Lessons from a Roomba

I admit I was skeptical when I first heard about them. Vacuums that roam around the house on their own? But, when our son upgraded and offered us his original Roomba, I didn’t say no. My husband set it up in my home office, scheduled it on his phone, and voila! I came home to a house freshly vacuumed.

Today as I sat at my desk watching it make its way around the room, I discovered it’s not only valuable for picking up carpet debris, it also teaches some useful organizing lessons. If you have an area that’s begging to be organized, consider these Timely Tips from a Roomba.

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Timely Tips from a Roomba

Lesson 1 – Schedule it. The Roomba’s on a schedule, so we know the vacuuming is going to get done. Similarly, rather than waiting till you feel like it, which may be never, schedule your organizing project for a specific day and time.

Lesson 2 – Work at strategic times. Our Roomba comes on when we’re at work (today being an exception). Figure out when you’re most productive and plan to organize during that time of day.

Lesson 3 – Remove distractions. We’re careful to keep cords and things out of its way so it doesn't become entangled and stop. Before you begin organizing remove distractions—turn off phone notifications, get a babysitter, etc.

Lesson 4 – Program efficiency. It’s fascinating to watch the Roomba strategically cover every area of the room. Similarly, your organizing efficiency will increase when you don’t bounce around the room or house. Start in one spot and work strategically around the room.

Lesson 5 – First things first. The most advanced Roombas vacuum and then mop. When it comes to organizing, always purge first and then containerize.

Lesson 6 – Be persistent and willing to adjust along the way. Our Roomba is amazingly persistent. It continually adjusts until it gets the difficult places done. While organizing you may run into barriers. If things aren’t fitting where you think they should be, consider making adjustments. Try new ways, places, or purge some more, just don’t give up.

Lesson 7 – Know how and when to recharge. This amazing little machine knows when it’s getting low on energy. It makes its way back to the charger, clicks in, and then picks up where it left off when recharged. Plan an organizing break before you’re depleted of energy. Schedule a snack, walk, or power nap—whatever charges your batteries, and then get back to it.

Lesson 8 – Release the debris. Yes, you can even order a Roomba with a self-emptying automatic dirt disposal. Unfortunately, unless you hire me, you have to haul away your own organizing “debris.” Make sure you finish your project--relocate misplaced items, throw out the trash, and put donations into your car right away.

Lesson 9 – If you get stuck, get help. Last week I could tell Roomba had done its job, but it was nowhere to be found. I finally discovered it stuck under our oversized rocker. I picked it up and helped it back to its home. Sometimes when we get stuck it’s okay to ask for help. You can find a list of Professional Organizers at NAPO.net, or visit my website, www.OrganizedByChoice.com, for more information.

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wise words

Like a Roomba, an organized home provides more time for the things you enjoy. —Brenda McElroy

How to win points with your future son/daughter-in-law

If you have a teen who's keeping a tidy room, you have a rare find. Yes, there are some born with the clean gene, but even my neatnik son had a messy room in high school. Kids have a lot on their plates these days, and making time to find their bedroom floor isn't high on the list.

A messy room can contribute to a teen's anxiety and a feeling of not being in control of her environment. It can cause an inability to concentrate on homework or even find it. It's important to provide teens the freedom of expression in their own space while equipping them with the tools they need to maintain a peaceful and productive environment.

So, if you're tempted to close the door and post skull and crossbones, consider these Timely Tips and the benefits for you, your teen, and his or her future spouse.

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TIMELY TIPS for a teen's clean-er room

DECIDE WHAT'S NECESSARY
Before approaching your teen, consider realistic expectations. Model home status isn't the goal, but as one expert put it, the "degree of gross-ness" is a line you can draw.

Picking up laundry and dirty dishes weekly might be your line. You can add some incentive--if the dirty clothes are in the laundry room by Saturday morning, you'll wash them. If not, she's on her own. Or add a negative consequence--if dirty dishes are still in the bedroom on Saturday, no leaving for social events until the task is done.

The standard you expect should not be higher than what you're modeling in your own space, or more than what you're willing to regulate.

Write out your expectations, rewards, and/or consequences. Sit down and talk it over with your teen. Ask and share about the benefits. Explain that it's part of your responsibility to equip him with these life skills. Be open to discussion and make sure there's understanding and agreement on what his responsibilities are going forward.

PROVIDE A STRATEGY AND SUPPORT
If the room is a disaster, the initial clean-up is probably overwhelming you both. Don't say, "get it done" and walk away.

Set a date when you and your teen have several hours to devote to the project. Ask if she would like your help, the help of a friend (who has an affinity toward tidiness), or a Professional Organizer. Even if you're not the one helping, be sure to check in on the progress and provide break times.

SUPPLIES

• labeled trash and recycle bags

• laundry basket for dirty laundry

• hangers for clean laundry

• labeled box or bag for items to donate

• container for dirty dishes and other items to be relocated

• vacuum and cleaning supplies

STEPS

1. Turn on the lights, open the blinds (and window if needed)

2. Make the bed

3. Bag all the trash/recycle

4. Hang/fold clean clothes

5. Put dirty clothes in laundry basket

6. Sort contents from floor and other flat surfaces into categories such as electronics, school supplies, accessories, keepsakes, sports, donations, relocate, etc.

7. Put categories of items where they belong, or create a home if homeless (see below)

8. Vacuum, dust, and clean

CREATE HOMES
In order to have a successful maintenance program, everything needs a home. If needed, add a dresser or wire drawers to the closet. Attach hooks to the closet or bedroom wall for backpacks, purses, hats, jackets, etc. Use under-the-bed containers for keepsakes and rarely used items. Put up shelving for trophies and decorative items. Use over-the-door shoe hangers for sandals, accessories, leggings, etc. Label and use cube storage organizers for electronics, books, and school supplies. Ensure there are adequate sized waste and laundry baskets. Provide a tray or basket for dishes and food items.

MAINTAIN
Remember, we're not talking "white glove" checks, but it's your responsibility to follow through and support your teen in the maintenance agreement. Your future son or daughter-in-law will thank you!

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Wise words

You never know what you have... until you clean your room. --Unkown

Remember What?

One of my most embarrassing moments centers around forgetting something. Years ago, I contacted Clovis Adult School about offering a class on organizing. I scheduled an appointment to present my syllabus. I still have no idea how it happened, but I totally missed the appointment. It wasn’t until the next day that I realized it.

I was so embarrassed! I figured they’d prefer having someone a little more reliable teach a class on organizing, but I called and the woman in charge graciously rescheduled. She even said she’d like to take my class.

Embarrassment is just one of many consequences linked to forgetting things.Less productivity and more stress and frustration are also on the list. Whether you’re having trouble remembering appointments, to-dos, what you need from the store, when to pay your bills, or the name of the book a friend told you about, there’s an app for that. The Reminders app on the iPhone is truly my most-used and most-favorite.

Photo by Meruyert Gonullu from Pexels

Say good-bye to piles of scribbled notes. No more forgetting what you want to add to your grocery list before you can find it. No more getting to the store, and realizing you forgot your list at home. No more frantically pulling out your trash cans in your jammies as the garbage truck approaches. No more thinking of something you need to do when you get home, but not remembering it once you’re there. The Reminders app has features to help with each one of these—and more!

Anything that reduces clutter, has easy access, and increases efficiency ranks high on my list. David Allen, in his book Getting Things Done, says, “If it’s on your mind, your mind isn’t clear.” He suggests that anything waiting to be done needs to be captured in a trusted system outside your mind. For me, the Reminders app is one of those trusted systems.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

The app comes standard on the iPhone and other Apple products, but if it was deleted somehow, you can go to the app store and reinstall it. You can find comprehensive instructions on how to use it online at: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT205890. There are also instructive videos available on YouTube. Just search “how to use the Reminders app on an iPhone.”

Here are some of my favorite features:

SPEAK REMINDERS: No need to search for pen and paper, or even type. Just tell Siri what you need to remember. Initiate Siri by voice or pushing the side button on your phone and say, “Remind me to call Diane.” Boom—it shows up in your app.

DATE/TIME: If the reminder is time sensitive, add a date, time, and repeat instructions if needed. Say, “Remind me to pull out the trash cans every Sunday at 9:00 p.m.”

You can also add reminders, dates, times, and repeat instructions manually, but using the voice option substantially increases the ease of use.

LOCATION: I use this one ALL THE TIME. While working or running around town, I think of something I need to do when I get home. A simple, “Remind me to send thank-you to Kim when I get home,” is all that’s needed to have a reminder pop up on my phone as I pull into the garage.

You can also request reminders when you arrive at other places that are in your contacts. “Remind me to look for Haley’s lost jacket when I arrive at Lincoln School.”

If you need a reminder as you leave a location, you can do that too. When caring for a friend’s pet while they’re gone, you can say, “Remind me to feed Fluffy every day when leaving work.” Make sure you’ve listed the places you want to use, like “work” and “home,” in your phone as such.

SHOPPING LISTS: I have four shopping lists in my Reminders app—Office Max, Costco, Grocery, and Target. As I think of things, or run out of things, I just say “Add yogurt to my Grocery List.” The shopping lists, like the other reminder lists, have dots to check off items as you make your purchase or complete your reminder.

If you’d prefer checking off a paper list you can print the list from your phone, but this way even if you forget your paper list, you still have it with you on your phone.

You can link your lists to other iPhone users. So, my husband can add to my Costco list from work or stop at the store and pick up the items I’ve added to the grocery list.

OTHER LISTS: A Books to Read or Movies to Watch list can hold suggestions you collect from friends and family. A House Projects list with scheduled tasks can keep you from forgetting to change the AC filter, or smoke alarm batteries. I have a Christmas list that holds gift and activity ideas.

The possibilities are endless and yet all easily accessible in the one thing you have with you the most. The only feature they haven’t perfected is how to do the tasks for you.

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Wise Words

If you really want to do something, you'll find a way. If you don't, you'll find an excuse. -Jim Rohn

Photo by Eli Sommer from Pexels

Wishing you Peace and Productivity in 2022.

Memory Makers & Keepers

Our decorating tradition

Christmas decorations. Those two words activate a wide array of thoughts and feelings. For husbands asked to pull boxes from the attic—dread. For busy moms squeezing in time to decorate—stress. For children walking into Grandma’s house—delight. For families competing in outdoor contests—unleashed. For those who have lost loved ones—sadness. For we, sentimentalists—nostalgia.

Part of our decorating tradition is me adorning the tree while my husband watches football. Seriously, he considers that a tradition. Graciously, he mutes the game and allows Christmas music to accompany my part.

Through the years we’ve collected an assortment of ornaments. The golfing golf ball from the driving range in Sonora. The Hope Angel from my dear friend Devonia. The Coleman Lantern in memory of another dear friend, and more. Each represent meaningful places, events, and relationships. I call them Memory Keepers. I’m reminded of the significance of each one, while hanging them on the tree.

Sometimes decorations double as Memory Makers. One year, our musical angel ornament began randomly playing on its own. We discovered it became home to a colony of ants who were feeding on a nearby candy cane ornament, triggering the music as they moved about inside. We rescued the angel, but not the music.

One of the risks of collecting Memory Keepers is that over time, you may end up with an overwhelming number. This year, just when I thought I was done decorating, I realized I hadn’t yet hung our picture ornaments. If you, like me, still have ornaments left in the bin when you’re finished decorating, it’s time to make some choices.

I’ve decided to put picture ornaments on a separate, smaller tree next year. But there were others left in the bin as well. A few Memory Keepers I want to see, if only once a year when I look into the bin. The rest will find their way to other people’s homes through a donation.

My favorite Memory Maker is the Advent Wreath we began using when our youngest was a toddler. This tradition helps us pause and focus on the true meaning of Christmas each week in December.

Not all Advent memories are quiet times of reflection around the candlelight. For several years the challenge was simply to keep our son away from the burning candles. One year, in an attempt to instill charity for those with less in the hearts of our children, we had to practically pry some Miss Piggies from our girls’ hands to donate. Memories we can laugh about now.

There is value and pleasure in decorations that are beautiful without being linked to a memory. But, I encourage you to include in your Christmas décor, that which brings to mind the memories of people, places, and experiences you treasure and the best gift of all--Jesus.

Wise Words

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. -The Apostle John

15 Years of Gratitude

As I was contemplating a Gratitude theme this month, I was thinking about how grateful I am for 15 years in the organizing business. I recall talking to a seasoned organizer prior to starting my business. She said, “It’s the greatest job—you get to do what you love doing. When you’re done, your client thanks you, gives you a big hug, and writes you a check!” I am blessed enough without the checks, but since we’re not independently wealthy, I’m grateful for the checks as well.

Through the years over 450 people have invited me into their homes and offices. I understand it’s never easy to reveal what you’re challenged or embarrassed by, especially to a stranger. I’m grateful for my clients’ trust and hold that in high regard.

I’m thankful for the many wonderful clients who have become friends as well. It’s a gift to enter people’s lives, hear their stories, and journey with them to a more peaceful and productive environment.

Organizing also promotes gratitude in the hearts of clients. Today I received this note:

“Dear Brenda, I can’t thank you enough for all of your help. I’m feeling the good effects of your skill and involvement every day. I’m not overwhelmed by a cluttered home anymore…even when company’s coming! You’ve been a life-changer for me. Thank you! Thank you!” She went on to say how grateful she is that change is always possible when it comes to our habits and tendencies. New skills can be learned. Amen!

One couple’s eight-year-old grandson had never been inside their home due to clutter. We worked for weeks to uncover a beautiful living room, dining room, and kitchen. Clutter was a wall blocking out those they loved. How grateful they were when they could welcome him in.

“Oh, that’s where that was!” is a phrase I often hear. People are grateful as they discover treasures they had searched for—cash, vital documents, jewelry, and just some really useful stuff. It’s always a pleasure to rejoice with them.

After rehoming bins of paper to a user-friendly file system, a client told me what a difference it made for him, knowing right where to put things.

Sometimes it’s uncovering and giving an honored home to treasures from the past like I’ve done with my veteran client. And sometimes it’s releasing things from the past to make space for current priorities.

My life is enriched with each organizing encounter, but one stands out above the rest. In 2011, I stood on DeVonia’s doorstep, thinking I had something to offer her. And indeed, given the fact she was a widow with Multiple Sclerosis and bound to a wheelchair, her need was great. However, what she taught me about “being grateful in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) is a lesson that will last my lifetime.

Almost daily as I rise out of bed on my own and carry on my daily activities, I’m grateful for legs that work. I am grateful for DeVonia’s example of faith—waiting on God to provide her daily needs and always remembering to give thanks.

No matter her pain or challenge of the day, she greeted me with “God is good, and I am blessed.” The Lord graciously released her from her earthly pain in 2019. The last gift she gave me was a beautiful framed design with the word “Grateful” in the center.

As we celebrate this Thanksgiving, it’s my prayer that we will be mindful of our blessings and express gratitude to the Giver of all good things.

So grateful for my friend, DeVonia.

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Wise Words

Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever. Psalm 107:1

Smartphone Tips to Try

A few of my clients think I’m a tech wizard. My kids would say that’s hyperbole. In many cases our tech savviness is linked to our age, or connection to people with skills. I’m blessed with a son who’s a software engineer. He’s helpful when I have questions and every so often drops a tidbit of info that boosts my skills and productivity.

This newsletter is for those who aren’t of the tech savvy generation, or simply haven’t taken time to discover how smart their phone really is. It’s also specific to iPhones since my son generously shares his Apple hand-me-downs. I’m sure Androids have similar features but the set up may be different.

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Timely Tips for Smartphone Use

Magnifying Glass: So handy for us “older folk” when there’s fine print--like expiration dates, receipts, etc. Go to Settings > Accessibility. Tap Magnifier, then turn it on. You’re able to adjust the light, zoom, and even snap a picture, if needed. Now nothing is hidden from view. To add it to your Control Center, go to Settings > Control Center, then tap Customize Controls. Tap the add button (+) next to Magnifier.

Zoom In on a Website: For magnification while using Safari, tap on the AA icon on the top left corner of your screen. Directly below you’ll see a small A on the left and a larger A on the right with a percentage block in between. Click on the large A until the website font or image is the size you need.

Save Website Pages for Later: When you want to save a website in Safari, tap the box with the up-arrow icon at the bottom of your screen. Then, tap “Add to Reading List.” To view, click on the book icon at the bottom of your Safari screen. You can even save it to iCloud for offline reading when you’re not connected to the internet. Go to Settings > Safari, then turn on “Automatically Save Offline” (below Reading List).

Close Safari Tabs (all at once): Years ago, before I learned to close my websites, I remember my son’s friend grabbing my phone and X-ing out website after website for what seemed like five minutes. Now, you can easily close them all at once. While in Safari hold the tab button (two squares icon) on the bottom right-hand corner and select “close all tabs.”

Kodak Moments: To quickly access your camera, engage Siri. Simply command “take a selfie,” “take a photo,” or “take a video” and your camera will appear ready in the correct mode.

Expand Your Photo Skills: Swipe up (if vertical) or left (if horizontal) from the basic photo controls to find a row of hidden camera modes including a timer, night mode, exposure, etc.

Give Your Photos a Caption: Launch the Photos app and tap a photo you want to add a caption to. Swipe up on the pic to access the caption field. Tap “Add a Caption.” Write your caption, press return, and done. You can easily search for a photo using the caption you’ve created.

Calculator Tip: If you mistype a digit while using your calculator, rather than starting over with the C or AC button, swipe to the left or right at the top of the screen. The motion will act as a backspace and remove the number you entered last.

Texting Tips: Double click the space bar to add a period. Hold down the space bar to move the cursor. Rather than scrolling through texts to find the one you want, start on the "Messages" page, swipe down, and type the name in "Search."

Flash for Notifications: If you have a hard time hearing, you can set your phone to blink the flashlight in addition to, or instead of ringing. Go to Settings > Audio/Visual and look for “LED Flash for Alerts.”

Sing-along: To see the lyrics of songs you have downloaded on your phone, tap the three dots of the “Now Playing” screen. A menu will come up with “See full lyrics” as an option. Beware of singing along while using your earbuds—like in a plane.

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Wise Words

If your kids complain about helping you with technology, remind them that you once taught them how to use a spoon. --Unknown

Imagine That

My granddaughters are master pretenders. Last time I babysat we were all dragons with detailed descriptions. Pretending isn’t my forte, but I hang in there until we move on to coloring—that’s where my strengths lie.

Today as I was cleaning my guest room window blinds, I was thinking about how we get ourselves to do things we don’t like to do. Often there are special people, specific circumstances or a deadline that prompts action. Company coming for the weekend did it for me this time—special people, specific circumstances, and a deadline. I know they would be gracious had the blinds not been freshly cleaned, but it made me feel good.

I’d much rather reorganize a closet than clean baseboards and blinds. You might be the opposite. Cleaning may be your forte but organizing, not-so-much. Maybe the last time you decluttered a closet was when you remodeled or moved. The longer you wait, the bigger the project. The bigger the project, the easier it is to procrastinate. So, what do you do when there are no special people, circumstances, or deadlines prompting you to action?

You can pretend. Here are some Timely Tips to help you imagine your way to getting organized.

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Timely Tips for pretending—to get organized for real

Photo by Pexels

Pretend that you’re preparing to put your house on the market. Set a date for your “open house” to provide yourself a deadline. Start decluttering the common areas. Get rid of old magazines, mail, and other items that have been strewn about.

To borrow from my granddaughters’ imaginations, pretend the floor is “hot lava.” Clear it of all unnecessary items before they burn. Provide “orphans,” another favorite pretending theme, a home alongside a family of items they belong with. Send home things that belong to other people or in other places. Send things you no longer need on an adventure to another home through a donation center.

Continue this process throughout your rooms and closets. On “open house” day, buy yourself some flowers, bake some chocolate chip cookies, and enjoy your accomplishment. Far too many people wait to create a home environment they enjoy, until they’re about to leave it.

Photo by Thirdman from Pexels

For more creative folk, imagine your organizing goal as a baking, sewing, crafting, or building project. Write out your organizing steps, like you would see on a recipe, sewing pattern, or project instruction sheet. “Trim the excess from the hall closet.” “Combine like items.” “Strain old paperwork and set some aside for shredding.”

Make a list of “ingredients/supplies” like bags for trash, recycle, donations, and containers for organizing similar things. Envision your goal like you would your favorite project. Then, follow your steps till complete.

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If you’re of the left-brained variety, you may prefer a more concrete plan. Generate your own circumstances and deadline by scheduling a dinner or game night with friends or family at your place. Make sure to give yourself a realistic period of time to complete your project.

Take “before” pics and attach them to a calendar to designate specific start dates for each room. As soon as you’re finished with an area take an “after” pic. Create a little photo album for your “before and afters” and admire your accomplishment. Enjoy opening your home to the special people in your life.

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Wise Words

Clutter is not just the stuff on your floor--it's anything that stands in between you and the life you want to be living. --Peter Walsh

Creating Order for the New School Year

In my sixties I still have dreams of frantically trying to remember my school schedule, classroom, or locker number. I don’t recall that happened in real life, but it speaks to an element of stress relating to school. Add to the basic challenges the pandemic issues, and it can be a recipe for stressed out kids and parents. Being intentional about preparation goes a long way as you gear up to send your little-ones and teens off to school. Here are some Timely Tips for a peaceful and productive new year.

Timely Tips for the new school year

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels

SCHOOL CLOTHES: Don’t wait until the first day your child needs to wear long pants to discover he’s grown three inches over the summer. Pull out his clothing and have him try on several items to determine his current size. Remove the outgrown clothes and place them in a bin for a younger sibling or donate. Take inventory of what’s left and create a shopping list for what’s lacking.

With your child, sort the clothes into categories and designate specific drawers or cubbies for each. Assign a place for dirty laundry and make sure he knows where it’s expected to land. Delegate laundry cleaning, folding, and/or putting away duties based on age appropriateness.

Photo by Kindel Media from Pexels

SUPPLIES: Print a grade level supply list from the school’s website and check your inventory before you buy. Add to your supply list items needed for your homework station. If your child has an assigned desk at school or home, use open-topped containers to divide and store pencils, markers, glue, and other supplies. If your kitchen table is the homework station, use a caddy for supplies and store it in a nearby cabinet. Label school supplies with your child’s name. If purchasing back-up supplies remove them from the bag and designate a “school supplies” place in a cabinet or closet.

In ‘n Out Storage

IN 'N OUT: Label and assign hooks or cubbies to store your children’s backpacks, lunch bags, sports gear, etc. Create an arriving home routine to ensure they land in the right spot. Assign a tray or file for papers parents must see or sign. Daily walk with your child through the process of getting things where they go until the habit is formed. It may be faster to do it yourself but resist the temptation and build responsibility in your child.

Simple Chart

SCHEDULES: Establish a schedule for study time, snack time, free time, dinnertime, prep for the next day, and bedtime. Keep in mind extracurricular activities and homework loads. Set boundaries for screen time. Include your kids in developing the routines. Kids will push against limits but asking for their input will help. A predictable schedule builds security and self-discipline. Create and post a simple outline of the schedule. Feel free to add incentives and/or consequences as needed.

Create a master family calendar on the wall or phone app where everyone can access it. Establish a family meeting (15-20 minutes) each Sunday night to review the upcoming week’s schedule and activities. There will still be unexpected events, but far fewer. Use this time to review the daily schedule and make adjustments as needed. As opportunities arise for new activities and commitments (for parents and students), assess together how they will fit into the schedule and your family’s priorities.

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels

COMMUNICATION: Link your family meeting to a quick online check of the school portal for messages from the school or teacher. Look for ways to support your child’s teacher with a donation of supplies, volunteering, and sending encouraging notes or emails. School success is a team effort—students, parents, teachers, support staff, and administration all play an essential role. Build into your family an attitude of gratitude for each one and intentionally communicate your thanks throughout the school year.

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Wise Words

What's the difference between school and life? In school, you're taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you're given a test that teaches you a lesson. --Tom Bodett

Silent Messages

My oldest is a busy mom with twin seven-year-olds and a five-year-old. She’s not a clutter-bug, but family life gets messy. The other day she texted, “My room is almost clean! It’s been two months since it felt orderly in here… now I don’t even mind my bedding as much. Isn’t that funny? I kept thinking ‘if only I got new bedding, I’d enjoy my room more.’ But really it just needed tidying!”

In Fumio Sasaki’s book, Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism he says that every item in our house is sending out a silent message. Starting out as a “maximalist” he was never able to keep his apartment tidy. In his journey to minimalism, he discovered that “each material thing has the usefulness of having it around and the inconvenience of having to maintain it.”

“If you weigh them both,” says Sasaki, “and find that the inconvenience is winning…it’s time to start giving decluttering a serious thought.”

Look around your home. Listen. What silent messages do hear from your rooms and belongings? Is your stack of magazines guilting you because you haven't read them? Are the clothes you can’t fit into taunting you? Is the pile of decorative pillows on the floor calling out to be arranged on the bed? Is your clutter saying you need to remodel, when the real message is you need to declutter?

To achieve peace and productivity, reduce the negative messaging. Consider Sasaki’s approach, listening to and weighing the value of your belongings, as you review these Timely Tips.

Timely Tips from Silent Messaging

Gadgets: “Fixes almost anything in 4 seconds!” “Lasts hours without power!” “Instant pain relief!” “The must-have gift of 2021!” Gadgets make great claims. Electronic, kitchen, yard, therapy, personal care, pet care, travel, recreational… and the list goes on. I remember when my Salad Spinner lost the usefulness verses inconvenience challenge. It took a lot of space, I washed it by hand, and it didn’t always work well. If your gadget’s usefulness doesn’t live up to its promise—let it go.

Photo by Suzy Hazelwood from Pexels

Entertainment: DVDs, CDs, VHS tapes, and cassettes (yes, some of you have those). If they’re telling you they’re useful, but you never use them, they’re lying. Many households are streaming movies and music. Maintaining space for the old formats is costly. Let them go.

Home movies, however, send a unique message. “I’m irreplaceable.” Transfer old home movie formats, to DVDs and/or flash drives. The sooner the better to maintain their quality. Costco, Walgreens, Legacybox.com, and Southtree.com are a few companies that do that.

Photo by Suzy Hazelwood from Pexels

Consumables: Cleaning products, make-up, hair products, etc. How many half-full, unused bottles and cans are clogging up your cabinets and countertops? What are they saying? “You might use me someday.” “I was expensive.” Ask yourself, “Is the inconvenience of having them outweighing their usefulness?” If you’re not using them, the answer is most likely, yes—even if they were expensive.

Photo by Skylar Kang from Pexels

Collections: Whether it’s a collection of magazines, salt and pepper shakers, Barbies, or movie memorabilia, it all consumes space. What are your collections saying? “You treasure me.” “I might become valuable someday.” “You’ll regret letting me go.” Rather than considering your collection’s usefulness vs. inconvenience, weigh whether or not you enjoy it, or it’s become just one more thing to store and dust. If you do love it, but it’s taking up space you don’t have to spare, consider keeping a small sampling and selling or donating the rest. If you don’t love it, don’t let it take up space based on its value claims. Do your homework. Check with experts online or in stores that carry similar items. Let it prove its value with dollars in your hand.

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Wise Words

“When you’re aware of all the things that you own, you’re not only certain of where they are, you’re also sure about whether you have them or not.” --Fumio Sasaki

Time to Travel!

In March of 2020, two days before our twin granddaughters’ birthday trip to Disneyland, it closed. This month, having passed another birthday, they finally got to celebrate with Mickey (from a distance). Fortunately, they can't remember their pre-COVID Disney experience, so they left all the complaining to the adults and had a great time.

If you’re venturing out of town this summer, here are some Timely Tips for packing up and "packing out" (unpacking) as my granddaughter says.

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Timely Tips for Trips

PREPARE

Store Info: Use a large plastic envelope to store your trip information and resources—reservation confirmations, tickets, packing checklist, list of your prescriptions, etc. You can also use the folder to collect brochures and memorabilia while away.

Tripit.com

Download Apps: Most airlines, hotels, and amusement parks have apps and features to streamline and enhance your experience. Tripit automagically compiles your itinerary when you forward your confirmation emails so they’re all in one place. Hotel Tonight helps if you need to make a last-minute booking. This saved us one time when the place where we had reservations was spraying for bed bugs! Sit or Squat has the location of over 100,000 restrooms across the country that have been rated “sit” (good) or “squat” (bad) by users.

Photo by Noelle Otto from Pexels

Prepare Your Home: Put a hold on your mail by visiting www.usps.com or fill out the form at the post office. Arrange care for pets and plants. Put house lights on a timer and secure valuables. Give a trusted neighbor or friend your itinerary and contact info.

Pay Bills: Ensure that any bills coming due while you’re gone are taken care of.

Photo by Skitterphoto

Family Travel: Check out these websites for ideas to make your road trip memorable in a good way—www.momsminivan.com and www.roadsideamerica.com. If traveling by air, download cartoons and kids’ games and relax your rules on screen time.

Bimnoot Packing Cubes

PACKING

Checklist: Download or create a packing checklist and keep multiple copies in a folder where you store your suitcases. Be sure to include a list of your current medications. Create themed checklists as needed—camping, beach trip, Grandma’s house, etc. Check things off as you pack.

Snacks: Pack kids' snacks that take a while to eat, such as Goldfish crackers which kids can also pretend with, and lollipops which can help with ear pain if flying or driving in high elevations. Pack spill-proof cups, even for the older kids.

Luggage Identifier: Tie a brightly colored ribbon to the handle and wheel so you can identify your luggage no matter which way it lands on the baggage carousel.

Packing Cubes: I’m a huge fan. Pack each person’s clothes in their own packing cube or extra-large Ziplock bag. Do the same with undies, swimwear, and pajamas. Label each bag with the person’s name and category of items. This makes finding things and packing up for your next stop a breeze.

Jewelry: To protect necklaces from tangling, thread them through straws and place them in resealable bags or toothbrush holders. Store rings and earrings in seven-day plastic pill holders or in snack-size resealable bags pinned to the corresponding outfit.

Shoes: Bag your shoes and place them on the wheel end of your rolling suitcase so they don’t crush your clothes when the suitcase is upright. Maximize space by filling shoes with small bags of charging cords, belts, etc.

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels

"PACKING OUT"

Unpack: Unpacking isn't fun, and unfortunately it doesn't get more fun by putting it off. Give yourself a deadline. You’re finished when travel items and empty suitcases are returned to their storage area and your clean laundry is folded and put away. Believe me, you’ll be glad you did!

Containerize: If you didn't already have a bin labeled "Travel" for items such as travel size toiletries, packing cubes, neck pillows, etc., create one and place it near the suitcases.

Update Checklist: Make adjustments to your checklist for next time, based on what you were missing on your trip, or didn’t need to bring.

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wise words

People forget years and remember moments. —Ann Beattie

One Person's Junk is another Person's Treasure

While sorting papers with a client, I came across an expired coupon. I was tempted to toss it but, as is my practice, I asked first.

“Oh no,” she replied, “I’m saving that as a template for a coupon I want to make for my business.” I’ve learned to never make assumptions because what is one person’s junk is another person’s treasure.

Could a friend come into your home and easily identify your “treasures?” Treasures are disguised as junk when hidden in piles of clutter. They don’t beg for our attention like bills to pay or pets to feed. They sit quietly collecting dust in the back of a closet, catch-all room, garage, or storage unit. Sometimes they encroach on our living space covering the floor or flat surfaces because we mean to do something with them.

We hope that keeping them in our vision will inspire action, but when the next thing lands, we’ve lost sight of the treasure and the inspiration. When treasures convert to triggers causing stress and anxiety, it’s time for action.

As you sort through your “treasures” it’s unlikely you’ll identify any of them as junk. Most likely, they're not. Many belongings are donatable and truly become someone else’s treasure. There is great value in passing along things that others can’t afford to buy new.

If everything’s precious, then nothing’s precious, so choices must be made. Here are some Timely Tips to assist you.

Timely Tips to discover your treasures

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

Is it something you need?

• Clients often say, “Now that I know where it is, I’ll use it!” Think realistically about how it landed there. If it wasn’t searched for, it probably wasn’t treasured.

• If you’re convinced you’ll use it, place it in a box with a date six months from now. Put a reminder on your calendar or phone to donate anything you haven't dug out to use.

• Create permanent homes for things you remove. After six months, donate the rest.

OK, so I kept a tray or two.

Does it add value to your current lifestyle and interests?

• When I ask clients about their priorities I often hear, “I’d like to (insert hobby/activity), but I don’t have the space for it.” Sound like you?

• Give yourself permission to move on and let go of former passions and interests to make space for your current ones.

• Just because I collected cows and did folk art painting in my 30s, doesn’t mean I have to consider them treasures in my 60s.

Photo by Jordan Benton from Pexels

Can I make money if I hang onto it long enough?

• A better question is, what are these "treasures" costing me to keep? In addition to space, cluttered areas can affect relationships, collect dust, and cause stress and health issues.

• Renting storage space for things you plan to sell is seldom lucrative.

• Sadly, there are few things increasing in value these days, because fewer people are buying collectibles and antiques.

• Rather than hang on to things "just in case," send photos or make a call to a collectible/antique dealer and determine if it's costing you more to keep than to let go of.

• If you have true treasures you're not using or displaying, ask the dealer how to go about selling.

• If your items don't have monetary value, they may still be valuable to someone shopping at a local thrift store.

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Wise Words

Don’t let possibility enthusiasm crowd you out of your home. Share the wealth. -Brenda McElroy

Make Your Closet a Happy Place

Showing up for a root canal. Meeting with an auditor. Being summoned by your boss during layoffs. These situations naturally stir up negative emotions. But if getting dressed in the morning stresses you out, you may be experiencing:

• Overwhelm from too many choices

• Frustration from not enough choices

• Shame of not fitting into what you want to wear

• Stress of not finding what you want to wear

• Disgust with piles of dirty laundry

• Exasperation from piles of clean laundry

Can an organized closet really combat this negativity? If organized means—having what you need, use, and love in designated spaces where they fit comfortably and maintaining those spaces with supporting routines, then yes! You can make your closet a happy place. Here are some Timely Tips to do just that.

Timely Tips for a happy closet

Photo by Kayla Renee from Pexels

WHAT DO YOU NEED?
You need clothes that fit well and look good on you—regardless of your shape or size. Things you don't need:

• clothes that shame you for not being the size you want to be

• clothes that shame you for having spent money on something you don’t wear

• clothes you’re not wearing (professional, maternity, bridesmaid dresses, prom dresses, etc.)

ACTION:

• Pull out the clothes that don’t fit, don’t look good on you, and those you don't like or wear.

• If desired, hang onto 3-5 outfits that you love from a size you hope to be again. Place them in an under-bed bin or a plastic tote. Label it.

• Donate or sell the items you pull out.

Photo by Sam Lion from Pexels

WHAT DO YOU USE?
You have categories of clothes: staying home, going out, work, formal, etc. The quantity of clothes you have for each category should align with how often you use them. Granted, COVID has decreased our need for professional, going out, and formal wear, but let’s not give up on the return of those activities.

ACTION:

• Pull out one category at a time. Lay the items on the bed. Determine the appropriate number of items you need based on use. Choose your favorites. Let go of the excess.

• If you discover a category is lacking, create a shopping list of items you need.

• Return each category of clothes to your closet and assign it a section.

• If clothes are still crammed together, store off-season items in a bin or another closet. If it's still too tight, purge some more!

• Organize by colors as desired.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

WHAT DO YOU LOVE?
This can be tricky. Ask yourself:

• Do you love how it looks on the hanger, but not on you?

• Do you love the good deal you got, but not so much the item?

• Do you love the person who gave it to you, but you never wear it?

None of those are valid reasons for keeping something, except the third if it’s going to impair the relationship. Even though you’ll feel a twinge of guilt giving them up, your closet will be a happier place.

ACTION: Let them go.

MAINTAIN WITH SUPPORTING ROUTINES.
Keep your closet a happy place with supporting routines.

ACTION:

• Don’t put it down, put it away. Hang clean clothes. Place dirty clothes in the laundry bin. Every time.

• Hang a white kitchen trash bag for donations in your closet. When you try on something and decide not to wear it, consider placing it in the donation bag. Donate and replace when full.

• Maintain your clothes inventory with the one in, one out rule.

• Hang your hangers backwards until you wear the item, then hang it correctly. Whichever items are still hanging backwards at the end of the season, go.

Now you can confidently walk into your happy place and choose from clothes you want to wear.

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Wise Words

Opening up your closet should be like arriving at a really good party where everyone you see is someone you like. -Amy Fine Collins

This is a pic from my most recent closet purge. It really does feel great to eliminate things I don't want to wear. Happy organizing!

Three Steps for an Organized Pantry

Last night a former classmate popped up on Facebook’s “People You May Know.” Wow—I couldn’t believe how much time had passed since I had seen him. He got old!

Do you ever feel that way about things you discover in your pantry? Something you purchased for a holiday recipe, or unnecessarily stocked up on. Stuff gets pushed to the back as new things are added. Deep shelves and corners are famous for aging groceries. "Suddenly" they're old!

If your pantry is in need of some TLC, here are three Timely Tips to restore order and make it user-friendly.

Timely Tips for an organized pantry

Photo by Organized By Choice

1. PURGE & SORT

• Clear off the kitchen table or a large countertop.

• Shelf by shelf remove your pantry’s contents. As you do, check expiration dates and toss outdated items.

• Donate usable, but not enjoyed by your family, non-perishable items to the Community Food Bank.

• Group like items into categories: baking, spices, pasta/rice/dry beans, condiments, oils and dressings, beverages, breakfast foods, snacks, sweets, paper supplies, crackers/chips, canned foods (further sort into fruits, vegetables, sauces, soups, beans), pet food, cookbooks, appliances, etc.

• Vacuum and wipe out the empty shelves.

Photo by Organized By Choice

2. Create Homes

• Containerize loose items when possible using bins or baskets for snack items, pastas, rice, coffee pods, tea, etc.

• Use turn tables for oils, vinegars, and sauces. These are great for hard-to-reach corners, too.

• Pour flour, sugar, nuts, coffee, etc. into clear airtight storage containers. This will create order on the shelves, keep things fresh, and enable you to see quantities, so you know when to restock.

• Use can rack organizers or three-tier cabinet organizers for canned goods. Position cans with labels facing forward.

• Place items on shelves in the categories you created--like with like.

• Put the categories you use most often on the shelving that’s easiest to reach.

• Designate a section of approved snack items at a level kids can access.

• Add free-standing wire shelves or under shelf baskets to maximize vertical space where needed.

• Add space with an over the door pantry organizer rack.

• Store heavy items under or on the bottom shelf.

• Label containers and the front of shelves so it’s clear where everything belongs.

• Check Pinterest or Google “pantry organizing images” to see these products and more.

Photo by Organized By Choice

3. Maintain

• Unpack groceries and supplies right away and place them in their designated homes. Storing things in grocery bags makes them invisible and increases duplicate purchasing.

• Use the “first in, first out” rule and place new items in back of the older ones.

• Avoid “buy two get three free” sales or Costco quantities, if you don’t have the space for it.

• Store a fold-up step stool in the pantry to insure easy access to top shelves.

• Organizing isn't a "one and done" activity. Schedule a day at least twice a year to repeat this process.

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Comical Words

1. Open Fridge. Nothing to eat.
2. Open pantry. Nothing to eat.
3. Lower standards and repeat.
-Author Unknown

More Time Doesn't Equal More Productivity

“I thought once I retired, I would get everything done.”
“I figured after the kids moved out, I’d be much more productive.”
Have you ever had more discretionary time and found it more challenging to get stuff done? I have. Pre- COVID, business was booming. Understandably many people are still cautious about inviting someone to work inside their homes, so this means I have more time in mine. It's easier for me to put off household chores, when there's more time available to do them.
Erin Elizabeth Wells says, “Productivity is doing the right things at the right time in the most effective and efficient way possible.”
That might sound unattainable or outright boring, so let’s break it down in three Timely Tips.

Timely Tips for productivity

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

“DO THE RIGHT THINGS”
There are some essential “right things” like paying bills and doing laundry. We may not experience joy in the process of these, but the result is peace of mind and ease of living. Make a short list of the undesirable essential tasks you tend to put off.
There are also the “right things” you choose to do—your personal priorities. Identify your top three. These could include anything from working on a relationship or hobby, volunteering, or getting a degree.
During the pandemic, three of mine have been continuing education classes, writing a children’s book on organizing, and sorting through my keepsakes. Yes, I have keepsakes.
Working on your priority list has a double benefit. They’re things you really care about and, since you’ve determined them to be a priority, you can let go of the guilt from not doing things that didn't make the cut.

Photo by Jess Bailey Designs from Pexels

“THE MOST EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT WAY”
You may prefer to complete the unpleasant or difficult tasks first and then reward yourself with the enjoyable ones. Others may alternate between the two, so that boredom or becoming drained of energy doesn’t stop progress. Figure out what keeps you moving forward and do that.
Some listen to music or podcasts to enhance productivity. One of Scott and my “right things” is a 7-minute workout in the evenings before watching TV. (We’re starting small.) We find listening to comedy on the Dry Bar Comedy app makes it more enjoyable. For jobs like writing, I need quiet. Ensure that your environment supports the effectiveness of your task.
To promote efficiency, simplify your tasks. Keep supplies convenient and work smarter, not harder. Store some cleaning supplies in each bathroom. Prepare a week’s worth of veggies at once so you don’t have to wash and cut them every day. If your project is paper sorting, have a bag for recycle, a shredder or shred box, and folders on hand.
Reduce distractions by clearing off your workspace so you can focus on one project at a time. Have a notepad handy or use Notes or Reminders on your smart phone to record other tasks that come to mind while working. That way you won’t stop to do things you’re afraid you’ll forget.

As always, start small. Choose one essential task and one item from your priority list. Schedule the “right time” on your calendar this week and consider how to make that time effective and efficient.

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Wise Words

You can't turn back the clock, but you can wind it up again. --Bonnie Prudden

In other words, beating yourself up for not being productive yesterday, last month, or last year, doesn't help. Choosing to start with one thing tomorrow, does!

Truths to Combat Lies

It didn't say, "Spam Risk." Caller ID said it was PG&E. When I answered, the gentleman greeted me and said that our power would be turned off in about 45 minutes. My first thought was that they were working in our area, then he added, “unless your balance is paid.”

It took longer than it should have for me to identify him as a liar and a thief. First, I was put at ease by the familiar. My phone told me it was PG&E. We’ve had notifications about shutdowns. When he added the part about the past due bill, I went into panic mode which removes the ability to think reasonably. Thirdly, I was ignorant about when it was last paid since my husband pays the bills.

Those three elements--familiarity, panic, and ignorance gave me cause for briefly succumbing to the liar and would-be thief on the other end of the line. If you’re struggling with organization and productivity, you may be listening to a liar and a thief.

The liar says:

• “You never finish stuff, so why start?” Sound familiar?

• “You’re overloaded with things to do. Your life will implode if you attempt one more.” In a panic?

• “You can’t do it because you don’t know how.” Feel ignorant?

Believing these lies steals your peace of mind. When disorganization disrupts a relationship, the thief has won again. Time wasted looking for things steals time from higher priorities. Your wallet is a target too. Late fees due to mail clutter, payments for extra storage, and buying replacements for things you can’t find.

Lies about organization and productivity are often more subtle than my would-be thief who held my electricity hostage for a $900 payment. Don’t beat yourself up if you have succumbed. My remedy was to hang up on the liar and call the place I knew would give me straight truth—the real PG&E.

Here are three Timely Truths to combat the lies that threaten your organization and productivity.

Timely Truths to combat disorganization

Photo by Sorapong Chaipanya from Pexels

1. You have finished stuff. Maybe it was high school, or a Master’s degree, or a personal project or goal. Maybe you’ve been sober for two years or twenty. Each day is an accomplishment. List three things you’ve done in life that were challenging. Now record one organizing project you’d like to accomplish. Start small. A drawer, your purse, or maybe your pet supplies. Combat the lie with the truth that you can finish.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

2. Adding is sometimes subtracting. Look for a way to be productive that will open up time and space in your life rather than put you over the edge. Do you look forward to the weekend until you notice the huge pile of clean laundry or dirty dishes that accumulated during the week? Adding a ten-minute task of putting away each clean load or filling the dishwasher nightly can subtract an overwhelming pile at week’s end.

Photo by RF._.studio from Pexels

3. You know enough. Fortunately for all of us, getting organized isn’t rocket science. Four steps is all you need. For a free instruction sheet click here: FOUR SURE-FIRE WAYS TO GET & STAY ORGANIZED. If you get stuck on any of those, feel free to give me a call. I’ll answer as long as caller ID doesn’t say PG&E!

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wise words

Organization isn't about perfection; it's about efficiency, reducing stress and clutter, saving time and money and improving your overall quality of life. --Christina Scalise

Merry and Bright

Hiding a small remote, my husband waved his hand and commanded the fake candle to turn on. Our granddaughters were amazed—especially when it worked for them too! Candlelight, tree lights, and house lights are all part of the wonder of Christmas.

With the effects of the pandemic weighing upon us, I thought I’d keep the topic this month on the “light” side. Light plays an important role in creating and maintaining organization, efficiency, and productivity. Here are Timely Tips to make your days a little more “merry and bright.”

Timely Tips - to enlighten your organizing

Photo by Sorapong Chaipanya from Pexels

Light up your closets. An efficient closet means you can easily find what you need, and good lighting is essential. We recently replaced an old single bulb light with a bright LED fixture in our master closet. “Now I can see all my shirts,” my husband announced. We didn’t realize the strain it was to see clearly until we could. For closets with no permanent fixture, consider stick-on lights that tap on and off.

Bin the front stuff. While organizing her kitchen, my client feared reaching into the dark corner of a cabinet. When a cabinet is packed full of loose items, neither light nor you can access what’s in back. This is also true for closets where the opening isn’t as wide as the shelf. Use an open-topped bin to store the loose items in front so it can be easily pulled out when you need to see and reach what’s behind.

Illuminate your chores. Sometimes chore avoidance has more to do with conditions than the task itself. If your file cabinet is stuck in a dark corner, it’s going to be a tougher chore. Create adequate lighting where you and your family do paperwork and filing. The same can be said for the laundry room and garage. Well-lit areas are more conducive to productivity.

Photo by Christian Domingues from Pexels

Let the sunshine in. Draw back those drapes. Open wide the blinds. The “Sunshine Vitamin” D has physical and mental health benefits that you can access even through the window. When we feel better, we are more motivated to maintain organization and be productive. If the blinds are closed due to clutter, relocate your clutter to a closet or spare room so you have a clear space to drink in the sun, undistracted. Then, when motivation hits, you can pull out a little clutter at a time to sort through in your sunlit area.

Access the light of life. Beyond all the benefits of physical light, is the benefit of knowing the one we celebrate this holy season—Jesus. “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12

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wise words

The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. --John the Baptist

How to have a Happy Thanksgiving

A section of the registers were closed due to COVID-19. The woman in line behind me began to complain, "They should have more registers open. It's hot in here..." If 2020 has given us anything, it's plenty to complain about. Complaining in negative circumstances is normal, but how does it serve us?

Dennis Prager, author of Happiness is a Serious Problem offers some insight. "We tend to think that it is being unhappy that leads people to complain," says Prager, "but it is truer to say that it is complaining that leads to people becoming unhappy. Become grateful and you will become a much happier person."

Our brains create pathways for things we do repeatedly. For many the pathway for complaining is etched in the brain, making that the default. Frequent complaining releases more of the stress hormone cortisol which can impair the immune system, affect sleep, raise blood pressure, create anxiety, etc.

Our brains, however, have the remarkable ability to change. Creating new pathways requires intentionality. Here are some Timely Tips to transform the consequences of complaining to the benefits of gratitude.

Timely Tips - for cultivating gratitude

Transform complaints into thankfulness: Search for things to be grateful for tucked inside the very things you're tempted to complain about. We can be grateful that the store lines aren't as long as they appear, due to the fact we're spread six feet apart. Maybe turkey isn't your favorite, nor the people you spend Thanksgiving with. You can be grateful it's just once a year.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Schedule gratitude: Set aside time each day to ponder things you’re grateful for. Link it to something you do regularly. While showering or brushing your teeth focus on what you’re grateful for. The first thing I do each day is sit down with my Gratitude Prayer Journal and record something I’m thankful for.

Photo by Judit Peter

Verbalize gratitude: Last week Costco welcomed back the sampling stations. Yay! As I picked up the pre-packaged samples, I thanked them not only for the sample, but for returning to work. Many people perform acts of service all around us. Choose to be aware and verbalize your gratitude for their services, especially to those at home.

Photo by Rodnae Productions

Put your gratitude into writing: Let others know in a card, letter, email, or even text how much you value them. Tell them specifically how they've impacted your life. It’s a win/win. It will make you both happy.

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Like many in our nation today, those celebrating the first Thanksgiving had much to complain about. They suffered a great deal that year and yet, they focused on their blessings and gave thanks. Without Prager's book, what motivated them to be grateful? The words of Kind David.

"It is good to give thanks to the Lord." Psalm 92:1

Indeed, it is.

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wise words

Piglet noticed that even though he had a very small heart, it could hold a rather large amount of gratitude. —A. A. Milne

Creating an Organized and Skeleton-free Closet

A few years ago, my girls took me to a Paint Night for my birthday. The instructor walked us through the steps of painting a winter scene. Each person in the class received the same supplies and instruction, tainted as it was by the instructor's desire to be elsewhere. It was his birthday too. When completed each painting had its own unique style. 
 
Likewise, most homes come standard with a hall closet, but there’s not one “correct” way to supply and organize it. If you have kids at home, it will look different from a retiree’s closet. The size, its contents (skeletons?), and personal preferences all play into what it’s like when completed. These Timely Tips will guide you to achieve your own unique and user-friendly space.

Timely Tips - for an organized hall closet

#1 Create a vision: Your hall closet is there to serve you. Its job is to store the things you need and have them easily accessible. Decide which items you want to store there based on your preference, use, and available space. Many use their hall closets for linens, and that’s totally fine. I choose to store sheets and towels in the rooms and bathrooms where they’re used. My hall closet stores table linens (placemats/napkins), candles, vases, party and paper goods, light bulbs, household and sewing supplies, games, and grandkid supplies. As you create your vision you may choose to relocate items out of and into your closet. Maybe you need a spot for craft items, gift wrap, photos or back-up supplies like Costco paper towels and toilet paper.
 
#2 Purge and sort: The unfortunate truth is that you can pack way more into a disorganized closet. If your vision includes having easy access, then paring down is essential. Scavenging the back of the closet may bring to light some long-lost artifacts. Clients often say, “I’ll use it now that I know where it is,” but it probably would have been searched for earlier if it was that essential. Keep what fits with your vision, interests, and current lifestyle. As you purge, you’re creating space and making your closet more user-friendly.
 
#3 Keep like things together: Consider the categories you chose for your closet. A Home Décor category might have vases, frames, candles, seasonal decorations, etc. Household Supplies might have basic in-house tools, picture hanging supplies, felt pads for chairs, adhesives, sliders, etc. Sort the contents of what you’re keeping into categories. 

#4 Create homes: Sometimes a home for something is simply a designated place on a shelf, but whenever possible, use labeled containers. Some prefer clear plastic bins that stack. Don't place a lid on containers you frequently access. Open-topped canvas cubes, woven baskets, or plastic baskets give a clean look. Label each bin so that you and others can locate and put things away more easily. If placing linens directly on shelves, use shelf dividers and label the front of the shelves to keep things orderly. 
 
#5 Keep close what you use most: What items or categories do you handle most often? Place those on the shelves that are easiest to reach. Fan out from there based on use. Save the very top, bottom, and corners for items rarely used.
 
#6 Maintain boundaries: If left unchecked, your linens and things will multiply like rabbits behind closed closet doors. Over time, unsolicited items will appear randomly on your closet shelves. To combat clutter be mindful of returning things to their rightful place and not overstuffing. You’ll know when it gets hard to find what you need and frustrating to access, that it’s time to revisit step two—purge and sort. Don’t forget to remove the skeletons, unless of course, you’re decorating for Halloween!

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wise words

If you want to improve your life immediately, clean out a closet. Often, it's what we hold onto that holds us back. --Cheryl Richardson

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HAPPY FALL!

Just Do It-- Doesn't Always Work

When my twin granddaughters began buckling themselves into their car seats, I had flashbacks of my kids at that age. One twin found a cracker left-over from another car ride and decided that before buckling would be a fun time for a snack. The other got half-way into her seat and began a conversation about where we were going. No buckling going on there. Being grandma I have a little more patience, but sometimes I’d rather say, “Just do it!” 
 
“Just do it” doesn’t compute to a two-year-old. Actually, it doesn’t work so well for us either. Many people struggle with not getting things done in a timely manner, or at all. Unfortunately, society isn’t so forgiving when you’re a grown-up. 
 
We wouldn’t say a two-year-old procrastinates, because we tend to associate procrastination with a conscious decision to put something off. However, procrastination isn’t a conscious decision for many adults, either. We may experience stress, guilt, and shame, but not identify or link it to procrastination. Here are some Challenges & Choices to bring it to our consciousness and alter our course. The result? Peace and productivity.  

timely tips to combat procrastination

Photo by Jess Bailey Designs from Pexels

Challenge #1 - Menial Productivity
We fill our days with tasks that come easy and avoid those we don’t like to do.  Since we’re being productive, we don’t consider that we’re procrastinating until the shoe drops and the consequences hit. Maybe it was putting off the home maintenance calls. Now it’s raining and the roof is leaking. 
 
Choice #1 – Meaningful Productivity
Make a list of tasks you’ve been avoiding. Schedule one per day to lessen the overwhelm. Make it the first thing you do in the morning to reduce the dread. Then, you can relax and enjoy the tasks you like to do.

Photo by Torsten Dettlaff from Pexels

Challenge #2 – Distractibility
With our phones ringing and texts dinging it’s not surprising we get side-tracked from the tasks that need our attention. One look at our email or Facebook, and we can lose focus for hours. We’re not deliberately avoiding, but subconsciously succumbing to a world of distractions. 
 
Choice #2 – Disconnect
Intentionally create a place conducive to focus. Turn off notifications and let those in your office or household know you’re unavailable for a designated time. Set a timer and choose to stay on task until the timer rings. Break for 15-30 minutes. Check email, Facebook, etc. and then reset a timer for focus. Breaks are important but must have boundaries.

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Challenge #3 – Fear
Without some self-analysis most of us wouldn’t say we procrastinate out of fear. Past failures can trigger fear. Connected to that is the fear of what people might think or say. Sometimes it’s fear of the outcome of completion. Putting off taking a medical test, or even something positive like completing a Masters can arouse fear because of changes to come. 
 
Choice #3 – Foresight
Compare the benefits and consequences of completion and incompletion. Realize that in the end procrastination limits your choices. 

Photo by Markus Winkler from Pexels

Challenge #4 – Perfectionism
Many are stopped in their tracks due to perfectionism. It’s often hard to identify because things are so chaotic that it seems contrary. If the task can’t be performed perfectly, it’s not done at all. Or, the task never ends because the level of perfection is never attained.
 
Choice #4 – Plug it 
Parkinson’s Law says that “Work expands to fill the time available for its completion.” If you don’t have an external deadline, create one. Decide ahead of time that done is better than perfect. Break down the project into pieces, schedule time to work on it, and choose to stop when the deadline hits. 

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Comical Words

I was having trouble focusing on my work so I googled how to stop procrastinating. After three hours of “research” I realized what was happening. — Greta Sukyte

Piles to Smiles

Do you want a safe and effective way to lose 20 pounds in a day? Purge your files. Do you want to make things easier on your kids when you die? Purge your files. Do you want to be able to find important documents faster and easier? Purge your files.
 
There are a lot of benefits to organizing your paper. The only downside is the process. I remember a client saying, “I have to wait until my fear of doing it is overcome by my fear of not doing it.” Filing isn’t second nature to most people.
 
In addition to it not being fun, paper piles and overstuffed files are due to deferred decisions. The cause is a lack of knowledge or confidence about the following:

• What to keep

• How to store it

• When to let it go

 Here are some Timely Tips to convert your over-stuffed files and piles, into smiles. 

Timely Tips for paper piles and files

1. Get informed. Know which documents to keep and how long they need to be saved. You can access a record retention guide here: www.suzeorman.com/resources/record-keeping. Always allow your CPA/Attorney to have the final say on what you need to keep.

2. Gather the following supplies:

• Boxes or bags labeled “To Be Sorted,” “Shred,” and “Recycle.” 

• A sturdy file cabinet that opens easily and completely. I recommend Hon. 

• Hanging files, regular folders, and a label maker or marker.

• A clear space to work. (#3 will help with that.)

3. Collect your papers. Gather the paper piles from everywhere and place them into the To Be Sorted box(es). Don’t include the current bills to pay and other items you need to take action on. (See instructions for those here.) Set your To Be Sorted box(es) aside in a closet or someplace out of the way until step five.

4. Purge your file drawers. Grab a handful of files from your file drawer and go to your workspace where you have your Shred and Recycle boxes/bags. Systematically go through each file and purge the items you no longer need, based on your retention guide (see #1). Replace your completed stack and grab another so that it remains manageable as you go along. If you need to break before finishing, place a Post-it note sticking up where you stopped. You may do this over a period of time but give yourself a deadline, so it gets done. 

5. Sort & File your paper piles. Bring your To Be Sorted box(es) to your workspace. Grab a handful of papers and begin sorting. Make a stack of those that need filing, and place the rest in Shred or Recycle, based on your retention guide (see #1). Continue the process until you’ve emptied your box(es). 

6. Finish Filing. File your remaining papers in the file drawer. Create folders if needed.

7. Shred & Recycle. Place your recycle in your recycle bin and if your shredding is more than you care to do at home, take it to an office supply store, UPS store, or shred company.

CATEGORIES: If you’re creating a file system from scratch, or your system is lacking structure, consider setting up your files in categories. Here’s a sampling of potential categories: 

• Autos

• Career/Education

• Family

• Financial

• Household

• Insurance

• Medical

• Organizations

• Pets

• Resources

• Tax Documents

• Vital Documents

• Warranties/Manual

Create tabs for each category and for each folder within that category. Place the category tabs on the right, and the individual tabs on the left and alphabetize. You may also use different colored folders or different drawers to separate categories.

wise words

The ideal paper flow should be a continual process of gather - keep - discard. --Judith Kolberg