Anytime I find myself feeling disorganized, my stress level rises and when my stress level rises my effectiveness in the classroom falls.  While teaching will never be a stress-free job, I was able to make it less stressful by implementing several quick and easy organization ideas.

Truth is, I really am a fairly organized person.  However, it was important to me that I ‘felt’ organized.  If I left at the end of the day without a sense of direction for the coming day or arrived in the morning without a plan for where to start, I did not feel organized.

Every teacher is wired differently and different things stress and overwhelm us, but I really believe these few simple ideas will help lessen the stress you may be experiencing when it comes to your classroom.

Number One – Take a few moments at the end of the day to organize your workspace.  This may mean placing papers, files, and any other paper materials in a bin or a tray.  It is helpful to label the materials with sticky notes.  On the sticky note, I might write what still needs to be done with this particular group of papers, files, document.  I promise finding your desk cleared of clutter will make you will feel less overwhelmed upon entering your classroom in the morning.

Number Two – Utilize an Every Single Day checklist.  I have a laminated checklist on my desk that lists seven things I routinely do upon arriving every single day.  Having a visual list allows me to get right to work.  Being able to check those things off, gives a sense of accomplishment, which helps keep my stress in check.

Number Three – To Do checklist.  Unlike #2 above, my to do checklist is a list of 3-5 things that I have to accomplish during the day.  I write the list out on a sticky note before leaving each day.  Once the list is made, I place it on my laptop keyboard. Placing it here forces me to see it at the start of my day.

Number Four – Two “Catch-All” Drawers.  Curious about this one?  I can’t wait to share more about what it is, how to set it up and how to use it. Be on the look out for a detailed post about “Catch-All” drawers next week.

In the meantime, try implementing tips one, two and three into your daily routine.  If you do, let me know how it goes.  Also, I would love to hear any ideas you have or use in your classroom to help lower your stress level.