It's almost time for the kids to get back to school. Most parents are happy, kids, not so much.
But the end of summer vacation is drawing to a close and parents and kids have to get back to their reality. That means getting up on time, getting dressed in something other than shorts and t-shirts, having their backpack and homework plus all of their signed parent notes all together and in their backpack.
Sounds easy enough. Yet the usual scenario is more like chaos with stressed out parents yelling at their kids for not being ready on time and kids yelling because they can't find their shoes or their favorite shirt.
So get a head start on being organized for the school year by talking to your kids about the upcoming start of school. Make sure that you have gone over a list of what they need, from clothes and shoes, to backpacks, lunch bags and school supplies.
Then their is "the schedule". Make sure that everyone is on the same page as to the upcoming new schedule. Getting up earlier, getting ready on time, who needs the shower when... yes, some people have to plan out a detailed scheduled to make things run smoothly. Unless of course everyone has their own bathroom (we all aren't so lucky).
If you have your backpack from last year, make sure that it is cleaned out and ready to go (this should have been done at the end of last school year, but if it wasn't now is the time). Make sure that there is a "place" to put backpacks and anything else the kids might need to take to school. A cubby for each child by the door or hooks or whatever works for you. But have a designated spot and make sure that the kids stick to it. There is no reason that they should be scrambling every morning looking for things.
Now is the time to talk to the kids about a new "organized" procedure for the school year. Make them unpack their schoolbags every night and go through any notes that you, the parent needs to sign, have them do their homework and immediately put it back into their schoolbag and then put the schoolbag by the door (or the designated spot).
By implementing an organized routine you have a better chance of not getting that phone call about the missing homework or the missing permission slip.
Kids need structure. They need a routine. And so do adults.
Being organized makes mornings much easier and stress free.
Enjoy the last few days of summer vacation and start your school year on an organized note.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, August 22, 2011
Monday, August 15, 2011
Organizing Your Junk Drawer
Admit it. You have a junk drawer. Don't be embarrassed. Everyone has one. Some are just more messy than others.
But today is the day to clean it out. Yes, you have to clean out that drawer. Come on, you can do it.
I know that you are thinking "how did this drawer get like this" or "why is this stuff in here and what is it?". Well, we all keep things. "Because we might need it". Bits and pieces of stuff.
Start by getting a garbage can and putting it next to the drawer. Take out each item and if you can't identify it or it's use, throw it right into the garbage can.
Anything that you think you might really have a use for (be honest) should be placed into a pile on the floor. If you can't remember why you kept the item, get rid of it because you probably don't need it. Next, try to place like items together.
The reason that most "junk drawers" look "junky" is that everything is usually just in one big drawer, all jumbled together. Depending on what you have in the drawer and the sizes of things you will want to get some dividers to keep things more organized.
There are numerous inexpensive options such as small plastic trays or ice cube trays that will do the trick. Any container will do. I have used the boxes that my checks came in as divider trays for my desk. Be creative. You don't need to spend a lot of money for this drawer.
By keeping things confined in smaller spaces within the drawer it will look less "junky".
And try to break the habit of just throwing things into the drawer because you don't want to find a place for it. Your junk drawer should be confined to a drawer, not the entire house.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
But today is the day to clean it out. Yes, you have to clean out that drawer. Come on, you can do it.
I know that you are thinking "how did this drawer get like this" or "why is this stuff in here and what is it?". Well, we all keep things. "Because we might need it". Bits and pieces of stuff.
Start by getting a garbage can and putting it next to the drawer. Take out each item and if you can't identify it or it's use, throw it right into the garbage can.
Anything that you think you might really have a use for (be honest) should be placed into a pile on the floor. If you can't remember why you kept the item, get rid of it because you probably don't need it. Next, try to place like items together.
The reason that most "junk drawers" look "junky" is that everything is usually just in one big drawer, all jumbled together. Depending on what you have in the drawer and the sizes of things you will want to get some dividers to keep things more organized.
There are numerous inexpensive options such as small plastic trays or ice cube trays that will do the trick. Any container will do. I have used the boxes that my checks came in as divider trays for my desk. Be creative. You don't need to spend a lot of money for this drawer.
By keeping things confined in smaller spaces within the drawer it will look less "junky".
And try to break the habit of just throwing things into the drawer because you don't want to find a place for it. Your junk drawer should be confined to a drawer, not the entire house.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, August 8, 2011
Organizing Wishlist
A lot of people wish they could be organized.
They wish that their home was neat and clutter free.
They wish that everything had a place.
They wish that everything was perfect just like on those decorating T.V. shows.
Well, what's wrong with wishing? Nothing!
But why don't you take it one step further and make that wishlist a reality?
Start by making an actual list. Write down all of the things that you dream of doing. Go ahead. Dream. Just start writing.
Give it a few days and write down as many things as you want to on that list. It's your list.
Then prioritize your list by what bothers you the most and what you would like done first, second ...and so on....
Now here comes the hard part. Step back and be really, really honest with yourself. Ask yourself why the things on your list bother you and why you haven't accomplished them. By doing this you might rearrange your priorities. Something that you thought was a huge problem might move down on the list.
Then take your calendar and pick a date to accomplish your first wish. It could be as simple as "I want to de-clutter my basement". Maybe you haven't organized it because no one could see it but it really bothered you. Well, now you have a date on your calendar that you want it done by.
As I said, don't overthink it. You are working backwards. First, you pick a "due date". Next, you make a list of exactly what you want to accomplish in the basement. Such as "clear out the old toys or excercise equipment you never used" or "organize your tools". Maybe you want to convert the basement into a playroom or workroom. What do you need to do to accomplish that?
Keep making your list and break it down into smaller pieces. Put a due date on each piece.
By doing this you are giving your home the same importance as you would give a project at work. You have deadlines to meet, therefore you are more apt to get it done.
And don't you deserve to have a nice home? Organized and clutter free.
By putting your wishlist on paper and then onto your calendar you are motivating yourself.
And once you are motivated you will find a way to get it done.
And once you are done with your project.... you will want to go down your list and cross off the next project. And before you know it your wishlist will be finished.
But you have to start by making your list. So go ahead. Start wishing.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
They wish that their home was neat and clutter free.
They wish that everything had a place.
They wish that everything was perfect just like on those decorating T.V. shows.
Well, what's wrong with wishing? Nothing!
But why don't you take it one step further and make that wishlist a reality?
Start by making an actual list. Write down all of the things that you dream of doing. Go ahead. Dream. Just start writing.
Give it a few days and write down as many things as you want to on that list. It's your list.
Then prioritize your list by what bothers you the most and what you would like done first, second ...and so on....
Now here comes the hard part. Step back and be really, really honest with yourself. Ask yourself why the things on your list bother you and why you haven't accomplished them. By doing this you might rearrange your priorities. Something that you thought was a huge problem might move down on the list.
Then take your calendar and pick a date to accomplish your first wish. It could be as simple as "I want to de-clutter my basement". Maybe you haven't organized it because no one could see it but it really bothered you. Well, now you have a date on your calendar that you want it done by.
As I said, don't overthink it. You are working backwards. First, you pick a "due date". Next, you make a list of exactly what you want to accomplish in the basement. Such as "clear out the old toys or excercise equipment you never used" or "organize your tools". Maybe you want to convert the basement into a playroom or workroom. What do you need to do to accomplish that?
Keep making your list and break it down into smaller pieces. Put a due date on each piece.
By doing this you are giving your home the same importance as you would give a project at work. You have deadlines to meet, therefore you are more apt to get it done.
And don't you deserve to have a nice home? Organized and clutter free.
By putting your wishlist on paper and then onto your calendar you are motivating yourself.
And once you are motivated you will find a way to get it done.
And once you are done with your project.... you will want to go down your list and cross off the next project. And before you know it your wishlist will be finished.
But you have to start by making your list. So go ahead. Start wishing.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, August 1, 2011
Kids, Clothes & Charity - How Are They Connected ?
I know that most people don't want to think about the summer coming to a close and everything that it entails, but being organized means thinking ahead.
The end of summer means the start of the next school year.
The start of the new school year means new clothes for the kids.
And that means that you will be taking their old clothes (and I mean clothes that don't fit, not tattered clothes) to Goodwill or another charity that could use them.
Kids outgrow things. Sometimes too quickly. You turn around and the next thing you know they are 4 inches taller than when they got out of school in June. It happens! So you have to buy them new clothes.
But before you just randomly go to the store and buy everything in sight you need to go through their closet and drawers and take an inventory of what they really need, not just want they want. BUT, you need to get them involved in the process.
This is not always fun for the kids and they will probably fight you on this, because they have better things to do than go through their clothes, things like playing outside or being with their friends. But as a parent this is a "teaching" moment. You are teaching them how to make decisions, how to organize their closet and drawers, how to recognize when clothes don't fit and the biggest lesson of all is why it's important to donate things that you no longer need to a worthwhile cause. And of course you know that you get a tax write-off.
Once you have gone through their closet and had them try on all of their clothes and put them into piles of "keep", "donate" or "trash" (because they were too worn out to donate) it's time to make a list of exactly what items they will need.
Making a list is very important because it will save you time and money at the store. You won't remember how many socks they had and they will try to get you to buy things that they don't really need.
Once you have the "needed items" (socks, underwear, pants...) you can look at "extras" but try and keep it in perspective. They don't need twenty pairs of jeans or twenty new pairs of shoes. Kids outgrow things very quickly.
By starting when they are young and helping them understand the concepts of "moderation", buying only what they really need and also buying only what they have room for, you are teaching them skills they will use their entire life.
Get into the habit of going through their closets at least once a season, especially when they are young and growing like weeds. And by the way, why don't you clear out your closet at the same time. You would be setting a great example!
Happy Closet Organizing!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
The end of summer means the start of the next school year.
The start of the new school year means new clothes for the kids.
And that means that you will be taking their old clothes (and I mean clothes that don't fit, not tattered clothes) to Goodwill or another charity that could use them.
Kids outgrow things. Sometimes too quickly. You turn around and the next thing you know they are 4 inches taller than when they got out of school in June. It happens! So you have to buy them new clothes.
But before you just randomly go to the store and buy everything in sight you need to go through their closet and drawers and take an inventory of what they really need, not just want they want. BUT, you need to get them involved in the process.
This is not always fun for the kids and they will probably fight you on this, because they have better things to do than go through their clothes, things like playing outside or being with their friends. But as a parent this is a "teaching" moment. You are teaching them how to make decisions, how to organize their closet and drawers, how to recognize when clothes don't fit and the biggest lesson of all is why it's important to donate things that you no longer need to a worthwhile cause. And of course you know that you get a tax write-off.
Once you have gone through their closet and had them try on all of their clothes and put them into piles of "keep", "donate" or "trash" (because they were too worn out to donate) it's time to make a list of exactly what items they will need.
Making a list is very important because it will save you time and money at the store. You won't remember how many socks they had and they will try to get you to buy things that they don't really need.
Once you have the "needed items" (socks, underwear, pants...) you can look at "extras" but try and keep it in perspective. They don't need twenty pairs of jeans or twenty new pairs of shoes. Kids outgrow things very quickly.
By starting when they are young and helping them understand the concepts of "moderation", buying only what they really need and also buying only what they have room for, you are teaching them skills they will use their entire life.
Get into the habit of going through their closets at least once a season, especially when they are young and growing like weeds. And by the way, why don't you clear out your closet at the same time. You would be setting a great example!
Happy Closet Organizing!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, July 25, 2011
Making Excuses for Not Being Organized
When I talk to people about organizing a lot of people tell me that they want to be organized but for one reason of another they just can't get organized.
They have ADD
Their spouse won't get on board with organizing their home
Their kids won't help with keeping the house neat and organized
Their parents never taught them how to be organized
Their parents were hoarders so they are hoarders
There isn't enough time in their schedule to get organized
They are overwhelmed
They don't think their messy house / room / office affects anyone else
Their disorganization doesn't really affect their job
and on .... and on ....
Excuse after excuse .....
But all they are doing is .... nothing....
So how can the problem ever change? It can't. But first they have to acknowledge that their disorganization is a problem. And that's the hardest step.
Yes, disorganization does affect your job. And your family. And your life.
So if you want to change, you can. I didn't say it would be easy. It won't be. It will feel very foreign for awhile. But as with any new habit it will eventually feel "routine". It will eventually start to be just a normal part of your every day life.
First you will start to pick up your clothes off of the floor and put them away in your closet. Then you might put the dishes in the dishwasher immediately after a meal instead of piling them on the kitchen counter and leaving them their for a week.
You might even go through your mail on a daily basis and through out all of the junk mail as soon as you get it.
Or you might do all of your filing on a weekly basis.
The next thing you know .... you are organized!
Watch out ..... it can happen to you.
All you have to do is stop making excuses ..... and start .... anywhere....
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
They have ADD
Their spouse won't get on board with organizing their home
Their kids won't help with keeping the house neat and organized
Their parents never taught them how to be organized
Their parents were hoarders so they are hoarders
There isn't enough time in their schedule to get organized
They are overwhelmed
They don't think their messy house / room / office affects anyone else
Their disorganization doesn't really affect their job
and on .... and on ....
Excuse after excuse .....
But all they are doing is .... nothing....
So how can the problem ever change? It can't. But first they have to acknowledge that their disorganization is a problem. And that's the hardest step.
Yes, disorganization does affect your job. And your family. And your life.
So if you want to change, you can. I didn't say it would be easy. It won't be. It will feel very foreign for awhile. But as with any new habit it will eventually feel "routine". It will eventually start to be just a normal part of your every day life.
First you will start to pick up your clothes off of the floor and put them away in your closet. Then you might put the dishes in the dishwasher immediately after a meal instead of piling them on the kitchen counter and leaving them their for a week.
You might even go through your mail on a daily basis and through out all of the junk mail as soon as you get it.
Or you might do all of your filing on a weekly basis.
The next thing you know .... you are organized!
Watch out ..... it can happen to you.
All you have to do is stop making excuses ..... and start .... anywhere....
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, July 18, 2011
Summer Fun .... Get Organized and Have FUN !
It's summer. The kids are home from school and they are bored. What's a parent to do?
Plan things our course! But get the kids involved. Don't let them sit around and complain! If they want things to do then let them come up with ideas.
There are a lot of things that are available...all you have to do is find them. Take a look in the various newspapers and neighborhood magazines that are available. They usually list the upcoming activities for the summer. There are usually a lot of craft fairs and concerts and family events throughout the summer.
Have everyone in the family highlight all of the activities that sound interesting.
Then grab a calendar and write them on the calendar. This is really important because you won't remember them later in the summer.
Don't worry about having too many activities. Just because you write them down doesn't mean that you have to do them...but at least you will have options.
Add in some of the things that you have neglected over the years...such as visiting the museums or the Zoo or the beach. Or how about penciling in some visits with friends that you haven't had a chance to visit with in a long time.
How about exploring your own city? There are too many people out there that have never been more than an hour away from their own neighborhood. Be daring....explore your own state!
By taking some time in the beginning of the summer and planning your schedule you can have a fun and exciting summer even if you can't afford to get on a plane and fly off to another country for a vacation.
Stop complaining and create your own fun! With a little advanced planning and organizing you can have a great summer!
Enjoy !
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Plan things our course! But get the kids involved. Don't let them sit around and complain! If they want things to do then let them come up with ideas.
There are a lot of things that are available...all you have to do is find them. Take a look in the various newspapers and neighborhood magazines that are available. They usually list the upcoming activities for the summer. There are usually a lot of craft fairs and concerts and family events throughout the summer.
Have everyone in the family highlight all of the activities that sound interesting.
Then grab a calendar and write them on the calendar. This is really important because you won't remember them later in the summer.
Don't worry about having too many activities. Just because you write them down doesn't mean that you have to do them...but at least you will have options.
Add in some of the things that you have neglected over the years...such as visiting the museums or the Zoo or the beach. Or how about penciling in some visits with friends that you haven't had a chance to visit with in a long time.
How about exploring your own city? There are too many people out there that have never been more than an hour away from their own neighborhood. Be daring....explore your own state!
By taking some time in the beginning of the summer and planning your schedule you can have a fun and exciting summer even if you can't afford to get on a plane and fly off to another country for a vacation.
Stop complaining and create your own fun! With a little advanced planning and organizing you can have a great summer!
Enjoy !
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, July 11, 2011
Multi-Tasking - Is is Productive ?
A lot of people think that they are more productive when they "multi-task". But are they really?
What exactly is "multi-tasking"? It is "doing more than one thing at a time". Sounds like an easy explanation. But it's not that straight forward.
Most people think of multi-tasking as doing something like driving a car and talking on the phone at the same time. Sounds like a productive thing to do. But it's dangerous. Which is why a lot of cities are making it illegal to talk on your cell phone while you drive. You can't pay attention to the road and all of the other drivers while you hold a conversation with someone else. At least not if you expect to be totally involved in that conversation.
How can you make important business decisions or give legal or medical advice when you are trying to watch the road?
The answer is " you can't ".
In this example, multi-tasking can be fatal.
But doing the laundry and watching T.V. are also examples of multi-tasking. And in this example it's O.K. to throw in a load of laundry and go back to your favorite T.V. show.
Or reading a book or checking your email while you are waiting at the car dealership to have your car worked on.
Or planning your day while you are on hold on the phone.
There are "active" and "inactive" types of multi-tasking. "Safe" and "dangerous".
If you need to have your mind present while you are doing an activity you cannot do more than one thing at a time. Because if you do you will not be productive at either task.
The time it takes you to move from one task back to another overrides the effectiveness of "multi-tasking".
It might seem like you are accomplishing more by trying to do two things at once, but you really aren't.
Being productive does not mean doing everything at the same time. It means planning your activities so that everything gets done and gets done well. Cramming a lot of things into your day does not mean that you are organized or productive.
You have to pick and choose what you can accomplish in a day. Be realistic. If something needs your undivided attention give it the time it needs. You will accomplish more by doing less in a day.
Being productive and being organized go hand in hand. Just be aware of what you can and cannot do at the same time. For safety reasons as well as for productivity reasons.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
What exactly is "multi-tasking"? It is "doing more than one thing at a time". Sounds like an easy explanation. But it's not that straight forward.
Most people think of multi-tasking as doing something like driving a car and talking on the phone at the same time. Sounds like a productive thing to do. But it's dangerous. Which is why a lot of cities are making it illegal to talk on your cell phone while you drive. You can't pay attention to the road and all of the other drivers while you hold a conversation with someone else. At least not if you expect to be totally involved in that conversation.
How can you make important business decisions or give legal or medical advice when you are trying to watch the road?
The answer is " you can't ".
In this example, multi-tasking can be fatal.
But doing the laundry and watching T.V. are also examples of multi-tasking. And in this example it's O.K. to throw in a load of laundry and go back to your favorite T.V. show.
Or reading a book or checking your email while you are waiting at the car dealership to have your car worked on.
Or planning your day while you are on hold on the phone.
There are "active" and "inactive" types of multi-tasking. "Safe" and "dangerous".
If you need to have your mind present while you are doing an activity you cannot do more than one thing at a time. Because if you do you will not be productive at either task.
The time it takes you to move from one task back to another overrides the effectiveness of "multi-tasking".
It might seem like you are accomplishing more by trying to do two things at once, but you really aren't.
Being productive does not mean doing everything at the same time. It means planning your activities so that everything gets done and gets done well. Cramming a lot of things into your day does not mean that you are organized or productive.
You have to pick and choose what you can accomplish in a day. Be realistic. If something needs your undivided attention give it the time it needs. You will accomplish more by doing less in a day.
Being productive and being organized go hand in hand. Just be aware of what you can and cannot do at the same time. For safety reasons as well as for productivity reasons.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, July 4, 2011
Organizing to Leave for a Vacation
It's almost time for your vacation and you are already thinking about what to pack and what you are going to do when you get there. But have you thought about what you are going to come home to?
The reality is that coming home from a vacation is almost more stressful than leaving for one. You will have piles of laundry, mail, messages and a dirty house. Makes you not want to come home!
Before you leave for your vacation there are some things that you can do to make coming home more pleasant.
* Leave your house clean. I know that getting ready for a vacation isn't always easy and if you work full time you probably won't think about cleaning your house before you leave because you have too many things to do to get ready for the vacation. But, if you give your house a quick clean before you leave (put fresh sheets on the bed, vacuum, dust, start the dishwasher before you leave....) you will be much happier when you return. You will be walking into a clean house instead of a whirlwind of a disaster. And having fresh sheets on the bed when you are too tired from traveling to do it when you come home is worth the few minutes it takes to do it before you leave.
* Have a neighbor or friend stock your fridge with a few simple ingredients so that you have something to eat when you get home and before you have a chance to get to the grocery store. Some bread, lunch meat, eggs, milk .... will hold you over until you get a chance to get to the store. It's a small thing that really makes a difference. And I always appreciate my sister doing that for me.
* Get someone to cut your lawn and take care of your yard while you are gone. You don't want to come home to an overgrown yard.
* Make sure that your mail is stopped before you leave for your vacation.
* Change your email to say "on vacation" so that people will know that you are not avoiding them.
* Make a copy of your credit card numbers and leave a copy with someone you trust in case you lose your credit cards.
* Make sure that you leave your contact information and itinerary with someone you trust in case of emergency.
Thinking about what you will come home to when you are planning a vacation isn't a top priority for most people, but a little planning ahead will take the stress out of coming home.
Now go and enjoy your vacation !
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
The reality is that coming home from a vacation is almost more stressful than leaving for one. You will have piles of laundry, mail, messages and a dirty house. Makes you not want to come home!
Before you leave for your vacation there are some things that you can do to make coming home more pleasant.
* Leave your house clean. I know that getting ready for a vacation isn't always easy and if you work full time you probably won't think about cleaning your house before you leave because you have too many things to do to get ready for the vacation. But, if you give your house a quick clean before you leave (put fresh sheets on the bed, vacuum, dust, start the dishwasher before you leave....) you will be much happier when you return. You will be walking into a clean house instead of a whirlwind of a disaster. And having fresh sheets on the bed when you are too tired from traveling to do it when you come home is worth the few minutes it takes to do it before you leave.
* Have a neighbor or friend stock your fridge with a few simple ingredients so that you have something to eat when you get home and before you have a chance to get to the grocery store. Some bread, lunch meat, eggs, milk .... will hold you over until you get a chance to get to the store. It's a small thing that really makes a difference. And I always appreciate my sister doing that for me.
* Get someone to cut your lawn and take care of your yard while you are gone. You don't want to come home to an overgrown yard.
* Make sure that your mail is stopped before you leave for your vacation.
* Change your email to say "on vacation" so that people will know that you are not avoiding them.
* Make a copy of your credit card numbers and leave a copy with someone you trust in case you lose your credit cards.
* Make sure that you leave your contact information and itinerary with someone you trust in case of emergency.
Thinking about what you will come home to when you are planning a vacation isn't a top priority for most people, but a little planning ahead will take the stress out of coming home.
Now go and enjoy your vacation !
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Summer Parties - More Organized & Less Stress
It's summer. Time for parties and picnics. So make your life easier by keeping things simple and keeping things organized.
Spending time with family and friends should be easy. But a lot of people get stressed out when they think about entertaining. That's not how it's supposed to be. You can make entertaining more enjoyable by having things planned out and organized ahead of time.
* Step back and look at the big picture. Keep things simple.
* Decide on how many picnics, BBQ's and parties you will probably have this summer.
* Use paper plates and plastic utensils. Buy enough at the beginning of the summer to keep you stocked throughout the summer.
* Buy all of your beverages (pop and such....) ahead of time so it's always on hand.
* You can also buy any canned items or other munchies (chips, pretzels....) that are on sale.
* Plan simple meals. It's about being with family and friends, not impressing people.
* If you are having friends over let them bring a side dish or dessert so that you don't have to do it all.
* For a BBQ, buy some pre-made side dishes and just BBQ your favorite meat. There is no rule of entertaining that says that you have to make all the food.
* Don't feel that you have to "entertain" your friends...it's just about being together.
* Relax and enjoy yourself. It's not like on T.V. No one is going to judge you on how well you entertain.
For spur of the moment picnics:
* Keep a basket / bag filled with picnic essentials. Paper plates, cups, napkins, silverware, plastic bags for garbage.
* Keep a blanket in your car at all times for impromptu picnics or an evening at the beach.
* Pick up sandwiches and drinks at a grocery store on your way to the park or beach.
* Enjoy an hour or two at the beach / park at any time.
By planning ahead you will be able to enjoy the summer and have more time to relax with your friends.
Entertaining doesn't have to be nor should it be stressful. By planning ahead you too will be able to enjoy your summer.
Happy entertaining !
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Spending time with family and friends should be easy. But a lot of people get stressed out when they think about entertaining. That's not how it's supposed to be. You can make entertaining more enjoyable by having things planned out and organized ahead of time.
* Step back and look at the big picture. Keep things simple.
* Decide on how many picnics, BBQ's and parties you will probably have this summer.
* Use paper plates and plastic utensils. Buy enough at the beginning of the summer to keep you stocked throughout the summer.
* Buy all of your beverages (pop and such....) ahead of time so it's always on hand.
* You can also buy any canned items or other munchies (chips, pretzels....) that are on sale.
* Plan simple meals. It's about being with family and friends, not impressing people.
* If you are having friends over let them bring a side dish or dessert so that you don't have to do it all.
* For a BBQ, buy some pre-made side dishes and just BBQ your favorite meat. There is no rule of entertaining that says that you have to make all the food.
* Don't feel that you have to "entertain" your friends...it's just about being together.
* Relax and enjoy yourself. It's not like on T.V. No one is going to judge you on how well you entertain.
For spur of the moment picnics:
* Keep a basket / bag filled with picnic essentials. Paper plates, cups, napkins, silverware, plastic bags for garbage.
* Keep a blanket in your car at all times for impromptu picnics or an evening at the beach.
* Pick up sandwiches and drinks at a grocery store on your way to the park or beach.
* Enjoy an hour or two at the beach / park at any time.
By planning ahead you will be able to enjoy the summer and have more time to relax with your friends.
Entertaining doesn't have to be nor should it be stressful. By planning ahead you too will be able to enjoy your summer.
Happy entertaining !
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, June 20, 2011
The Cost of Disorganization
A lot of people don't realize that being "disorganized" costs them money. A lot of money.
Being organized is not only about everything "having a place" and "being in its' place", it's also a way of life.
When you are organized things run smoother. You know where everything is. You aren't searching for things. You get to work on time because your briefcase and keys are where they are supposed to be and you have left plenty of time for unexpected emergencies, like traffic jams.
But, when you are not organized you tend to be frantic. You are constantly searching for missing items. You then go to the store to buy items that you don't think you have. But then, someday, you run across that missing item. So you have just spent money on something that you really didn't need, because you really did have it.
If you do simple things like "put like items with like items" you will always know where things are. If you simply hang all of your "blue shirts" together you can easily find them when you need them. You will also be able to tell at a glance that you don't have a "blue shirt" when you need it.
By putting all of your "like" canned goods together you know exactly how many cans of "baked beans" you have, instead of buying more cans of things that you don't really need.
Constantly buying things that you really don't need because you already have it is just one "cost of disorganization".
Being late for work or a meeting and getting fired is another.
Not turning in a report at school and getting a failing grade is another.
Disorganization disrupts your life. It causes stress.
Take ten or fifteen minutes a day and get yourself organized.
You will feel better. Really you will.
Remember: Less Clutter = Less Stress .... in your Home, your Business and your Life
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Being organized is not only about everything "having a place" and "being in its' place", it's also a way of life.
When you are organized things run smoother. You know where everything is. You aren't searching for things. You get to work on time because your briefcase and keys are where they are supposed to be and you have left plenty of time for unexpected emergencies, like traffic jams.
But, when you are not organized you tend to be frantic. You are constantly searching for missing items. You then go to the store to buy items that you don't think you have. But then, someday, you run across that missing item. So you have just spent money on something that you really didn't need, because you really did have it.
If you do simple things like "put like items with like items" you will always know where things are. If you simply hang all of your "blue shirts" together you can easily find them when you need them. You will also be able to tell at a glance that you don't have a "blue shirt" when you need it.
By putting all of your "like" canned goods together you know exactly how many cans of "baked beans" you have, instead of buying more cans of things that you don't really need.
Constantly buying things that you really don't need because you already have it is just one "cost of disorganization".
Being late for work or a meeting and getting fired is another.
Not turning in a report at school and getting a failing grade is another.
Disorganization disrupts your life. It causes stress.
Take ten or fifteen minutes a day and get yourself organized.
You will feel better. Really you will.
Remember: Less Clutter = Less Stress .... in your Home, your Business and your Life
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
De-Cluttering for a Move
Moving is not fun. Planning for a move is not fun. De-cluttering for a move is not fun.
But... sometimes it has to be done. Even a Professional Organizer will want to pull their hair out during a move. Especially when it's not done their way.
If you know that you will be moving you should immediately start the de-cluttering, purging process. It will make your move much easier. And much lighter. Which in turn will be much less expensive. Because most moving companies charge by truck weight.
I have done many move unpacks for clients that have just moved into town and I am always amazed at the things they decide to move. Old, worn out things. Things that should have been left behind. Because when you are moving it might be the only time that you really think about how often you have actually used the item.
If you know that you are moving ahead of time start going through your house and get rid of things that you have never used, aren't using, things that are old or worn out. Now is the time. Not after you move. If your washer and dryer are 15 years old why move them? It will be cheaper to buy new, more efficient appliances once you move and you will also save money by not paying to move them.
Go through your clothes and get rid of everything that you have not worn in a long time or is out of style. You may not have ever gone through your closet before this but now is the time. Why move things that you will not wear? If you are moving to a warmer climate and won't need those 25 sweaters...donate them. That goes for the snow ski's that you won't need in Miami. Of the treadmill that you have never used.
Get rid of everything that you can before your move. It will feel good! Really it will. You will wonder why you didn't do it sooner. And be sure to keep track of everything that you donate so that you can take a tax deduction.
Moving is a stressful endeavor. Try to make it less so by purging before you even think about packing.
Remember: Less Clutter = Less Stress .... in your Home, your Business and your Life
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
But... sometimes it has to be done. Even a Professional Organizer will want to pull their hair out during a move. Especially when it's not done their way.
If you know that you will be moving you should immediately start the de-cluttering, purging process. It will make your move much easier. And much lighter. Which in turn will be much less expensive. Because most moving companies charge by truck weight.
I have done many move unpacks for clients that have just moved into town and I am always amazed at the things they decide to move. Old, worn out things. Things that should have been left behind. Because when you are moving it might be the only time that you really think about how often you have actually used the item.
If you know that you are moving ahead of time start going through your house and get rid of things that you have never used, aren't using, things that are old or worn out. Now is the time. Not after you move. If your washer and dryer are 15 years old why move them? It will be cheaper to buy new, more efficient appliances once you move and you will also save money by not paying to move them.
Go through your clothes and get rid of everything that you have not worn in a long time or is out of style. You may not have ever gone through your closet before this but now is the time. Why move things that you will not wear? If you are moving to a warmer climate and won't need those 25 sweaters...donate them. That goes for the snow ski's that you won't need in Miami. Of the treadmill that you have never used.
Get rid of everything that you can before your move. It will feel good! Really it will. You will wonder why you didn't do it sooner. And be sure to keep track of everything that you donate so that you can take a tax deduction.
Moving is a stressful endeavor. Try to make it less so by purging before you even think about packing.
Remember: Less Clutter = Less Stress .... in your Home, your Business and your Life
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, June 6, 2011
Chronic Disorganization in Families
I have been getting a lot of calls from people lately telling me that they have a family member that is disorganized and that it is affecting the entire family.
They are frustrated and feel helpless. They don't know what to do or where to start. They want their home and their life to be "normal". They don't want to live in chaos.
But the family member thinks that they don't have a problem. Or the family member thinks that the person with the chronic disorganization issues could change if they wanted to and they are just lazy. Or the family member thinks that if the other people in the house would just get rid of the "clutter" then everything will be "all right".
None of those are true. Chronic Disorganization is a serious issue. It obviously affects the entire family or their would not be arguments and I would not hear from people complaining about their families.
Being disorganized affects not only the disorganized person but also everyone around them (family and co-workers). Unless you live alone it's not only one persons problem but it's a family problem. And the entire family has to be on the same page as how to fix (or try to start fixing) the problem.
It's not easy. The first step is to admit that there is a problem. Yes, it's just like all of those other "programs". You have to admit there is a problem. Sometimes there even needs to be an intervention.
As a Professional Organizer it is very hard to work with one person in a family if the other family members (or spouse) objects to the organizer being there. If they put the other person down or are negative (to the family member or organizer) then it makes the process of organizing or teaching organizational skills or making changes in the home almost impossible.
If chronic disorganization affects your life to the point where you are miserable or you are making your family miserable ...then it's time to take the first step in getting help. Whether it's working with a Professional Organizer or seeing a therapist...you need to be comfortable in taking that first step.
Chronic Disorganization is a complicated issue. Once you understand that and are ready to learn how to get your life and home back on track you will be much happier.
A Professional Organizer does not judge. They will teach you skills that you can use for the rest of your life. They are supportive and caring. They understand that not everyone can be as organized as they are and they will not expect you to be. They will help get you to an organized place that you are comfortable in. They will help you set up systems that you can maintain. Because if it's too complicated and you cannot maintain it then you will be right back where you started.
Take things one step at a time. Decide that you or your family need help and direction and take the course that's right for you. With the right person.
Chronic Disorganization does not have to own you.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
They are frustrated and feel helpless. They don't know what to do or where to start. They want their home and their life to be "normal". They don't want to live in chaos.
But the family member thinks that they don't have a problem. Or the family member thinks that the person with the chronic disorganization issues could change if they wanted to and they are just lazy. Or the family member thinks that if the other people in the house would just get rid of the "clutter" then everything will be "all right".
None of those are true. Chronic Disorganization is a serious issue. It obviously affects the entire family or their would not be arguments and I would not hear from people complaining about their families.
Being disorganized affects not only the disorganized person but also everyone around them (family and co-workers). Unless you live alone it's not only one persons problem but it's a family problem. And the entire family has to be on the same page as how to fix (or try to start fixing) the problem.
It's not easy. The first step is to admit that there is a problem. Yes, it's just like all of those other "programs". You have to admit there is a problem. Sometimes there even needs to be an intervention.
As a Professional Organizer it is very hard to work with one person in a family if the other family members (or spouse) objects to the organizer being there. If they put the other person down or are negative (to the family member or organizer) then it makes the process of organizing or teaching organizational skills or making changes in the home almost impossible.
If chronic disorganization affects your life to the point where you are miserable or you are making your family miserable ...then it's time to take the first step in getting help. Whether it's working with a Professional Organizer or seeing a therapist...you need to be comfortable in taking that first step.
Chronic Disorganization is a complicated issue. Once you understand that and are ready to learn how to get your life and home back on track you will be much happier.
A Professional Organizer does not judge. They will teach you skills that you can use for the rest of your life. They are supportive and caring. They understand that not everyone can be as organized as they are and they will not expect you to be. They will help get you to an organized place that you are comfortable in. They will help you set up systems that you can maintain. Because if it's too complicated and you cannot maintain it then you will be right back where you started.
Take things one step at a time. Decide that you or your family need help and direction and take the course that's right for you. With the right person.
Chronic Disorganization does not have to own you.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Sunday, June 5, 2011
World Environment Day
Clutter, stuff, garbage.... all of it ends up taking up space in our world.
Please try and remember the environment on World Environment Day and pledge to make the world a better place by Reducing, Reusing and Recycling.
Educate yourself on green and/or natural cleansers that don't pollute the earth and are healthier for you.
Be realistic about your needs and your consumption of products.
Our world will only last as long as we let it. Think before you buy products that you don't need and will clutter up our world. We want our world to last....we want our world to be healthy.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Business - Organizing Your Schedule and Paperwork
Small businesses are crucial to the economy and we like to use and support small businesses and neighborhood businesses as much as we can. And for the most part we always get better and more personalized service when working with a local business.
But sometimes we are disappointed because the business "forgets" to return our calls or "forgets" to come out and provide the service we requested on the day they arranged to come out. Most often the business will apologize and they will come up with some excuse. The problem is that the excuse shows how unprofessional they are and how unorganized they are.
Having run a number of small businesses my first priority was always to create the feeling of a bigger company. At least in the eyes of the client. Some clients don't trust that a person that runs a business out of an office in their home will be "professional" or "experienced" enough for them. One has nothing to do with the other. Today many businesses are run out of home offices to save money and for convenience and life style choices.
One of the first accounting firms that I did business with had their office in the basement of their home. But once you got into their basement office you would have thought that you were in a high class accounting firm. The office had the highest quality equipment and beautiful furniture. But they saved money by not pay thousands of dollars a month in rent and therefore passed that on to their clients.
Having forms that are professional where you can capture client information is crucial. Not only does it present a professional image but it also allows you to capture the needed information without forgetting anything. Even if you are a roofer or plumber you need to present a professional image when it comes to paperwork.
Writing quotes down on a scrap of paper does not present a professional image and chances are you will lose that scrap of paper.
Which is what happened to one of the plumbers we tried to do business with. He lost the order...somewhere..... He couldn't find our contact information and didn't call us.
Having a filing system and logging phone messages and client schedules is crucial to a small business. Being organized in a small business is even more important than in a larger company because the smaller business depends on client referrals more than a larger company that has a big advertising budget.
By having systems in place to capture client information and having a process in place to follow-up on that information you will save time and your clients will be happier when they get the service they need on the day they need it.
Being organized in business is crucial. Start today. Step back and take a look at your business and see how you can improve and make your clients happier. You won't be disappointed in the end result.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
But sometimes we are disappointed because the business "forgets" to return our calls or "forgets" to come out and provide the service we requested on the day they arranged to come out. Most often the business will apologize and they will come up with some excuse. The problem is that the excuse shows how unprofessional they are and how unorganized they are.
Having run a number of small businesses my first priority was always to create the feeling of a bigger company. At least in the eyes of the client. Some clients don't trust that a person that runs a business out of an office in their home will be "professional" or "experienced" enough for them. One has nothing to do with the other. Today many businesses are run out of home offices to save money and for convenience and life style choices.
One of the first accounting firms that I did business with had their office in the basement of their home. But once you got into their basement office you would have thought that you were in a high class accounting firm. The office had the highest quality equipment and beautiful furniture. But they saved money by not pay thousands of dollars a month in rent and therefore passed that on to their clients.
Having forms that are professional where you can capture client information is crucial. Not only does it present a professional image but it also allows you to capture the needed information without forgetting anything. Even if you are a roofer or plumber you need to present a professional image when it comes to paperwork.
Writing quotes down on a scrap of paper does not present a professional image and chances are you will lose that scrap of paper.
Which is what happened to one of the plumbers we tried to do business with. He lost the order...somewhere..... He couldn't find our contact information and didn't call us.
Having a filing system and logging phone messages and client schedules is crucial to a small business. Being organized in a small business is even more important than in a larger company because the smaller business depends on client referrals more than a larger company that has a big advertising budget.
By having systems in place to capture client information and having a process in place to follow-up on that information you will save time and your clients will be happier when they get the service they need on the day they need it.
Being organized in business is crucial. Start today. Step back and take a look at your business and see how you can improve and make your clients happier. You won't be disappointed in the end result.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
