Southern women possess a multitude of remarkable qualities. From being able to host an impeccable event at a moment’s notice to showing graciousness in every circumstance to having an impressively clean and organized home, manners and poise come to mind. For some, the stereotype can be a lot to live up to. However, women throughout the South have also learned to rely on their strength and creativity.

Admittedly, I easily get overwhelmed if I have a long to-do list or an enormous task looming. Considering how much time I need to invest in a project or—more often, finding myself in the middle of a chore and feeling stuck—can quickly become discouraging. And that’s precisely where the “Just 10 Things” method comes in handy.

What Is the “Just 10 Things” Method?

Whether organizing the pantry or decluttering the closet, the “Just 10 Things” method means that you always commit to handling just 10 items, even if you don’t feel like it. This line of thinking often helps me jump-start a project or divide an overwhelming task into smaller segments. Breaking a chore into bite-sized chunks helps me handle most monumental tasks.

I’ve been implementing the “Just 10 Things” rule for over two decades, and it’s become such a steady part of my life that I don’t recall where I first heard of the concept. However, it’s often helped me find a starting point. 

I remember the first time I used the method to tackle a large pile of laundry. I had three children under five years old at the time, and I dreaded folding all the tiny socks, onesies, and shirts. Looking at the load, I reminded myself that I only needed to fold 10 items every time I walked by the pile. Before I knew it, I finished folding everything in just a few passes.

Why the “Just 10 Things” Method Works

You Often Find Motivation To Do More

I found that once I move past the first 10 things, I often find the motivation to complete a project. Nowadays, although it’s just my husband and me at home, I find that if I start folding 10 pieces, I’ll finish the entire pile in one sitting. Beyond laundry, this method of thinking helps me declutter, address Christmas cards, and even pull weeds—getting rid of 10 at a time is better than none.

When I have bigger tasks—for example, culling items from my wardrobe to take to the consignment shop—I often get excited to start and then feel overwhelmed once I’m in the middle of it all. 

It Keeps You From Feeling Overwhelmed

Having the “Just 10 Things” rule in my back pocket helps me move from feeling discouraged to giving myself permission to leave and return later, knowing that I’ve at least started the task. If I make decisions about 10 items in my closet, I can always go back later and decide about another 10 (or more if I feel like it).

With a simple mindset shift, I’ve accomplished 20-plus years of tasks while being a bit more gentle on myself. In true Southern style, working toward an end goal with a positive attitude has helped me carry out many undertakings. It always helps to have a few tricks up our Southern sleeves to get things done.