PRODUCTIVITYWeeks to result

Habit 6: Organize

Put everything in its home

Problem it solves

low productivity

Best for

Individuals who want to increase their productivity and reduce clutter

Not ideal for

Those who are already highly organized and have a system that works for them

Overview

Why this framework exists

Habit 6: Organize is the habit of putting everything in its home. It involves having a system, finding a home for each item, and putting things away immediately.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Put everything in its home
  2. Have a system for organizing
  3. Find a home for each item

Steps

3 steps
  1. Have a system
    Have a system for organizing, including a place for incoming papers and a way to process them.
    Pro tipUse a simple tool like a notebook or index cards to help you stay organized
    WarningBe careful not to make the system too complex
  2. Find a home for each item
    Find a home for each item, and put it away immediately.
    Pro tipUse a simple filing system to keep things organized
    WarningBe aware of the items you are putting away and avoid cluttering your space
  3. Put things away immediately
    Put things away immediately, and avoid procrastination.
    Pro tipMake putting things away a habit
    WarningBe careful not to get too caught up in putting things away and forget to take action

Checklist

Saved in your browser

Examples

2 cases
Using a simple filing system

An individual uses a simple filing system to keep their papers organized, and puts them away immediately.

OutcomeThe individual is able to stay organized and focused, and reduce clutter
Designating a home for each item

An individual designates a home for each item, and puts it away immediately.

OutcomeThe individual is able to stay organized and focused, and reduce clutter

Common mistakes

3 traps
Not having a system
Not having a system can lead to clutter and disorganization
Not finding a home for each item
Not finding a home for each item can lead to clutter and disorganization
Not putting things away immediately
Not putting things away immediately can lead to clutter and disorganization

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The habit of organizing is essential for productivity, as it helps individuals to reduce clutter and increase their focus. By putting everything in its home, individuals can reduce stress and increase their productivity.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Zen to Done: The Ultimate Simple Productivity System
Leo Babauta · 2024
Open source →

Related frameworks

Browse all Productivity →