Monday, September 23, 2013
Fall is Here - Winter to Follow - Get Organized Now
Yesterday was the 1st day of Fall. My favorite time of year. But depending on where you live snow could be just around the corner - or in some places - have already happened.
Move your summer toys to the back of the garage and reacquaint yourself with your snow blower.
It's time to winterize your garage and get ready for the snow. A good place to start is by taking everything out of your garage and giving it a good sweeping.
Throw out any broken items and put any items that you no longer use in the "donate" pile. That would include any toys that your kids have outgrown.
If you have any leftover gardening supplies (mulch, dirt, bulbs, seeds....) or anything that you won't be able to use next spring, get rid of it.
Re-arrange your garage to put the snow blower where you can easily reach it. Make sure that it is ready to use by doing any maintenance that it might need.
Make sure that you have access to any snow shovels or anything else such as salt for those snowy days.
Some people might still be able to use their lawnmower a few more times before the snow falls, but plan on having your lawnmower winterized and empty it of any liquids according to your manual.
By organizing your garage before the weather gets really bad you will save yourself a lot of headaches in trying to find everything when the bad weather hits.
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, September 16, 2013
Organizing - A Family Affair
Having an organized home has so many benefits. Your home looks good, you can find things easily, you save money by not constantly buying things that you already have and you are less stressed.
But at what cost? Having that organized home takes time. And with everyone being so busy, time is something that most people don't have a lot of.
So how do we get around this problem? Family !
That's right - everyone has to help. Isn't that what family means? Helping each other?
Maybe cleaning up each persons room is "their" responsibility - but all of the "shared" spaces - like the kitchen, living room and bathrooms - should also be a "shared" responsibility.
When you are sharing space - you need to share the work of keeping it organized (and clean).
Everyone should have a "spot" in the bathroom for "their" stuff. Everyone should pick up after themselves.
Everyone should be taught to put away their dishes in the dishwasher (or assign kitchen tasks).
Everyone should help prepare meals (either prep work, cooking, setting the table or after dinner clean up).
The kitchen is always the center of the home. Cooking together does more than get the meals on the table faster - it's a time to bond. Or as the kids say "date time" (yes, we have exciting dates). It's a time to talk and go over your day.
In the living room - after everyone is done reading their magazines or books or playing with their toys - put everything back where it belongs.
You bring it out - you put it away ! A great motto !
Having an organized and clean (or tidy) home is a family affair. And it cuts down on the time it takes to get things done.
Get your family involved and take the stress off of just one person. Teach your kids something they can use in adulthood.
Organizing - it isn't just for grownups!
Have a great and organized day !
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, September 9, 2013
The Perfect Gift - Being Organized for the Holidays
I know - people are going to say "What - are you kidding? Shopping for the holidays?". Well - yes - I have already bought some Christmas presents. But when the perfect present appears before you when you aren't even looking - you just have to buy it! And when you have kids and something so perfect is thrust upon you - you just say "thank you" and hide it away for Christmas.
And this is where "being organized" comes into play. Make a list ! Because if you don't - you won't remember what you bought for whom or where you put it! And then you will continue to buy more and more presents for the same person and overspend.
Now is the time to start making lists of what you might buy (or make) your family and friends for the holidays. No - it's not too early!
By being pro-active and making your lists you will have time to buy things on your terms - without the pressure of just buying whatever you can get your hands on the day before Christmas.
Keep your eyes open for great sales or for the "perfect" present for your loved ones.
That being said - don't just buy things for the sake of buying something. You won't make anyone happy and you will be part of the "clutter" problem that exists for most people.
The perfect gift is one that the recipient wants and will use - not something that "you" want.
Keep your eyes open and start thinking about the upcoming holidays. They are closer than you think.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, August 26, 2013
Organization Means Always Evolving
Being organized is an ever changing event. It's not a "one time" event. You have to change with how you and your family live. Kids grow up and you get rid of their baby toys and their outgrown clothes. You change jobs or gain / lose weight and you swap out your clothes for ones that fit your new life.
You make lists and constantly tweak them to better suit your needs "at that moment".
We went camping about a month back and of course my husband decided that "yes, we had everything " so enough with my lists already. Thank goodness for kind friends who had extra cooking gear to loan us for the weekend! But, this past trip he admitted he was wrong and actually asked me to double check our list. The list wins out again!
When I get home from our trips I always "tweak" our lists and add / delete things that we wished we would have had or didn't use.
I am also always rearranging our closets. Living in a smaller house means being very creative with your space. Even though I like to see everything hung up, when you have so little space it means that plastic bins are a better option for clothes that are only worn occasionally (such as clothes used for working in the yard or certain activities).
For people that hire a Professional Organizer they should realize it's not always just a one time event. As your life changes so do your organizing needs.
There's always something that needs to be organized!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Fire - Are You Ready ?
We are in a crisis here out west. Fires are ablaze everywhere. One is only seven (7) miles from our house. A little scary.
Most people don't realize just how far away you can smell fires. Or how hard it is to breathe with fumes. Or how far the ash travels.
So ....... are you ready for a fire ???
Do you have an EMERGENCY PLAN ???
Do you know where all of your important papers are ????
- passport
- birth certificate
- marriage license
- immunization record
- insurance papers (house, car, life...)
- house papers
- car papers
- papers for anything valuable ......
Can you easily grab everything you need - of value - in a few short minutes ???
If not - maybe now is the time to sit down and organize an emergency safety plan - including getting everything you need out of the house quickly.
Emergencies usually don't come with a warning.
Get ready !!! Get organized !!!
Be safe !!!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, August 5, 2013
How Much is Enough - Shopaholic or Dementia ?
How much is enough? A lot of people use shopping as a solution for a variety of issues. They are upset about something - so they shop. They are bored - so they shop. There's a "2 for 1 sale" - so they shop. They got some good news - so they shop. They got some bad news - so they shop.
Shopping is not a "cure all" for whatever ails you.
But some people don't shop because of any of the above reasons - they shop because they really believe they "need" the things they are buying. And some people - seniors - have problems with Dementia that are the root of some of these problems. They thing that they "need" more clothes or more food - so they buy and buy and buy.
It's on sale. It's a "2 for 1". Whatever the reason - it's not really valid. Their brain - their memory is not working properly - and no one can convince them that they don't really need 10 loaves of bread in their freezer or 75 pairs of socks.
If it's Tuesday - it must be "shopping day". And you can't convince them otherwise. They have to shop. It's part of their routine. And don't mess with their routine.
Continuous shopping - for things that you don't really need or have room for is not only a problem for "shopaholics" - but also a problem for the elderly. It's a complex issue. An emotional and psychological issue.
We are bombarded with advertisements and brainwashed to shop. Not matter what. No matter that we really don't need all of the things that we see advertised.
How much is enough?
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, July 22, 2013
School Supplies - Get Organized for the Start of a New School Year
Summer is in full swing. There are a lot of activities to keep the kids busy. Swimming, sports camps, camping and hiking, playing with friends.
Who wants to think about school starting in a month? No one - but if you go to the stores the school lists and school supplies are already lining the aisles.
So - take advantage of the sales and get your school supplies out of the way now! Avoid the crowds of last minute shoppers. Avoid the stress!
Why wait until the week before school starts or for some people the day before school starts, to get organized and ready for school? Eliminate the stress by planning ahead!
If you are just starting to send your kids to school for the first time you should also think about the end of school - all of the pictures and projects that the kids will be bringing home over the next year. Think about how you want to organize everything and buy the appropriate tools now while you are buying everything else for school. This will save you a lot of time and money later.
There are many different options for organizing your kids papers and projects. A Pendaflex with space for each grade. A 3 ring binder, a file box.... Whatever works for you. By thinking about it ahead of time your year will be a lot smoother.
Clothes: Your kids will probably have grown over the summer. Go through their closets (yes, again - and tell them to stop growing already!). Make a list of what clothes they have and what clothes you will need to buy. Keep an eye out for the sales, but please don't get carried away! Buy only what's on your list.
Let the kids help. Tell them to keep an eye out for the sales ans teach them to shop responsibly. It's never too early to start teaching them how to be organized!
Get the shopping out of the way and enjoy the rest of your summer!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
More Space - Less Clutter ?
A lot of people say "I don't have enough space - that's why my house is cluttered - if I had more closet space my house would be clean".
Well - I hate to burst anyones bubble - but space, clutter and clean have nothing to do with each other.
The amount of space that you have and the clutter all around you are two separate issues. Just because you have a big house does not mean that you have an uncluttered house. Or a clean house. It just means that you have a big house.
The way that you use your space is the important issue. If you have things in a room that don't belong there - such as all of your bathroom products in your kitchen, brushes, makeup, hairdryer..... instead of in the bathroom where they belong... you will have clutter.
Oh - you don't have room in your bathroom? Well - make some! I know - sometimes it's not easy to find the space and sometimes you really don't have the space. But more often than not I find that clients are not using their space effectively. By adding some inexpensive shelving or bins you can contain all of your belongs where they belong and all of a sudden - you have space!
"Like with like" ..... that's an Organizers motto! By keeping like products with like products you have solved one organizing issue.
By keeping all of the things that don't belong in a room out of the room - you have solved another organizing issue.
By neatly folding and putting things in a designated spot - instead of just shoving it in anywhere - you have solved another organizing issue.
It's not about space - it's about clutter.
And then there's "clean". Having more space does not mean that you will have a clean house. It just means that you will have more space to mess up. Clean is a matter of degree - but that's a whole other topic.
If you can declutter your home or office first - then you can really see what needs to be cleaned and you can make all of the dust bunnies disappear. But if your home is so cluttered that you can't see the floor or any surfaces - chances are that you can't get to them to clean them.
So - the bottom line is - more space does not make a less cluttered or clean house.
So don't envy your neighbor with the big house. They just have a lot more work to do!
Now - go and GET ORGANIZED !
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, July 8, 2013
Your Car and Summer Clutter
Summer means a lot of outside activities. For us it's spending a lot of time camping and hiking. To avoid forgetting things and for those impromptu hikes and picnics I keep a lot of supplies that I might need in my car at all times.
I always have a few blankets and an old towel. If the kids want to put their feet in the river I let them - knowing that I have a towel they can dry off on before I let them back into my car.
A plastic table drop - for use under a blanket in case the ground is slightly damp - or as a table cloth.
I always keep extra grocery store plastic bags - for a variety of uses. Garbage, collecting who knows what, vegetables that I picked from my community garden plot...and so many other uses.
Since I now belong to a community garden plot I also keep some gardening supplies for those impromptu trips to pull a few weeds.
A small plastic container for vegetables or to contain numerous things.
Your car contents should change as the season changes.
Think about how you live and what you do and make your car fit your lifestyle.
Happy Summer!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
I always have a few blankets and an old towel. If the kids want to put their feet in the river I let them - knowing that I have a towel they can dry off on before I let them back into my car.
A plastic table drop - for use under a blanket in case the ground is slightly damp - or as a table cloth.
I always keep extra grocery store plastic bags - for a variety of uses. Garbage, collecting who knows what, vegetables that I picked from my community garden plot...and so many other uses.
Since I now belong to a community garden plot I also keep some gardening supplies for those impromptu trips to pull a few weeds.
A small plastic container for vegetables or to contain numerous things.
Your car contents should change as the season changes.
Think about how you live and what you do and make your car fit your lifestyle.
Happy Summer!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Planning Ahead - Get Organized Before You Start - Any Project
No matter what project you are working or planning on doing in the future - planning ahead - being organized is crucial.
Sometimes it seems like too much trouble. Sometimes it seems like a waste of time. But it's always a good idea.
Craftsman have a saying "measure twice and cut once". It's a great and powerful saying.
It means that you should be prepared and know what you are going to do - and make sure you are doing it correctly. Just like any project you are working on.
If you just randomly jump in and start working on your project without planning it out and thinking ahead - you might find yourself backtracking and doing more work - or possibly undoing some work you did - because it wasn't quite right or any number of other reasons.
I make a lot of lists. And I go over my lists before and after every event - and tweak the lists as life happens. Things change. Lists and plans should be fluid.
By constantly tweaking your lists you become more efficient. You find out that you really didn't need to pack XYZ - because you never used it. You might have - a long time ago - but you don't now - so take it off of your list.
Being prepared and looking and planning ahead means that you call all of the necessary contractors well ahead of time before you are ready to start a project - instead of getting upset that nobody is available when you finally decide to start the project.
Planning ahead means that you take the time to think about the "big picture" and organize your thoughts and ideas. To a lot of people this is a waste of time - but you will do it - if not in the beginning - then later when something unexpected occurs that you did not anticipate.
So if you are planning to move tomorrow - don't wait until the night before to call a moving company. And don't be upset when everyone doesn't change their plans to help you.
Treat your personal life a little more like a business - be organized and prepared - and your life will be much less stressful.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Sometimes it seems like too much trouble. Sometimes it seems like a waste of time. But it's always a good idea.
Craftsman have a saying "measure twice and cut once". It's a great and powerful saying.
It means that you should be prepared and know what you are going to do - and make sure you are doing it correctly. Just like any project you are working on.
If you just randomly jump in and start working on your project without planning it out and thinking ahead - you might find yourself backtracking and doing more work - or possibly undoing some work you did - because it wasn't quite right or any number of other reasons.
I make a lot of lists. And I go over my lists before and after every event - and tweak the lists as life happens. Things change. Lists and plans should be fluid.
By constantly tweaking your lists you become more efficient. You find out that you really didn't need to pack XYZ - because you never used it. You might have - a long time ago - but you don't now - so take it off of your list.
Being prepared and looking and planning ahead means that you call all of the necessary contractors well ahead of time before you are ready to start a project - instead of getting upset that nobody is available when you finally decide to start the project.
Planning ahead means that you take the time to think about the "big picture" and organize your thoughts and ideas. To a lot of people this is a waste of time - but you will do it - if not in the beginning - then later when something unexpected occurs that you did not anticipate.
So if you are planning to move tomorrow - don't wait until the night before to call a moving company. And don't be upset when everyone doesn't change their plans to help you.
Treat your personal life a little more like a business - be organized and prepared - and your life will be much less stressful.
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, June 24, 2013
Take Five Minutes
Time is a very important thing. Something not to be wasted. But we all do it....waste time.
We sit on the couch and watch T.V. in a daze..... while we complain that we don't have any time to do anything and our house is a mess. Admit it....we've all done it.
So go ahead and watch T.V. ....but there are those commercials that give you plenty of time to get a few things done! Really, take five minutes and organize something. Do something. Anything!
* Bring your basket of clean laundry into the living room and fold your laundry
* Organize your purse, briefcase or backpack
* Organize a drawer
* Make a list of things to do for the weekend
* Go through your mail
* Pay a couple of bills
* Read your child a chapter in a book
* Write out your grocery list
* Write out next months birthday cards
* Sew the buttons on a shirt
There are a lot of things that can be done during a commercial break. Don't worry - those commercials will be on again (and again....) so you won't actually miss them!
Make better use of your time by doing small projects that you keep putting off. This is one time where multi-tasking is O.K.
Happy Organizing!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, June 10, 2013
Unexpected Loss - Are You Ready ?
Life doesn't always go as planned. We just lost a loved one and it was beyond devastating. My brain just stopped working and I was lucky that I knew what day it was. Everything was a blur.
But during the very hectic days where arrangements were being made the one thing that we didn't need to worry about was "where did we put things?".
A few years back I had put together a list of everything. Where the wills were kept, who the lawyers were, where all of the banking was done, where the investments were, names of all of the doctors and any and all pertinent information that someone might need to find.
When you are in an emotional state - the last thing you want to do is to scrounge through your house and frantically look for things.
By being organized and just putting together some lists we had everything at our fingertips.
It's not easy to think about the eventual future that we will all have to face. But by being proactive and thinking ahead - it helped take a lot of the stress out of the mix.
Re-read the article about "Organizing Your Paperwork" to learn more.
http://professionalorganizer4u.blogspot.com/2011/01/organizing-your-paperwork-and-your-life.html
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
But during the very hectic days where arrangements were being made the one thing that we didn't need to worry about was "where did we put things?".
A few years back I had put together a list of everything. Where the wills were kept, who the lawyers were, where all of the banking was done, where the investments were, names of all of the doctors and any and all pertinent information that someone might need to find.
When you are in an emotional state - the last thing you want to do is to scrounge through your house and frantically look for things.
By being organized and just putting together some lists we had everything at our fingertips.
It's not easy to think about the eventual future that we will all have to face. But by being proactive and thinking ahead - it helped take a lot of the stress out of the mix.
Re-read the article about "Organizing Your Paperwork" to learn more.
http://professionalorganizer4u.blogspot.com/2011/01/organizing-your-paperwork-and-your-life.html
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, June 3, 2013
Organizing Your Pantry and Your Freezer
Summer means farmers markets, fresh fruits and vegetables, which translates into canning and freezing. Well, at least at my house.
But have you checked your pantry or freezer lately? Have you used up all of your older products?
At least a few times a year you need to clear out your freezer and pantry. Take a good look. Rotate your food and check all of your expiration dates.
If you have not used up all of the products that you made last year you might want to re-think what you really use in your home and either don't make as many for the upcoming year or make them but give them away as gifts. People love homemade preserves and other food products.
Canning has once again made a comeback - believe me - I could not find any canning supplies last year because they had all sold out!
But some people tend to forget what's hidden in the deep crevices of their pantry and freezer. So take an hour and go through your freezer and pantry and take stock of what you still have and double check that everything is not past their expiration date.
Make sure that everything is neatly organized by product type so that you can tell at a glance how much you have.
Shopping - in your own home - what a great idea!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
But have you checked your pantry or freezer lately? Have you used up all of your older products?
At least a few times a year you need to clear out your freezer and pantry. Take a good look. Rotate your food and check all of your expiration dates.
If you have not used up all of the products that you made last year you might want to re-think what you really use in your home and either don't make as many for the upcoming year or make them but give them away as gifts. People love homemade preserves and other food products.
Canning has once again made a comeback - believe me - I could not find any canning supplies last year because they had all sold out!
But some people tend to forget what's hidden in the deep crevices of their pantry and freezer. So take an hour and go through your freezer and pantry and take stock of what you still have and double check that everything is not past their expiration date.
Make sure that everything is neatly organized by product type so that you can tell at a glance how much you have.
Shopping - in your own home - what a great idea!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, May 20, 2013
Organzing Your Childrens School Papers - Artwork Galore....
Kids come home from school with a lot of papers and artwork. All of which they are proud of and want you to keep - forever.
It doesn't matter if it's just a few scribbles on a piece of paper or a watercolor they think is a masterpice....they want you to keep it - forever.
Each piece of school work, each test....you just have to keep it - forever.
But the reality is....we don't have the space for it all. I try to sort through it and keep what I think are the really great ones - the ones that show their personality.
Each child has a folder and each day when things come home I pick the ones that go in my "keep" pile.
My husband...he thinks it's just a way for the teachers to get the stuff off of their desks!
Anyway....my "keep" pile ....was getting too big - so I had to sort through it - again. This time, I really had to toss just about everything (let's not tell the children).
It's near the end of the school year and I had a huge pile (a very neat pile - thank you). But I only have so much room and I got new containers for each child. So I had to make some very tough decisions and keep only a few pieces of art and notes that they have written.
The point is.... organizing is a continuous process. It is always evolving. You sort and keep things that you love and have great memories of....and in the future....in a year or two or three.... you go through the process again and again and make further decisions to de-clutter and dispose of things that you now can comfortably get rid of.
Organizing isn't stagnant. It's a process. It changes as you change. Be comfortable with that thought.
Now....go out and make some hard decisions. You can do it!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
It doesn't matter if it's just a few scribbles on a piece of paper or a watercolor they think is a masterpice....they want you to keep it - forever.
Each piece of school work, each test....you just have to keep it - forever.
But the reality is....we don't have the space for it all. I try to sort through it and keep what I think are the really great ones - the ones that show their personality.
Each child has a folder and each day when things come home I pick the ones that go in my "keep" pile.
My husband...he thinks it's just a way for the teachers to get the stuff off of their desks!
Anyway....my "keep" pile ....was getting too big - so I had to sort through it - again. This time, I really had to toss just about everything (let's not tell the children).
It's near the end of the school year and I had a huge pile (a very neat pile - thank you). But I only have so much room and I got new containers for each child. So I had to make some very tough decisions and keep only a few pieces of art and notes that they have written.
The point is.... organizing is a continuous process. It is always evolving. You sort and keep things that you love and have great memories of....and in the future....in a year or two or three.... you go through the process again and again and make further decisions to de-clutter and dispose of things that you now can comfortably get rid of.
Organizing isn't stagnant. It's a process. It changes as you change. Be comfortable with that thought.
Now....go out and make some hard decisions. You can do it!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Monday, May 13, 2013
Vacations Made Easy - Lists and Stress Free Packing
We just got back from a really nice and relaxing vacation. A condo overlooking the lake with the mountains as the backdrop. It was glorious!
But it was one of those times where the few weeks leading up to our vacation were extremely busy with work, meetings and other activities so I didn't actually pack our suitcases until the morning we were going to leave. Believe me - this is not like me.
But I had a great excuse. Jeff Dunham. What can I say - I'm a huge fan! We got tickets to see his show and it was scheduled for the night before we were supposed to leave on vacation - so packing got pushed aside. I do have my priorities!
I then learned the power of lists! I've been packing up the house and kids for vacations for a long time so I have it pretty well down. But waiting until the very last minute to pack can be a bit stressful even under the best of circumstances.
With my packing lists it took almost no time at all and I didn't forget a thing! I had a checklist for each member of the family and everything went into the suitcases as planned.
Lists are great - they take the stress out of most things in our busy lives. Orderly and efficient.
So make fun of me if you must - but my vacation list saved the day and our vacation was very relaxing.
As an add on - remember that vacations are not only about packing your suitcase - but about making your house vacation proof.
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.
Have a great vacation !!!
Organizational Consulting Services
www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Organizing Seminar - Stevensville Library
Spring is Here! Let's Get Organized!
On Tuesday, May 14th - from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. It's FREE !
At the Stevensville Library - North Valley Public Library.
Come and join our discussion on how much disorganization costs you, the organizing process, different types of clutter and much more.
Get some tips on how to de-clutter your home for spring.
Join us !
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, May 6, 2013
Containers and Organization - What's the Difference ?
I love containers and everything in its proper place. It makes things look so neat and orderly.
But just because you have containers doesn't mean that you are organized.
Being organized means that you have a plan, a place for everything and you know where everything is.
It means that the things you have are "useful". You don't just have a bunch of "stuff".
If you have a lot of containers (boxes, baskets....) but you have a lot of "everything" thrown into them and there is no pattern or reason to their order - then you really aren't organized. You just have a lot of nice containers!
Organization means that you have put "like with like". It means that only things that are supposed to be in the room (or file or cabinet....) are in there.
It means that you have a plan for how things are supposed to be and you stick with the plan.
Containers are a tool. Organization is a state of mind, a way of life.
You need both to be successful and to make your life easier.
But don't get carried away and start buying a lot of containers when you don't need them or they aren't functioning in a way that is helpful.
Everything should have a purpose and a place. That's what being organized is all about.
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, April 29, 2013
Organize Your Calendar
It's almost summer time - when lots of things happen. Activities - fairs, concerts, open air markets and so many activities that beckon us.
So how can we be sure not to miss anything?
It's easy - Organize Your Calendar!
Seriously - if you can organize all of the other aspects of your life - why not your social life?
There are a lot of things that you can do that does not cost any or very little money. There are a lot of outdoor activities, parades, outdoor concerts and other things that you can enjoy - if you know about them.
Every city or town probably has a city website where it lists all of the activities in the surrounding area.
Sit down with your calendar and put everything that interests you on your calendar. That way you won't forget it and you will have something to look forward to all summer long.
Schedule everything - including things like "hikes" or "go to the beach". Force yourself to get out and enjoy your town.
People always say "there's nothing to do". Yes, there is....if you look for it and schedule it.
Just like work projects - you have to organize and schedule your social life.
So....pick up your calendar and start planning your summer and learn to enjoy the simple things around you.
So how can we be sure not to miss anything?
It's easy - Organize Your Calendar!
Seriously - if you can organize all of the other aspects of your life - why not your social life?
There are a lot of things that you can do that does not cost any or very little money. There are a lot of outdoor activities, parades, outdoor concerts and other things that you can enjoy - if you know about them.
Every city or town probably has a city website where it lists all of the activities in the surrounding area.
Sit down with your calendar and put everything that interests you on your calendar. That way you won't forget it and you will have something to look forward to all summer long.
Schedule everything - including things like "hikes" or "go to the beach". Force yourself to get out and enjoy your town.
People always say "there's nothing to do". Yes, there is....if you look for it and schedule it.
Just like work projects - you have to organize and schedule your social life.
So....pick up your calendar and start planning your summer and learn to enjoy the simple things around you.
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, April 22, 2013
Organizing Your Email
Everyone gets bombarded with email. How in the world do you keep up?
Unless you are on your computer (or other device) 24/7 you will eventually get behind.
So how can we keep our emails and constant electronic communication from taking over our lives?
It's addicting. We think that we can't live without being "connected". But not so long ago - people survived without email, texts, twitter and everything else.
If you are in business it's almost required to be connected these days. But at what costs?
What if you are not in a business where your job requires that you stay connected 24/7. Most people today are still obsessed with their electronic devices.
By being able to organize your email so that you can quickly decipher what is important and what isn't - junk mail that's not spam - you can save yourself a little bit of time.
Get into the habit of putting something into your "subject" line of the emails that you send so that the other person knows what the email is about. Hopefully you will be able to tell from other people's email subject line if it is something that needs to be dealt with immediately, if it's something that can be deleted, if it's something that can be dealt with at a later time or maybe it's something that can be filed in a "reference" file.
Get into the habit of checking your email at only certain times of the day. Quickly go through and put your emails into categories first.
After you have categorized them into "must read", "can deal with later", "for reference" and "junk - delete now" - then you can deal with each group when you have time.
Each person needs to decide on categories that make sense to them. By dealing with one category at a time you can get through your emails quicker.
By cutting down the amount of times that you check your email you will save yourself a lot of time and you will have more time to devote to more important things - such as your family and friends.
Organizing your email - your inbox - takes some time. But once you are done and get into the habit of putting things where they belong - you will be amazed at how easy it is.
Organizational Consulting Services
Unless you are on your computer (or other device) 24/7 you will eventually get behind.
So how can we keep our emails and constant electronic communication from taking over our lives?
It's addicting. We think that we can't live without being "connected". But not so long ago - people survived without email, texts, twitter and everything else.
If you are in business it's almost required to be connected these days. But at what costs?
What if you are not in a business where your job requires that you stay connected 24/7. Most people today are still obsessed with their electronic devices.
By being able to organize your email so that you can quickly decipher what is important and what isn't - junk mail that's not spam - you can save yourself a little bit of time.
Get into the habit of putting something into your "subject" line of the emails that you send so that the other person knows what the email is about. Hopefully you will be able to tell from other people's email subject line if it is something that needs to be dealt with immediately, if it's something that can be deleted, if it's something that can be dealt with at a later time or maybe it's something that can be filed in a "reference" file.
Get into the habit of checking your email at only certain times of the day. Quickly go through and put your emails into categories first.
After you have categorized them into "must read", "can deal with later", "for reference" and "junk - delete now" - then you can deal with each group when you have time.
Each person needs to decide on categories that make sense to them. By dealing with one category at a time you can get through your emails quicker.
By cutting down the amount of times that you check your email you will save yourself a lot of time and you will have more time to devote to more important things - such as your family and friends.
Organizing your email - your inbox - takes some time. But once you are done and get into the habit of putting things where they belong - you will be amazed at how easy it is.
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, April 15, 2013
Tax TIme - Avoid the Stress Next Year
It's April 15th - Did you file your Taxes?
A lot of people wait until the very last minute to file their taxes. It's something that everyone hates doing. It takes a lot of time - especially if you didn't keep all of your needed receipts or records in an organized system where they were easily accessible.
So....what did you learn from this?
Do better next year !
You can start now by making up a few folders and putting anything tax related into them as they come in. That alone will save you a lot of time, frustration and stress next tax season.
A few quick ideas for file folders:
Get into the habit of filing these important papers into the appropriate files as soon as they come in - you will save yourself a lot of time next year. Time that is well spent this year.
Getting organized and staying organized is a lot of work. But well worth the effort!
Organizational Consulting Services
A lot of people wait until the very last minute to file their taxes. It's something that everyone hates doing. It takes a lot of time - especially if you didn't keep all of your needed receipts or records in an organized system where they were easily accessible.
So....what did you learn from this?
Do better next year !
You can start now by making up a few folders and putting anything tax related into them as they come in. That alone will save you a lot of time, frustration and stress next tax season.
A few quick ideas for file folders:
- Tax related
- Medical / Health Care
- Donations
- Investments
- Mortgage info
- Banking
Get into the habit of filing these important papers into the appropriate files as soon as they come in - you will save yourself a lot of time next year. Time that is well spent this year.
Getting organized and staying organized is a lot of work. But well worth the effort!
Organizational Consulting Services
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Spring is Here - Getting Your House Ready for Sale
Moving - when is it a good time? A lot of people think that spring and the beginning of summer is a good time to sell your house and buy another one - especially if you have kids. Once the kids finish school you can pack them up and move them without disruption. A great plan - if you are organized and leave yourself plenty of time to acccomplish everything needed to make it happen.
Start by going through each closet and cupboard and sorting through a lifetime of possessions.
Decide what you really need / have to have / want to pay to move. Moving is expensive, so for some things it makes sense to leave them (donate or sell) and to buy new after you get settled. Things like a ten year old washer / dryer - when the newer models are more energy efficient and more cost effective.
Get rid of mismatched dishes, clothes that don't fit or are worn out, toys that the kids have outgrown or are broken and anything else that you really have no use for. Be honest with yourself. Do you really want to pack and then unpack things that you are going to throw away once you get to your new home?
All of this takes a lot of time and energy. And....it is a very emotional process - even if you think you are prepared and ready to move.
So - leave yourself plenty of time and your move to a new home will go much smoother and be less traumatic.
Happy House Hunting !
Organizational Consulting Services
Start by going through each closet and cupboard and sorting through a lifetime of possessions.
Decide what you really need / have to have / want to pay to move. Moving is expensive, so for some things it makes sense to leave them (donate or sell) and to buy new after you get settled. Things like a ten year old washer / dryer - when the newer models are more energy efficient and more cost effective.
Get rid of mismatched dishes, clothes that don't fit or are worn out, toys that the kids have outgrown or are broken and anything else that you really have no use for. Be honest with yourself. Do you really want to pack and then unpack things that you are going to throw away once you get to your new home?
All of this takes a lot of time and energy. And....it is a very emotional process - even if you think you are prepared and ready to move.
So - leave yourself plenty of time and your move to a new home will go much smoother and be less traumatic.
Happy House Hunting !
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, April 1, 2013
Get Outside and Organize Your Yard
It's warm and sunny and beautiful out! So don't stay inside....get outside and enjoy the weather! And while you're there you can get your yard ready for spring.
O.K. ....some of us enjoy it more than others. I love being outside and digging in the dirt. It's relaxing. Well. for some of us it is. As my kids say, "Really? It's not relaxing, it's work".
But, as with anything, once you have done the hard part, getting everything cleaned up....you can enjoy the fruits of your labor all summer.
Does your yard look the way you want it to? Do you want to plant more flowers or a vegetable garden?
Make a list. Go over it numerous times so that you haven't forgotten anything before you go to the garden store.
Is your garden hose in working order? Do you need any landscape bricks or borders?
Do you need mulch? How much? Or fertilizer? Or any nutrients for your yard?
What type of plants do you want to grow? Do you want to have vegetable starter plants? What materials would you need for that?
Thinking about all of this before you start will save you time and running back and forth to the garden store.
Organizing your yard work is the same as organizing anything else. One step at a time. Make a plan. Go over your plan. Make corrections.
Be realistic about what you want to accomplish and what you can accomplish.
Having a yard that you can be proud of and is low maintenance will let you enjoy your summer all the more.
Now go and have fun and get dirty!
Happy Gardening !
Organizational Consulting Services
O.K. ....some of us enjoy it more than others. I love being outside and digging in the dirt. It's relaxing. Well. for some of us it is. As my kids say, "Really? It's not relaxing, it's work".
But, as with anything, once you have done the hard part, getting everything cleaned up....you can enjoy the fruits of your labor all summer.
Does your yard look the way you want it to? Do you want to plant more flowers or a vegetable garden?
Make a list. Go over it numerous times so that you haven't forgotten anything before you go to the garden store.
Is your garden hose in working order? Do you need any landscape bricks or borders?
Do you need mulch? How much? Or fertilizer? Or any nutrients for your yard?
What type of plants do you want to grow? Do you want to have vegetable starter plants? What materials would you need for that?
Thinking about all of this before you start will save you time and running back and forth to the garden store.
Organizing your yard work is the same as organizing anything else. One step at a time. Make a plan. Go over your plan. Make corrections.
Be realistic about what you want to accomplish and what you can accomplish.
Having a yard that you can be proud of and is low maintenance will let you enjoy your summer all the more.
Now go and have fun and get dirty!
Happy Gardening !
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, March 25, 2013
Company is Coming - Let's Clean & Organize
A lot of people out there only think about cleaning or organizing their home when they have visitors. In fact, some people will use their "lack of cleanliness" as an excuse not to have people over to their house.
This is just another example of how disorganization and lack of time management can affect your life.
Everyone's idea of clean is different. But using the excuse of "not having a clean house" to avoid having people over to visit brings up a lot of other questions. Such as - "what are you really trying to avoid"?
Having an impromptu gathering should not be a stressful moment. Not everyone was taught how to clean and organize - so put that out of your mind for a moment. To get ready for company when you only have a few minutes there are a number of shortcuts that you can use.
First, get a basket and go through your main living area and put everything that does not belong in that room into the basket. Any toys or books or dishes....put them into the basket and get them out of there.
Grab a duster and quickly dust the surfaces. The less clutter that you have on your coffee table the easier it is to dust and clean.
Fluff some pillows. Light a candle for some nice atmosphere.
Enjoy your visitors and relax. They are not going to know that you just had a whirlwind de-cluttering session.
Is this the "normal" way to clean your home on a weekly or daily basis? No - but being social is sometimes more important than being perfect.
Having friends over can help relax and de-stress you.
But remembering the rule about "if it does not belong in the room - take it with you when you leave" is a great and easy rule to remember. Using a basket to go from room to room and getting everything picked up in one fell swoop is another easy way to get yourself organized.
Cleaning doesn't have to be an all day drudgery. Having a plan that works for you - on your schedule - even a few minutes a day - can make all the difference in the world.
Now....go and GET YOURSELF ORGANIZED !!!
This is just another example of how disorganization and lack of time management can affect your life.
Everyone's idea of clean is different. But using the excuse of "not having a clean house" to avoid having people over to visit brings up a lot of other questions. Such as - "what are you really trying to avoid"?
Having an impromptu gathering should not be a stressful moment. Not everyone was taught how to clean and organize - so put that out of your mind for a moment. To get ready for company when you only have a few minutes there are a number of shortcuts that you can use.
First, get a basket and go through your main living area and put everything that does not belong in that room into the basket. Any toys or books or dishes....put them into the basket and get them out of there.
Grab a duster and quickly dust the surfaces. The less clutter that you have on your coffee table the easier it is to dust and clean.
Fluff some pillows. Light a candle for some nice atmosphere.
Enjoy your visitors and relax. They are not going to know that you just had a whirlwind de-cluttering session.
Is this the "normal" way to clean your home on a weekly or daily basis? No - but being social is sometimes more important than being perfect.
Having friends over can help relax and de-stress you.
But remembering the rule about "if it does not belong in the room - take it with you when you leave" is a great and easy rule to remember. Using a basket to go from room to room and getting everything picked up in one fell swoop is another easy way to get yourself organized.
Cleaning doesn't have to be an all day drudgery. Having a plan that works for you - on your schedule - even a few minutes a day - can make all the difference in the world.
Now....go and GET YOURSELF ORGANIZED !!!
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, March 18, 2013
Time - Life - Balance: Is It Possible ?
Working, a career, family, kids, volunteer work, hobbies..... put them all into a pot and you have stew - a mixture of everything and not one thing stands out on its own. That's life !
But - is one thing more important than another? If so, which one? Your job or your family? The never ending dilemma. How do you balance it all? Or do you? Without a job you can't support your family - we all understand that. But after that - things get blurred.
Is balance really important? Does having a "balanced life" really have an impact? If so, how?
All of these are really important questions - and they are all very complicated questions.
Yes, some jobs might "seem" more important than others- such as doctors, surgeons, lawyers....but does that mean that your family life, your kids, your own personal happiness and fulfillment have to suffer?
At different points of your life and your career you might make some sacrifices based on your future goals. But - when you are older and more established or when you are retired - you might second guess the decisions that you made when you were younger.
The bottom line is - you can never turn back time. So the decisions that you make, though they might seem "right" at the moment - are decisions that you might regret later in life.
Family and your health, both physical and emotional are something that most people take for granted - or at least take too lightly.
By "planning" time for your family and yourself - actually scheduling "family" and "you" time - you will be more likely to have a "balanced" life - and you will be more likely not to regret putting your job first and your family last.
Life goes by too quickly - don't let it pass you by. Give your family the priority it deserves and organize your life to include your family.
Organizational Consulting Services
But - is one thing more important than another? If so, which one? Your job or your family? The never ending dilemma. How do you balance it all? Or do you? Without a job you can't support your family - we all understand that. But after that - things get blurred.
Is balance really important? Does having a "balanced life" really have an impact? If so, how?
All of these are really important questions - and they are all very complicated questions.
Yes, some jobs might "seem" more important than others- such as doctors, surgeons, lawyers....but does that mean that your family life, your kids, your own personal happiness and fulfillment have to suffer?
At different points of your life and your career you might make some sacrifices based on your future goals. But - when you are older and more established or when you are retired - you might second guess the decisions that you made when you were younger.
The bottom line is - you can never turn back time. So the decisions that you make, though they might seem "right" at the moment - are decisions that you might regret later in life.
Family and your health, both physical and emotional are something that most people take for granted - or at least take too lightly.
By "planning" time for your family and yourself - actually scheduling "family" and "you" time - you will be more likely to have a "balanced" life - and you will be more likely not to regret putting your job first and your family last.
Life goes by too quickly - don't let it pass you by. Give your family the priority it deserves and organize your life to include your family.
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, March 11, 2013
I Want To Get Organized - Really I Do !
I hear people say "I want to get organized - really I do" - a lot. They say "I keep telling my husband (mother, sister, friend...) that I am going to "organize my kitchen (bedroom, office, garage....)".
I head it all the time. Then I hear nothing. Because after saying that they have all of these good intentions - the novelty of "getting organized" seems to wear off - like it's "too exhausting" to think about it any longer.
Getting organized takes planning. It takes effort. It takes work. It takes more than an hour - unlike the shows on T.V.. It takes getting everything out of the closet or room and making decisions. It takes "thinking" about what hasn't worked and how you actually want things to work. It's more complicated than most people think - yet, as an Organizer we get down to the simplest detail and build things up. We look at the big picture and then turn if off and start small - one small area at a time in manageable pieces.
It you really wanted to "get organized" you would. If you don't actually start the process - then maybe you weren't really ready.
You can't force someone to organize their space or their life - they have to be ready. Only then will it actually work and be successful.
Happy Organizing !
Organizational Consulting Services
I head it all the time. Then I hear nothing. Because after saying that they have all of these good intentions - the novelty of "getting organized" seems to wear off - like it's "too exhausting" to think about it any longer.
Getting organized takes planning. It takes effort. It takes work. It takes more than an hour - unlike the shows on T.V.. It takes getting everything out of the closet or room and making decisions. It takes "thinking" about what hasn't worked and how you actually want things to work. It's more complicated than most people think - yet, as an Organizer we get down to the simplest detail and build things up. We look at the big picture and then turn if off and start small - one small area at a time in manageable pieces.
It you really wanted to "get organized" you would. If you don't actually start the process - then maybe you weren't really ready.
You can't force someone to organize their space or their life - they have to be ready. Only then will it actually work and be successful.
Happy Organizing !
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, March 4, 2013
Making Time Work For You
I'm sure that you've heard the old say "You Can't Manage Time - You Can Only Manage Yourself". It's true - but people still think that they can manage their time without any responsibility for how they manage themselves.
Sounds complicated doesn't it. But it's really very simple. If you want to be more efficient with your time, if you want to better manage your time, if you want to really accomplish everything that you put on your calendar for the day - you have to manage yourself instead of managing the time.
What that means is that you have to be responsible for your actions or in this case - your non-actions. There are so many distractions out there today that people get very easily sidetracked numerous times throughout the day and they don't really stick to their schedule or their priorities.
For a lot of the things that we have to do there is a definite time period that it takes to accomplish the task. We can't change that. But we can change the fact that we drag that time out because we get sidetracked - whether it's by checking our email numerous times during the day instead of working on a report that is due that afternoon or by seeing something that needs to be "fixed" so we stop to "fix" it as we go from one room to another in the house - even though we are working on a project in the basement.
Sticking to a schedule and getting your work or chores done, even though you don't really want to, even though other things are calling out to you, will make you accomplish your tasks in a timely manner. Then it's done and over with. And you will feel better for having accomplished the task - even though it might feel like a hardship at the time. Plow through it - get it done - and sit back and be proud of having accomplished something.
Everything in life doesn't have to be fun. We have a lot of "normal - daily living" things that we need to do every day or every week. Putting them off just makes our job harder.
Plan your day - plan your time - stick to your schedule - don't get sidetracked - shut the door on distractions and make time work for you.
Don't let time get away from you by outside distractions. It only drags out your day and you still will have to get things done.
It might help you if you put everything on a calendar so that you can see how much time you have left in your week. Then you can rearrange your schedule to accomplish the highest priorities first and you can track where you went off schedule and where you might want to change your priorities to better fit your life.
Time should not be managing you.....you need to control how you manage your time.
Sounds complicated doesn't it. But it's really very simple. If you want to be more efficient with your time, if you want to better manage your time, if you want to really accomplish everything that you put on your calendar for the day - you have to manage yourself instead of managing the time.
What that means is that you have to be responsible for your actions or in this case - your non-actions. There are so many distractions out there today that people get very easily sidetracked numerous times throughout the day and they don't really stick to their schedule or their priorities.
For a lot of the things that we have to do there is a definite time period that it takes to accomplish the task. We can't change that. But we can change the fact that we drag that time out because we get sidetracked - whether it's by checking our email numerous times during the day instead of working on a report that is due that afternoon or by seeing something that needs to be "fixed" so we stop to "fix" it as we go from one room to another in the house - even though we are working on a project in the basement.
Sticking to a schedule and getting your work or chores done, even though you don't really want to, even though other things are calling out to you, will make you accomplish your tasks in a timely manner. Then it's done and over with. And you will feel better for having accomplished the task - even though it might feel like a hardship at the time. Plow through it - get it done - and sit back and be proud of having accomplished something.
Everything in life doesn't have to be fun. We have a lot of "normal - daily living" things that we need to do every day or every week. Putting them off just makes our job harder.
Plan your day - plan your time - stick to your schedule - don't get sidetracked - shut the door on distractions and make time work for you.
Don't let time get away from you by outside distractions. It only drags out your day and you still will have to get things done.
It might help you if you put everything on a calendar so that you can see how much time you have left in your week. Then you can rearrange your schedule to accomplish the highest priorities first and you can track where you went off schedule and where you might want to change your priorities to better fit your life.
Time should not be managing you.....you need to control how you manage your time.
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, February 25, 2013
Closets - Make Them Work For You
Being organized is a lot easier when you have a properly functioning space. That means that the space is suited for what you want to put into it. Whether it's a clothes closet, kitchen cabinets or any other space - the actual space and how it's laid out makes a huge difference.
My having the space work for you and how you live, not your neighbor, you will be much happier and better able to function. For example - let's say that you are a female executive and wear mostly suits and dressier clothes. Your closet should fit your clothes. That might mean multiple hanging bars for skirts, jackets and blouses.
Your neighbor might work in a very casual atmosphere and wear only pants and sweaters. They might need more shelving for their folded sweaters and they never wear suits so they don't need a lot of hanging room.
Unfortunately most closest only have a single hanging bar. Pretty useless when it comes to an efficient closet.
By just putting in a second hanging bar you have doubled your closet space. By adding another shelf on top you have created a more manageable shelf space where your sweaters aren't falling over (they should never be stacked 8 high - it makes it hard to get them in and out).
These are just some basic examples of how you can make some minor changes in your closets and get a lot more room and make better use of your space.
There are some great closet companies out there that can really make your closets more efficient. There are also a number of "do it yourself" closet systems that might work for you.
By just reorganizing your closet to fit your needs and not the previous home owners you will save yourself a lot of stress and time in the morning when you are looking for that perfect outfit to wear to work. Being able to find it easily in your closet will make a world of difference in starting your day.
Happy Organizing !
Organizational Consulting Services
My having the space work for you and how you live, not your neighbor, you will be much happier and better able to function. For example - let's say that you are a female executive and wear mostly suits and dressier clothes. Your closet should fit your clothes. That might mean multiple hanging bars for skirts, jackets and blouses.
Your neighbor might work in a very casual atmosphere and wear only pants and sweaters. They might need more shelving for their folded sweaters and they never wear suits so they don't need a lot of hanging room.
Unfortunately most closest only have a single hanging bar. Pretty useless when it comes to an efficient closet.
By just putting in a second hanging bar you have doubled your closet space. By adding another shelf on top you have created a more manageable shelf space where your sweaters aren't falling over (they should never be stacked 8 high - it makes it hard to get them in and out).
These are just some basic examples of how you can make some minor changes in your closets and get a lot more room and make better use of your space.
There are some great closet companies out there that can really make your closets more efficient. There are also a number of "do it yourself" closet systems that might work for you.
By just reorganizing your closet to fit your needs and not the previous home owners you will save yourself a lot of stress and time in the morning when you are looking for that perfect outfit to wear to work. Being able to find it easily in your closet will make a world of difference in starting your day.
Happy Organizing !
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, February 18, 2013
Organizing for Seniors
Organizing is not as straight forward as people might think. "Just get rid of stuff. Just move things around" some people would say. Yes, that might be part of the organizing process but it does not take into account the special needs of each client.
Organizing for various age groups and people with varying degrees of capabilities requires special considerations.
As people age they might not have the strength to do the job themselves. They might get tired more easily. They might not be able to bend or lift things like people that are a lot younger. This also applies to people with varying health issues ...but for this session we want to talk about the special considerations that you might want to make when you are organizing with people that are a bit older.
If you are helping your parents or relatives that are over 60 you might want to take a step back and realize that they have different levels of energy, different ideas of what they want to let go of, different ideas on a lot of things.
As a non-professional organizer you might not think about all of the issues that they are facing but rather think about your own desire to just help them. This is a normal mistake that a lot (if not most) people make.
The first step that might help you is to just take a step back yourself and ask yourself "how would you feel if someone came into your home and just started throwing all of your prized possessions and memories out?". I am sure that the answer would be "not good". So put yourself into their place, take a step back and think about them and what they want and need as you help them. Don't make this about you.
Some issues that you might have to deal with when organizing for seniors are:
Memory issues - they can't remember where they put things. Because of this they might have gotten into the habit of leaving everything out in the open (therefore causing a cluttered house) so that they can see it.
They constantly buy more and more (food or clothes.....or whatever) because they forgot they already have it.
Physical issues - they don't have the strength or stamina to clean up after themselves so they don't. Again, this is one possible cause of their cluttered home.
Mental issues - they no longer care about their home because they have lost a loved one and are depressed. Their friends are all dying and they have no social interaction.
All of the above are just some of the reasons that seniors might have more issues with clutter.
But clutter itself can also cause physical problems in that it creates a dangerous situation in their home with them tripping over the clutter and causing physical harm to themselves.
When working with seniors be sure to limit the amount of time for each organizing session. Make sure that they get plenty of breaks and snacks to keep their energy up.
So as you see.... organizing isn't just a straight forward project. It is a complex process that is different in every situation.
Organizational Consulting Services
Organizing for various age groups and people with varying degrees of capabilities requires special considerations.
As people age they might not have the strength to do the job themselves. They might get tired more easily. They might not be able to bend or lift things like people that are a lot younger. This also applies to people with varying health issues ...but for this session we want to talk about the special considerations that you might want to make when you are organizing with people that are a bit older.
If you are helping your parents or relatives that are over 60 you might want to take a step back and realize that they have different levels of energy, different ideas of what they want to let go of, different ideas on a lot of things.
As a non-professional organizer you might not think about all of the issues that they are facing but rather think about your own desire to just help them. This is a normal mistake that a lot (if not most) people make.
The first step that might help you is to just take a step back yourself and ask yourself "how would you feel if someone came into your home and just started throwing all of your prized possessions and memories out?". I am sure that the answer would be "not good". So put yourself into their place, take a step back and think about them and what they want and need as you help them. Don't make this about you.
Some issues that you might have to deal with when organizing for seniors are:
Memory issues - they can't remember where they put things. Because of this they might have gotten into the habit of leaving everything out in the open (therefore causing a cluttered house) so that they can see it.
They constantly buy more and more (food or clothes.....or whatever) because they forgot they already have it.
Physical issues - they don't have the strength or stamina to clean up after themselves so they don't. Again, this is one possible cause of their cluttered home.
Mental issues - they no longer care about their home because they have lost a loved one and are depressed. Their friends are all dying and they have no social interaction.
All of the above are just some of the reasons that seniors might have more issues with clutter.
But clutter itself can also cause physical problems in that it creates a dangerous situation in their home with them tripping over the clutter and causing physical harm to themselves.
When working with seniors be sure to limit the amount of time for each organizing session. Make sure that they get plenty of breaks and snacks to keep their energy up.
So as you see.... organizing isn't just a straight forward project. It is a complex process that is different in every situation.
Organizational Consulting Services
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Being Organized - vs - Being Efficient
A lot of people think that being organized is the same as being efficient. It's not.
Being organized - though it has many facets - is more about having things in place. Your belongs, your schedule, your life. It's about having things arranged in a certain order. It's about being able to find things in a short amount of time. It's about knowing where to find things. It's about things looking presentable, neat, orderly.
Being efficient means that thing are done in the best way possible.
Being effective means that we are doing what's best.
Time Management uses both efficiency and effectiveness. Time management is about activities while organization is about things.
You can't really manage time. You can only manage how you use it.
You can't be productive if you waste time. You can't be productive if you aren't organized. Just because you do more in a day doesn't mean that what you have accomplished is worth anything. If the quality of the work you produced is not up to par - then have you really accomplished more? If you produced less but the quality of the work or product was better - wouldn't you really be further ahead?
It's complicated and for the best results organization, efficiency, effectiveness and time management must all work together.
Being organized - though it has many facets - is more about having things in place. Your belongs, your schedule, your life. It's about having things arranged in a certain order. It's about being able to find things in a short amount of time. It's about knowing where to find things. It's about things looking presentable, neat, orderly.
Being efficient means that thing are done in the best way possible.
Being effective means that we are doing what's best.
Time Management uses both efficiency and effectiveness. Time management is about activities while organization is about things.
You can't really manage time. You can only manage how you use it.
You can't be productive if you waste time. You can't be productive if you aren't organized. Just because you do more in a day doesn't mean that what you have accomplished is worth anything. If the quality of the work you produced is not up to par - then have you really accomplished more? If you produced less but the quality of the work or product was better - wouldn't you really be further ahead?
It's complicated and for the best results organization, efficiency, effectiveness and time management must all work together.
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, February 4, 2013
Organizing Your Taxes
January is over and by now we should have most of the documents that we need to get our taxes done.
Yes, it's everyone's favorite time. Not ! Too much paperwork. Too much pressure.
So how can we make it easier? Well, by having had an organized plan throughout the year for starters.
Most people never think about taxes and tax time until right before the tax deadline. And that's when they get stressed out.
By thinking about your taxes throughout the year and having a place for anything that might be tax related, your actual "tax preparation time" .... the time it takes you to get all of your documents, supporting documents and anything else that you take to your accountant...ready.... you will have a much easier and less stressed time.
That said, start by just having a file for anything tax related. Put anything that comes in over the year into that file. Anything related to your home, your business (in a separate file), your savings....should all go into a file for your taxes. That way you are not searching for it at year end.
Make a checklist of all of your saving & financial accounts and all of the documents that you need for your taxes. By doing this, when you are getting ready to take your paperwork to your accountant, you won't forget anything and won't constantly have to "think" about what you might be missing. This will save you time and stress each year.
For most people doing their taxes is not fun. By having a system in place throughout the year you will spend less time at the beginning of the year hunting for those needed documents.
Happy Tax Preparation !
Yes, it's everyone's favorite time. Not ! Too much paperwork. Too much pressure.
So how can we make it easier? Well, by having had an organized plan throughout the year for starters.
Most people never think about taxes and tax time until right before the tax deadline. And that's when they get stressed out.
By thinking about your taxes throughout the year and having a place for anything that might be tax related, your actual "tax preparation time" .... the time it takes you to get all of your documents, supporting documents and anything else that you take to your accountant...ready.... you will have a much easier and less stressed time.
That said, start by just having a file for anything tax related. Put anything that comes in over the year into that file. Anything related to your home, your business (in a separate file), your savings....should all go into a file for your taxes. That way you are not searching for it at year end.
Make a checklist of all of your saving & financial accounts and all of the documents that you need for your taxes. By doing this, when you are getting ready to take your paperwork to your accountant, you won't forget anything and won't constantly have to "think" about what you might be missing. This will save you time and stress each year.
For most people doing their taxes is not fun. By having a system in place throughout the year you will spend less time at the beginning of the year hunting for those needed documents.
Happy Tax Preparation !
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, January 28, 2013
Start Your Year By Getting Organized
January is GET ORGANIZED month... so start a new mantra.... "I WILL GET ORGANIZED".
You don't need to go overboard and make a lot of lists or promises that you won't keep. You don't need to go out and buy a lot of organizing products. You don't need to throw everything out of your house.
All you have to do is try! That's all! Just try! Take it slow. One small space at a time. One small change at a time.
One rarely worn article of clothing or one rarely played with or outgrown toy or one never read magazine. Put it in a pile to donate. Watch the room suddenly become less cluttered and more organized. One small pile at a time.
Write down all of the things that bother you in your home or office. Then pick the thing that bothers you the most and make a real effort to try and change it. If you don't know how or can't do it by yourself....there is help available.
The key is to just start somewhere. One step at a time.
If you make the project too big you might get overwhelmed and stop before you even get started. Or you might start and then get overwhelmed when you realize that it won't get done in an hour like on T.V.
Getting organized takes time. It also looks worse once you start and get into the project. You usually have to take everything out of a room (or closet or desk....) and that makes things look a lot more cluttered than when you started. But remember..... getting organized is a process.
It will get better if you keep at it. Don't give up! GET ORGANIZED! One step at a time.
Remember.... Less Clutter = Less Stress....
You don't need to go overboard and make a lot of lists or promises that you won't keep. You don't need to go out and buy a lot of organizing products. You don't need to throw everything out of your house.
All you have to do is try! That's all! Just try! Take it slow. One small space at a time. One small change at a time.
One rarely worn article of clothing or one rarely played with or outgrown toy or one never read magazine. Put it in a pile to donate. Watch the room suddenly become less cluttered and more organized. One small pile at a time.
Write down all of the things that bother you in your home or office. Then pick the thing that bothers you the most and make a real effort to try and change it. If you don't know how or can't do it by yourself....there is help available.
The key is to just start somewhere. One step at a time.
If you make the project too big you might get overwhelmed and stop before you even get started. Or you might start and then get overwhelmed when you realize that it won't get done in an hour like on T.V.
Getting organized takes time. It also looks worse once you start and get into the project. You usually have to take everything out of a room (or closet or desk....) and that makes things look a lot more cluttered than when you started. But remember..... getting organized is a process.
It will get better if you keep at it. Don't give up! GET ORGANIZED! One step at a time.
Remember.... Less Clutter = Less Stress....
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, January 21, 2013
Clutter - Chronic Disorganization - Hoarding
Everyone has a different definition of clutter. To some people clutter is anything that is out of place. If a coffee cup is left on the kitchen counter - it's clutter. To other people, clutter means you can't walk through a room. Everyone views clutter differently.
Just as the saying goes "one mans trash is another mans treasure. Or some people would define that person as a hoarder.
Who's right ?
According to the dictionary, clutter is a “confused or disorganized state or collection”.
A
confused state? Yes, you can have clutter of the mind. But most people
think of clutter as just “stuff”. A collection of random objects
scattered all over the place. That’s a nice and simple definition. It
could just be that you hadn’t bothered to pick up after yourself and
have stuff everywhere.
Then we get to a more serious and a more cluttered situation and we could end up with chronic disorganization.
Chronic Disorganization also has a definition:
- Chronic disorganization is having a past history of disorganization in which self-help efforts to change have failed
- an undermining of current quality of life due to disorganization
- the expectation of future disorganization.
This
means that you have been disorganized for many years. And it has
started to affect your quality of life. You can’t find things. You are
constantly late because you can’t find things. You are embarrassed by
your mess.
It’s a little more than just basic clutter.
A
person can be organized in one area of his life but not in another.
They can be organized at work but be disorganized at home. They can be
organized by how they manage their time but not with how they manage
their stuff.
Then we go up another level and get to “hoarding”.
What exactly is “hoarding”? According to “Frost & Hartl’s (’96) definition of clinical hoarding:
1) the acquisition of, and failure to discard, a large number of possessions that appear to be useless or of limited value
2) living spaces sufficiently cluttered so as to preclude activities for which those spaces were designated
3) significant distress of impairment in functioning caused by the hoarding
Some
people have an obsessive need to acquire things. They tend to develop
an emotional attachment to things that many of us would consider trash.
Family and friends of hoarders don’t always understand that “hoarding” is an “illness”
and that the hoarder needs professional help. They sometimes feel that
by just going in and cleaning out the house (sometimes even when the
hoarder doesn’t know that they are going to do it) that everything will
be “o.k.”. Once the mess is gone, problem solved. But that can actually make it worse.
Hoarding
is a complex issue. An issue that not even the mental health community
can agree on. An issue that there might not be a cure for.
It’s a problem that many people won’t admit they have and one that might cost them their family or even their life.
A problem that is more common than you think.
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, January 7, 2013
Organizing on a Budget
I love organizing gadgets. Nothing makes me happier than looking at the variety of organizing gadgets on the market. But, unfortunately some of them are expensive.
Being organized and organizing has nothing to do with gadgets. It's about "order" and "functionality". Plain and simple.
There is not only one way to organize a room. Each person has to organize their space to reflect not only how they will use the space but also how their mind organizes things.
Everyone is different. There is no "one size fits all" in organizing.
I never tell my clients to go out and buy a bunch of organizing gadgets and then organize their space to reflect how I would do things. In fact, when I first talk to a client I very specifically tell them to "buy nothing" until I know what they want to do with the space and we figure out how to best accomplish their wishes. And then I try to utilize the things that they already have, re-purpose their existing belongings before we even consider any other options.
You can be organized without spending any or very little money. Just look around your home or look at some of the inexpensive containers at the Dollar Store that might work for your project.
Use Ice Cube trays to contain your jewelry or craft supplies. Or re-use glass jars to contain a variety of things. Contain the kids puzzle pieces in Zip Lock bags.
Organizing doesn't have to be expensive. Learn to "think outside the box".
Now get started.... you know you want to !
Happy Organizing....and remember ..... Less Clutter = Less Stress....
Being organized and organizing has nothing to do with gadgets. It's about "order" and "functionality". Plain and simple.
There is not only one way to organize a room. Each person has to organize their space to reflect not only how they will use the space but also how their mind organizes things.
Everyone is different. There is no "one size fits all" in organizing.
I never tell my clients to go out and buy a bunch of organizing gadgets and then organize their space to reflect how I would do things. In fact, when I first talk to a client I very specifically tell them to "buy nothing" until I know what they want to do with the space and we figure out how to best accomplish their wishes. And then I try to utilize the things that they already have, re-purpose their existing belongings before we even consider any other options.
You can be organized without spending any or very little money. Just look around your home or look at some of the inexpensive containers at the Dollar Store that might work for your project.
Use Ice Cube trays to contain your jewelry or craft supplies. Or re-use glass jars to contain a variety of things. Contain the kids puzzle pieces in Zip Lock bags.
Organizing doesn't have to be expensive. Learn to "think outside the box".
Now get started.... you know you want to !
Happy Organizing....and remember ..... Less Clutter = Less Stress....
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, December 31, 2012
Organizing for the New Year
It's New Years Eve....and tomorrow is the start of the New Year! It's the day that everyone makes New Years Resolutions..... What is yours going to be?
Why don't you start the new year off right by promising to try and GET ORGANIZED. The key word is try. Make a real effort... to at least think about it.
Don't make big promises that you can't or won't keep. Don't say that you are going to organize your entire house....when you probably won't. Make a commitment to think about changing your life by becoming more organized.
One step at a time....... You can't rush organization. You can't change your habits in one hour or one day. It takes time.
Making a commitment is scary to a lot of people. But once you do....and once you start the actually organizing process..... you will wonder why you waited so long.
And it is a "process". Having an organizing coach....a Professional Organizer.... just like your workout coach.... will help keep you focused and going in the right direction.
So..... make a plan. Any plan. How about "organizing your office". Or "organizing your kitchen".
Break it down into manageable pieces. One drawer at a time. One hour at a time.
Once you have accomplished one task and can physically see the difference....you will be inspired to continue.
So make that New Years Resolution....to GET ORGANIZED !
Wishing you a very Happy and ORGANIZED New Year !
Why don't you start the new year off right by promising to try and GET ORGANIZED. The key word is try. Make a real effort... to at least think about it.
Don't make big promises that you can't or won't keep. Don't say that you are going to organize your entire house....when you probably won't. Make a commitment to think about changing your life by becoming more organized.
One step at a time....... You can't rush organization. You can't change your habits in one hour or one day. It takes time.
Making a commitment is scary to a lot of people. But once you do....and once you start the actually organizing process..... you will wonder why you waited so long.
And it is a "process". Having an organizing coach....a Professional Organizer.... just like your workout coach.... will help keep you focused and going in the right direction.
So..... make a plan. Any plan. How about "organizing your office". Or "organizing your kitchen".
Break it down into manageable pieces. One drawer at a time. One hour at a time.
Once you have accomplished one task and can physically see the difference....you will be inspired to continue.
So make that New Years Resolution....to GET ORGANIZED !
Wishing you a very Happy and ORGANIZED New Year !
Organizational Consulting Services
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
MERRY CHRISTMAS
I want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas. May your day be filled with joy and happiness.
Monday, December 24, 2012
It's Christmas Eve - Time to Reflect on Family
It's Christmas Eve....and most of us are done with our shopping and ready for Santa. But for those of you that aren't ....don't stress....just try to be a bit more organized next year.
The holidays are not about presents. They are about family. The best present that you can give anyone is "yourself".
Time is a precious thing. It goes too quickly and there is never enough of it.
Picking up the phone and calling your loved ones....a real phone call...not a text....means more than you will ever know. Hearing a loved ones voice. Hearing the caring and knowing that you are loved....is a precious thing.
Reach out to your friends and family during the holidays. Let them know that you have not forgotten them. In this busy time where we are all working, struggling to make ends meet...the gift of yourself is more precious than anything that you can wrap up.
Wishing all of you a very HAPPY HOLIDAY and a more ORGANIZED NEW YEAR !
The holidays are not about presents. They are about family. The best present that you can give anyone is "yourself".
Time is a precious thing. It goes too quickly and there is never enough of it.
Picking up the phone and calling your loved ones....a real phone call...not a text....means more than you will ever know. Hearing a loved ones voice. Hearing the caring and knowing that you are loved....is a precious thing.
Reach out to your friends and family during the holidays. Let them know that you have not forgotten them. In this busy time where we are all working, struggling to make ends meet...the gift of yourself is more precious than anything that you can wrap up.
Wishing all of you a very HAPPY HOLIDAY and a more ORGANIZED NEW YEAR !
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, December 17, 2012
De-Clutter For the Holidays
It's getting close to the end of the year....that means TAX DONATIONS are coming to an end for the year !
In the midst of the Holiday buying craziness you should take a step back and clear out your closets.
There are many reason for this - and de-cluttering your closets and life is not the only one. With Christmas just around the corner I am sure (if you were good) that you will probably get some new clothes and the kids will get new toys.
Do you have room for them? What about the things you no longer use or need? What about the things that your kids have outgrown? Including toys.
Now is the time to clean our your closets and cupboards. Have the kids clean out their toy box (let it be their decision on what toys to donate to other kids).
Not only are you de-cluttering your house - you are also taking advantage of the tax deduction that comes with donating things that you no longer need.
But hurry..... the year is coming to a close and so is your opportunity for last minute deductions.
By de-cluttering and donating you are not only helping others.... you are also helping yourself and hopefully teaching your kids a valuable lesson in giving.
Happy Holidays!
In the midst of the Holiday buying craziness you should take a step back and clear out your closets.
There are many reason for this - and de-cluttering your closets and life is not the only one. With Christmas just around the corner I am sure (if you were good) that you will probably get some new clothes and the kids will get new toys.
Do you have room for them? What about the things you no longer use or need? What about the things that your kids have outgrown? Including toys.
Now is the time to clean our your closets and cupboards. Have the kids clean out their toy box (let it be their decision on what toys to donate to other kids).
Not only are you de-cluttering your house - you are also taking advantage of the tax deduction that comes with donating things that you no longer need.
But hurry..... the year is coming to a close and so is your opportunity for last minute deductions.
By de-cluttering and donating you are not only helping others.... you are also helping yourself and hopefully teaching your kids a valuable lesson in giving.
Happy Holidays!
Organizational Consulting Services
Monday, December 10, 2012
The Holidays Are Getting Closer....
It's getting close to Christmas and a lot of people still haven't even put up a tree or sent out cards.
The
holidays are not a time to be stressed so don't beat yourself up over
not getting everything done. It you are running out of time you have to
decide what you can live without so that you don't drive yourself crazy.
Being
organized is about "time management". If you haven't finished
everything on your list give yourself the gift of "not finishing". Let
it go. Most people that I know haven't even sent out their cards yet,
so you are not alone.
BUT.... this should give
you some incentive to start earlier next year! If you have your 2013
calendar, open it up and put a note in the calendar for some of the
things that you need to accomplish for the holidays. For example:
* Write out cards
* Start Xmas shopping
* Decorate the house
By using your calendar and making "appointments" with yourself you will be more likely to get things done on time.
Time Management at home is just as important as in the workplace.
Schedule
some time each day to get the some of your projects
done, but allow some extra "breathing" time so that you don't get to the
holiday and just wish it would go away.
Anything
that you can't realistically get done at this point.... LET IT GO! For some people
being a perfectionist causes too much stress and actually wastes time.
Learn from your "disorganization" and last minute "craziness" and know
that you can do better next year.
And remember,
if your family wants a great holiday they should be willing to help you.
Don't try to do it all yourself. Assign tasks to everyone and work
together to make this holiday season a good one.
For more great organizing ideas during the Holidays >>>>
Re-read: Holiday Gift Ideas.... or Dont's
http://professionalorganizer4u.blogspot.com/2010/11/holiday-gift-ideas-or-donts.html
Re-read: Planning Ahead for the Holidays
http://professionalorganizer4u.blogspot.com/2011/10/planning-ahead-for-holidays.html
Re-read: Organizing Your Closets for Christmas
http://professionalorganizer4u.blogspot.com/2011/12/organizing-your-closets-for-christmas.html
Happy Holidays!
Organizational Consulting Services
Thursday, December 6, 2012
HAPPY ST. NICHOLAS DAY !
Growing up German, St. Nicholas Day was a very big deal for us. And still is. A boot is put outside the door on the night of the 5 th of December. St. Nicholas fills the boot with candy, chocolate and small gifts. As kids we liked to use my Dad's shoes because they were obviously bigger, which meant more candy! In the morning we would race to see what St. Nicholas brought us.
To me St. Nicholas Day is super special. It reminds me of my heritage. It is also the start of the Christmas season.
I want to wish all of you a very HAPPY ST. NICHOLAS DAY !!!!
Monday, December 3, 2012
Shopping for the Holidays - Do you have a Budget ?
The holidays are here in full swing. Everyone is having a sale. There are bargains to be had everywhere.
Are you getting carried away? Are you over-buying? Just because it's on sale?
Come on.... be honest. It's hard not to get caught up in the shopping frenzy.
But....there will be a post-holiday letdown. It's called "getting your credit card bill"!
So take a step back. Find a quiet place - I mean away from the mall! Sit down and take a realistic look at your finances.
Christmas is a time for family and friends. A time for giving of your "time" - not necessarily spending money. Especially if you really don't have the money to spare. The economy is bad and everyone understands that.
So be realistic about the amount of money that you can actually spend on "gifts".
Set a "per person" budget. Also set a "holiday budget". That would include gifts and all the extra's that go with it (wrapping paper, cards, going out to parties....).
Think about the person when you are buying your gift. Will they really like it? Can they really use it? Remember, don't just buy a gift that you will like, buy one that they will like. There is a big difference. And it's take a lot more time to find the perfect gift for each person. If you just buy a gift so that you can say that you gave them something - it will most certainly end up in the "clutter pile" and they will never use it.
Leave yourself plenty of time to find your gifts. Don't wait until the last minute. You will feel stressed and end up buying whatever is in front of you instead of what you really wanted.
Being organized for the holidays take a bit of planning. But if you plan things out and think of them ahead of time you will feel less stressed and you will be able to save money by buying only what you need.
Remember, don't just buy a gift because you feel that you "have" to. You should only buy gifts because you "want" to.
Stick to your budget and you won't feel the "after holiday shock" come January.
Happy Shopping...... and a Happy Holiday Season !
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Are you getting carried away? Are you over-buying? Just because it's on sale?
Come on.... be honest. It's hard not to get caught up in the shopping frenzy.
But....there will be a post-holiday letdown. It's called "getting your credit card bill"!
So take a step back. Find a quiet place - I mean away from the mall! Sit down and take a realistic look at your finances.
Christmas is a time for family and friends. A time for giving of your "time" - not necessarily spending money. Especially if you really don't have the money to spare. The economy is bad and everyone understands that.
So be realistic about the amount of money that you can actually spend on "gifts".
Set a "per person" budget. Also set a "holiday budget". That would include gifts and all the extra's that go with it (wrapping paper, cards, going out to parties....).
Think about the person when you are buying your gift. Will they really like it? Can they really use it? Remember, don't just buy a gift that you will like, buy one that they will like. There is a big difference. And it's take a lot more time to find the perfect gift for each person. If you just buy a gift so that you can say that you gave them something - it will most certainly end up in the "clutter pile" and they will never use it.
Leave yourself plenty of time to find your gifts. Don't wait until the last minute. You will feel stressed and end up buying whatever is in front of you instead of what you really wanted.
Being organized for the holidays take a bit of planning. But if you plan things out and think of them ahead of time you will feel less stressed and you will be able to save money by buying only what you need.
Remember, don't just buy a gift because you feel that you "have" to. You should only buy gifts because you "want" to.
Stick to your budget and you won't feel the "after holiday shock" come January.
Happy Shopping...... and a Happy Holiday Season !
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
Traveling for the Holidays
A lot of people will be traveling for the Holiday. Take the stress out of trip by being organized ahead of time.
Make a list of things to take so that you don't have to think about it as you pack. Make sure that you put clothes and personal items on the list. Don't forget coats, gloves, scarves. Remember to put any medication that you need on the list. Don't forget your glasses or your phone charger. Two things that you really don't want to be without.
It might sound silly to put all of these things down on paper but if you are leaving right after work you will be pressed for time and can easily forget things.
Make sure that your car is ready and gassed up at least a few days before you leave. Don't forget to check your wiper fluid and make sure that you have a snow brush in your car and that your tires are fully inflated.
Depending on the length of your trip you might want to have snacks with you (especially if you are traveling with children). And also toys and books to keep the children occupied.
Why constantly re-create these lists..... do it once and you will always have it handy. You can tweak it after every trip and make your travels go much smoother.
Happy Traveling...... and a Happy Holiday !
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Make a list of things to take so that you don't have to think about it as you pack. Make sure that you put clothes and personal items on the list. Don't forget coats, gloves, scarves. Remember to put any medication that you need on the list. Don't forget your glasses or your phone charger. Two things that you really don't want to be without.
It might sound silly to put all of these things down on paper but if you are leaving right after work you will be pressed for time and can easily forget things.
Make sure that your car is ready and gassed up at least a few days before you leave. Don't forget to check your wiper fluid and make sure that you have a snow brush in your car and that your tires are fully inflated.
Depending on the length of your trip you might want to have snacks with you (especially if you are traveling with children). And also toys and books to keep the children occupied.
Why constantly re-create these lists..... do it once and you will always have it handy. You can tweak it after every trip and make your travels go much smoother.
Happy Traveling...... and a Happy Holiday !
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com/
Monday, November 12, 2012
Emergencies Happen - Are You Ready
Most people thing that "disasters" only happen to other people. Mostly people that live near the ocean. The East Coast just got hit with a major disaster. Most of the people probably weren't as prepared as they should have been.
Disaster can and usually does strike when we are the least prepared. So what can or should we do about it?
We need to get away from the "it won't happen to us" mentality. Even if you don't live near the ocean disaster can strike. The west gets their share of wildfires. The mid-west gets tornadoes. Disasters take all kinds of shapes.
But the bottom line is.... "Are You Prepared"?
Do you have supplies and more importantly "personal information" ready? Information such as your birth certificate and other identifying information, insurance information, bank information, contact information for family and friends....
Cash - because if the electricity is out your credit cards won't do you any good.
Gas for your car. Extra food and water to last you a while. Medication. Clothes.
There are a lot of things to think about. Don't wait. Start putting together an "emergency plan" today.
Just in case. Be prepared.
For more information re-read "Disaster - Emergencies and Everything In Between"
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
Disaster can and usually does strike when we are the least prepared. So what can or should we do about it?
We need to get away from the "it won't happen to us" mentality. Even if you don't live near the ocean disaster can strike. The west gets their share of wildfires. The mid-west gets tornadoes. Disasters take all kinds of shapes.
But the bottom line is.... "Are You Prepared"?
Do you have supplies and more importantly "personal information" ready? Information such as your birth certificate and other identifying information, insurance information, bank information, contact information for family and friends....
Cash - because if the electricity is out your credit cards won't do you any good.
Gas for your car. Extra food and water to last you a while. Medication. Clothes.
There are a lot of things to think about. Don't wait. Start putting together an "emergency plan" today.
Just in case. Be prepared.
For more information re-read "Disaster - Emergencies and Everything In Between"
Organizational Consulting Services
http://www.organizationalconsultingservices.com
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