Host a Party
Once a year host a party or event. This is great incentive to organize and de-clutter. In fact, having guests over is the number one motivator for getting organized.
Organize with Color
Use color to help maintain order by having a color distinguish an individuals belongings. Have each person in the household pick a color she would like for her sheets, towels, lunch bag, hats, gloves, book bag, etc. This way each individual can easily see what belongs to her, and then be held accountable for keeping those things in order.
Piles Happen
While having lunch with a friend, she proclaimed “piles happen”. I readily agreed, and shared that the best way to combat piles is to store paper vertically, not horizontally. For example, instead of setting the mail down on the counter, and letting it pile up, sort it into a divided vertical container. Another example is to put newspapers, magazines, catalogs, and in a container that holds them upright.
Organizing Ongoing Projects
Keeping projects on the table, counter, desk, or tool bench, because you worry that once they are out of sight, they are out of mind, is a common concern. This two step process will help you organize ongoing projects and get them done. It has been successful for me. Step 1 – Keep an ongoing project list on the fridge, and put the projects away. Step 2 – Block out time on your calendar to work on your projects. Schedule increments of time that allow you to have the project completed when you wish it to be done.
Save Money by Being Organized
Here are some ways to save money by being organized:
- Having a home for items reduces the need for duplicate purchases.
- Regularly removing unwanted and unused items reduces the need for storage units.
- Setting limits for belongings, and guidelines for purchases reduces the accumulation of stuff.
- Having an organized bill paying process reduces the chance of paying late fees and added interest.
- Having organized bank records reduces the chance of bouncing checks.
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