I told them to set their timer for 15 minutes. Then I asked them to get one sheet of paper and write down a three-step list of the things they needed to do each morning. Then a three-step list for early afternoon and then a three-step list for stopping work. I told them this list could not be more than three steps to start with for each part of the day. This would be their daily routines. Each item on their three-step list was a habit they were going to practice each day.

In order to grow their business they had to develop and use a basic weekly plan! We all have things we need to do every week to keep our homes running; the same is true for businesses. You have to work on projects a little at a time, keep inventories stocked, pay bills, talk with your employees, run errands, make appointments — you get the picture. Oh, and don't forget about the fun: being creative and planning for the future. I had them list each day of the week and give a focus for the day. This doesn't mean you spend all day on that focus, just set aside some time for it. For me it is my mornings. I take care of what I need in the morning. This frees me to play in the afternoon.

Now here is the tough part! We have to do this, not just think about doing it! Establish the habit of clearing off our desk each night and starting the new day with a clear space. I have put together an Office Control Journal that you can download for free to help you get started, but first things first! Clear off the top of your desk!

(We have a Google search box on our Web site, www.Flylady.net; search for Office Control Journal.)

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Marla Cilley, a k a FlyLady, is the author of Sink Reflections (Bantam Books Trade Paperback). For more help, please go to: www.FlyLady.net. © 2006