These days a lot of people have pantries where they buy and store large amounts of food. A great idea to save time and money. You only have to shop once and you get discounts for buying in bulk.
But….how long are these foods actually good for?
A lot of foods …at least foods that go in your pantry, have an “expiration date” on them. Or a “sell by” date. Or a “best if used by” date.
What does this all mean?
Well… unfortunately the answer isn’t as simple is you might expect.
Foods like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, herbs and many others have “best if used by” dates on them. Meats have “sell by” dates on them.
These dates do not mean that the products are no longer good after that date. It means that, in the case of things like ketchup and mayonnaise (unopened), the products are at their ”best” if “used by” a specific date. After that the textures, consistency or taste might be affected.
For meats the “sell by” date means that the stores want it out of the store and in your home “by” that date. But, you can still have it in your refrigerator after that date.
It’s a bit confusing and scary.
A great website that has a lot of information on “expiration dates” and can answer a lot of questions about those “dates on the cans” is:
http://www.stilltasty.com/
It has tips for storage and how long food lasts. It answers questions such as:
“When should you wash fruit, before you store it in the refrigerator or right before you eat it?”. The answer: “right before you eat it”.
Or… “Is it O.K. to put hot foods directly into the fridge?”. The answer: “yes”.
The website has info on :
* Fruits
* Vegetables
* Dairy & Eggs
* Meat & Poultry
* Fishes & Shellfish
* Nuts & Legumes
* Grains & Pasta
* Condiments & Oils
* Herbs & Spices
* Snacks & Sweets
* Bakes Goods
* Beverages
It’s a great website ! Check it out…and be “more organized”.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, October 4, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Certificate of Study in Hoarding
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Karin E. Fried Earns Certificate in Basic Hoarding Issues
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This certificate encompasses the specialized needs and issues of working with the chronically disorganized client with hoarding issues. To earn this certificate, Fried was required to attend the “Introduction to Compulsive Hoarding” course and classes that explored topics such as compulsive shopping, recycling strategies, and environmental safety. Prior to completing this coursework, Fried earned a Certificate of Study in Chronic Disorganization (CD). Fried has also earned her Level II Chronic Disorganization (CD) Specialist Certificate.
This Specialist Certificate provides in-depth information on chronic disorganization and how to help CD clients manage more effectively in relation to getting and staying organized. In order to earn this certificate, Fried first had to receive her Certificate of Study in Chronic Disorganization. She was also required to complete extensive educational requirements including reading several books and publications, attending numerous teleclasses, and passing a general exam based on her coursework and general knowledge of CD.
My ongoing education allows me to work with clients who are chronically disorganized in a very specific manner,” said Fried. “The benefits of this continuing education are immeasurable as they enhance the quality of service I can provide to my clients.”
The National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization is a non-profit group for professional organizers and related professionals. Its mission is to benefit people affected by chronic disorganization. The NSGCD explores, develops and communicates information, organizing techniques and solutions to professional organizers, related professionals and the public. For more information, please visit www.nsgcd.org.
Organizational Consulting Services provides both business and residential organizing services. Whether your needs are for basic organizing services, chronic disorganization, hoarding or anything else, we can help. For more information, please visit www.organizationalconsultingservices.com or call (440) 666 – 9326.
Monday, September 27, 2010
More Efficient Use of Your Space
A lot of my clients say “I don’t have enough storage space”. And I say to them “yes, you do, you just aren’t utilitizing your space efficiently”.
Another problem is not the “space” but the “stuff”. “Too much stuff”.
How much stuff can one person or one family use ?
The first phase of “finding enough space” is de-cluttering. That means going through all of your stuff and getting rid of things that you no longer use, wear or need. Then there are the things that are broken or too small. Purge these things out of your life.
You have already created more “space” !!!
Now look at your closets. Most closets are designed with only one rod across the top. Very inefficient. By adding another rod you have doubled your space without doubling the size of the closet.
For your closets or pantries that have shelves you can add more space by adding shelf dividers. Again, you have just doubled your space.
If your closets have movable shelves you can change the height of the shelves depending on what you are storing on the shelves. This would also allow you to add more shelves for smaller items.
Under the bed storage is a great way to make use of seldom used space. There are great containers that have wheels that are easy to slide under the bed. You can store extra blankets, sweaters, shoes or any number of things.
Put shelves on walls and make use of wall space. A great idea for books or displaying collectibles so that they don’t take up floor or counter space.
Make use of those “nooks and crannies”. If you really looked you could find all types of small or thin shelving units that can be placed in between things.
Use decorative boxes that can sit out and double as storage.
There are lots of ways to add extra “space” to a small room.
You just have to let your imagination run wild and “think outside the box”.
Remember …… LESS CLUTTER = LESS STRESS SM
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Another problem is not the “space” but the “stuff”. “Too much stuff”.
How much stuff can one person or one family use ?
The first phase of “finding enough space” is de-cluttering. That means going through all of your stuff and getting rid of things that you no longer use, wear or need. Then there are the things that are broken or too small. Purge these things out of your life.
You have already created more “space” !!!
Now look at your closets. Most closets are designed with only one rod across the top. Very inefficient. By adding another rod you have doubled your space without doubling the size of the closet.
For your closets or pantries that have shelves you can add more space by adding shelf dividers. Again, you have just doubled your space.
If your closets have movable shelves you can change the height of the shelves depending on what you are storing on the shelves. This would also allow you to add more shelves for smaller items.
Under the bed storage is a great way to make use of seldom used space. There are great containers that have wheels that are easy to slide under the bed. You can store extra blankets, sweaters, shoes or any number of things.
Put shelves on walls and make use of wall space. A great idea for books or displaying collectibles so that they don’t take up floor or counter space.
Make use of those “nooks and crannies”. If you really looked you could find all types of small or thin shelving units that can be placed in between things.
Use decorative boxes that can sit out and double as storage.
There are lots of ways to add extra “space” to a small room.
You just have to let your imagination run wild and “think outside the box”.
Remember …… LESS CLUTTER = LESS STRESS SM
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, September 20, 2010
WHAT CAN A LIFE COACH DO FOR YOU ?
There are so many things that we juggle every day. Work, family, kids, friends, school, extracurricular activities…. How do we manage to fit it all in? How do we manage to keep it all together?
How do we manage not to get lost in our lives?
Everyone is so busy today… and we are all being pulled in so many directions. How do we know if what we are doing is right or wrong?
Sometimes we doubt ourselves. And our life choices.
So how do we get back on track?
One way is to use a “life coach”. Why not? You have a coach for other things in your life.. like your workouts / health, business consultants, career coaches… Why not have a “life coach” that can help with balancing “all” the areas of your life. Balance between work and family. Balance between what you are doing with your life and what you “want” to do.
A life coach will help you figure out your priorities. They can help you figure out what’s stopping you from achieving your goals. They can help you figure out what you want to achieve and how to achieve it.
If your life is in transition they can help you find your direction in life. What’s important in your life. They can help you with a “plan”.
Most people know what they want their life to be like. They just need someone to push them in the right direction. Coaching is a partnership. A life coach will ask you “where you are now”, “where do you want to be” and “what’s stopping you”.
They point you in the right direction…. They help you find it inside of yourself.
Life coaching can cover many aspects of your life. From stress management, career planning, business coaching, family and life balance, time management and so much more.
A life coach looks at things from a different perspective than you do. They are an outsider who can see things that you can’t. They help you get and stay on track.
But…. before you can utilize a life coach you must be ready to change. You must be ready to achieve your goals. To find your direction in life. To listen.
Once you have made up your mind that you want a better life, happier life or more balanced life you will be open to the guidance that a “life coach” can give you.
If you can organize your home and your business… isn’t it about time that you organized your life?
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
How do we manage not to get lost in our lives?
Everyone is so busy today… and we are all being pulled in so many directions. How do we know if what we are doing is right or wrong?
Sometimes we doubt ourselves. And our life choices.
So how do we get back on track?
One way is to use a “life coach”. Why not? You have a coach for other things in your life.. like your workouts / health, business consultants, career coaches… Why not have a “life coach” that can help with balancing “all” the areas of your life. Balance between work and family. Balance between what you are doing with your life and what you “want” to do.
A life coach will help you figure out your priorities. They can help you figure out what’s stopping you from achieving your goals. They can help you figure out what you want to achieve and how to achieve it.
If your life is in transition they can help you find your direction in life. What’s important in your life. They can help you with a “plan”.
Most people know what they want their life to be like. They just need someone to push them in the right direction. Coaching is a partnership. A life coach will ask you “where you are now”, “where do you want to be” and “what’s stopping you”.
They point you in the right direction…. They help you find it inside of yourself.
Life coaching can cover many aspects of your life. From stress management, career planning, business coaching, family and life balance, time management and so much more.
A life coach looks at things from a different perspective than you do. They are an outsider who can see things that you can’t. They help you get and stay on track.
But…. before you can utilize a life coach you must be ready to change. You must be ready to achieve your goals. To find your direction in life. To listen.
Once you have made up your mind that you want a better life, happier life or more balanced life you will be open to the guidance that a “life coach” can give you.
If you can organize your home and your business… isn’t it about time that you organized your life?
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, September 13, 2010
Business Image – First Impressions Do Matter
First impressions. They can make or break you.
Most people know that they are judged by the way they look ….fair or not. But in business it’s even more important to have the “right” image. The first thing that people see when they walk in the door of your business ….is …. what ?
* A cluttered desk ?
* A mile high stack of papers in your “inbox” ?
* Files hanging out of file cabinets ?
* Water stains down the length of the wall of your office ?
* A stained and torn up carpet ?
* A disheveled receptionist that is chomping on her gum ?
* A receptionist that “ignores” you when you come into the office ?
What about when a client calls you ? Do you answer the phone by the 2nd or 3rd ring ?
Do you answer it in a calm and professional manner ?
Do you put people on “hold” forever and forget about them ?
When people are waiting in your waiting room…..does your staff act in a professional manner ?
Do they talk about their personal life or how they were “hung over” from partying last night ?
What do your promotional materials and business cards look like ?
Do they portray the image you really want ?
Image is important. A clean and organized office says “I am professional and I deserve your business”.
A messy, cluttered, smelly office with stains on the walls and carpets says “I don’t care what you think and I’ll get around to you when I feel like it”.
Would you want a doctor to perform a procedure on you in an office that has “dust bunnies” and has his instruments just laying on a table and not looking sterilized ? I wouldn’t.
Would you close a Ten (10) Million Dollar business deal with a man whose office is filthy and run down ? Not a chance. Which is probably why that deal fell through.
Yes, both of those scenarios happened to people I know.
Image is important. It projects confidence and capability.
A clean and organized office ….and staff…. is your first step to success.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Most people know that they are judged by the way they look ….fair or not. But in business it’s even more important to have the “right” image. The first thing that people see when they walk in the door of your business ….is …. what ?
* A cluttered desk ?
* A mile high stack of papers in your “inbox” ?
* Files hanging out of file cabinets ?
* Water stains down the length of the wall of your office ?
* A stained and torn up carpet ?
* A disheveled receptionist that is chomping on her gum ?
* A receptionist that “ignores” you when you come into the office ?
What about when a client calls you ? Do you answer the phone by the 2nd or 3rd ring ?
Do you answer it in a calm and professional manner ?
Do you put people on “hold” forever and forget about them ?
When people are waiting in your waiting room…..does your staff act in a professional manner ?
Do they talk about their personal life or how they were “hung over” from partying last night ?
What do your promotional materials and business cards look like ?
Do they portray the image you really want ?
Image is important. A clean and organized office says “I am professional and I deserve your business”.
A messy, cluttered, smelly office with stains on the walls and carpets says “I don’t care what you think and I’ll get around to you when I feel like it”.
Would you want a doctor to perform a procedure on you in an office that has “dust bunnies” and has his instruments just laying on a table and not looking sterilized ? I wouldn’t.
Would you close a Ten (10) Million Dollar business deal with a man whose office is filthy and run down ? Not a chance. Which is probably why that deal fell through.
Yes, both of those scenarios happened to people I know.
Image is important. It projects confidence and capability.
A clean and organized office ….and staff…. is your first step to success.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Thursday, September 9, 2010
RUN YOUR BUSINESS LIKE A BUSINESS NOT LIKE A HOBBY
I think that it’s really important to support small businesses. Having a sense of community and knowing the people that own the business makes you feel like you are getting superior customer service. Or at least it should. Everyone likes feeling special. When you need a referral for a specific project or problem you ask your friends and colleagues and they give you the names of businesses that they have dealt with and are happy with.
Word of mouth is great advertising and you know that it comes with a built in recommendation.
But what happens when a small business falls short on customer service? You tend to get very angry and badmouth that business to everyone that you know.
Not exactly the “word of mouth” advertising that any business wants.
At the end of June we had a water tank explode at one of our rental properties. Since it was on the other side of town we didn’t use our regular plumber but called a plumber out of the yellow pages. We were desperate and in a huge bind. A very nice plumber agreed to help us out and was there to fix the problem within a few hours. We were very happy and very grateful. We immediately paid him by credit card and were promised that a receipt would be mailed to us immediately.
Since it’s rental property we needed that receipt for our accountant and for tax purposes.
It’s now September. And you guessed it. No receipt.
I have called and spoken with the owner of the business at least six (6) times now.
His excuses were:
1) “I was busy”
2) “We were on vacation”
3) “I forgot”
4) “I really did mail it myself personally, just wait a few days and it will show up” (that was 5 weeks ago).
5) “I’ll send you another copy” and “I’ll email you a copy”
6) “We were out of town over the weekend, then I came home Sunday and had to do work around the house”.
7) “I really did mail it, you will be surprised at the date when it shows up” (what about the copy you supposedly sent? Or the email you supposedly sent?”
8) “I’ll have my wife email it to you” then it was “I’ll email it myself when I get home”
We need that receipt for our taxes. Are we really asking for too much?
If you run a business, paperwork comes with the territory. It you can’t handle the paperwork get an assistant to help you so that your customers aren’t inconvenienced and annoyed. If your wife is too busy with the kids then don’t expect her to help with your business.
It’s your business. Run it like one. Not like a hobby.
Being organized. Calling your clients back in a timely manner. Handling any problems or concerns that your clients have in a timely manner. Those are all part of being in business.
If you can’t handle it…. Hire someone that can or go work for someone else.
Don’t run your business like a hobby or you won’t be in business long.
If you need advice on how to run a business there are consultants out there that can help you with everything from advice on employees, workflow analysis, marketing, your business image, organizing your business and anything else that you can think of.
Small businesses are essential. Don’t give them a bad name by providing bad customer service.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Word of mouth is great advertising and you know that it comes with a built in recommendation.
But what happens when a small business falls short on customer service? You tend to get very angry and badmouth that business to everyone that you know.
Not exactly the “word of mouth” advertising that any business wants.
At the end of June we had a water tank explode at one of our rental properties. Since it was on the other side of town we didn’t use our regular plumber but called a plumber out of the yellow pages. We were desperate and in a huge bind. A very nice plumber agreed to help us out and was there to fix the problem within a few hours. We were very happy and very grateful. We immediately paid him by credit card and were promised that a receipt would be mailed to us immediately.
Since it’s rental property we needed that receipt for our accountant and for tax purposes.
It’s now September. And you guessed it. No receipt.
I have called and spoken with the owner of the business at least six (6) times now.
His excuses were:
1) “I was busy”
2) “We were on vacation”
3) “I forgot”
4) “I really did mail it myself personally, just wait a few days and it will show up” (that was 5 weeks ago).
5) “I’ll send you another copy” and “I’ll email you a copy”
6) “We were out of town over the weekend, then I came home Sunday and had to do work around the house”.
7) “I really did mail it, you will be surprised at the date when it shows up” (what about the copy you supposedly sent? Or the email you supposedly sent?”
8) “I’ll have my wife email it to you” then it was “I’ll email it myself when I get home”
We need that receipt for our taxes. Are we really asking for too much?
If you run a business, paperwork comes with the territory. It you can’t handle the paperwork get an assistant to help you so that your customers aren’t inconvenienced and annoyed. If your wife is too busy with the kids then don’t expect her to help with your business.
It’s your business. Run it like one. Not like a hobby.
Being organized. Calling your clients back in a timely manner. Handling any problems or concerns that your clients have in a timely manner. Those are all part of being in business.
If you can’t handle it…. Hire someone that can or go work for someone else.
Don’t run your business like a hobby or you won’t be in business long.
If you need advice on how to run a business there are consultants out there that can help you with everything from advice on employees, workflow analysis, marketing, your business image, organizing your business and anything else that you can think of.
Small businesses are essential. Don’t give them a bad name by providing bad customer service.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, September 6, 2010
ARE YOU READY FOR A DISASTER ?
If you only had a few minutes to get out of your house for a disaster (such as a hurricane) would you be prepared for an emergency? Would you be able to grab your important papers and things you must have and be out of your house in minutes?
Do you know where all of your important papers are? Are they all in one central spot for quick and easy access in case of emergency?
Things such as:
* Drivers License (or other identification)
* Passport
* Birth Certificate
* Social Security Card
* House Insurance papers (or contact info)
* Life Insurance papers (or contact info)
* Marriage License
* Financial Info
* Money
What about some of your favorite possessions? Things that you can’t replace, such as photo albums?
Since most people keep a lot of information on their computer or laptop, do you have backups and are they up to date and in a spot that you can easily access?
Do you know what you would take in an emergency? Have you ever thought about it?
I’ve never been in situation where my home had to be evacuated, though I have been in a hurricane with no place to go (a very frightening experience).
If you are evacuated from your home and your home is destroyed you will have to deal with a variety of issues, including insurance issues, where you will have to prove your identity. Can you?
In an emergency people tend to grab the strangest things. Not always the most practical things.
So think about what you would do in an emergency situation where you had to evacuate (especially if you live in high hurricane areas).
Prioritize your possessions and what you really need to get back on your feet.
Get yourself organized before disaster strikes. And then hope that you never have to put your plan into place.
It’s better to be prepared for a disaster than to have to go through the trauma of dealing with things that you are unprepared to handle.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Do you know where all of your important papers are? Are they all in one central spot for quick and easy access in case of emergency?
Things such as:
* Drivers License (or other identification)
* Passport
* Birth Certificate
* Social Security Card
* House Insurance papers (or contact info)
* Life Insurance papers (or contact info)
* Marriage License
* Financial Info
* Money
What about some of your favorite possessions? Things that you can’t replace, such as photo albums?
Since most people keep a lot of information on their computer or laptop, do you have backups and are they up to date and in a spot that you can easily access?
Do you know what you would take in an emergency? Have you ever thought about it?
I’ve never been in situation where my home had to be evacuated, though I have been in a hurricane with no place to go (a very frightening experience).
If you are evacuated from your home and your home is destroyed you will have to deal with a variety of issues, including insurance issues, where you will have to prove your identity. Can you?
In an emergency people tend to grab the strangest things. Not always the most practical things.
So think about what you would do in an emergency situation where you had to evacuate (especially if you live in high hurricane areas).
Prioritize your possessions and what you really need to get back on your feet.
Get yourself organized before disaster strikes. And then hope that you never have to put your plan into place.
It’s better to be prepared for a disaster than to have to go through the trauma of dealing with things that you are unprepared to handle.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Thursday, September 2, 2010
National Preparedness Month
Being prepared goes hand-in-hand with being organized, and it is fitting that NAPO would be part of a nationwide event aimed at better emergency preparedness. NAPO has again joined forces with the Department of Homeland Security's Ready Campaign for the seventh annual National Preparedness Month (NPM), held during September. As a national coalition member for the fifth consecutive year, NAPO strives to educate the public through individual member and chapter informational events held during National Preparedness Month.
This year, NPM will focus on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and will help Americans understand what it truly means to be ready for emergencies that may arise at home, at work, or in the world. Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks, and extra food in the pantry. Being Ready includes: preparing an emergency supply kit, making a family emergency plan, being informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses, and getting involved in community efforts. (reprinted from http://www.napo.net/)
Re-read our BLOG post from April on “Emergency Preparedness”.
http://professionalorganizer4u.blogspot.com/search?q=emergency+preparedness
Be safe - Be prepared.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
This year, NPM will focus on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and will help Americans understand what it truly means to be ready for emergencies that may arise at home, at work, or in the world. Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks, and extra food in the pantry. Being Ready includes: preparing an emergency supply kit, making a family emergency plan, being informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses, and getting involved in community efforts. (reprinted from http://www.napo.net/)
Re-read our BLOG post from April on “Emergency Preparedness”.
http://professionalorganizer4u.blogspot.com/search?q=emergency+preparedness
Be safe - Be prepared.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, August 30, 2010
Seniors and Downsizing - Moving to a Smaller Home
Downsizing can be a tough process for anyone, but especially for seniors who find themselves with a large home. More and more are tackling the huge job of downsizing their living spaces. In fact, about six percent of Americans between the ages of 55 and 64 move each year, according to the Over-50 Council of the National Association of Home Builders. As seniors reach the time to downsize belongings and move into smaller, more manageable homes, many have a hard time figuring out what to do with all of the “stuff ” they’ve accumulated over the years.
To have a more simplified lifestyle many seniors decide to move to a smaller, more manageable home.
Following are some tips for seniors downsizing:
• Get rid of the guilt factor — Many seniors feel they are the “keepers” of their family heirlooms and have a hard time getting rid of items for which they no longer have room. And even adult “children” have a hard time with their parents leaving the “family home” thinking that their childhood memories will be gone forever.
Instead of waiting to give your children some of your possessions that you would most likely leave them anyway….give them these pieces now, especially if they are not being used on a regular basis. They will be able to enjoy them now and you will be able to watch them enjoy them!
If younger family members are not interested in taking the items then consider donating them to a worthy cause. Some organizations purchase furniture, high-end clothing, and porcelain, and then sell those items to raise money for specific causes or charities.
Professional organizers can help seniors sort through household items to strategically figure out what will work in their new space. They also can help seniors identify which organizations to turn to that are best at finding new homes for family heirlooms.
• Find movers specializing in senior needs — Moving is stressful for everyone, but some moving companies specialize in making the transition easier for seniors, and professional organizers can help find the perfect “mover match” for a client. A professional organizer can help pare down items before the move and make the process easier at moving time.
Some professional organizers will also help with things such as helping the clients hang pictures on the walls for clients unable to do so themselves, handling the change of address and utilities, setting up electronics at a new home, and much more.
• Have a professional organizer reassess every five to ten years — As seniors get older, modern appliances or high shelving can become more difficult to use or simply unnecessary considering their lifestyle changes. Hire a professional organizer to evaluate and reassess your needs every five to ten years to make sure your home is still working for you.
For example, seniors who usually eat dinner alone should bring two to three sets of dinnerware to their level instead of keeping everything in out-of-reach cabinetry. Sometimes seniors don’t realize everyday activities and household chores can be made easier just by adjusting the setup in their homes. Professional organizers are great resources to help identify easy ways seniors can simplify to improve their overall quality of life.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
To have a more simplified lifestyle many seniors decide to move to a smaller, more manageable home.
Following are some tips for seniors downsizing:
• Get rid of the guilt factor — Many seniors feel they are the “keepers” of their family heirlooms and have a hard time getting rid of items for which they no longer have room. And even adult “children” have a hard time with their parents leaving the “family home” thinking that their childhood memories will be gone forever.
Instead of waiting to give your children some of your possessions that you would most likely leave them anyway….give them these pieces now, especially if they are not being used on a regular basis. They will be able to enjoy them now and you will be able to watch them enjoy them!
If younger family members are not interested in taking the items then consider donating them to a worthy cause. Some organizations purchase furniture, high-end clothing, and porcelain, and then sell those items to raise money for specific causes or charities.
Professional organizers can help seniors sort through household items to strategically figure out what will work in their new space. They also can help seniors identify which organizations to turn to that are best at finding new homes for family heirlooms.
• Find movers specializing in senior needs — Moving is stressful for everyone, but some moving companies specialize in making the transition easier for seniors, and professional organizers can help find the perfect “mover match” for a client. A professional organizer can help pare down items before the move and make the process easier at moving time.
Some professional organizers will also help with things such as helping the clients hang pictures on the walls for clients unable to do so themselves, handling the change of address and utilities, setting up electronics at a new home, and much more.
• Have a professional organizer reassess every five to ten years — As seniors get older, modern appliances or high shelving can become more difficult to use or simply unnecessary considering their lifestyle changes. Hire a professional organizer to evaluate and reassess your needs every five to ten years to make sure your home is still working for you.
For example, seniors who usually eat dinner alone should bring two to three sets of dinnerware to their level instead of keeping everything in out-of-reach cabinetry. Sometimes seniors don’t realize everyday activities and household chores can be made easier just by adjusting the setup in their homes. Professional organizers are great resources to help identify easy ways seniors can simplify to improve their overall quality of life.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, August 23, 2010
INFORMATION ORGANIZING - MEDICAL AND LIFE
Most people don’t think about dying….or becoming seriously ill. It’s just too “real. Or “morbid”
But if you have kids…thinking about protecting them with a “will” is not only important…it’s down right necessary !!!!
Maybe you are only 22 or 28 or 35…and will live to be 80 ! Maybe you are in “perfect” health. But what if another driver falls asleep at the wheel and runs a red light and totals your car?
What if ???
What if you aren’t as lucky as I was and you don’t make it? And I had my baby daughter I the car.
We were beyond lucky. I saw the car…I had the right of way. I knew they weren’t going to stop. But I couldn’t do anything…. There was oncoming traffic in the other lane and I had nowhere to go.
I was lucky. My daughter and I survived. With no injuries.
But what if you aren’t so lucky. And your child is left with no parent?
Do you have a "wil"l ?
Do you have a “health care proxy” ?
Do you have a “living will” ?
Do you have a “power of attorney” ?
Does anyone know where these documents are ?
Do you have your medical history documented somewhere?
Do you have a list of your doctors ?
Do you have a list of your surgeries ?
Of your medications ?
Of your allergies ?
Stuff happens……
Are you ready ?
Do you really want to take that chance ?
If you have a family….is it fair to them ?
Be organized… get your affairs in order….. and go about your life knowing that if anything happened to you, your family would know what you wanted and your kids would be protected.
It’s time to be a “grown up”.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
But if you have kids…thinking about protecting them with a “will” is not only important…it’s down right necessary !!!!
Maybe you are only 22 or 28 or 35…and will live to be 80 ! Maybe you are in “perfect” health. But what if another driver falls asleep at the wheel and runs a red light and totals your car?
What if ???
What if you aren’t as lucky as I was and you don’t make it? And I had my baby daughter I the car.
We were beyond lucky. I saw the car…I had the right of way. I knew they weren’t going to stop. But I couldn’t do anything…. There was oncoming traffic in the other lane and I had nowhere to go.
I was lucky. My daughter and I survived. With no injuries.
But what if you aren’t so lucky. And your child is left with no parent?
Do you have a "wil"l ?
Do you have a “health care proxy” ?
Do you have a “living will” ?
Do you have a “power of attorney” ?
Does anyone know where these documents are ?
Do you have your medical history documented somewhere?
Do you have a list of your doctors ?
Do you have a list of your surgeries ?
Of your medications ?
Of your allergies ?
Stuff happens……
Are you ready ?
Do you really want to take that chance ?
If you have a family….is it fair to them ?
Be organized… get your affairs in order….. and go about your life knowing that if anything happened to you, your family would know what you wanted and your kids would be protected.
It’s time to be a “grown up”.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, August 16, 2010
ORGANIZING FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF PEOPLE
Most people don’t understand that organizing isn’t a “one size fits all” type of business.
Each client is different… in what they want, how they want it done, what they need to have done and how we teach them to become organized.
As a “Professional Organizer” I belong to numerous organizations, including NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers and NGGCD (National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization). I take my job and my “organizing” passion very seriously.
Most people don’t realize that organizers have certification programs and attend numerous seminars on various topics.
I have a “Certificate of Study in Chronic Disorganization”. Which means that I passed an exam and am serious about my “profession” and learning everything that I can about the subject.
When most people think about “professional organizers” they think about “closets”. Or now they might think about “hoarders”. Both of which I do.
But organizing is more than that.
Let’s just talk about closets for a minute. Think about “kids” ….those short people. They can’t reach very high. So when we are organizing a closet for a child we need to think about them being “vertically challenged”. But we also need to think about the future and the fact that someday … they will be taller and can reach higher.
Now let’s think about “seniors”. . Maybe they can’t reach very high because of arthritis. So the closet rods should be lower. And they can’t do a lot of physical labor for long periods of time… so your organizing sessions might need to be shorter.
See how closets aren’t just “standard” ?
Or what about people with ADD ? They don’t see things the way the rest of the world does. They might not “learn” the same. They might be “visual” people. So if you are talking about filing or organizing…they might not “get” the logic behind what you say. Or their attention span might be a lot shorter.
So you have to think of “different” ways to get your point across to them.
Or people that are in a “life changing circumstance” ? It could be someone that just lost a spouse or someone that is going through a “life altering” experience. They might not be able to make those “organizing” decisions as easily as they did before their life changing circumstance.
Or “hoarders” …… they aren’t just “messy”. They have a whole lot of “psychological problems” that you need to deal with or at least acknowledge.
“Organizing” isn’t a cut and dried service.
Organizers use different techniques for each different type of client.
And as an organizer it’s important to be continuously learning about the varying needs of our clients.
And as a client you should be able to depend on your organizer to acknowledge your varying needs and come up with solutions for “you” …. Not their “last” client.
The world of “professional organizing” is ever evolving. And we have to keep up.
Not only do we teach our clients about being organized…. but they teach us about “life”.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Each client is different… in what they want, how they want it done, what they need to have done and how we teach them to become organized.
As a “Professional Organizer” I belong to numerous organizations, including NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers and NGGCD (National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization). I take my job and my “organizing” passion very seriously.
Most people don’t realize that organizers have certification programs and attend numerous seminars on various topics.
I have a “Certificate of Study in Chronic Disorganization”. Which means that I passed an exam and am serious about my “profession” and learning everything that I can about the subject.
When most people think about “professional organizers” they think about “closets”. Or now they might think about “hoarders”. Both of which I do.
But organizing is more than that.
Let’s just talk about closets for a minute. Think about “kids” ….those short people. They can’t reach very high. So when we are organizing a closet for a child we need to think about them being “vertically challenged”. But we also need to think about the future and the fact that someday … they will be taller and can reach higher.
Now let’s think about “seniors”. . Maybe they can’t reach very high because of arthritis. So the closet rods should be lower. And they can’t do a lot of physical labor for long periods of time… so your organizing sessions might need to be shorter.
See how closets aren’t just “standard” ?
Or what about people with ADD ? They don’t see things the way the rest of the world does. They might not “learn” the same. They might be “visual” people. So if you are talking about filing or organizing…they might not “get” the logic behind what you say. Or their attention span might be a lot shorter.
So you have to think of “different” ways to get your point across to them.
Or people that are in a “life changing circumstance” ? It could be someone that just lost a spouse or someone that is going through a “life altering” experience. They might not be able to make those “organizing” decisions as easily as they did before their life changing circumstance.
Or “hoarders” …… they aren’t just “messy”. They have a whole lot of “psychological problems” that you need to deal with or at least acknowledge.
“Organizing” isn’t a cut and dried service.
Organizers use different techniques for each different type of client.
And as an organizer it’s important to be continuously learning about the varying needs of our clients.
And as a client you should be able to depend on your organizer to acknowledge your varying needs and come up with solutions for “you” …. Not their “last” client.
The world of “professional organizing” is ever evolving. And we have to keep up.
Not only do we teach our clients about being organized…. but they teach us about “life”.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, August 9, 2010
ORGANIZING YOUR LIFE
Being “organized” isn’t just about clearing out the clutter in your closet. It’s about everyday life.
Being organized is a life style. It’s a life “choice”.
People can walk through life aimlessly. Going from one crisis to another with no plan. Or they can have a “life plan” and know what they want and how they are going to get there.
Don’t get me wrong… it’s not always easy. Even if you have a “plan” the road can be very rocky if not impossible.
But without a plan… a course of action… you will never get there and never achieve your goals.
It’s sort of like building a house. You have to decide what “kind” of house you want to build. What style? What do you want it to look like? How many bedrooms? Where are you going to put the windows and doors? What type of flooring? Who is going to build it? Who is going to do the electrical and the plumbing?
Lots of questions.
And you have to have answers.
The house won’t get built without your input and answers.
And after you make the decisions…. You have to live with the consequences.
So if you haven’t thought things out carefully you might end up with a window in your closet but no door to get in. Or the kitchen is not big enough for the subzero refrigerator that you wanted.
If you know your end goal and you have a plan for what you need to do to get there you can just check off each step as you go.
But if you skip ahead to the end….without a plan… you might be very disappointed with the end result.
Even with a plan you will need to be flexible and have “alternative” options. Because if you don’t and life throws you a curveball you might get too rattled to continue the game.
Life is a challenge. And sometimes you will need to ask directions.
Be prepared. Have a map. And a compass.
You never know when you’ll learn something new.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Being organized is a life style. It’s a life “choice”.
People can walk through life aimlessly. Going from one crisis to another with no plan. Or they can have a “life plan” and know what they want and how they are going to get there.
Don’t get me wrong… it’s not always easy. Even if you have a “plan” the road can be very rocky if not impossible.
But without a plan… a course of action… you will never get there and never achieve your goals.
It’s sort of like building a house. You have to decide what “kind” of house you want to build. What style? What do you want it to look like? How many bedrooms? Where are you going to put the windows and doors? What type of flooring? Who is going to build it? Who is going to do the electrical and the plumbing?
Lots of questions.
And you have to have answers.
The house won’t get built without your input and answers.
And after you make the decisions…. You have to live with the consequences.
So if you haven’t thought things out carefully you might end up with a window in your closet but no door to get in. Or the kitchen is not big enough for the subzero refrigerator that you wanted.
If you know your end goal and you have a plan for what you need to do to get there you can just check off each step as you go.
But if you skip ahead to the end….without a plan… you might be very disappointed with the end result.
Even with a plan you will need to be flexible and have “alternative” options. Because if you don’t and life throws you a curveball you might get too rattled to continue the game.
Life is a challenge. And sometimes you will need to ask directions.
Be prepared. Have a map. And a compass.
You never know when you’ll learn something new.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, August 2, 2010
RANDOM ORGANIZING IDEAS
Pack up items that you haven’t used in a while and store them in the basement / attic. Put a date on the box. After three (3) months have passed and you haven’t missed the item…. get rid of it ! Obviously you didn’t really need it / use it….so why should it take up valuable space in your house.
Look at your calendar and make a list of all of the birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions that you have during the year. Count them up and buy the appropriate number of cards for each occasion. Go to the store and buy all of your cards at one time.
Use a pendaflex file organized by month and insert the cards into the appropriate month. At the beginning of the month fill out that months cards (address & stamp). You can put the actual date in a corner or back of the card. At the beginning of each week pull the cards that need to be mailed for that week and put them in the mail.
Keep a basket of healthy snacks in a basket for your kids on a kid level shelf. That way they can help themselves to snacks and you know what they are eating.
Use shelf dividers in your kitchen to double the space in your cabinets.
Check your medicine cabinet for expired medications. Don’t forget to look at non-prescription bottles and lotions.
Check your make-up. There are guidelines for make-up expiration. Be safe. Be healthy.
Create a spot near the door for your purse, keys, briefcase / backpacks…so that you can find things in the morning.
Plan all of your errands for the day before you leave the house so that you take the most direct route and don’t drive aimlessly from one side of town to the other…over and over again.
Sit down with your family Sunday night and go over the weekly schedule so that everyone is on the same page and there are no surprises during the week.
Have everyone in the family make a list of their five (5) favorite meals. Then put them on the calendar for the month. By doing this everyone gets a turn getting their favorite meal. For added “family time” have them help make that meal. Or you can have them make a list of all of the requirements for that meal so that you have a grocery list all ready.
Pick a day and have everyone in the family go through their closet and gather clothes that they no longer wear or that don’t fit. Remember to donate them and you can get a tax write-off !
Have a set spot for mail. Have 3 baskets. Whoever gets the mail should immediately divide it into: bills, personal mail, other. That way the bills don’t get lost or forgotten and you can deal with them immediately (at least put them in the appropriate bill spot for paying bills). Junk mail should immediately be put in the trash.
Trade “chores” with your neighbors or friends. If they take the kids to sports practice you can run your errands …alone… and get them done faster. When they need to do something you can swap kid duty with them…. or any other chore…. If they like mowing the lawn but hate weeding…and you like weeding because it’s relaxing….trade with them. Lots of possibilities….
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Level II CD Specialist Certificate Announcement
Karin E. Fried Earns Specialist Certificate In Working with Chronically Disorganized.
(Cleveland, Ohio) Karin E. Fried of Organizational Consulting Services has earned her Level II Chronic Disorganization (CD) Specialist Certificate from the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD).
This Specialist Certificate provides in-depth information on chronic disorganization and how to help CD clients manage more effectively in relation to getting and staying organized. In order to earn this certificate, Fried first had to receive her Certificate of Study in Chronic Disorganization. She was also required to complete extensive educational requirements including reading several books and publications, attending numerous teleclasses, and passing a general exam based on her coursework and general knowledge of CD.
My ongoing education allows me to work with clients who are chronically disorganized in a very specific manner,” said Fried. “The benefits of this continuing education are immeasurable as they enhance the quality of service I can provide to my clients.”
The National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization is a non-profit group for professional organizers and related professionals. Its mission is to benefit people affected by chronic disorganization. The NSGCD explores, develops and communicates information, organizing techniques and solutions to professional organizers, related professionals and the public. For more information, please visit www.nsgcd.org.
Organizational Consulting Services provides both business and residential organizing services. Whether your needs are for basic organizing services, chronic disorganization, hoarding or anything else, we can help. For more information, please visit www.organizationalconsultingservices.com or call (440) 666 – 9326.
(Cleveland, Ohio) Karin E. Fried of Organizational Consulting Services has earned her Level II Chronic Disorganization (CD) Specialist Certificate from the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD).
This Specialist Certificate provides in-depth information on chronic disorganization and how to help CD clients manage more effectively in relation to getting and staying organized. In order to earn this certificate, Fried first had to receive her Certificate of Study in Chronic Disorganization. She was also required to complete extensive educational requirements including reading several books and publications, attending numerous teleclasses, and passing a general exam based on her coursework and general knowledge of CD.
My ongoing education allows me to work with clients who are chronically disorganized in a very specific manner,” said Fried. “The benefits of this continuing education are immeasurable as they enhance the quality of service I can provide to my clients.”
The National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization is a non-profit group for professional organizers and related professionals. Its mission is to benefit people affected by chronic disorganization. The NSGCD explores, develops and communicates information, organizing techniques and solutions to professional organizers, related professionals and the public. For more information, please visit www.nsgcd.org.
Organizational Consulting Services provides both business and residential organizing services. Whether your needs are for basic organizing services, chronic disorganization, hoarding or anything else, we can help. For more information, please visit www.organizationalconsultingservices.com or call (440) 666 – 9326.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Being Organized – An Investment in Yourself
A lot of people think that being “organized” is expensive. That you will have to go out and spend a lot of money buying a new closet system or a ton or “organizing” products. That’s not the case.
And in today’s economy a lot of people can’t afford to spend extra money.
But…. What is the cost of being disorganized?
If you can’t find the things that you need…whether it’s at home or in the office….that’s a problem.
You might buy something that you don’t actually need….because you can’t find what you were looking for. And then later….guess what…you found it! So, there goes money….out the window.
Yes, you had a pair of black pants already. You didn’t need an extra pair. But you couldn’t find them when you needed them.
And that report that your boss wanted. The one that you couldn’t find. And spent hours searching for. And then had to re-create. Time wasted.
Being disorganized has a cost. Calculate out that cost and you will be shocked.
For an easy example….let’s say that you had a bedroom that you never used because it was so cluttered and disorganized and couldn’t really function as a bedroom.
If your house cost $200,000 and it was 2,000 square feet it means that the cost per square foot was $100.
If your “disorganized bedroom” was 10 x 10…. that’s 100 square feet.
That means that it is costing you $10,000 to use your bedroom as a “storage room”. Pretty expensive storage fee isn’t it.
By investing in “yourself” you can increase your productivity and decrease your stress. You can save time and money.
How do you feel when you walk into your house that’s “disorganized” ?
How do you feel when you walk into your friend’s house that is “organized” ?
I’ve had people say to me “it’s so calm here”. Yes, it is. Because everything is in it’s place.
By being organized you feel proud of yourself. You feel better about yourself. You feel more in control.
By creating a “usable” space …. Uncluttered and orderly…. You automatically create a sense of calm.
Invest in yourself. Become the organized person that you want to be. If you can’t do it on your own there are “professional organizers” out there that can give you guidance. Let your home or office reflect the way you want people to really see you.
Remember …… LESS CLUTTER = LESS STRESS SM
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
And in today’s economy a lot of people can’t afford to spend extra money.
But…. What is the cost of being disorganized?
If you can’t find the things that you need…whether it’s at home or in the office….that’s a problem.
You might buy something that you don’t actually need….because you can’t find what you were looking for. And then later….guess what…you found it! So, there goes money….out the window.
Yes, you had a pair of black pants already. You didn’t need an extra pair. But you couldn’t find them when you needed them.
And that report that your boss wanted. The one that you couldn’t find. And spent hours searching for. And then had to re-create. Time wasted.
Being disorganized has a cost. Calculate out that cost and you will be shocked.
For an easy example….let’s say that you had a bedroom that you never used because it was so cluttered and disorganized and couldn’t really function as a bedroom.
If your house cost $200,000 and it was 2,000 square feet it means that the cost per square foot was $100.
If your “disorganized bedroom” was 10 x 10…. that’s 100 square feet.
That means that it is costing you $10,000 to use your bedroom as a “storage room”. Pretty expensive storage fee isn’t it.
By investing in “yourself” you can increase your productivity and decrease your stress. You can save time and money.
How do you feel when you walk into your house that’s “disorganized” ?
How do you feel when you walk into your friend’s house that is “organized” ?
I’ve had people say to me “it’s so calm here”. Yes, it is. Because everything is in it’s place.
By being organized you feel proud of yourself. You feel better about yourself. You feel more in control.
By creating a “usable” space …. Uncluttered and orderly…. You automatically create a sense of calm.
Invest in yourself. Become the organized person that you want to be. If you can’t do it on your own there are “professional organizers” out there that can give you guidance. Let your home or office reflect the way you want people to really see you.
Remember …… LESS CLUTTER = LESS STRESS SM
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, July 19, 2010
BACK TO SCHOOL ORGANIZING FOR COLLEGE KIDS
College aged kids have different “organizing” needs / issues than grade school or high school aged kids. Obviously (this is where my daughter would roll here eyes and say “really Mom ?”).
Yes, really.
You don’t have to worry about making sure they have socks and school clothes and notebooks and such…. College aged kids pick out their own clothes.
But….there are the issues of “what do I need to buy for the dorm” ?
There are numerous lists out there….but some basic things you might need:
* New sheets for the bed. Plus a mattress pad !
* Blankets / pillows
* Bath towels
* Desk lamp
* Small refrigerator
* Small Microwave
* Coffee Maker
* Small T.V.
* Alarm clock
* Basic medical kit (Band-Aids, Neosporin….)
* Basic sewing kit
* Laundry detergent
* Change for the laundry
* Plastic bowls
* Coffee mug
* Bath caddy
* Water bottle
* Some non-perishable food (popcorn, granola bars, rice cakes, peanut butter, crackers, canned soup….)
* Day-Timer / planner….. or some type of scheduler to keep them on track and on time
Some important things that you need to remember….is that you have to make sure what is or is not allowed in the dorms. There are size restrictions on refrigerators and other items.
If your child is living in an apartment…and you have to buy furniture or beds…. You need to make sure that you measure the area where you will be placing the furniture. Not just “guess” ….because it “looks like it will fit”.
If your child is going to a school more than a few hours away or out of state…. planning and organizing is even more crucial for a smooth transition.
Plan ahead and avoid some of the stress that moving brings.
Kids grow up fast. Make these “stressful” times more enjoyable by being organized.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Yes, really.
You don’t have to worry about making sure they have socks and school clothes and notebooks and such…. College aged kids pick out their own clothes.
But….there are the issues of “what do I need to buy for the dorm” ?
There are numerous lists out there….but some basic things you might need:
* New sheets for the bed. Plus a mattress pad !
* Blankets / pillows
* Bath towels
* Desk lamp
* Small refrigerator
* Small Microwave
* Coffee Maker
* Small T.V.
* Alarm clock
* Basic medical kit (Band-Aids, Neosporin….)
* Basic sewing kit
* Laundry detergent
* Change for the laundry
* Plastic bowls
* Coffee mug
* Bath caddy
* Water bottle
* Some non-perishable food (popcorn, granola bars, rice cakes, peanut butter, crackers, canned soup….)
* Day-Timer / planner….. or some type of scheduler to keep them on track and on time
Some important things that you need to remember….is that you have to make sure what is or is not allowed in the dorms. There are size restrictions on refrigerators and other items.
If your child is living in an apartment…and you have to buy furniture or beds…. You need to make sure that you measure the area where you will be placing the furniture. Not just “guess” ….because it “looks like it will fit”.
If your child is going to a school more than a few hours away or out of state…. planning and organizing is even more crucial for a smooth transition.
Plan ahead and avoid some of the stress that moving brings.
Kids grow up fast. Make these “stressful” times more enjoyable by being organized.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, July 12, 2010
BACK TO SCHOOL ORGANIZING
Well – it’s only mid-July. To early to think about school? NOT !
Get a head start and start making your lists now.
Clothes – what do the kids need? Start with the basics. Go through their drawers and check their supply of socks (have fun finding the matching pairs) and underwear. Are they in good shape and do they fit? Do they have enough and the right kind? For everyday and for sports.
Make a list of what they have, how many they have and sizes.
Shoes – school shoes, tennis shoes, boots (you don’t think you are going to find boots in the winter do you?). Take into consideration that they might grow before winter when buying boots and they will also have on thick socks.
Winter coats, scarves, gloves/mittens, hats. You should always keep a supply of extra gloves on hand for when they get wet (since they take forever to dry). And gloves are like socks. They disappear.
If your kids are in a growth spurt be sure to buy the coat with extra room so that by winter time it’s not too small. Also, be sure to remember that in the winter they will be wearing sweaters under their coats. Leave enough room if you are buying the coat when it’s still warm out and they aren’t wearing a sweater when they try it on.
Check the newspapers for sales, then immediately go to get the best selection and avoid the crowds of parents that waited until the last minute.
School supplies. Most schools have lists. Get them as soon as they come out. Check them against the list of supplies that you have on hand (from “Schools Out” article). Go to the stores and get all of the supplies.
You can break it down and buy school supplies one day and clothes on another day. Or if you have more than one child you can break it down by child and make a “one-on-one bonding moment” complete with lunch or dessert.
Yes, it can be a “fun” bonding moment…. IF you plan ahead instead of waiting until the last minute.
That’s the beauty of organizing….it reduces / eliminates the stress and allows you to enjoy even the most mundane task.
Kids grow up fast. Make these “stressful” times more enjoyable by being organized.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Get a head start and start making your lists now.
Clothes – what do the kids need? Start with the basics. Go through their drawers and check their supply of socks (have fun finding the matching pairs) and underwear. Are they in good shape and do they fit? Do they have enough and the right kind? For everyday and for sports.
Make a list of what they have, how many they have and sizes.
Shoes – school shoes, tennis shoes, boots (you don’t think you are going to find boots in the winter do you?). Take into consideration that they might grow before winter when buying boots and they will also have on thick socks.
Winter coats, scarves, gloves/mittens, hats. You should always keep a supply of extra gloves on hand for when they get wet (since they take forever to dry). And gloves are like socks. They disappear.
If your kids are in a growth spurt be sure to buy the coat with extra room so that by winter time it’s not too small. Also, be sure to remember that in the winter they will be wearing sweaters under their coats. Leave enough room if you are buying the coat when it’s still warm out and they aren’t wearing a sweater when they try it on.
Check the newspapers for sales, then immediately go to get the best selection and avoid the crowds of parents that waited until the last minute.
School supplies. Most schools have lists. Get them as soon as they come out. Check them against the list of supplies that you have on hand (from “Schools Out” article). Go to the stores and get all of the supplies.
You can break it down and buy school supplies one day and clothes on another day. Or if you have more than one child you can break it down by child and make a “one-on-one bonding moment” complete with lunch or dessert.
Yes, it can be a “fun” bonding moment…. IF you plan ahead instead of waiting until the last minute.
That’s the beauty of organizing….it reduces / eliminates the stress and allows you to enjoy even the most mundane task.
Kids grow up fast. Make these “stressful” times more enjoyable by being organized.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Sunday, July 4, 2010
What is Clutter ?
Is it the same as being “messy” ? Or being “disorganized” ? Or “hoarding” ?
Clutter …. is.... “stuff”.
Everyone has “stuff”. But some people like to keep it….longer than others.
Being “messy” is the “inability to clean up” …. stuff. Whether it’s clothes on the floor, dishes in the sink, old newspapers strewn everywhere….
Clutter is a “collection of stuff”. Some of it visible and some of it hidden away in closets where no one knows your secret.
Clutter is not the same as “hoarding”. Clutter is a part of hoarding.
Clutterers are able to throw things out. They don’t allow clutter to get to such an extreme point that it is debilitating to their lives.
Clutter is not about “stuff”. It’s not about space. It’s psychological.
But avoiding cleaning actually takes more effort than doing it. So now there is “clutter” and there is the “guilt” of having a “mess”.
By breaking down your “cleaning” into one area at a time or one “project” at a time you will have a more controlled and clutter free space in no time at all.
By clearing out the “clutter” you can also clear out your mind.
Remember …… LESS CLUTTER = LESS STRESS SM
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Clutter …. is.... “stuff”.
Everyone has “stuff”. But some people like to keep it….longer than others.
Being “messy” is the “inability to clean up” …. stuff. Whether it’s clothes on the floor, dishes in the sink, old newspapers strewn everywhere….
Clutter is a “collection of stuff”. Some of it visible and some of it hidden away in closets where no one knows your secret.
Clutter is not the same as “hoarding”. Clutter is a part of hoarding.
Clutterers are able to throw things out. They don’t allow clutter to get to such an extreme point that it is debilitating to their lives.
Clutter is not about “stuff”. It’s not about space. It’s psychological.
But avoiding cleaning actually takes more effort than doing it. So now there is “clutter” and there is the “guilt” of having a “mess”.
By breaking down your “cleaning” into one area at a time or one “project” at a time you will have a more controlled and clutter free space in no time at all.
By clearing out the “clutter” you can also clear out your mind.
Remember …… LESS CLUTTER = LESS STRESS SM
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, June 28, 2010
CLEANING YOUR HOME - A LITTLE AT A TIME
On your days off…why do you want to spend all day cleaning your house? Wouldn’t you rather be doing something else?
I know…you have to clean your house. But, where is it written that you have to do it all in one day?
By breaking your cleaning chores into small projects you can still get your entire house cleaned and you will have time to do other things on your days off.
Spread your cleaning out over a week and you can spend only 15 minutes at a time on a specific chore:
* Monday: Dust the house
* Tuesday: Vacuum the house
* Wednesday: Straighten up the main living area
* Thursday: Clean the toilets
* Friday: Wipe down all of the counters (kitchen & bathroom)
* Saturday: Mop the floors
You get the idea…. Pick whatever works for you.
That way you can start and finish each project in one sitting and feel like you’ve accomplished something. Start a small project. Finish a project. Feel proud of yourself. Go on to the next project.
And spend some of your “off days” doing something more fun than cleaning.
Less Clutter = Less Stress (SM)
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
I know…you have to clean your house. But, where is it written that you have to do it all in one day?
By breaking your cleaning chores into small projects you can still get your entire house cleaned and you will have time to do other things on your days off.
Spread your cleaning out over a week and you can spend only 15 minutes at a time on a specific chore:
* Monday: Dust the house
* Tuesday: Vacuum the house
* Wednesday: Straighten up the main living area
* Thursday: Clean the toilets
* Friday: Wipe down all of the counters (kitchen & bathroom)
* Saturday: Mop the floors
You get the idea…. Pick whatever works for you.
That way you can start and finish each project in one sitting and feel like you’ve accomplished something. Start a small project. Finish a project. Feel proud of yourself. Go on to the next project.
And spend some of your “off days” doing something more fun than cleaning.
Less Clutter = Less Stress (SM)
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, June 21, 2010
Backsliding
Once a client makes the decision to start the “organizing process” they have taken the first step towards a more organized life. Most clients don’t really understand that being “organized” is a way of life. For some of us it seems to come naturally. For others it is a learned experience. And for some, it is an unattainable goal.
I tell my clients, over and over again, “being organized is a process….. and once I leave your home after de-cluttering and organizing your space…. it is a process that must be continued and a process that takes time to become your own”.
Some clients get it…..some don’t….
“Backsliding is a client’s regression to a previous disorganized state” (from the NSGCD).
For some organizers and me included it is almost like a failure on our part. We helped the client organize their home….we showed them how…. we explained what we were doing and why…. and still…the next time we visit the client the place is back to the way it was before we got there…or worse.
Some of the things that I have run across were clients that bought everything….except what I told them to buy, postponed appointments, cancelled appointments, the rooms being back in worse shape than when I left, organizing things in a way other than what I told them to….
Organizers don’t always have to “have their own way” ….but they are there for a reason and there is a “method” to what they are doing.
Buying all of the great organizing gadgets that you see at the store….doesn’t make you organized. Only “you” can make yourself organized. So why spend the money?
I try to re-purpose things that the client already has in the home first…..then we might bring in other organizing products. Rushing out to buy products is not the answer.
With backsliding…which is a “normal” client behavior…they might feel bad about how they let the room get back to the “pre-organizer” state…. and then never call you again. It happens to a lot of organizers. But there is no need for the client to be embarrassed. We’ve seen it all….really we have…and as bad as you think your home might be….we’re probably seen worse.
So….don’t beat yourself up over it and jump back into the process.
Backsliding costs you money. By cancelling your appointments and putting them off….you will probably be in a worse state than when you originally called the professional organizer. They will have to spend time getting back to where they left off…and then continuing the organizing process. So instead of spending three hours at your house it will take four or five hours.
Life can get in the way of your “organizing” sessions. Some people tend to think of their organizer as a “luxury” instead of an “investment in themselves”. By having an organized home and life they can save time and money. And they will also feel less stressed and embarrassed by their surroundings.
Less Clutter = Less Stress (SM)
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
I tell my clients, over and over again, “being organized is a process….. and once I leave your home after de-cluttering and organizing your space…. it is a process that must be continued and a process that takes time to become your own”.
Some clients get it…..some don’t….
“Backsliding is a client’s regression to a previous disorganized state” (from the NSGCD).
For some organizers and me included it is almost like a failure on our part. We helped the client organize their home….we showed them how…. we explained what we were doing and why…. and still…the next time we visit the client the place is back to the way it was before we got there…or worse.
Some of the things that I have run across were clients that bought everything….except what I told them to buy, postponed appointments, cancelled appointments, the rooms being back in worse shape than when I left, organizing things in a way other than what I told them to….
Organizers don’t always have to “have their own way” ….but they are there for a reason and there is a “method” to what they are doing.
Buying all of the great organizing gadgets that you see at the store….doesn’t make you organized. Only “you” can make yourself organized. So why spend the money?
I try to re-purpose things that the client already has in the home first…..then we might bring in other organizing products. Rushing out to buy products is not the answer.
With backsliding…which is a “normal” client behavior…they might feel bad about how they let the room get back to the “pre-organizer” state…. and then never call you again. It happens to a lot of organizers. But there is no need for the client to be embarrassed. We’ve seen it all….really we have…and as bad as you think your home might be….we’re probably seen worse.
So….don’t beat yourself up over it and jump back into the process.
Backsliding costs you money. By cancelling your appointments and putting them off….you will probably be in a worse state than when you originally called the professional organizer. They will have to spend time getting back to where they left off…and then continuing the organizing process. So instead of spending three hours at your house it will take four or five hours.
Life can get in the way of your “organizing” sessions. Some people tend to think of their organizer as a “luxury” instead of an “investment in themselves”. By having an organized home and life they can save time and money. And they will also feel less stressed and embarrassed by their surroundings.
Less Clutter = Less Stress (SM)
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, June 14, 2010
GETTING READY FOR YOUR VACATION
Vacations….. they are supposed to be relaxing and rejuvenating. So I’m told ! I think that the only people that get to relax and enjoy vacations are the kids !
So how do you make your vacation more enjoyable? Get organized of course !
We used to go to the same place year after year. Trying to get yourself packed after packing for the kids and trying to make sure that you didn’t forget anything was not an easy task. Especially if you had to fly to your destination and had only so much room in your suitcase. So as the mom I made a corporate decision. Things would happen in my timeframe.
None of this last minute stuff. No more kids yelling that they can’t find their swimsuit the night before we are supposed to leave.
I made a spreadsheet of everything that we needed to take. I made a column for each member of the family. I gave everyone a copy. And I expected them to have all of their things laid out at least four days before our departure. That way if they were missing anything we would have time to run to the store and get it.
Of course the family made fun of me….and my spreadsheets. But as they got older….they actually asked for it ! And things ran a lot smoother. No more forgetting anything.
When you go on vacation you not only have to remember to pack all of the things that you need…you also have to remember to take care of your house / apartment / cats or dogs / plants / garden / bills and a whole slew of things.
A few things that you might want to do:
• Put your mail on HOLD
• Make arrangements to get your lawn cut / your garden or flowers watered
• Make arrangements to get any inside plants watered
• Make arrangements for any animals ( to get fed or taken care of)
• Make arrangements to have your bills paid ahead of time
• Make arrangements to have someone pick up some basic food essentials for your return home so that you have something to eat until you have a chance to go to the store
By planning ahead you too can have a relaxing and enjoyable vacation and a relaxing return home.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
So how do you make your vacation more enjoyable? Get organized of course !
We used to go to the same place year after year. Trying to get yourself packed after packing for the kids and trying to make sure that you didn’t forget anything was not an easy task. Especially if you had to fly to your destination and had only so much room in your suitcase. So as the mom I made a corporate decision. Things would happen in my timeframe.
None of this last minute stuff. No more kids yelling that they can’t find their swimsuit the night before we are supposed to leave.
I made a spreadsheet of everything that we needed to take. I made a column for each member of the family. I gave everyone a copy. And I expected them to have all of their things laid out at least four days before our departure. That way if they were missing anything we would have time to run to the store and get it.
Of course the family made fun of me….and my spreadsheets. But as they got older….they actually asked for it ! And things ran a lot smoother. No more forgetting anything.
When you go on vacation you not only have to remember to pack all of the things that you need…you also have to remember to take care of your house / apartment / cats or dogs / plants / garden / bills and a whole slew of things.
A few things that you might want to do:
• Put your mail on HOLD
• Make arrangements to get your lawn cut / your garden or flowers watered
• Make arrangements to get any inside plants watered
• Make arrangements for any animals ( to get fed or taken care of)
• Make arrangements to have your bills paid ahead of time
• Make arrangements to have someone pick up some basic food essentials for your return home so that you have something to eat until you have a chance to go to the store
By planning ahead you too can have a relaxing and enjoyable vacation and a relaxing return home.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, June 7, 2010
What Can I Do In Twenty Minutes
People always seem to complain that they don’t have enough time to do all of the things that they need or want to do in their day. I’ve always said, “the person that invents more hours in the day is going to be rich”.
But the reality is…. there are only twenty-four hours in a day. So what are you doing with those twenty-four hours? Besides wasting them?
Admit it… if you actually wrote down all of the things you did during the day….you would be shocked. Because you would see….in black and white…that you wasted a lot of time.
O.K. …maybe you are a really busy person. Maybe you don’t have enough time to do the big project that should get done in your home or office. But you probably have twenty minutes a day that you are wasting….talking to your friends, hanging around the water cooler, staring into space…
So what can you do in twenty minutes or less ? Lots of things:
* Read a book to your child
* Read a magazine article
* Throw in a load of laundry
* Load the dishwasher
* Pay your bills
* File your bills in the appropriate files
* Check your email
* Water your plants
* Write out the birthday cards for the month
* Make your doctors appointment
* Dust your living room
* Organize a drawer
* Make your shopping list
* Make your lunch for tomorrow
* Organize your medicine cabinet
* Organize the top of your desk
* Unload the dishwasher
* Fold a load of laundry
It might not seem like a lot. It might seem like normal, everyday boring things to do.. But if you don’t do them they will pile up. And then you will have clutter…and dead plants !
So stop wasting your time and pick one or two things to do every day and your house will be a lot more organized and you will be a lot less stressed.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
But the reality is…. there are only twenty-four hours in a day. So what are you doing with those twenty-four hours? Besides wasting them?
Admit it… if you actually wrote down all of the things you did during the day….you would be shocked. Because you would see….in black and white…that you wasted a lot of time.
O.K. …maybe you are a really busy person. Maybe you don’t have enough time to do the big project that should get done in your home or office. But you probably have twenty minutes a day that you are wasting….talking to your friends, hanging around the water cooler, staring into space…
So what can you do in twenty minutes or less ? Lots of things:
* Read a book to your child
* Read a magazine article
* Throw in a load of laundry
* Load the dishwasher
* Pay your bills
* File your bills in the appropriate files
* Check your email
* Water your plants
* Write out the birthday cards for the month
* Make your doctors appointment
* Dust your living room
* Organize a drawer
* Make your shopping list
* Make your lunch for tomorrow
* Organize your medicine cabinet
* Organize the top of your desk
* Unload the dishwasher
* Fold a load of laundry
It might not seem like a lot. It might seem like normal, everyday boring things to do.. But if you don’t do them they will pile up. And then you will have clutter…and dead plants !
So stop wasting your time and pick one or two things to do every day and your house will be a lot more organized and you will be a lot less stressed.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, May 31, 2010
ORGANIZING YOUR BASEMENT
A lot of people use their basement as a “catch all” room. Anything that doesn’t have a place anywhere else gets dumped in the basement.
Cleaning supplies, sports equipment, storage boxes, memorabilia, photo albums, holiday decorations and lots of other things…..
When storing things in the basement you need to consider the moisture that a lot of basements have. Also be sure to keep everything off of the floor (at least a few inches). You never know when you might have some flooding after a heavy storm. The one year that I decided to “hide” my Christmas presents in the basement we had a really bad rainstorm and the basement got a few inches of water. Of course I had all of the presents on the floor, lined up in a perfect line, wrapped perfectly, in perfect bags, all ready to go. I lost just about everything and learned a very valuable lesson (no, not the one about being too organized).
I learned that basements flood ! (and no, I’m not telling you where I hide my Christmas presents now…).
If you put any type of shelving units in your basement be sure that the bottom shelf is at least three (3) inches above the floor to be safe.
Keep in mind that mold, mildew, water and little critters might play a role in how you organize your basement and what types of storage bins you use.
It’s best to keep things in plastic boxes with tight fitting lids. Be sure to label the boxes so that you know what’s in them…but do not put the label on top of the lid, put it on the sides.
If you stack the boxes make sure that the heaviest boxes are on the bottom.
You need to decide how the basement is going to be used. Storage, workshop, office, playroom….. If the basement is going to be used for more than one purpose break the area into “zones” and section off each zone. For example, if the basement is going to be used for both storage and a playroom use some type of divider to keep the kids out of the storage area.
A dehumidifier might be a good idea to help remove the moisture in your basement and to help get rid of the musty smell.
Be sure to keep things away from the heater.
Remember, organizing any room that is cluttered is going to take time. Give yourself a break by setting a time limit (one or two hours) so that you don’t exhaust yourself and get frustrated and give up.
I’m sure that it didn’t get disorganized and cluttered overnight and it’s going to take some time to get organized.
Once the room is organized the maintenance to keep it that way will be minimal.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Cleaning supplies, sports equipment, storage boxes, memorabilia, photo albums, holiday decorations and lots of other things…..
When storing things in the basement you need to consider the moisture that a lot of basements have. Also be sure to keep everything off of the floor (at least a few inches). You never know when you might have some flooding after a heavy storm. The one year that I decided to “hide” my Christmas presents in the basement we had a really bad rainstorm and the basement got a few inches of water. Of course I had all of the presents on the floor, lined up in a perfect line, wrapped perfectly, in perfect bags, all ready to go. I lost just about everything and learned a very valuable lesson (no, not the one about being too organized).
I learned that basements flood ! (and no, I’m not telling you where I hide my Christmas presents now…).
If you put any type of shelving units in your basement be sure that the bottom shelf is at least three (3) inches above the floor to be safe.
Keep in mind that mold, mildew, water and little critters might play a role in how you organize your basement and what types of storage bins you use.
It’s best to keep things in plastic boxes with tight fitting lids. Be sure to label the boxes so that you know what’s in them…but do not put the label on top of the lid, put it on the sides.
If you stack the boxes make sure that the heaviest boxes are on the bottom.
You need to decide how the basement is going to be used. Storage, workshop, office, playroom….. If the basement is going to be used for more than one purpose break the area into “zones” and section off each zone. For example, if the basement is going to be used for both storage and a playroom use some type of divider to keep the kids out of the storage area.
A dehumidifier might be a good idea to help remove the moisture in your basement and to help get rid of the musty smell.
Be sure to keep things away from the heater.
Remember, organizing any room that is cluttered is going to take time. Give yourself a break by setting a time limit (one or two hours) so that you don’t exhaust yourself and get frustrated and give up.
I’m sure that it didn’t get disorganized and cluttered overnight and it’s going to take some time to get organized.
Once the room is organized the maintenance to keep it that way will be minimal.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, May 24, 2010
BEING PREPARED FOR SUMMER FUN AT A MOMENTS NOTICE
Balance in your life. Yes, having an organized home is important. But if you have children, remember that the dust will be there tomorrow. Don’t lose sight of the important things in your life – like playing with your children and going to the beach on a sunny day. Don’t put off the dusting for too long – but your children won’t be little forever. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Sometimes priorities aren’t as obvious as they seem.
* Summer basket: In the summer I always keep a basket filled with “picnic” items near my front door. Take advantage of the warm weather and eat dinner at the beach or the park. It’s amazing how going to the beach and eating dinner on a picnic blanket (which I always keep in my car for spur of the moment picnics) can relax you after a hard and stressful day at work. It’s like a mini vacation rolled up in a few hours. Looking out at the water and watching the sunset works wonders on relieving your stress.
In my basket I keep a supply of paper plates, cups, napkins, plastic silverware, salt/pepper, wet wipes, plastic bags for garbage, magazines, sunscreen.
I throw in some bottled water and grab some sandwiches (you can also get them at a sub shop on your way to the beach) or KFC (yes, it’s bad for you but it’s part of our summer tradition).
I always keep a bag of baby carrots, cut up vegetables, and some fruit in the fridge during the summer for quick healthy snacks….and these can be tossed in your basket too.
If you have little kids keeps a bag filled with a couple of buckets and shovels in your car for those “spur of the moment” trips to the beach. Keep an extra set of beach towels in your car and you will be ready to go at a moments notice.
Try it …. And see how much less stressed you will feel after an hour at the beach. We live less than 20 minutes away from the beach yet most people never take advantage of this great opportunity for a “mini vacation” during the week.
________________________________________________________________________________
* Emergency Kit: Instead of having band-aids and other emergency medical supplies spread out throughout the bathroom make up an “emergency medical kit” so that everything can be in one easy to find place. Use a container with a lid that has handles and when an emergency arises you can just take the entire kit with you and have everything you might possibly need at your fingertips. You can keep one kit in the house and another in your car. Some items that you might want to include are:
* Anti-biotic ointment
* Anti itch ointment
* Alcohol wipes
* Aspirin
* Band-aids
* Cotton swabs
* Eye drops
* Instect Repellent
* Hand Sanitizer
* Sunscreen
* Tissues
* Tweezers
Have a great summer..... be prepared for fun !
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
* Summer basket: In the summer I always keep a basket filled with “picnic” items near my front door. Take advantage of the warm weather and eat dinner at the beach or the park. It’s amazing how going to the beach and eating dinner on a picnic blanket (which I always keep in my car for spur of the moment picnics) can relax you after a hard and stressful day at work. It’s like a mini vacation rolled up in a few hours. Looking out at the water and watching the sunset works wonders on relieving your stress.
In my basket I keep a supply of paper plates, cups, napkins, plastic silverware, salt/pepper, wet wipes, plastic bags for garbage, magazines, sunscreen.
I throw in some bottled water and grab some sandwiches (you can also get them at a sub shop on your way to the beach) or KFC (yes, it’s bad for you but it’s part of our summer tradition).
I always keep a bag of baby carrots, cut up vegetables, and some fruit in the fridge during the summer for quick healthy snacks….and these can be tossed in your basket too.
If you have little kids keeps a bag filled with a couple of buckets and shovels in your car for those “spur of the moment” trips to the beach. Keep an extra set of beach towels in your car and you will be ready to go at a moments notice.
Try it …. And see how much less stressed you will feel after an hour at the beach. We live less than 20 minutes away from the beach yet most people never take advantage of this great opportunity for a “mini vacation” during the week.
________________________________________________________________________________
* Emergency Kit: Instead of having band-aids and other emergency medical supplies spread out throughout the bathroom make up an “emergency medical kit” so that everything can be in one easy to find place. Use a container with a lid that has handles and when an emergency arises you can just take the entire kit with you and have everything you might possibly need at your fingertips. You can keep one kit in the house and another in your car. Some items that you might want to include are:
* Anti-biotic ointment
* Anti itch ointment
* Alcohol wipes
* Aspirin
* Band-aids
* Cotton swabs
* Eye drops
* Instect Repellent
* Hand Sanitizer
* Sunscreen
* Tissues
* Tweezers
Have a great summer..... be prepared for fun !
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, May 17, 2010
SCHOOLS OUT: WHAT DO YOU DO WITH ALL OF THE KIDS “STUFF” ?
Yippee ! Schools out ! The kids are beyond happy. Summer is almost here. Fun in the sun !
As you look around you see backpacks on the floor with the contents of their locker /desk strewn everywhere. Your office / desk / refrigerator is already bursting with their “art work” and crafts. How did you accumulate so much “stuff”?
Just remember – you have 12 years of this ! How do you get a handle on all of their “special papers” ? Don’t let the clutter overtake you. You will easily end up with more boxes of their “stuff” every year.
I know you and the kids are excited that school is out and the last thing that you want to do is spend hours going through their stuff. But it’s easier to just bite the bullet and get it done now and be able to enjoy the summer without having to look at the clutter all summer long.
There are a number of ways to go about this. One, get one (1) box or plastic bin for each child. Put in dividers for each school year. Pick one or two or three (no more or you’ll run out of room) great pieces to save. Put all of their report cards and awards into the folders.
Instead of a box, you can also use a large pendaflex folder for each child. You will need to explain to your child that you can’t keep “all” of their pictures because you just don’t have the room (trust me – my kids decorated an entire wall of my office with their art work and I left it up until they “begged” me to take it down when they were 15).
Do this at the end of every school year so that you are not overwhelmed when they are going away to college and you decide it’s “finally” time to clear our their stuff (trust me….they go from 12 to college overnight!).
Take a look at their backpack and see if it still is in good condition for next year. If it is, clean it out and store it for next year. If it’s, not throw it in the garbage.
Go through all of their school supplies and get rid of everything that is broken. Sort all of the “good” supplies into a box for next year. Make a list of what you have left over that can be re-used so that you don’t have to buy it next year.
Now you can relax and enjoy your summer…..that is until it’s time to “get organized” for the next school year. But that’s another article!
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
As you look around you see backpacks on the floor with the contents of their locker /desk strewn everywhere. Your office / desk / refrigerator is already bursting with their “art work” and crafts. How did you accumulate so much “stuff”?
Just remember – you have 12 years of this ! How do you get a handle on all of their “special papers” ? Don’t let the clutter overtake you. You will easily end up with more boxes of their “stuff” every year.
I know you and the kids are excited that school is out and the last thing that you want to do is spend hours going through their stuff. But it’s easier to just bite the bullet and get it done now and be able to enjoy the summer without having to look at the clutter all summer long.
There are a number of ways to go about this. One, get one (1) box or plastic bin for each child. Put in dividers for each school year. Pick one or two or three (no more or you’ll run out of room) great pieces to save. Put all of their report cards and awards into the folders.
Instead of a box, you can also use a large pendaflex folder for each child. You will need to explain to your child that you can’t keep “all” of their pictures because you just don’t have the room (trust me – my kids decorated an entire wall of my office with their art work and I left it up until they “begged” me to take it down when they were 15).
Do this at the end of every school year so that you are not overwhelmed when they are going away to college and you decide it’s “finally” time to clear our their stuff (trust me….they go from 12 to college overnight!).
Take a look at their backpack and see if it still is in good condition for next year. If it is, clean it out and store it for next year. If it’s, not throw it in the garbage.
Go through all of their school supplies and get rid of everything that is broken. Sort all of the “good” supplies into a box for next year. Make a list of what you have left over that can be re-used so that you don’t have to buy it next year.
Now you can relax and enjoy your summer…..that is until it’s time to “get organized” for the next school year. But that’s another article!
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, May 10, 2010
MORNING MADNESS
Some people are morning people…and some people aren’t. I am. My sister, well you never want to call her before noon. I always laid out my suit the night before and made sure that my briefcase was all packed. I knew where everything was and I liked to get in to work early and get a lot of things done before everyone else got there.
There are a lot of things that you can do to make the mornings go a lot smoother.
Some ideas:
* Get your coffee maker ready the night before
* Pack your lunch before you go to bead
* Decide what you are going to wear and lay the clothes out before you go to bed
* Pack your briefcase / backpack the night before
* Put your briefcase / backpack in a designated spot (along with your car keys)
* For kids > pack their backpack with their homework & put in a designated spot
* Pour your breakfast juice in your glass & put in fridge
* Set the breakfast table
* Set out your box of cereal and fruit for breakfast
* Cook hardboiled eggs ahead of time so that you have them all available for breakfast
* Pre-cook sausages ahead of time so that all you have to do is microwave them
* Make pancakes ahead of time & freeze them so that all you have to do is microwave them
* Stagger your kids wake up calls so that everyone has a turn in the bathroom & no one is late
By getting as much done the night before as possible….. you will have less to do in the morning. And if you're not a morning person…. you won’t forget anything.
By just changing the timing of when you do things…. you can be more organized.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
There are a lot of things that you can do to make the mornings go a lot smoother.
Some ideas:
* Get your coffee maker ready the night before
* Pack your lunch before you go to bead
* Decide what you are going to wear and lay the clothes out before you go to bed
* Pack your briefcase / backpack the night before
* Put your briefcase / backpack in a designated spot (along with your car keys)
* For kids > pack their backpack with their homework & put in a designated spot
* Pour your breakfast juice in your glass & put in fridge
* Set the breakfast table
* Set out your box of cereal and fruit for breakfast
* Cook hardboiled eggs ahead of time so that you have them all available for breakfast
* Pre-cook sausages ahead of time so that all you have to do is microwave them
* Make pancakes ahead of time & freeze them so that all you have to do is microwave them
* Stagger your kids wake up calls so that everyone has a turn in the bathroom & no one is late
By getting as much done the night before as possible….. you will have less to do in the morning. And if you're not a morning person…. you won’t forget anything.
By just changing the timing of when you do things…. you can be more organized.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, May 3, 2010
ORGANIZING YOUR GARAGE
When people think about organizing their living space they usually forget one very important “room” in their home ….. the garage. Unlike the other rooms of their house the garage serves many uses.
It stores their car… to keep it dry and warm and out of the bad weather.
It stores their lawn mower, gardening tools and lawn furniture.
It stores their snow blower.
It stores their bicycles and other sports gear.
Sometimes it’s even used as a workshop, complete with workbench and tools.
So many uses…..yet, it’s the least thought about room of the house.
When we go for walks around our neighborhood we get to peak into many people’s garages….since a lot of people leave them open. And I always says “those people need me !”.
Many people’s garages are packed from floor to ceiling with “stuff”. A lot of people can’t even get both cars into their garage because there is no room. Yet they have no problem letting the entire neighborhood see their disorganized space.
Organizing your garage is important because of the many functions that it serves. By stepping back and thinking about the various functions and organizing your garage into “zones” you can get the best use out of your space. Have a “sports zone”, a “garden zone”, a “tool zone” …and so on.
It is very important to remember that due to the various temperature changes and the humidity (and since most garages are not heated) you need to consider the types of materials (shelving, cabinets, storage units….) that you use. Plastic shelves and containers are probably better options than wood.
Don’t store things in paper boxes due to the moisture…. or you might end up with mold. Keep things off of the floor so that they don’t get wet.
There are numerous pegboard type systems out there that can be used to hang all of your tools and get them off of the floor. Remember to use your vertical space. You can also mount shelving to hang from the ceiling for “above car” storage. And there are numerous options to hang your bikes.
By using a combination of storage options for your various needs you can double or triple your space and have a garage that can also be used for your ….. car.
A company that has some great options to help you with organizing your garage is: Garage Outfitters
Another important thing to remember is that you should have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in the garage.
Organize your garage…. and make your neighbors happy !
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
It stores their car… to keep it dry and warm and out of the bad weather.
It stores their lawn mower, gardening tools and lawn furniture.
It stores their snow blower.
It stores their bicycles and other sports gear.
Sometimes it’s even used as a workshop, complete with workbench and tools.
So many uses…..yet, it’s the least thought about room of the house.
When we go for walks around our neighborhood we get to peak into many people’s garages….since a lot of people leave them open. And I always says “those people need me !”.
Many people’s garages are packed from floor to ceiling with “stuff”. A lot of people can’t even get both cars into their garage because there is no room. Yet they have no problem letting the entire neighborhood see their disorganized space.
Organizing your garage is important because of the many functions that it serves. By stepping back and thinking about the various functions and organizing your garage into “zones” you can get the best use out of your space. Have a “sports zone”, a “garden zone”, a “tool zone” …and so on.
It is very important to remember that due to the various temperature changes and the humidity (and since most garages are not heated) you need to consider the types of materials (shelving, cabinets, storage units….) that you use. Plastic shelves and containers are probably better options than wood.
Don’t store things in paper boxes due to the moisture…. or you might end up with mold. Keep things off of the floor so that they don’t get wet.
There are numerous pegboard type systems out there that can be used to hang all of your tools and get them off of the floor. Remember to use your vertical space. You can also mount shelving to hang from the ceiling for “above car” storage. And there are numerous options to hang your bikes.
By using a combination of storage options for your various needs you can double or triple your space and have a garage that can also be used for your ….. car.
A company that has some great options to help you with organizing your garage is: Garage Outfitters
Another important thing to remember is that you should have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in the garage.
Organize your garage…. and make your neighbors happy !
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
NAPO CONFERENCE - NSGCD EXAM
The world was slightly disorganized last week because a lot of organizers went to the National Association of Professional Organizers conference in Columbus. There were about 680 or so “professional organizers” at the conference. Talking about “organizing” of course !
If was my first conference and my brain is in “overload” at the moment.
There were so many interesting seminars that it was hard to pick “just one” for each session. From technology, marketing, growing your business, working with the aging population, hoarders, ADD, Green organizing …and so much more And people thought we only talked about “closets” !
And I am very (make that very, very) proud to announce that I PASSED my NSGCD CD exam !!!! (National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization – Chronic Disorganization exam).
I was talking to a client and she said “wow, you have exams?”. Yes, we do! As a very serious organizer we take tons (that’s dozens and dozens…..) of classes / seminars to learn everything we can about “organizing”. There are so many different aspects of organizing:
* Chronic Disorganization
* Basic ADD Issues with the CD Client
* CD Client Administration
* Basic Physical Conditions Affecting the CD Client
* Understanding the Needs of the Elderly CD Client
* Learning Styles and Modalities
* Basic Hoarding Issues with the CD Client
* Understanding the Needs of the Student CD Client
* Basic Mental Health Conditions and Challenges Affecting the CD Client
* Study in Life Transitions (LT)
The conference also had a special reception – a “meet and greet” with some of the members of the “Hoarders” show. It was very exciting! Lots of pictures and lots of chatter!
I want to give a special “Thank You” to Matt Paxton of Clutter Cleaner, one of the members of the “Hoarders” show for spending so much time with me discussing client issues (client’s names are never discussed and privacy is always maintained). Hoarding is a very serious and complex issue that requires the services of not only a professional organizer but also a therapist and other providers.
It was a long week and I think that all of the organizers that were there are now busily trying to incorporate what they learned at the conference into their businesses.
We are constantly trying to improve ourselves and the lives of our clients.
Remember….. “Less Clutter = Less Stress” (SM)
Happy Organizing!
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
If was my first conference and my brain is in “overload” at the moment.
There were so many interesting seminars that it was hard to pick “just one” for each session. From technology, marketing, growing your business, working with the aging population, hoarders, ADD, Green organizing …and so much more And people thought we only talked about “closets” !
And I am very (make that very, very) proud to announce that I PASSED my NSGCD CD exam !!!! (National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization – Chronic Disorganization exam).
I was talking to a client and she said “wow, you have exams?”. Yes, we do! As a very serious organizer we take tons (that’s dozens and dozens…..) of classes / seminars to learn everything we can about “organizing”. There are so many different aspects of organizing:
* Chronic Disorganization
* Basic ADD Issues with the CD Client
* CD Client Administration
* Basic Physical Conditions Affecting the CD Client
* Understanding the Needs of the Elderly CD Client
* Learning Styles and Modalities
* Basic Hoarding Issues with the CD Client
* Understanding the Needs of the Student CD Client
* Basic Mental Health Conditions and Challenges Affecting the CD Client
* Study in Life Transitions (LT)
The conference also had a special reception – a “meet and greet” with some of the members of the “Hoarders” show. It was very exciting! Lots of pictures and lots of chatter!
I want to give a special “Thank You” to Matt Paxton of Clutter Cleaner, one of the members of the “Hoarders” show for spending so much time with me discussing client issues (client’s names are never discussed and privacy is always maintained). Hoarding is a very serious and complex issue that requires the services of not only a professional organizer but also a therapist and other providers.
It was a long week and I think that all of the organizers that were there are now busily trying to incorporate what they learned at the conference into their businesses.
We are constantly trying to improve ourselves and the lives of our clients.
Remember….. “Less Clutter = Less Stress” (SM)
Happy Organizing!
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, April 26, 2010
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Everyone should be prepared for an emergency. Whether it’s the loss of power and electricity (which could last for days) or a hurricane, earthquake or other natural disaster…. Or a terrorist attack…
We’ve had numerous “disasters” in the last few years….the World Trade Center attack (9/11/2001), Indian Ocean Tsunami (2004), Hurricane Katrina (2005), Haiti Earthquake (2010)…
Being prepared is not an “option” anymore. Even if just the electricity went out…and you happen to have an “all electric” home….would you be able to survive? Do you have enough food to last you for a few days? What happens if all the stores are closed?
These are just some things to think about…..
There are numerous websites and articles that tell you to be prepared to survive for at least three (3) days if an emergency occurs. The “72 Hour Kit” as some people call it.
Besides the basic kit, you also need to have an emergency plan in place. Below is a basic list that will give you some ideas to get you started (there are numerous variations of this kit).
Basic Kit:
Water – one (1) gallon per person , per day for at least three (3) days
Food – 3 days supply of non-perishable food. Some ideas are: soup mix, granola bars, trail mix, crackers,
peanut butter, beef jerky, fruit cups….
Plastic / paper – plates, cups, napkins…
Radio – battery powered
Flashlight – with extra batteries
First aid kit – basic kit
Whistle
Can opener
Garbage bags & plastic bags (various sizes)
Sleeping Bag
Blankets
Clothes – for three (3) days
Shoes
Coats & rain gear & cold weather gear
Personal hygiene products such as: shampoo, lotion, razors, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, feminine
products, sunscreen…..
Wet wipes
Toilet Paper
Sewing Kit
Paper & pencils
Matches / lighter (in water proof container)
Cash
Basic tools (wrench, pliers, scissors….)
Maps
Water purification tablets (or Chlorine Bleach)
Hand Sanitizer
String / rope / cord
Cooking appliances (portable stove with fuel….)
Some things (like medications…) cannot pack ahead of time…so have a checklist prepared for those items.
Checklist for supplies that need to be packed last minute:
Prescription medication
Infant formula
Pet food
Family documents (passport, birth certificates, identification cards, bank info, insurance info….)
Watch
Games for kids
Start thinking about how you and your family would handle an emergency….and start planning for it today…before that emergency strikes.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
We’ve had numerous “disasters” in the last few years….the World Trade Center attack (9/11/2001), Indian Ocean Tsunami (2004), Hurricane Katrina (2005), Haiti Earthquake (2010)…
Being prepared is not an “option” anymore. Even if just the electricity went out…and you happen to have an “all electric” home….would you be able to survive? Do you have enough food to last you for a few days? What happens if all the stores are closed?
These are just some things to think about…..
There are numerous websites and articles that tell you to be prepared to survive for at least three (3) days if an emergency occurs. The “72 Hour Kit” as some people call it.
Besides the basic kit, you also need to have an emergency plan in place. Below is a basic list that will give you some ideas to get you started (there are numerous variations of this kit).
Basic Kit:
Water – one (1) gallon per person , per day for at least three (3) days
Food – 3 days supply of non-perishable food. Some ideas are: soup mix, granola bars, trail mix, crackers,
peanut butter, beef jerky, fruit cups….
Plastic / paper – plates, cups, napkins…
Radio – battery powered
Flashlight – with extra batteries
First aid kit – basic kit
Whistle
Can opener
Garbage bags & plastic bags (various sizes)
Sleeping Bag
Blankets
Clothes – for three (3) days
Shoes
Coats & rain gear & cold weather gear
Personal hygiene products such as: shampoo, lotion, razors, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, feminine
products, sunscreen…..
Wet wipes
Toilet Paper
Sewing Kit
Paper & pencils
Matches / lighter (in water proof container)
Cash
Basic tools (wrench, pliers, scissors….)
Maps
Water purification tablets (or Chlorine Bleach)
Hand Sanitizer
String / rope / cord
Cooking appliances (portable stove with fuel….)
Some things (like medications…) cannot pack ahead of time…so have a checklist prepared for those items.
Checklist for supplies that need to be packed last minute:
Prescription medication
Infant formula
Pet food
Family documents (passport, birth certificates, identification cards, bank info, insurance info….)
Watch
Games for kids
Start thinking about how you and your family would handle an emergency….and start planning for it today…before that emergency strikes.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, April 19, 2010
PAPER MANAGEMENT
Paper….paper….paper…
Even in this electronic age we are still inundated with paper. The mailman brings us stuff that we don’t even want. Junk mail, bills….. A never ending cycle.
So what do we do with it? Besides let it pile up and ignore it?
Where do we put it…besides the kitchen table? Or dumping it on our “office desk”? Where it sits…waiting for us to “do something with it”.
If you want to cut down on mail and paper there are a number of options:
* Send a letter to DMA and request that they stop sending you “junk mail”:
DMA Mail DMA Preference Service
P.O. Box 9008
Farmingdale, New York 11735 – 9008
* Cancel your magazine and newspaper subscriptions and read them on-line.
As soon as the mail comes immediately sort it into piles:
* Junk (immediately sort that right into the garbage can)
* Bills to pay
* Personal mail (letters, cards…)
* Business Mail
* Magazines & Newspapers
Pick a specific day or time that you are going to sit down and go through each pile. In business you will probably have to deal with it more often than on a personal level.
Set up a schedule where you will deal with your bills. Once a week, once every other week…whatever works for you. But then stick to it.
For business mail you should also have a schedule where you will sit down and deal with your mail. When you go through it put it into piles of things that you need to deal with immediately, things that you can deal with later, information to keep or things to toss.
By compartmentalizing your mail you are able to focus on one thing at a time and actually able to accomplish something instead of going from reading a letter, to paying a bill, to dealing with a business issue…and so on.
It is very important to remember that when you are tossing out mail or any papers that you remember to protect yourself and your identity by shredding personal or business information that has your social security number or credit card information or any other information that could be used for identity theft.
Another important aspect of paper management is “paper retention”. How long do you really need to keep information? There are record retention laws that relate to personal records (taxes, financial info….) and business records. Be sure that you know how long you actually need to keep things. There is no reason to keep papers forever…unless you happen to have lots of extra room that you have no other use for.
In your filing cabinet you should only have records for the current year. Last years information should be taken out of your files and stored elsewhere (basement, attic….).
Cutting down on your paper usage and paper shuffling saves you time, money and storage space.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Even in this electronic age we are still inundated with paper. The mailman brings us stuff that we don’t even want. Junk mail, bills….. A never ending cycle.
So what do we do with it? Besides let it pile up and ignore it?
Where do we put it…besides the kitchen table? Or dumping it on our “office desk”? Where it sits…waiting for us to “do something with it”.
If you want to cut down on mail and paper there are a number of options:
* Send a letter to DMA and request that they stop sending you “junk mail”:
DMA Mail DMA Preference Service
P.O. Box 9008
Farmingdale, New York 11735 – 9008
* Cancel your magazine and newspaper subscriptions and read them on-line.
As soon as the mail comes immediately sort it into piles:
* Junk (immediately sort that right into the garbage can)
* Bills to pay
* Personal mail (letters, cards…)
* Business Mail
* Magazines & Newspapers
Pick a specific day or time that you are going to sit down and go through each pile. In business you will probably have to deal with it more often than on a personal level.
Set up a schedule where you will deal with your bills. Once a week, once every other week…whatever works for you. But then stick to it.
For business mail you should also have a schedule where you will sit down and deal with your mail. When you go through it put it into piles of things that you need to deal with immediately, things that you can deal with later, information to keep or things to toss.
By compartmentalizing your mail you are able to focus on one thing at a time and actually able to accomplish something instead of going from reading a letter, to paying a bill, to dealing with a business issue…and so on.
It is very important to remember that when you are tossing out mail or any papers that you remember to protect yourself and your identity by shredding personal or business information that has your social security number or credit card information or any other information that could be used for identity theft.
Another important aspect of paper management is “paper retention”. How long do you really need to keep information? There are record retention laws that relate to personal records (taxes, financial info….) and business records. Be sure that you know how long you actually need to keep things. There is no reason to keep papers forever…unless you happen to have lots of extra room that you have no other use for.
In your filing cabinet you should only have records for the current year. Last years information should be taken out of your files and stored elsewhere (basement, attic….).
Cutting down on your paper usage and paper shuffling saves you time, money and storage space.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Magazine Article and Organizing Kids at a Young Age...all in one week !
Well... it's been an exciting week ! A couple of great articles have come out.
First, I have just completed training for a great program through NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers) to teach children in grades 2 - 5 how to become more organized. It's a really fun and interactive program and I hope to be able to teach kids a lesson that they will be able to use throughout their entire lives. The program is called " NAPO in the Schools ".
http://www.pr.com/press-release/226417
Then, I was interviewed for a magazine article on "organizing in the church". Yes, churches need to be organized just as much as your home or office! I am in the article with Peter Walsh, the organizing guru on the show "Clean Sweep". What an honor !
http://www.churchmutual.com/riskreporter/pdfs/RRSpring2010.pdf
First, I have just completed training for a great program through NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers) to teach children in grades 2 - 5 how to become more organized. It's a really fun and interactive program and I hope to be able to teach kids a lesson that they will be able to use throughout their entire lives. The program is called " NAPO in the Schools ".
http://www.pr.com/press-release/226417
Then, I was interviewed for a magazine article on "organizing in the church". Yes, churches need to be organized just as much as your home or office! I am in the article with Peter Walsh, the organizing guru on the show "Clean Sweep". What an honor !
http://www.churchmutual.com/riskreporter/pdfs/RRSpring2010.pdf
Monday, April 12, 2010
TIME MANAGEMENT
Time….something that most people don’t have enough of. Something that most people waste.
Time management….an interesting concept since you can’t manage “time”, you can only manage “yourself”.
So what can you do to take better advantage of the time that you do have?
First, you need to figure out what you “actually” do all day long. And it will surprise you. For the next few days write down “every single thing” that you do all day long. Break it down by the hour. If you do multiple things in that hour write it down. After a few days take a good look at your log and you will see how much time you actually waste.
Second, decide what’s important in your life (or business) and what you really want to accomplish. Then come up with a game plan, a timeline on how you are going to accomplish those goals.
People continuously complain that they don’t have enough time to get everything done in a day or to reach their “goal”. By seeing how much time you actually waste during the day you can start to make changes in yourself and re-claim some lost time.
A few ideas on managing your time:
Make each outing a “multiple purpose” event. When you are using your car make the most out of the trip by combining errands. Go to the grocery store, post office and dry cleaners all in the same trip instead of three (3) separate trips. You will save time and money on gas and wear and tear on your car.
When you have an appointment where you will be waiting (such as a doctors office or at the car shop or waiting to pick up your kids from ballet) use that time to catch up on reading your magazines or mail. Or doing homework or studying.
While waiting for the roast to be done for dinner…throw in a load of laundry.
Avoid interruptions at work by letting people know that they need to make an appointment to talk to you. This makes a lot of people uncomfortable. Be nice but be firm and say something like, “I’m in the middle of a project now, can you come back at 2 pm so that I can give you my full attention?”.
Be considerate of other employee’s time by saving up all of your questions and asking them when they have time, instead of continually stopping by and asking them ten questions throughout the day.
Learn to say “no”. (a hard one for many people)
Plan your tomorrow, today. At the end of the day today, plan out your schedule for tomorrow. That way you’ll know what to expect and will leave yourself plenty of time to get things done. Be sure to leave enough time for “unexpected” emergencies. You can also group all of your activities that require driving into a logical order.
Break your main project up into smaller projects to make them more manageable . This will also give you the feeling of having accomplished something when you finish a project.
Don’t over schedule your day or you will be stressed out. And that’s when you make mistakes.
Time…. Learn to manage it….. Don’t let it manage you.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Time management….an interesting concept since you can’t manage “time”, you can only manage “yourself”.
So what can you do to take better advantage of the time that you do have?
First, you need to figure out what you “actually” do all day long. And it will surprise you. For the next few days write down “every single thing” that you do all day long. Break it down by the hour. If you do multiple things in that hour write it down. After a few days take a good look at your log and you will see how much time you actually waste.
Second, decide what’s important in your life (or business) and what you really want to accomplish. Then come up with a game plan, a timeline on how you are going to accomplish those goals.
People continuously complain that they don’t have enough time to get everything done in a day or to reach their “goal”. By seeing how much time you actually waste during the day you can start to make changes in yourself and re-claim some lost time.
A few ideas on managing your time:
Make each outing a “multiple purpose” event. When you are using your car make the most out of the trip by combining errands. Go to the grocery store, post office and dry cleaners all in the same trip instead of three (3) separate trips. You will save time and money on gas and wear and tear on your car.
When you have an appointment where you will be waiting (such as a doctors office or at the car shop or waiting to pick up your kids from ballet) use that time to catch up on reading your magazines or mail. Or doing homework or studying.
While waiting for the roast to be done for dinner…throw in a load of laundry.
Avoid interruptions at work by letting people know that they need to make an appointment to talk to you. This makes a lot of people uncomfortable. Be nice but be firm and say something like, “I’m in the middle of a project now, can you come back at 2 pm so that I can give you my full attention?”.
Be considerate of other employee’s time by saving up all of your questions and asking them when they have time, instead of continually stopping by and asking them ten questions throughout the day.
Learn to say “no”. (a hard one for many people)
Plan your tomorrow, today. At the end of the day today, plan out your schedule for tomorrow. That way you’ll know what to expect and will leave yourself plenty of time to get things done. Be sure to leave enough time for “unexpected” emergencies. You can also group all of your activities that require driving into a logical order.
Break your main project up into smaller projects to make them more manageable . This will also give you the feeling of having accomplished something when you finish a project.
Don’t over schedule your day or you will be stressed out. And that’s when you make mistakes.
Time…. Learn to manage it….. Don’t let it manage you.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, April 5, 2010
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS CALLED UPON AS MORE SENIORS DOWNSIZE
Calling in a pro can help keep emotions out of deciding what to do with all that “stuff ”
Downsizing can be a tough process for anyone, but especially for seniors who find themselves with large homes no longer full of children. More and more are tackling the huge job of downsizing their living spaces. In fact, about six percent of Americans between the ages of 55 and 64 move each year, according to the Over-50 Council of the National Association of Home Builders.
As seniors reach the time to downsize belongings and move into smaller, more manageable homes, many have a hard time figuring out what to do with all of the “stuff ” they’ve accumulated over the years.
According to NAPO …“A major reason seniors have a hard time downsizing is they feel they are the ‘keepers’ of family heirlooms and so they have a hard time getting rid of items which they don’t really have room for anymore,”.
Here are some tips for seniors taking the plunge into a more simplified lifestyle:
• Start looking for other family members who would like to have heirloom pieces now, especially if they are not being used on a regular basis. There are many organizations that accept donations of valuable heirlooms in support of a worthy cause. Professional organizers can help seniors sort through household items to strategically figure out what will work in their new space. They also can help seniors identify which organizations to turn to that are best at finding new homes for family heirlooms.
• Find movers specializing in making the transition easier for seniors. Professional organizers can help find the perfect “mover match” for a client, and can help pare down items before the move making the process easier at moving time.
• Have a professional organizer reassess every five to ten years or as needed to make sure the senior’s home is still working for them. Sometimes seniors don’t realize that everyday activities and household chores can be made easier just by adjusting the setup in their homes. Professional organizers are great resources to help identify easy ways seniors can simplify to improve their overall quality of life.
A professional organizer won’t tell the seniors what stays and what goes, but they will ask the tough questions to help them decide for themselves. Sometimes just getting started is the hardest part, and having a professional with an outside point of view to assist is the perfect way to move forward.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Downsizing can be a tough process for anyone, but especially for seniors who find themselves with large homes no longer full of children. More and more are tackling the huge job of downsizing their living spaces. In fact, about six percent of Americans between the ages of 55 and 64 move each year, according to the Over-50 Council of the National Association of Home Builders.
As seniors reach the time to downsize belongings and move into smaller, more manageable homes, many have a hard time figuring out what to do with all of the “stuff ” they’ve accumulated over the years.
According to NAPO …“A major reason seniors have a hard time downsizing is they feel they are the ‘keepers’ of family heirlooms and so they have a hard time getting rid of items which they don’t really have room for anymore,”.
Here are some tips for seniors taking the plunge into a more simplified lifestyle:
• Start looking for other family members who would like to have heirloom pieces now, especially if they are not being used on a regular basis. There are many organizations that accept donations of valuable heirlooms in support of a worthy cause. Professional organizers can help seniors sort through household items to strategically figure out what will work in their new space. They also can help seniors identify which organizations to turn to that are best at finding new homes for family heirlooms.
• Find movers specializing in making the transition easier for seniors. Professional organizers can help find the perfect “mover match” for a client, and can help pare down items before the move making the process easier at moving time.
• Have a professional organizer reassess every five to ten years or as needed to make sure the senior’s home is still working for them. Sometimes seniors don’t realize that everyday activities and household chores can be made easier just by adjusting the setup in their homes. Professional organizers are great resources to help identify easy ways seniors can simplify to improve their overall quality of life.
A professional organizer won’t tell the seniors what stays and what goes, but they will ask the tough questions to help them decide for themselves. Sometimes just getting started is the hardest part, and having a professional with an outside point of view to assist is the perfect way to move forward.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, March 29, 2010
ADD and Organization
Children and adults with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) have a harder time trying to stay organized. They get easily distracted and have problems focusing and ignoring those distractions. Telling a child to “clean up their room” doesn’t really mean anything to a child with ADD. Parents are likely to get frustrated because the child is not “listening” and “doing what they were told”.
The problem is that the parent wasn’t more specific. Instead of saying “clean up your room” the parent needs to say “put away all the toys on the floor” or “put your laundry in the hamper”. Very specific tasks. With short task times.
There are many different theories on what causes ADD. One is that it is caused by “chemicals in the brain which coordinates and regulates function and behavior”. A “deficiency in these neurotransmitters can cause a lack of attention” which in turn can lead to clutter and disorganization.
Some people don’t believe that ADD is a “real physical” problem. They think that the child just doesn’t want to “listen” and do what they are told.
Some people believe that diet plays a major problem in ADD. Because of all of the chemicals in our food today they think that kids have been poisoned and their brain functions have been affected.
It’s not really too far fetched. With the huge “organic” movement people are starting to realize that if mother nature didn’t produce it…. it should not go into our bodies.
Some other reasons that people believe are behind ADD are: drugs, brain injury, genetics, sleep disorder and so on…
Children, especially teenagers have so many “normal teenage issues” and then throw in those “hormones” and it’s not easy to distinguish between “normal” childhood and ADD.
Some people aren’t diagnosed with ADD until they are adults. If a person is extremely intelligent or creative it takes longer to diagnosis ADD.
People with ADD have a short attention span. They are easily distracted and can’t stay focused on a task. They get bored easily and therefore avoid doing “boring thinks” like housework.
In order to make things more interesting a person with ADD might wait until the last minute to get things done and then be in “crisis mode”.
People with ADD also tend to be “impulsive” and sometimes make decisions too quickly, such as getting rid of something and then they “regret” it later. After that they might never make another decision again, which can lead to chronic disorganization, clutter and even hoarding.
A person with ADD gets bogged down with “details” and can’t see the big picture.
A Professional Organizer can help a client with ADD stay focused on a specific task and stay on target. Structure is very important with an ADD client. By helping the client make a plan and having a decision making process in place the ADD client can become organized and learn to function better.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
The problem is that the parent wasn’t more specific. Instead of saying “clean up your room” the parent needs to say “put away all the toys on the floor” or “put your laundry in the hamper”. Very specific tasks. With short task times.
There are many different theories on what causes ADD. One is that it is caused by “chemicals in the brain which coordinates and regulates function and behavior”. A “deficiency in these neurotransmitters can cause a lack of attention” which in turn can lead to clutter and disorganization.
Some people don’t believe that ADD is a “real physical” problem. They think that the child just doesn’t want to “listen” and do what they are told.
Some people believe that diet plays a major problem in ADD. Because of all of the chemicals in our food today they think that kids have been poisoned and their brain functions have been affected.
It’s not really too far fetched. With the huge “organic” movement people are starting to realize that if mother nature didn’t produce it…. it should not go into our bodies.
Some other reasons that people believe are behind ADD are: drugs, brain injury, genetics, sleep disorder and so on…
Children, especially teenagers have so many “normal teenage issues” and then throw in those “hormones” and it’s not easy to distinguish between “normal” childhood and ADD.
Some people aren’t diagnosed with ADD until they are adults. If a person is extremely intelligent or creative it takes longer to diagnosis ADD.
People with ADD have a short attention span. They are easily distracted and can’t stay focused on a task. They get bored easily and therefore avoid doing “boring thinks” like housework.
In order to make things more interesting a person with ADD might wait until the last minute to get things done and then be in “crisis mode”.
People with ADD also tend to be “impulsive” and sometimes make decisions too quickly, such as getting rid of something and then they “regret” it later. After that they might never make another decision again, which can lead to chronic disorganization, clutter and even hoarding.
A person with ADD gets bogged down with “details” and can’t see the big picture.
A Professional Organizer can help a client with ADD stay focused on a specific task and stay on target. Structure is very important with an ADD client. By helping the client make a plan and having a decision making process in place the ADD client can become organized and learn to function better.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
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