Are broken windows keeping you from getting things done?

There is a theory in criminology called Broken Windows Theory. The idea goes like this: If a building has broken windows that go un-repaired for a length of time, chances are that vandals will break more of the windows. Later, they may break into the building or set it on fire.

So, says the theory, repairing those broken windows should be a priority to prevent the cascading effect of neglect.

This theory has more usefulness than just preventing crime.

A disorganized life is full of broken windows.

Consider your office desk. Imagine papers everywhere, stacked on top of each other in complete disarray. You receive another letter in the mail, and looking at your desk, you think "what's one more" and throw it on the pile.

Now think of a freshly cleaned desk. You spent the morning organizing your work area. You receive a letter in the mail. This time, it's much harder to just throw it on the desk because you'll be cluttering your freshly cleaned area. So instead, you take thirty seconds to put it where it belongs.

The point is, once you start neglecting something, it becomes increasingly easier to continue ignoring it or to make a problem worse.

Repair your broken windows every day.

Being able to get things done on a regular basis is not magic, it is routine. Here are a few tips:

• Create a to-do list.
  Use it at least once in the morning and once at night. Keep it current by removing items that are done. A list of things to do can work wonders organizing your life, but it has to be used regularly.
• Clear your desk every night.
  When you are done working, clear your desk of everything that doesn't belong on it. If something has a place, put it in its place. If something doesn't have a place, give it one.
• If something small needs to be done, just do it.
  If you have a task that will only take a minute to do, don't wait. Just get it done. The time you waste remembering that task in the future will end up being more than if you just get it done now.