Equalize

"You're going to need a BIGGER CLOSET," said the ad in my Real Simple magazine. It was touting the idea that if the shoe fits, buy one in every color. But what if you're like the woman who called me today and already has 200 pairs of shoes? I'm going to go out on a limb and say a bigger closet isn't always the answer. 

In today's society bigger and more is almost always associated with better. We don't want to admit that we don't have room, don't have time, or can't afford it. So, we cram more into our space or calendar. We extend our credit to create the illusion that we have unlimited resources. 

I recently heard a wealthy young man interviewed on the radio. He is very philanthropic. The interviewer asked, "How do you decide how much you're going to give?" His answer was compelling. He and his wife determined how much they need to live on and then choose to give away everything they earn above that. Gives a whole new meaning to "more is better," doesn't it?

A term made popular by Julie Morgenstern in the organizing world is "equalize." It's the final step in her SPACE formula-- Sort, Purge, Assign Homes, Containerize, and Equalize. In her book Organizing from the Inside Out, Morgenstern uses the term to describe the maintenance part of organizing. There are many facets to maintaining organization, but today I want to focus on equalizing as it's defined in the dictionary-- to make even or equal.

Today's Timely Tips will help you determine where you're out of balance and how to restore order. 

TIMELY TIPS - to equalize your space, time, and money

Space

When you equalize your space you don't create walk-in closets that you can't walk into. You don't have pantry supplies spilling out of the cupboards, or office storage so crammed that you can't see what you have. 

Just like the wealthy young man, you first determine how much you need. How many pairs of black boots? How many coffee mugs? How many sets of sheets? Intentionally keep the amount you need-- choose your favorites, and let the rest go. 

For consumables decide how much space you have or want for them to occupy. Keep it equalized by not buying more than will fit. Yes, even if it's on sale! It may cost you more later, but it will cost you more now in terms of space and stress if you exceed your predetermined boundaries. 

Time

When you equalize your schedule you don't add and add new responsibilities until you're running ragged. You don't crumble under the weight of over-commitment. 

Rather than adding things will-nilly, evaluate how much discretionary time you have. Make a list of what's important to you. Schedule those commitments and activities according to priority making sure to include some down-time. When a new request or opportunity arises, look at your schedule and make a choice. Will it replace something because it's more important? Can you add it later when another commitment ends? Equalize.

Money

When you equalize your money, you're not smothered in credit card debt. You don't succumb to "buy one in every color" ads. 

I can't think of a better time to consider how to equalize finances than the holiday season. The most obvious way is to not spend more than is coming in. Can you imagine a January not stressed by credit card bills?

Give yourself permission and explain to others if need be that you're intentionally cutting back this year to keep from acquiring more debt. 

Determine the discretionary amount of money you have and create a list of priorities. From that list create a holiday budget. When you discover something cost more than expected, equalize by cutting back on something else. You can do it! In January you will breathe a sigh of relief instead of grief.

Wise Words
The most difficult thing is the decision to act. The rest is merely tenacity. -Amelia Earhart

Dirty Laundry Secrets

The laundry room. Not my favorite room, but one that I would fight to keep if we were to move. At times it’s a rather mysterious place. Things disappear, mostly socks. Other things appear-- sometimes when you least want them to, like ChapStick in the dryer. It’s a place where at some point most of us have laundered money, literally.
 
A hundred years ago people would have thought it a magical place. You put dirty clothes in a contraption and they come out clean! Then you move them to another, and they come out dry! With the advent of such wonderful inventions, plus the fact we no longer have to make our own soap, laundry should be a breeze, right?
 
Quite the contrary. Laundry is the demise of many who struggle with managing a household. According to Erin Doland of Unclutterer.com, a typical family of four probably generates between 8 and 10 loads of laundry per week. If you ask my daughter, a mother of three (two and under), it would no doubt be more. Is there a magical method that can make it a breeze? Probably not. But today's Timely Tips offer practical helps that will put you on a good course.

TIMELY TIPS - for loads of laundry

A Place to Start - This may seem like a no-brainer, but make sure each bedroom closet has a dirty clothes hamper/basket. Instruct everyone how to use it, rather than the floor or chairs for dirty laundry. Even little tots and older folks can learn this routine! 

 

                                                                    Sock Solution - Eliminate the disappearance of socks and keep family members' socks sorted with large mesh zippered laundry bags. Assign and label a bag per person and clip it to a hanger, or hang it from it from a hook in the closet. Have members put their dirty socks directly into the bag. The socks are then washed, dried, and returned to their owner while still in the bag. 

Delicates - Keep a supply of additional mesh bags in each closet for delicates, or items that need to hang dry. Before placing such items in the hamper, place them in a zippered mesh bag so it’s obvious to anyone handling the laundry that they need special care. Hang a nylon bag in the closet to collect items for dry cleaning.

 

Laundry Supplies - Use the space above the washer and dryer for built-in cabinets and/or open shelves. Keep the items used most, most accessible. A large beverage dispenser can be used for liquid detergent. Other clear containers make good storage for dry detergent or pods (keep out of reach of children!). A jar or piggy bank can collect money left in pockets. Be sure to have containers to collect other pocket items, partnerless socks, and dryer lint.

 

Drying - For hang-dry items consider an indoor retractable clothesline that stretches from wall to wall. You can even hide it in a cabinet. Foldable drying racks, or hanging clothes on hangers from the shower curtain rod works too. To hang items as they come out of the dryer, attach a fold-out clothes bar to the laundry room wall and keep hangers handy on a hanger caddy. I sort the clean laundry on the master bed and immediately hang clothes from there to keep them from wrinkling. 

                                                                 Ironing - Use the inside of the laundry room door to hang an ironing board. Other options include a wall-mount ironing board cabinet, a magnetic ironing pad, or a tabletop ironing board for the dryer top. An even better idea is purchasing wrinkle-free clothing!

Simplify - Talk with your family about how often things need to be washed, so they're not putting things in the laundry prematurely. Check washing instructions when purchasing clothes and buy only easy-care fabrics. Choose and stick to a laundry routine that works for you and your household.

Wise Words
"Normal" is just a setting on the dryer. ―Patsy Clairmont

Laundry is one of those necessities that either masters us, or we master it. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a little time to consider-- is your laundry room user-friendly? Is everyone in the family doing their part? DO you have a system in place that enables you to pull clean clothes out of closets and drawers instead of piles? If not, check out the links in this blog or call for a personalized laundry solution session. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go put a load in!

Two Classes Coming Up - SOON!

FAMILY MANAGEMENT 
Organizing strategies for parents
September 27, 2016 ~ 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Clovis Adult School

“The family is the nucleus of civilization.” --Will Durant. This may be a scary statement if your family feels chaotic. So how do we combat chaos when kids, toys, and crazy schedules rule the roost? This class offers practical tips and tools to create a more peaceful and productive home. Strategies include organizing kids’ rooms and keepsakes, family schedules, chores, meal planning, teamwork, and routines. You will be inspired and equipped to make transformational changes in your home and family.

Register online at ClovisCommunityEd.com

 

ORGANIZE YOUR PAPER, SPACE, AND LIFE
October 4, 11, and 18, 2016 ~ 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Clovis Adult School

Whether your life is an organizational nightmare, or you're simply looking for some tips to help you fine-tune things, this course provides practical tools to establish a more peaceful and productive environment. Topics include what to do with the endless paper flow, organizing your space, and how to manage your time and household. 
 

Less Toys + Good Organization = More Play

What would you rather have, a zillion things to choose from on a menu, or a dozen things that you know you really like?
 
Jane Porter in Why Having Too Many Choices is Making You Unhappy tells of searching for a toilet brush on Amazon. With over 1,000 to choose from, the process drained her and she ended up at her neighborhood Dollar Store where they had exactly one to choose from.
 
Porter says, “Too many choices exhaust us, make us unhappy and lead us to sometimes abscond from making a decision all together. Researcher Barry Schwartz calls this ‘choice overload.’ And it's not just insignificant details like which brush to wipe the inside of the toilet with—having too many choices in our creative and professional lives can lead us to avoid making important decisions.”
 
If we, as adults, struggle with choice overload, imagine our children entering their bedrooms or playrooms piled with a plethora of toys. Entering that chaos, it’s no wonder children prefer the ease of sitting in front of the TV or electronic device.

I posted a question about toys to a moms’ group on Facebook. In the first four responses, two of them said they had recently downsized toys and found that, as a result, their children are spending more time playing with their toys.
 
In addition to the ease and enjoyment of play, there’s the element of learning that takes place. Kathy Sylva, professor of educational psychology at Oxford University conducted a study with 3,000 children ages 3-5 years old. Sylva reported, “When they have a large number of toys there seems to be a distraction element and when children are distracted they do not learn or play well.”
 
And, guess what? When there are fewer toys, there’s less to clean up! Yay! This is a great bonus for kids learning to pick up after themselves and for the mom or dad who’s doing the training. (Notice I didn’t give the option of parents cleaning up after their kids.)
 
So how do we transform toy chaos to this utopia I speak of? Check out today's Timely Tips and discover how less is more!

TIMELY TIPS - for less toys and more play!

Observe - Start with some intentional observation. Clue into how and where your kids are spending their playtime. Do they prefer playing near you, or do you find them happy to be alone with their Legos? What are they playing with most? It may be that they always play with the same thing because it’s the only toy they can find in the mess, but it also might give a clue as to the type of toy your child prefers.

Location - Based on your observations, determine where to store your children's toys. You might decide that some toys belong in the family room, if they are things the family plays with together or if your child is more social. You may decide to have the playroom be the boundary for toys so there are fewer places to clean up at the end of the day. My daughter recently transformed her dinette into the girls' kitchen/art room. Now they can "cook," paint, or have snacks while Mommy works in the kitchen or nurses baby in the adjoining family room. There’s no one right way to do it. You’re the expert when it comes to knowing what’s best for your family.

Purge - The one overarching goal is to not have more toys than your children can comfortably manage and choose from. When I organize children’s rooms, the first step is always to purge. Some no-brainers are things they no longer play with or things they haven’t grown into yet (store elsewhere), broken toys or toys with missing pieces, and too many of one thing.

Keep those things that you observe them enjoying. Be selective based on your space and goals for your children's development. Depending on their age, include them in the process so that they can develop purging and organizing skills. If there are some debatable items, put them away in a bin to be rotated in at a later date, or donated if not missed.

Containerize - The next step is deciding how much space you want to use for storing toys (now that keeping them scattered all over the floor is no longer an option). You will also want to choose a storage system or containers that make toys easily accessible both for play and clean up. This is where some Pinterest, Ikea, DIY, and Amazon ideas come into play. Keep in mind putting like things together, containerizing and labeling. If there are still more toys than will fit in your new system—purge some more!
 

Maintain - Honor the boundaries you've established. When new toys arrive, equalize by removing something else. Again, it's an opportunity for your child to learn decision-making skills. If you can connect with a family or organization that needs toys, help your child to see how his excess can benefit someone who is less fortunate. 

NOTE TO GRANDPARENTS: Be wise and sensitive to your children's requests when it comes to purchasing toys for your grandchildren. Consider buying experiences (zoo passes, day trips, etc.) or ask if there are higher priced items you can contribute to that the child is saving for (like college).

ModernParentsMessyKids.com has a Top Toy Gift Guide worth checking out. 

Wise Words
Less toys, less mess... more play, hurray! 

 

 

Outside the Box

When my kids were little I supplemented our income with folk art painting. Okay, it was probably more of a hobby than a moneymaker, but once in a while it came in handy-- like the time I had just finished a boutique and our refrigerator conked out. There went my profits!
 
Without the space for a craft room in our home I resorted to using the kitchen table as my workspace. Needless to say, there were challenges keeping little hands out of my stuff and extra work clearing it off for every meal. Too often we get stuck in a frustrating situation when an answer might be right “outside the box,” or in my case, inside the closet!

Looking for another option, I spied our coat closet. I relocated the coats to a line of hooks on the wall in the laundry room. I purchased a desk that fit inside perfectly, wall to wall. My husband graciously assembled it-- inside the closet. The shelves above held my project supplies. I used a folding chair, which fit snugly in the doorway so no little bodies could reach the work surface. When not in use, the chair folded up and the door closed to hide the mess. A perfect solution!
 
So, what has you stuck? What’s not working in terms of your space? What do you want to do or have that you don’t currently have a space for? Today's Timely Tips are designed to get your thoughts flowing and help you design creative ways to use space and products. These may not be your particular challenges, but hopefully, they'll spark some great ideas.

Timely Tips to create space and productivity

The Spare Room - Do you have a guest room with nary a guest? Consider letting go of the bed so you can use that space for your exercise equipment or craft table. Keep an inflatable mattress on hand, or use a trundle day bed or sofa bed for the rare occasion of an overnight guest. A fold-down table for crafts and projects gives you versatility with your space.

One of my clients uses one spare room as a guest room and the other spare room for storage. Bins of party and holiday supplies are stored there. Why not? It makes so much more sense to use the square footage you’re already paying for, than to go out and rent more storage!

I’ve seen bedrooms turned into closets, and closets turned into bedrooms. Too often we are limited by tradition or simply not thinking outside the box.

Kids' Stuff in the Kitchen - Does the bottom of the china hutch have to store placemats and dishes? No! Not if the kitchen table is a homework station and you need school supplies handy. Are you frustrated with your kids pulling toys into the kitchen while you’re making dinner? Why not designate a bin of “kitchen toys” and store them in the hutch, kitchen cabinet, or in a rolling cart that you can easily put elsewhere when desired? Don’t fight it, fix it!

The Home Office - Most people still feel like the home office is where they “should” do their bill paying, etc., but we don’t. Laptops have us on the couch or kitchen table. We don’t like to be isolated, so embrace it. A rolling file cart can store the files and office supplies you need and be rolled into a nearby closet when not in use. Lose the big desk and transform your home office into a man cave, exercise, craft, or play room.

 Ironing Station - If you’re among the diminishing population that still irons clothes, you may think that it “should” be done as part of the laundering process, when actually it’s done whenever you pull something wrinkled out of the closet (or am I the only one that does that). So, rather than have the ironing board in the laundry room that’s across the house from your bedroom, set up an over the closet door board or attach an attractive wall-mount cabinet board in your bedroom, so it’s handy for those quick touch-ups.

 Room Dividers - Maybe an attractive room divider is all you need to double the productivity of your space. You can section off an area in your great room for a kids' play area, music "room," puzzle/game table, or command center. Create a more defined entry with a half-wall book shelf or mud room bench. Hang a privacy curtain or use a paneled divider for older kids sharing a room. 

wise words

Instead of thinking outside the box, get rid of the box. --Deepak Chopra

Two Toxic Words

As I was sorting closet contents with a client yesterday, she repeatedly used the two toxic words, “for now.” She’s not the only one. We all do it at times. A few minutes ago I said those words to my husband as we moved a lamp we’re replacing. “Let’s just put it here for now,” I said.
 
What makes these words so toxic? I believe the amount of clutter in one’s home directly correlates to the number of times a person says, or thinks, “I'll just put this here for now."           
 
Today's Timely Tips expose the excuses, consequences and solutions to these two toxic words. 

Timely Tips to Detox Your Home

Temporary Holding Place - The least harmful use of these words is when we need a temporary home for something, like the lamp we're donating or the shirt we're returning because it's the wrong size. These things cause clutter, but if you put it in your schedule to complete the action, it's temporary. 

Deferred Actions -  The suitcase that sits waiting to be unpacked, the clean laundry pile placed on the couch, the mail on the kitchen table and the box of Costco supplies to be put away. There are grocery bags of stuff cleaned out of the car or purse and tossed into the closet "for now." And all the stuff that gets crammed into the spare room when company’s coming. These are things that could be put away, but we defer the action “for now.”
    It’s frustrating when you can’t find your favorite shirt because you forgot it’s still packed, or in a pile on the couch. It’s costly when the mail doesn’t get opened and a bill becomes overdue. It's overwhelming when all the “for now” stuff accumulates in the spare room and you don’t know where to start.
    Marie Kondo, author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up has a simple mantra, “Don’t put it down, put it away.” Putting something down can happen anywhere. That means when you go to look for it, it could be anywhere.
    Putting something down gives us the false sense of completion, but as these deferred actions accumulate so does the stress. So, "don't put it down, put it away."

Deferred Decisions - The third and potentially most challenging reason for those two toxic words is that we defer decisions. We don’t have a designated spot for the new kitchen gadget, so rather than deciding where to put it, it sits out on the counter. We don’t know where to file our Health Benefits package so it joins a stack of other deferred decisions on the desk. We feel like we’re saving time by just throwing it on top, but in the end it does the opposite.
     When a pattern of deferred decisions is established, it becomes increasingly difficult and time consuming to find things. Things that cannot be found at all have to be replaced, taking time and money. Not to mention the increased stress while searching for things.       As painless as I try to make it, I often feel like I’m holding my clients’ feet to the fire as I press them to make decisions. Otherwise, they easily move things from one pile to another, or try slipping things into their pockets instead of deciding—is it a keep, toss, or donate? If it’s a keep, where is its home going to be? Deferring the decision feels easier at the time, but the consequences are not so pleasant.
     Give up the idea that your decisions must always be perfect. They won't be. If you're stuck, ask for advice. Fear the consequences of not deciding, rather than deciding. And then - decide! You will reap the benefits of a more peaceful and productive environment!

Wise Words
"When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier."  --Roy E. Disney

Mind Over Matter

How hard is it for you to focus on one thing at a time? Technically, our brains can’t think about two things at once, but the speed at which we switch from one thing to another can make it feel simultaneous. When this happens something often gets overlooked while we move on to the next thing.
 
While searching the internet for information on mindfulness I came across a site that claimed mindfulness can alleviate pain. That triggered thoughts of my tendonitis and the fact that my elbow brace order from Amazon was overdue. Soon I had switched over to “track my order.” Squirrel!
 
Anyway, back to mindfulness… today I’m not referring to practices of yoga or meditation, but simply paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment. You might be wondering what that has to do with organizing, or your mind may have wandered off to another topic completely, in either case, today's Time Tips describe four ways that being mindful can help create a more peaceful and productive environment.

Timely Tips for mind over matter

organize.dining

Arriving Home - You walk in the door thinking about what you’re going to have for dinner, what the electric bill is going to be since you left the air conditioning on again, and how to weasel out of an evening meeting. You’re not mindful of the stuff you hauled in from the car and mailbox and how it’s now landing in various places around the kitchen and dining room.
 
By paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, you can alleviate the piles of clutter created in this mindless state. As you pull into the garage and gather your things, consciously think about where you’re going to put them. Choose to stay focused until they get there. Now you can move on with your evening without having a disaster waiting for you at the end of the day.

Shopping - Oh look, that’s cute! It’s on sale! One-click ordering! It’s easy, it’s seductive, and it can contribute to your clutter when you’re not shopping mindfully. Pay attention to what’s driving your desire. Is it shopping therapy after a rough week? Is it keeping up with your peers? Rather than mindlessly ordering online, or coming home with something that will get crammed into an already full closet, mindfully ask-- is it something I need, can afford, and have space for in the present moment? Shopping while tired or hungry can impair your mindfulness whether at the grocery store, mall, or at your computer.

organizing.crafts

Transitioning - When you finish a project or are leaving one thing to do another, what is the state of the area you’re leaving? You’ve finished wrapping the gift, but is the wrap, scissors, and tape put away? Being mindful means you’re paying attention to the present moment, not moving on until you’ve put things into place. It’s one of those valuable Kindergarten rules that keeps us from having overwhelming messes to come back to. One mindful tactic is to walk backwards out of the room or office. It may feel silly, but it will help you to be conscious of having things in their place before leaving.

Morning/Evening Routines - We tend to go into auto-pilot when we’re getting ready in the morning, or going to bed at night. If you wake up to and return home to a disaster in your bedroom and bathroom, then some mindfulness may be in order. Remember, it’s paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment. As you’re getting undressed think about where you are. Position yourself by the dirty clothes hamper and shoe rack. This will keep your floor clear for walking, not stepping over things. As you get ready in the morning, mindfully take the extra seconds needed to put things away as you use them—hair dryer, toothpaste, etc. I’m not talking about maintaining model home status, simply having some clear space. Once you’ve been mindful about this new pattern for awhile, it will become second nature and you can resume planning your next vacation while brushing and flossing.

Wise Words
"Doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment." -- Oprah Winfrey

Downsizing-- it's not just for seniors anymore

My husband and me on a country-drive date in the 70s.

My husband and me on a country-drive date in the 70s.

I'm old enough now to see fashion trends come back around. Last week Express.com had a whole 70s line on their "Trending" page. Looking at the styles brings back memories of my suede fringe vest and high-rise pants. As things circle around, designers usually add a little twist that makes your original item not quite in style. So, I'm not too sorry I didn't save all those bellbottoms. 
 
My parents recently did a full circle from apartment living as newlyweds to apartment living as seniors. The twist is that this apartment provides lots of community activities and continuing care, if needed. They chose to downsize, or “rightsize” as I like to call it, paring down to the items they love, use, and need at this stage in life. 
 
I’m working with more people my age who are also choosing to rightsize. Maybe not making a move, but certainly reducing their belongings. Many have experienced clearing out a houseful of their parents’ things—inheriting not only the items of value, but stacks of magazines, closets stuffed with old blankets, etc.
 
For some, the process of rightsizing is imposed on them when it becomes compulsory. This adds a great deal of stress to an already difficult situation. Some put it off because they feel overwhelmed or a have a misconception that it means throwing out all their stuff. Whether you’re scoping out retirement communities, or simply wanting to rightsize in the home you’re in, here are some Timely Tips to help you accomplish your goal.

TIMELY TIPS - for rightsizing your home and belongings

1. Clearly identify what's most important to you now. Maybe in the past you did a lot of skiing, entertaining, or your own yard work. Consider changes in your interests and abilities and identify your current priorities. Evaluate how you spend your time and which belongings are essential to you now. The items that don't fit your current lifestyle could add value to someone else's life, create space in your home, and reduce the amount of stuff you have to manage. 

2. Look around each room with a discerning eye. Is your furniture useful? Does it fit your current taste and style? Is there too much of it? Is it there because of obligation? If you’re storing Great Aunt Susie’s dining set, give her the benefit of the doubt and assume that she wouldn’t want her stuff to be a burden to you. Keep the items that are most precious and useful and let the others go. If you're not hosting big dinners anymore, but taking art classes, consider transforming the formal dining room into an art studio.

downsizing

3. If you’re moving into a smaller place, get the dimensions of your new home and sketch out where the furniture will go. There are websites like PotteryBarn.com and Freshome.com that offer free online tools to help you arrange your rooms. It may be stressful to reduce, but it’s also stressful to move into a new place that’s crammed with too much furniture. Consider taking photos of your current place before you scale down to make a little memory book of your home as it was. 

downsizing

4. My parents threw a “Pick & Choose” party before their move. They spread out the items they decided not to move with them and then we all got to pick and choose the things we wanted. It’s always nice to give your children the option of saving the things that mean most to them without the obligation of taking it all.

downsizing

5. If there are sentimental items that family members aren’t taking, consider photographing them for your own memory’s sake, or keeping a portion of it. Make a pillow out of a square from your old quilt, or keep one place setting of your china. Frame a piece of your grandma’s handmade lace tablecloth if you no longer have a large dining table. Be creative in finding ways to have your cherished items visible and honored. This shadowbox (pictured) holds a page from my grandfather's notebook, a pieced quilt square, jewelry, and hair-clip belonging to my grandma, and some rocks that my grandfather polished.

6. For other items of value consider consigning them or selling them on Craig’s List. An estate sale is also a viable option. Some estate companies offer buyouts instead having a sale on your property. (Feel free to contact me for referrals.) Remember that whatever you’re holding on to is costing you something. Don’t let the monetary value you have in mind for your things keep you from letting go and living a rightsized life. Donating items to your favorite charity thrift store is a fast, easy, and tax deductible way to reduce.

7. Is storing your grown kids’ stuff holding you back from having space to use for your own hobbies or rightsizing to a place more manageable? With a couple clients I photographed their adult childrens’ belongings and emailed the pics for their “yay or nay” on what they’d like sent to them or saved for next time they’re in town. If your kids are local, you can gather up their items and give them a deadline before the donation truck arrives.

 

wise words

"Right-sized living means having the right size space with the things that are most important to you, easily accessible."  --Brenda McElroy

Be SMART in Sixteen!

Goal.setting

Today as I opened a “new document” on my computer, a blank page popped up. It reminded me of the feeling of a new year. A blank page. But in reality, it’s not blank. It’s full. Full of opportunities. Full of choices. Full of experiences. Full of the unseen.
 
Poet Rainer Maria Rilke said, “And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been.”
 
As you consider this new year, what’s your perspective? Is Doris Day singing in your ear—“Que Sera, Sera” what ever will be, will be? Or, are you planning to take a more intentional role in 2016?
 
A University of Scranton study reported in The Journal of Clinical Psychology that “People who explicitly make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don’t explicitly make resolutions.” On the opposite side, as Zig Ziglar says, “If you aim for nothing, you will hit it every time.” One way or the other, 2016 will be full. The question is-- how much of it will be intentional on your part, and how much of it will be determined by other people’s agendas for your life?

I thought I was clever when I named my company “Organized By Choice” with the tag-line “because things don’t always fall into place.” But getting organized isn’t the only thing that’s acquired by choice. Heathy relationships, healthy bodies, financial gain (unless you won that billion-dollar lottery), further education, quitting bad habits, starting good habits, and so much more requires choice, not chance. 
 
On your “blank page” for 2016, what will you choose? Since there’s no time like the present, grab a piece of paper or open a blank document on your computer and, if you haven’t already done so, write down two or three things you would like to see happen in 2016.

Timely Tips

Early in January my son, Chase, and I were texting about our goals. These were the four I shared with him:

  1. Floss daily (I know, I should have already been doing this!)

  2. Reduce paper using FileThis and ScanSnap

  3. Complete my coaching hours for certification

  4. Memorize Psalm 145

I like to use George T. Doran’s SMART goal concept and make my goals:
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant
Time-oriented

SMART Example: A Specific goal is “floss daily” instead of a general “improve dental health.” It’s Measurable because I’ve identified exactly how often I plan to do it. It’s Attainable because it will take less than 2 minutes per day. It’s Relevantbecause it fits with my overall value of caring for my physical health. It’s Time-oriented in that I plan to do this through 2016 (and hopefully beyond!). Take a look at your goals and make adjustments, as needed, to render them SMART

Set up for success: What do you need to make your goals a reality? Supplies? A new routine? A mentor? Professional help? Accountability? Good intentions simply don’t cut it. Under each goal list what you need to succeed. Prioritize your list so you have a plan to follow. 

Small step: Each of my goals, and perhaps most of yours will require an element of a new routine to ensure success. Since we have all failed at starting new routines, this step can be daunting. Leo Babauta (zenhabits.net) says, “If you want to build trust in yourself, you need to start with something incredibly easy, something you won’t fail to do. Most people ignore this advice, and fail, and then don’t believe in themselves.” Another proponent of small steps is Dr. Robert Maurer. In his book,One Small Step Can Change Your Life Maurer suggests that slow progress is better than no progress. Even doing one push-up a day until that becomes your new normal, is better than saying, “I’m going to do 50 push-ups every morning,” and then quitting after the first week. Once you have successfully incorporated your small step into your lifestyle, add a tiny bit more until that becomes your new normal. 

Go public: One step that's hard but helpful is to make your goal public. It doesn’t mean you have to put it in a newsletter like I did, but tell someone that cares about your success and will support you in the process. 

wise words

“What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals. ”
— Zig Zigler

Embrace What??

Holiday.organizing

You know the warning printed on your car’s side-view mirror, “Objects in the mirror are closer than they appear?” I think our calendars should come with a December warning: “Dates on the calendar are closer than they appear.”
 
I know this is nothing new. It sneaks up on us every year—but really! Where did October and November go? Personally, I think our 90-degree October weather had something to do with it.
 
So, here we are getting very close to Christmas and some are getting very close to crashing. Before you crash, may I recommend something that may help save your sanity? Embrace imperfection!

Which is better—to relax with your company when they arrive, or to have spotless blinds and baseboards with you frantically getting ready at the last minute? Which is better—to have your gifts wrapped and ready a week before Christmas, or fighting the crowds still looking for the “perfect” gift on Christmas Eve? When perfection is the goal it slows and sometimes even stops progress.
 
Most of us aren’t consciously aware of our perfectionist tendencies. We only know that things get more frustrating and stressful when the pressure’s on. We don’t realize that we can control the pressure and reduce the stress simply by embracing imperfection. 

Here are a few Timely Tips to help you embrace imperfection and a joyous holiday season.

Timely Tips

1. List & Schedule Your Non-negotiables - If you’re preparing for company, make a list of the things that absolutely need to be done. Make it a short list. Such as: de-clutter the living room, clean the guest bath and kitchen, and prepare the table and food. Schedule specific times for the tasks you’ve deemed essential. If you can do more, fine, but if not, consider done is better than perfect. I can almost guarantee, no one will be putting a white glove on your blinds or baseboards.

2. Hide Your Mess - Yes, I said it. Don’t be afraid to temporarily hide a mess. If de-cluttering the living room means cluttering a closet, laundry room, or bedroom, do it and close the door. Of course I don’t recommend leaving it that way indefinitely, but the holidays mean extra stuff like bags and bows and boxes of decorations that we didn’t have time to get to. Remember, we’re not going for the perfect house award; we just want to enjoy our family and friends, so let it go. 

3. Delegate - I know the saying, "If you want something done right, do it yourself," but I’ll let you in on a little secret—you can’t do it all, at least not with a good attitude. Believe me, I’ve tried! I’m preaching to myself when I say, “Delegate.” The kids can vacuum and dust. If you have a cleaning service, don’t clean after they’re done (I know some of you do!). Maybe someone else can make Grandma’s pecan pie recipe this year, or just send out an email and have people sign up to bring what they want. Make a list of last minute things that need to be done so that as your guests arrive you’re prepared to enlist their help. Maybe the forks won’t be positioned perfectly by the plates, but remember our new mantra—done is better than perfect!

 4. Give Yourself Self-Care - Most of us would prefer sharing a Christmas celebration with a loved one who didn’t arrive home exhausted at midnight Christmas Eve because they were still searching for the “perfect” gift. If you have that perfectionist tendency, consider giving a gift card with a coupon for a shopping day with you. That way you know they’ll get what they want, and you can be rested and ready for a joyous holiday! Or give yourself a gift for when the holidays are over – an Organized By Choice gift certificate!

wise words

“Done is better than perfect.”

Think Before Tossing

When I was a kid, we had a plum orchard across the street and a big field in the back. We would sculpt dirt clods after the orchard had been plowed and make forts in the field. Daniel Boone was our hero and we'd find really long sticks to use as our rifles. You might say we were masters at repurposing!

I suppose the depression era folks were the true masters and many people still hang on to things-- just in case. As an organizer I'm not against saving things, as long as you know where to find them when you need them, and they're not getting in the way of what you currently need and use. Better yet, I'm all for reducing, reusing, and recycling. 

Today's Timely Tips offer some help for those looking for responsible and productive ways to reduce, reuse, recycle and dispose. The links are for places in the Fresno area.

Timely Tips

1. Gently Used Items - If you do a little homework, you can find a place where your used items will not only become available to those in need at affordable prices, but will also provide funding for worthy causes like job programs, hospice, and family services. Here are just a few Fresno area thrift stores that also offer a tax donation receipt: Neighborhood Thrift, Hinds Hospice Thrift,Fresno Rescue Mission Thrift, and the Salvation Army.

2. Used Oil Drop-off -  SpeeDee Oil Change (6504 N. Blackstone Ave, Fresno)

3. Hazardous Waste - Free drop-off for Fresno residents American Avenue Disposal Site  (18950 W American Ave, Kerman, CA).

4. Eye Glass Donations - Contact a local Lions Club member or click on the link for a mailing address: Lions Club Eyeglass Recycling Program.

5. Cell Phones - Marjaree Mason Center (1600 "M" Street, Fresno) collects all cell phones, including non-working cell phones and those without chargers.

6. Electronics - Best Buy  (7550 N Blackstone, Fresno) accepts TVs, computers, appliances, printer ink, DVDs, video games, cameras, and more. 

wise words

"I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things we could use."             --Mother Teresa

What's an adding machine??

The other day I was in Target and overheard an older gentleman ask an employee if they carry adding machines. I had to smile as the young man asked for a description of what an adding machine is. 

Home offices and their contents are highly relative to age and digital use. Of course there are exceptions. Even my son, who went paperless, gets daily mail and occasionally has to put a stamp on an envelope. 

Most Baby Boomers have either had a home office all along, or as soon as the kids move out create one. We carry the idea that that's where we should store and do all our paperwork, but with the advent of laptops, paperless statements, and online bill-paying, most people find themselves paying bills in the living room or sitting at the kitchen table. 

The fact remains, there are still documents you need to keep or at the very least you need a place to put your digital scanner. Many more people are working from home, making a home office a necessity. My office is a work in progress. My husband thought I was crazy when I gave up my huge corner desk and downsized with one that's more my style. Whether your home office sports an adding machine or you're "office" is wherever your laptop lands, today's Timely Tips include some of the basics for home office management.

TIMELY TIPS

Workspace - A desktop computer requires, well... a desktop. Preferably, the desk should have a drawer or two for supplies. Even if using a laptop, it's good to have a clean flat surface to process mail, fill out forms, and store basic supplies. If space is an issue, a desk like this fold-out convertible desk can be mounted just about anywhere.

 

 

Basic Supplies - A junk drawer is simply a supply drawer turned junky. Keep it junk-free by using a drawer divider with designated places for your paper clips, rubber bands, tape, stamps, post-it notes, etc. If your "office" is in the kitchen designate a drawer for office supplies or place them in a bin in the cabinet.

 

 

Working Files - I use this Wall File Holder for forms I need to access frequently, current projects, and action items. You can also use them for bills to pay, events (invitations, tickets, etc), and a temporary holding spot for receipts and other items. A desktop holder can also store such folders and be placed on the kitchen counter, or wherever the mail is processed. 

 

 

 

 

 

Shredder - Unfortunately this has become a staple due to identity theft. Position your shredder so that as you process your mail you are able to easily shred those items that might compromise the security of your identity. If it can't be near your mail processing area, have an extra folder for the "To Shred" items and dispose of them weekly. In addition to a shredder be sure to have a paper recycling container (trash can) close by. 

 

 

 

 

 

Inbox - Even with our best intentions there are times when we have loose papers that haven't found a home yet. Containerize them with an "inbox." This could also serve as a simmering place for things that may or may not be kept permanently. Just make sure it doesn't hide important papers or fill to overflowing. I place mine in my desk drawer when not in use to maximize open space on the desktop.

 

 

 

 

 

File Drawers - For long-term filing that isn't stored digitally, use a file cabinet for easy access. If you don't have an office, this can be tucked into a closet, or put into file bins and stacked. Keep in mind that we only refer back to about 20% of what we file, so be selective when putting things into files. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wise Words
Julie Morgenstern on naming files-- The secret of quick retrieval is to have the fewest places to look for a given document. Keep titles simple and categories broad.

To squeeze or not to squeeze

organizing_books

Like many of you, I have books on organizing. As I was struggling to squeeze another one onto my bookshelf, I noticed, ironically, the book next to it was called Boundaries. Taking my own advice, I looked through the rest of the shelf to see what I could let go of, so I didn't exceed the boundary.

According to the Self Storage Association Fact Sheet, the self storage industry in the United States generated more than $24 billion in annual US revenues (2014). I'm guessing that more than a few folks are struggling with boundaries these days.

Today's Timely Tips address some of the common boundary challenges, but these strategies can be used for multiple areas and belongings.

TIMELY TIPS

Collectibles: A client recently told me that years ago she began collecting Hummel figurines. She has run out of display space, so they're filling up her closets too. Another client collects Hallmark ornaments. She has more than multiple Christmas trees could hold and no closet space for the bins they're stored in. Setting boundaries for a collection first means deciding how much space you have, or want to use, to display and store it. Make sure it doesn't infringe on space for things you currently need and use. If a collection exceeds its allotment of space, choose your favorites and release the rest. Let loved ones know you have completed your collection and would prefer gifts like dinner out, concert or movie tickets, or a day at the spa-- in other words, something you don't have to store or display.

Backup Supplies: One woman emailed asking what to do with all the backup supplies that were spilling out all over the floor. She said she saves money by buying in bulk and stocking up when things are on sale. Unfortunately our space, like our time and money, has limits. Having too much of a good thing can cost us our peace of mind. Often times it ends up costing more money too. You squeeze things in here and there, because you run out of room, and then can't see or find what you already have so you buy more, spending money needlessly and creating even more storage issues. Designate a specific space for backup supplies. Pay attention to your stock before jumping on the sale wagon. Label shelves and create boundaries for paper products, canned goods, hair products, etc, so you can easily see what you have and what you need before purchasing more.

Food Storage Containers: Chances are you have more plastic containers than you have left-overs to put in them. One strategy for setting boundaries is first determining how many of something you need. If what you currently have in the fridge plus a few more seems adequate, then match 5-8 more lids to bottoms and let go of the rest. Honor the boundary by resisting to save every yogurt, sour cream, and lunchmeat container, or repurpose the extras and store them elsewhere.

Toys: Boundaries for toys might include designating "toy-free" areas in your home, just like you do with food. Or, you might set cleanup boundaries-- like placing toys in designated bins every night before bedtime. For outdoor bikes and scooters you can "draw" a parking boundary with colored duct tape in the garage or patio. By maintaining an amount of toys that will fit in the designated storage areas, you will reduce stress for both you and your child when it's time to clean up.  

Wise Words

You CAN have too much of a good thing.   -- Brenda McElroy

 

True Confession

Hello. My name is Brenda McElroy and I have clutter-- digital clutter, that is. I used to tell myself that since I wasn't physically tripping over it, and I could easily find the email messages I needed, it didn't really matter.    

Recently I decided it does matter. When I open my email I want my inbox to function like my closet-- everything in its place and easy access to what I need most (at least most of the time). I don't want to be distracted by stuff that isn't essential or no longer pertinent. I don't want to wonder if I missed seeing something important, or forgot to respond to something because it slipped to the next page. I don't want to hear my kids say, "You have how many messages in your inbox?!?" anymore.                                                        

I'm happy to say that I'm a couple weeks into it and with the tips and tools I've outlined below, it's not hard to maintain! 

organizedemail

TIMELY TIPS - for a clutter-free inbox 

1. Purge-- I started by selecting all starred emails (those I had previously identified as important), bringing them to the top of the page and then quickly scanning through the rest. I archived all the ones that weren't worth filing. If your email provider doesn't have that option, you would hit "delete." Yes ouch, but really-- what's the worst thing that could happen deleting email that you don't care about enough to file?   
2. Create Folders-- Use broad categories such as Friends, Family, Finances, Orders, etc. For my business email I have folders for Advertising, Clients, Coaching, Classes, etc. Transfer save-worthy email messages into folders. 
3. Use Auto-Filters-- Gmail has three main tabs Primary, Social (Facebook, Twitter, etc), and Promotional (store advertisements, newsletters, etc). You can add others like Updates (statements, bills, receipts) and Forums (discussion boards, online groups, etc). When messages are categorized like that, it makes scanning and deleting quick and easy. You can also designate messages from specific senders to bi-pass your inbox/tabs and go directly into folders, such as auto-pay notification messages into your Finance folder. 
4. Reduce Inflow-- As new messages arrive, unsubscribe to ads/newsletters (except mine, of course) or check to see if they have a monthly option rather than daily or weekly messages. Mark unsolicited email as spam so that future messages from that sender will go directly to junk mail. Consider picking up the phone to reduce the string of messages that go back and forth as you and your friends or colleagues decide on something. Resist the temptation to click on every "Subscribe" button.
5. Add Boomerang-- A helpful tool for Gmail users allows you to schedule a reminder if someone hasn't responded to your email message. You can type an email and schedule it to be sent at a later time/date and set up recurring messages. If you have an email message that you need to handle the next day, or next week, you can have Boomerang remove it from your inbox and automagically show up on the day/time you designate. 
6. Set Boundaries-- Have specific times for checking email and consider removing notification sounds so that you're not distracted by incoming messages. Determine an inbox limit so that it doesn't get out of hand or overwhelming. A one-page goal may be more reasonable, but if you want to have a zero balance at the end of the day, go for it!

Wise Words

According to a Canadian study and reported in RD's World of Medicine-- April 2015, checking email less frequently (not more than 3 times/day) lowered overall daily stress levels.


A Slow Leak

bedroomorganizing

    One day when I knelt to get a gift bag from a container under my bed, my knees got wet. Uh oh, I thought. Sure enough, there was a slow leak in a pipe under the concrete.

   If we dried the carpet,  replaced the pad, but didn't fix the pipe, we would have eventually been in the same soggy situation.

   Similarly it's often a slow leak of things seeping into your bedroom that causes clutter-- your bag of "treasures" from a conference or home show, gifts for an upcoming birthday. It may be clothes and shoes that seep out of your closet onto the floor, bed, or chair; books and magazines piled and waiting to be read; a half-finished sewing project... you get the picture. 

  It takes a combination of cleaning up the mess and stopping the slow leak to create a peaceful bedroom that promotes a good night's sleep.

   When you walk into your bedroom what message do you receive? Is it one that invites rest and peace, or is it one that leaves you feeling stressed and burdened with stuff to do?

   Timely Tips has some practical ideas on how to clean the mess and stop the slow leak.

TIMELY TIPS - for a peaceful bedroom

1. Gather supplies - Laundry basket (for dirty clothes); trash/recycle bag; bag/box for donate; bag/box for relocate. Make sure you have your containers clearly marked. Have a dusting cloth and vacuum handy for cleaning after de-cluttering.  

2. Clear and cover the bed  - Use a sheet and temporarily place items on the bed that belong in the bedroom but don't have a home yet.
 
3. Clear the floor and furniture - If you pick up something to wear (clothes, shoes, belts, hats, scarves, jewelry, etc.), make sure it passes the "love it," "feel good wearing it," and "I don't have too many of these" test, otherwise it goes to donate. If it stays, put it away. 

4. Use your relocate box - Place papers, dishes, kids' stuff, projects, and other items that don't serve a purpose in your bedroom into your relocate box.  

5. Create Homes - For items that belong in the bedroom, but are homeless, be intentional about creating specific places for them in the closet, bathroom cabinet, nightstand, or dresser.

6. Toss/Donate/Relocate - Toss the trash, put the donate in your car, and relocate the items belonging elsewhere.  

7. Clean - Give the room a good cleaning. 

8. Stop the slow leak:                                                                                                                           

  • Start the day by making your bed (it will help set the tone for a clutter-free room)                      
  • Be mindful about what you carry into your room                                                                          
  • Don't put things down, put them away
  • Change clothes in your closet so that you can hang things up or put them in the dirty clothes right away
  • Place clean loads of laundry on your bed and commit to putting them away before bedtime
  • End each day with a quick clean-up - relocate items that don't belong and put things away        an upcoming birthday or shower, the pile that got moved from the kitchen counter when company was coming, a half-finished sewing project, clothes that need to be ironed.

Wise Words

"Bedmakers are 19 percent more likely to report getting a good night's sleep than people who leave their blankets messy in the morning."  --National Sleep Foundation


 

Recharge

Allison and Chase - March 14, 2015  (Photo Credit Hom Photography)

Allison and Chase - March 14, 2015  (Photo Credit Hom Photography)

 "Low battery. Your Mac will sleep soon unless plugged into a power outlet." As soon as that popped onto my screen I had a choice. I could plug into power, or take a chance of my laptop shutting down. 

   When I coach people around life management issues, I sometimes wish I could hold up a sign, "Your self-care is dangerously low. If you don't recharge, you're at risk of shutting down."

   Shutting down can manifest itself in exhaustion, stress, sickness, disease, anxiety, depression, strained relationships, and more. 

   This month my son, Chase, and his bride, Allison, got married. With the endless list of last minute wedding to-dos they had a choice-- run themselves into the ground and use the honeymoon to recuperate, or make self-care a priority and show up healthy and ready for the big day.

   Chase and Allison chose mindful eating and some yoga to help them stay healthy and productive. They did a great job, created a beautiful marriage celebration, and still looked refreshed and ready for a honeymoon in Costa Rica!

   Whether you're under a deadline, trying to keep up at home, or overwhelmed with life in general, Timely Tips has some recharging techniques that will make a difference for you.

TIMELY TIPS - Recharge  

1. Breathe - Of course you're already breathing, but consciously breathing deeply is a healthy, de-stressing activity. Breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose, filling your abdomen, not your chest, with air. Slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat several times. Stopping to "catch your breath" will have a calming effect.

2. Nap - Babies nap. Older folks nap. Why are those of us in between missing out? A 20-minute nap can recharge your batteries and provide a boost of energy.

3. Eat Healthy & Regularly - A pretty obvious way to recharge, yet often neglected. Set you alarm so you have time to eat breakfast and pack a healthy lunch. Ward off fast food for dinner by creating a weekly meal plan.

4. Develop Routines - Dr. David B. Agus says, "One of our biggest stressors is not finances or marriage, but the lack of a regular routine. Even simply eating lunch an hour later than usual can spike levels of the stress hormone cortisol and disrupt your body's ideal state." Rather than running around like a chicken with its head cut off, design routines for things you do daily at home and at work. 

5. Go to Bed On Time - That might be different for everyone, but according to the National Sleep Foundation, the average adult needs 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Turn off electronic screen earlier in the evening and create a clutter-free bedroom to promote a good night's sleep. 

 6. Exercise - Yep, you knew it was coming, right? But, it doesn't have to mean spending an enormous amount of time and money on a gym membership. FitnessMagazine.com has a 15 Minute De-stress Workout you can do at home, but even something as simple as walking or bike riding can help. Find something you enjoy doing so it's sustainable. You certainly don't want to get stressed about de-stressing!

Wise Words

Hearty laughter is a good way to jog internally without having to go outdoors. --Norman Cousins