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By: Ellie Burgueno, journalist and writer.
Becoming more organized is one of my primary New Year’s resolutions. As a publisher, writer, entrepreneur, speaker, mom, and event planner, I often find myself overwhelmed with activities, deadlines, and daily responsibilities. My natural abilities have helped me manage the chaos, but not as efficiently as I would like. Last year, I attempted to hire a personal assistant but couldn’t find the right fit. Some friends suggested installing an AI assistant on my phone, but I haven’t taken that step yet. Instead, I decided to take control of my daily routine by implementing small but effective habits to enhance organization and productivity. One of the simplest yet most powerful habits I have adopted is making my bed as soon as I wake up.
The Psychology Behind Making Your Bed
Many psychologists and self-improvement experts emphasize the importance of starting your day with a small accomplishment. Making your bed may seem like a trivial task, but it sets a positive tone for the day ahead. Admiral William H. McRaven, a retired U.S. Navy SEAL, famously highlighted this habit in his commencement speech at the University of Texas in 2014. He stated, “If you make your bed every morning, you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task, and another, and another.”
This seemingly small action instills discipline, promotes order, and creates a ripple effect of productivity throughout the day. Studies have shown that individuals who make their beds each morning tend to have better time management skills, improved mood, and a greater sense of accomplishment.
The Science of Organization and Productivity
Organizational psychologist Charles Duhigg, in his book The Power of Habit, describes how small habits, like making your bed, can trigger a cascade of positive behaviors. He refers to these as keystone habits—small changes that lead to significant improvements in overall life organization and productivity. Making your bed in the morning creates a structured environment, which has been linked to reduced stress and increased mental clarity.
According to a survey conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, people who make their beds daily report feeling more productive and having better sleep hygiene than those who don’t. A clutter-free bedroom also contributes to lower stress levels and improved mental well-being.
Steps to Becoming More Organized, Starting with Your Bed
If you’re looking to enhance your organizational skills, the best place to start is with your morning routine. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Make Your Bed Immediately – As soon as you wake up, resist the urge to check your phone or get distracted. Instead, straighten your sheets, fluff your pillows, and smooth out your comforter. This simple act will provide a sense of control over your environment.
- Establish a Morning Routine – After making your bed, create a structured morning ritual. This could include stretching, meditating, exercising, or planning your day. A well-structured morning sets the tone for a more organized and productive day.
- Plan Your Day the Night Before – Organization begins with foresight. Take a few minutes each evening to jot down your top priorities for the next day. This will help reduce morning stress and provide a clear roadmap for your tasks.
- Declutter Your Living Space – An organized environment leads to an organized mind. Take small steps to declutter your home, starting with your bedroom. When your space is tidy, your mind is clearer, and you can focus on more important tasks.
- Use a Planner or Digital Tools – If, like me, you struggle with managing multiple responsibilities, consider using a planner or digital productivity tools such as Trello, Notion, or an AI assistant, which I will soon get! These tools help track deadlines, appointments, and daily tasks, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
- Develop a Habit of Consistency – Habits take time to form, but consistency is key. By repeating simple actions like making your bed, organizing your schedule, and planning your tasks, you’ll gradually build a more structured and efficient lifestyle.
The Bigger Picture: How Small Habits Lead to Success
While making your bed may seem insignificant, it is a foundational step toward a more organized life. Success is built upon small, consistent actions that create momentum over time. By cultivating discipline in the simplest aspects of our daily routine, we develop the mindset needed to tackle larger challenges with efficiency and confidence.
As I continue my journey toward becoming more organized, I encourage you to join me in adopting this habit. Start with making your bed each morning, and watch how this small victory transforms your daily productivity and mindset. After all, if one simple habit can set the tone for a successful day, imagine what a series of positive habits can do for a lifetime of success.
So, tomorrow morning, as you rise to a new day, take a moment to straighten your sheets and smooth your comforter—you might just be setting yourself up for greatness.
