Unexpected challenges are what make us stronger, so don’t avoid them. Keep in mind the following 30 tips and you’ll be able to streamline your life and get back on track before the end of the year.

1. Recycle old papers that are filling drawers in your house.

If you’re anything like me, you have drawers overflowing with old receipts, junk mail, records, and notes to myself. Get rid of all of this. Invest in a paper shredder to reduce clutter and maintain privacy.

2. Mentally prepare yourself for change by visualizing your ideal self.

Who do you admire the most? How do you envision yourself in the future? Who do you want to be? Visualize yourself to be that person.

3. Realize that unexpected events can be a good thing.

As the Dalai Lama once said, “Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.”

4. Ask people you admire how they got where they are today.

I’ve always admired my grandfather. Learning more about how he started up his business, dealt with difficulty throughout his life, and maintained grace throughout it all has helped me in my personal endeavors.

5. Cut back on alcohol, cigarettes and other vices.

These can be crutches that cloud judgment. The money saved by not purchasing or cutting back on this type of material can then be put into something rewarding such as a vacation.

6. Remove elements of negativity from your life, be they people or a job you don’t want to do.

If you have friends who are bringing you down, there’s no need to keep hanging out with them out of obligation. Cut your ties and cut your losses.

7. Start each day with a clear to-do list along with your cup of morning coffee.

Knowing what you need to do in the day ahead helps keep you on track.

8. Clean your house from top to bottom and throw away anything outdated.

Not only receipts, as mentioned above, but any old junk that should be donated to charity or sold in a garage sale.

9. Institute a clear filing system for your personal records.

Investing in a simple filing cabinet and folders with labels is something you don’t need a personal secretary for and makes your life much easier when you are looking for a specific item.

10. Do your grocery shopping for the week on the day it’s most convenient.

Make a list, budget, and get only what you need to save time and money.

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