Organizing is a skill that anyone can learn. However, just like any skill, some people pick it up more easily and quickly than others. How would you go about learning a new skill, like playing a musical instrument or learning a foreign language? You’d take lessons, read books and practice, practice, practice. That’s what we have to do to learn and get better at organizing, PRACTICE!
I love giving and getting greeting cards in the mail. Valentine’s day is one occasion where I send hand-made cards. I recommend that those who receive them, display and enjoy them for 2 to 3 weeks. Then toss them. For those of us who want to preserve the cards, do so digitally. Take a photo of the cards, up-load them to the cloud, and revisit them every February 14th. This can be done with all sentimental cards.
Make time in your schedule for calendar preparations. Use this time to mark special dates, write monthly bill reminders, and note meetings. Birthdays and anniversaries are the first thing I jot down on a new calendar, then work meetings, appointments, events, monthly bills, and tax payments. I also add reminders for events that require preparation. For example if I’m giving a class I give myself a one week and two week event reminder. I find this very helpful in keeping me organized and prepared.
When de-clutering there are two important questions that will help you create order quickly and effectively.
Buy what you need and use what you buy. This is a simple straight forward directive, but can be challenging to do. I use shopping guidelines and gatekeeper questions to help me buy wisely.
Janine Cavanaugh, CPO
Janine Cavanaugh, CPO
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