How to stick to your organizing ways

Resolving to declutter and organize your home is one thing. Sticking with a seven-day program is another. Success depends on “your to-do list meeting your calendar,” says productivity coach Sara Caputo.

Block out a specific time for each hourlong task. “You need to decide on a time frame and mark it down on your calendar or everything else is going to gobble up that time,” Caputo says.

At the designated time, set a timer for one hour. Knowing there’s a finite period of work time makes a task seem easier to tackle. A timer — especially one that actually ticks — also acts as a “focusing tool,” helping you block out distractions and work more efficiently, Caputo says.