoing attention. Emma wants an allowance, which is something we should have done already, but now is still a good time to start. Involving her will be good for all of us.

I also have a few smaller tasks, which I’m going to group together. For now, I feel pretty confident about next month and am looking forward to sharing my progress.