30 Unexpected Ways to Increase Productivity
Adulthood: it’s here, and it’s messy.
Sure, you can vote and buy your own groceries, but let’s be honest, half the time, you’re still Googling ‘how to boil an egg.’
You’re old enough to vote and have finally left grade school behind,
But you’ve also only been an adult for 2 seconds.
You’re out here learning how to pay bills, juggle work, and maybe even cook something other than pasta.
And if we’re being honest, adulthood can feel like one giant pop quiz.
Some people seem to have all the answers, and others are just trying to stay afloat.
No matter where you land, whether you’re Marie Kondo-ing your closet or wondering if laundry counts as cleaning, there’s one thing we all need to survive the chaos of adulthood:
Organization is the secret weapon to thriving—not just surviving—in your 20s.
Whether you’re balancing a job, school, relationships, or personal growth, building good habits now will set you up for success later.
So let’s dive into 30 ways to get and stay organized in your 20s.
We’re covering all the tools you need to turn chaos into calm.
Get ready to declutter your life—both physically and mentally—and create systems that stick.
Think of this as your toolkit for reducing stress, staying on track, and making room for what matters most.
Ready to finally get your life together—or at least look like you have?
Let’s talk about how building good habits now can make your 20s a whole lot easier (and less chaotic).
Your routine is more than just a series of tasks—it’s an opportunity to ground yourself, boost your energy, and cultivate the mindset you need to conquer the day ahead.
This guide dives into 30 game-changing habits to help you get organized and stay on top of your goals throughout your 20s.
Why Building Organizational Habits Matters
They set the tone for your mood, productivity, and mindset. By dedicating just a few moments to intentional actions each morning, you can:
- Improve mental clarity and focus.
- Boost physical health.
- Cultivate a sense of control over your day.
Organizational habits are the foundation of a successful and stress-free life.
30 Ways to Get and Stay Organized in Your 20s
1. Wake Up Earlier
Waking up early gives you uninterrupted time to focus on yourself before the demands of the day take over. Aim to wake up at least 30 minutes earlier than usual to ease into your morning routine. Experiment with wake-up times to find what works best for your energy levels.
“The quiet stillness of the early morning can be your most productive time.”
2. Hydrate First Thing
Your body naturally loses water overnight, so rehydrating is essential. Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up to kickstart your metabolism and energize your body. Adding a slice of lemon or a splash of apple cider vinegar can enhance hydration and support digestion.
3. Practice Gratitude
Start your day by reflecting on three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your mindset from stress to abundance, setting a positive tone for the day. Consider writing your gratitudes in a journal for an ongoing reminder of your blessings.
4. Make Your Bed
Making your bed might seem like a small act, but it creates a sense of accomplishment early in the day. It’s also a visual cue that your space is organized, encouraging a clear mind. A neat bed can inspire other small acts of tidiness throughout the day.
5. Stretch or Move Your Body
Incorporate light stretching, yoga, or a quick workout into your morning. Movement wakes up your body, improves circulation, and releases endorphins, boosting your mood and energy. Even 5 minutes of dynamic stretches can invigorate you for the day ahead.
“Movement in the morning energizes the body and calms the mind.”
6. Meditate for Clarity
Spend 5-10 minutes meditating. Focus on your breath or follow a guided meditation. This practice helps reduce stress, improve focus, and cultivate a sense of inner peace. Apps like Headspace or Calm can provide structured meditations to suit any experience level.
7. Plan Your Day
Take a moment to review your schedule and set your priorities. Writing down your top three tasks ensures you’re focused and productive throughout the day. For extra clarity, use time-blocking to allocate specific times for your tasks.
8. Enjoy a Nutritious Breakfast
Fuel your body with a balanced breakfast. Choose foods rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber to sustain your energy and keep you feeling full longer. Examples include avocado toast, Greek yogurt with berries, or a smoothie packed with greens and protein.
9. Limit Screen Time
Avoid checking your phone or email first thing in the morning. Instead, focus on grounding yourself in the present moment. This can reduce stress and help you start the day with intention. Use an analog alarm clock to keep your phone out of reach during the first hour of your day.
“Protect the first hour of your morning from distractions and digital noise.”
10. Listen to Uplifting Music or Podcasts
Create a positive vibe by playing your favorite playlist or listening to a motivational podcast. Music and uplifting content can elevate your mood and energize your mind. Curate a “morning motivation” playlist to set the perfect tone.
11. Visualize Your Goals
Spend a few minutes visualizing your short-term and long-term goals. Imagine yourself achieving them and focus on how that success feels. Visualization can boost motivation and confidence. Pair this with writing affirmations to reinforce your mindset.
12. Write in a Journal
Morning journaling allows you to clear your mind, set intentions, and explore your thoughts. Try prompts like:
- What are my priorities today?
- How do I want to feel today?
- What am I excited about?
Reflecting on these prompts helps you align your actions with your intentions.
13. Practice Deep Breathing
Take 5 deep breaths to calm your mind and energize your body. Deep breathing reduces stress and increases oxygen flow, helping you feel grounded. For added benefit, try box breathing: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, and pause for 4 seconds.
14. Take a Cold Shower
Cold showers might sound intense, but they can boost circulation, improve mood, and even strengthen your immune system. If a full cold shower feels daunting, end your warm shower with 30 seconds of cold water. The invigorating sensation can leave you feeling refreshed.
15. Read or Learn Something New
Spend a few minutes reading an inspiring book, article, or even a few quotes. Learning something new stimulates your mind and can spark creativity. Choose content that aligns with your personal growth goals.
“Feed your mind with knowledge and inspiration every morning.”
16. Declutter Your Space
A tidy environment promotes a clear mind. Spend a few minutes tidying up your space, whether it’s your bedroom, kitchen, or workspace. Start with one small area to make the task manageable.\
17. Step Outside
Fresh air and natural light can do wonders for your mood and energy. Take a short walk or simply step outside to soak in the morning sun. Exposure to natural light also helps regulate your circadian rhythm.
18. Set an Affirmation
Choose a positive affirmation to repeat to yourself throughout the day. Examples include:
- “I am capable of achieving my goals.”
- “Today is filled with opportunities.”
Writing affirmations on sticky notes and placing them around your home can serve as helpful reminders.
19. Prepare the Night Before
Set yourself up for a stress-free morning by prepping the night before. Lay out your clothes, pack your bag, or plan your breakfast to save time and reduce decision fatigue. A well-prepared evening sets the stage for a smoother morning.
20. Drink Herbal Tea
Swap your second cup of coffee for herbal tea. Teas like green tea or chamomile can calm your nerves and provide health benefits without the caffeine crash. Experiment with different blends to find your favorite morning brew.
21. Set a Screen-Free Zone
Dedicate your first 30 minutes of the morning to being screen-free. Use this time for self-care, reflection, or connection with loved ones. Cultivating this habit can foster deeper relationships and mindfulness.
22. Practice Self-Compassion
Start your day with kindness toward yourself. Let go of perfectionism and remind yourself that you’re doing your best. Pair this with a quick self-care ritual, like applying a soothing face mask or using your favorite skincare product.
23. Incorporate Aromatherapy
Use essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or citrus to create a calming or energizing atmosphere. Aromatherapy can enhance your mood and focus. Diffusing oils during your morning routine adds a touch of luxury to your day.
24. Write Down a Daily Intention
Set a single intention for the day that aligns with your values and goals. This intention acts as a guiding principle for your actions. Revisit it throughout the day to stay on track.
“A single intention can bring clarity and purpose to your entire day.”
25. Smile and Embrace Positivity
Start your day with a smile—even if it feels forced at first. Smiling can boost your mood and set a positive tone for the hours ahead. Pair your smile with gratitude or an uplifting thought to reinforce optimism. Take a moment to appreciate small wins and positive experiences, no matter how minor they may seem.
26. Track Your Spending
Keeping track of your finances is one of the most important habits for staying organized in your 20s. Use an app or spreadsheet to log your expenses and income. Understanding where your money goes will help you budget effectively and plan for savings goals.
“A budget isn’t about restrictions—it’s about freedom to spend on what truly matters.”
27. Create a Weekly To-Do List
Instead of feeling overwhelmed by tasks, create a weekly to-do list. Break big projects into smaller, manageable tasks and assign deadlines. This approach keeps you focused and prevents last-minute scrambling.
“When you know what’s next, stress takes a back seat.”
28. Set Boundaries with Technology
Social media and endless notifications can eat away at your focus. Set specific times to check your phone and emails, and use tools like Do Not Disturb mode to limit distractions during key tasks.
“Your focus is your superpower—protect it.”
29. Keep a Calendar or Planner
Whether it’s digital or paper, a planner can help you track appointments, deadlines, and events. Regularly updating your calendar keeps you on top of commitments and prevents double-booking.
“An organized schedule is an organized mind.”
30. Build a Cleaning Routine
A clean space promotes productivity and reduces stress. Set a cleaning schedule—whether it’s daily tidying, weekly deep cleaning, or seasonal decluttering. Stick to it to maintain an orderly home and workspace.
“A clutter-free space leads to a clutter-free mind.”
The End
Start small, experiment to find what works best for you, and build from there.
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.
Every step you take toward organization brings you closer to achieving your goals and creating the life you envision.
Which habit will you start today? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
