One of the most valuable lessons I have learned through working with a professional organizer is the action step of planning. In the past, I often relegated planning to another item on my to do list. I was not aware of the extra-ordinary advantages that come from planning one's schedule, whether related to work, family, or social life.

So, what are some of these benefits you're wondering. First, it optimizes your use of your time. You focus on your priorities, because you have already reviewed them for the week or month ahead and have scheduled them in. Second, you feel more in control of your schedule, and less commonly, that your schedule is controlling you. According to research in the field of occupational health, the more control that you perceive you have in your work, the more job satisfaction and less stress you are likely to experience. Third, you also have more mental energy because there is less worrying that you might forget something, or procrastinating on an important project or task. You can rest assured, knowing that the important task has already been prioritized. You also know what day and time you will be addressing it. No longer are there the nagging thoughts, in the recesses of your mind, reminding you of what you need to do, or to not forget something. This often drains our mental energy and contributes to increased stress. Fourth, you become increasingly aware of how balanced or out-of-balance your day/week is, and, on a more macro level, how your work/life balance is also.