+woutlines+copy.jpg)
Showing posts with label get organized. Show all posts
Showing posts with label get organized. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Get Organized St. Louis
Saturday, January 05, 2013
A Greener GO Month
January is GO Month! Getting organized does not have to cost
a lot of money. It’s not only possible to get organized on a budget, but it can
be environmentally sound as well. Use “reduce, reuse and recycle” as your
guiding phrase.
Reduce what you own to items that really make a difference
in your life. Keep items that are actually
being used and are things that you truly love. Everyone has at least a few
things in his home that aren’t as useful as he had hoped they would be. You
know - the things that were purchased with the idea that they might come in
handy someday, the items that seemed like they were a good idea at the time, the
disliked gifts, and the impulsive purchases.
Unfortunately, holding on to these things will not bring
back your money. Nor will holding
on to a disliked gift help your relationship with the person who gave you the
gift. These items are “squatters” – they sit in your home without being useful
and they require your time and attention to store and maintain them. Even
worse, they hit you with a wave of guilt every time you see them. You can do
with a little less guilt and clutter in your life. Send those “squatters” to
the thrift shop – it’s an easy way to recycle them. Send broken and outdated
electronics to an electronic recycler (a quick internet or phone book search
will locate them). Reducing your inventory to things that make your life
productive and pleasurable will reduce the time and money you spend on keeping
things organized.
Reuse items by giving them a new purpose. A little out-of-the-box thinking and
that old dresser becomes a gift-wrapping center or a place to store linens, a
small cabinet becomes a nightstand, and checkbook and gift boxes become drawer
organizers. I’ve seen old serving trays turned into mail in boxes, cereal boxes
turned into magazine organizers, ice cube trays turned into jewelry organizers,
and small jars used to organize the necessary small stuff of life – from paper
clips to cotton swabs. A little paint, fabric remnants or decorative paper help
repurposed items conform to a color scheme. By the way, a uniform color scheme
reduces the amount of visual clutter. It’s an amazing trick – try it!
Recycle things. Look for sturdy shelves and file cabinets at
thrift and second-hand stores. You want file cabinets with fully extending
drawers – drawers that only open to the ¾ point are irritating every time you need
to pull something from the rear of the drawer. Add a hanging file frame to each
drawer if there isn’t already one. Hanging file frames are about $20 from any
office supply store. Hanging files are so much easier to use than folders for
keeping your paperwork organized and easily accessible. A little paint and
these used finds look new.
Bookcases are useful for so much more than books. To maximize
your space, think “vertical.” With labeled baskets in a bookcase you can to
corral small stuff. Put a tall
bookcase in a kitchen to store small appliances, serving dishes and trays,
pantry items, and even cookbooks! Use inexpensive pegboard to store pots, pans
and cooking utensils on the wall. Julia Child did.
When it comes to reusing items, be careful of “someday”
thinking. Acquiring or holding on
to things for which you don’t have a designated purpose, adds to the clutter
collection. Also, if the new purpose
will not be beneficial to your life, the transformation is not worth your time
or resources. Have a plan for when and how things will be transformed into the
useful times you envision. The last thing anyone needs is a collection of
projects to do that is languishing in storage.
Focus on keeping things useful and relevant to your life.
Then reduce, reuse and recycle. You’ll save some green by being green this GO
month.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Are You Ready To (Finally) Get Organized?
 Learn the tools that you need to get and stay organized. The four-part series of classes provides a fun, safe and creative environment in which to clear the clutter from your Mind, Home, Office and Life. These classes are offered as a series and build the skills that you need to create an organized life. Part One: The Mind This is the foundation class that focuses on clarity and choices. Learn greater self-awareness so you can consciously make decisions. Gain new insights to your clutter and learn how to view it without shame, guilt and blame. Part Two: The Home Our second class focuses on imagination, balance, order and placement. An orderly home provides us with the respite needed for balance and harmony. Learn how you can create a space unique to your sense of order that will bring you peace and joy. Part Three: The Office The third class focuses on organizing, prioritizing, storing and creating the system and technology that is right for you. Learn ways you can become more focused and productive in your work and home office. Many students report that the paper management skills learned in this class are invaluable. Part Four: Life The workshop concludes with a class that focuses on your relationship with time, honoring your values, the importance of self-care and living a balanced life. Learn how to use the workshop tools to live a more authentic life. All materials, a comprehensive workbook, support calls and snacks are included in the cost of the four three-hour classes: $300. The cost of the series is less than one-third of the cost of hiring Denise to help you with twelve hours of organizing! Enroll by March 17, 2011 and pay only $250. Enroll with a friend and you both receive another $25 off! Kick-Off Class: Sunday, March 27, 2011 1:30 - 4:30 P.M. Mark your calendars for the remaining classes of the series: April 17, May 22 and June 26 from 1:30 - 4:30 P.M. Where: Vitality Unlimited Spa (www.VitalityUnlimitedSpa.com)29 West Moody Ave. (in the rear meeting room) Webster Groves, Missouri 63119 Please Note: The classes are offered as a series, not as individual classes. If there is a conflict between one of the classes and your schedule please contact Denise. For more information please visit the Clear Spaces website (http://clearspaces.org/workshops.aspx) or call Denise at 314-956-2282. |
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
From The Land of Fun and Simplicity
Unclutterer is one of my favorite blogs. Their posts on simplifying and organizing are informative and inspiring. Plus the UniTask posts are great fun.
To my delight, the folks behind Unclutterer launched a new blog this year dedicated to ending meal-time stress. Brilliant! Let's face it - we all have to eat. And everyone I know is pretty busy. We can all use a little fun and simplicity when it comes to appeasing empty stomachs. Consider paying SimpliFried a visit: www.simplifried.com
If you haven't had the pleasure of reading Unclutterer, here is their link: www.unclutterer.com.
To my delight, the folks behind Unclutterer launched a new blog this year dedicated to ending meal-time stress. Brilliant! Let's face it - we all have to eat. And everyone I know is pretty busy. We can all use a little fun and simplicity when it comes to appeasing empty stomachs. Consider paying SimpliFried a visit: www.simplifried.com
If you haven't had the pleasure of reading Unclutterer, here is their link: www.unclutterer.com.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Countdown To Letting Go & Lightening Up
Will you be celebrating freedom from clutter this Independence Day? Enroll for the Letting Go & Lightening Up class series that starts on March 20 and this year's Independence Day can be a clutter-free celebration. Visit the Clear Spaces website to get more information. The Early Bird Discount and Friend Discount won't last long.
Monday, February 01, 2010
Get Organized and Save! Early Bird Discount Extended!
Great news! The Early Bird Registration has been extended to February 5! You will receive $50 off the price of the Letting Go and Lightening Up Class Series that normally costs $300. You can save an extra $50 for yourself and a friend when you both enroll together. Enroll with your friend by February 5 and you will only pay $200 each! Enroll at the Clear Spaces website: http://clearspaces.org/enroll.aspx
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Struggling to Get Organized? Try Letting Go & Lightening Up
How is your resolution to get organized doing? Maybe it's time to try a different approach. The Letting Go and Lightening Up class series is designed to help you get and stay organized.
The series offers:
* 12 hours of class room instruction
* A comprehensive workbook and class material
* Telephone support
* Snacks and drinks
Each three hour class thoroughly explores the focus subject in an interactive, relaxed atmosphere. The month between each class gives you the time to put what you learned into practice. The schedule follows.
February 20 Letting Go & Lightening Up in Your Mind
March 20 Letting Go & Lightening Up in Your Home
April 17 Letting Go & Lightening Up in Your Office
May 15 Letting Go & Lightening Up in Your Life
Each class is from 1:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Our class will once again be held at the Vitality Unlimited Spa in Webster Groves.
Enroll by February 1 and the $300 series fee is reduced to $250. Enroll with a friend and you will both save an additional $50 - for a total savings of $100!
To enroll visit our website www.clearspaces.org or call Clear Spaces at 314-956-2282. Put your intentions to get organized into action by enrolling today. The Early Bird rate is only good for one more week!
The series offers:
* 12 hours of class room instruction
* A comprehensive workbook and class material
* Telephone support
* Snacks and drinks
Each three hour class thoroughly explores the focus subject in an interactive, relaxed atmosphere. The month between each class gives you the time to put what you learned into practice. The schedule follows.
February 20 Letting Go & Lightening Up in Your Mind
March 20 Letting Go & Lightening Up in Your Home
April 17 Letting Go & Lightening Up in Your Office
May 15 Letting Go & Lightening Up in Your Life
Each class is from 1:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Our class will once again be held at the Vitality Unlimited Spa in Webster Groves.
Enroll by February 1 and the $300 series fee is reduced to $250. Enroll with a friend and you will both save an additional $50 - for a total savings of $100!
To enroll visit our website www.clearspaces.org or call Clear Spaces at 314-956-2282. Put your intentions to get organized into action by enrolling today. The Early Bird rate is only good for one more week!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Are You Ready To Get (And Stay) Organized?
Join Professional Organizer and owner of Clear Spaces, Denise Lee, for her 4-class series, Letting Go and Lightening Up – In Your Mind, Your Home, Your Office and Your Life.
By combining organizing systems with life-guiding principles, Denise will help you make conscious choices about what to let go of, what to keep and where to put it.
If “getting organized” has been a struggle for you, this workshop will empower you to create the lasting change you desire.
All materials, a comprehensive workbook, support calls and snack are included in the cost of the four three-hour classes: $300.
Early Bird Special: Enroll by February 1 and pay only $250. Enroll with a friend and you both receive another $50 off!
KICK-OFF CLASS:
Saturday, February 20
1:30 – 4:30 P.M.
The remaining classes of the series will be held on
March 20, April 17 and May 15 from 1:30 – 4:30 P.M.
WHERE:
Vitality Unlimited Spa (www.VitalityUnlimitedSpa.com)
29 West Moody Ave.
(in the rear meeting room)
Webster Groves, Missouri 63119
TO ENROLL:
Call Denise at 314-956-2282 or email Denise@clearspaces.org
For more information visit www.ClearSpaces.org or www.LettingGoandLighteningUp.com
Sunday, January 10, 2010
National Clean Off Your Desk Day!
Did you know that Monday, January 11 is National Clean Off Your Desk Day? Is your desk buried under a stack of papers? Let’s liberate it from the clutter and turn you into the efficiency star in the office.
Grab the following items:
• The Trashcan,
• Folders,
• A Marker and
• If you can get away with it - some snappy music on your iPod to create the proper desk clearing mood.
One of the keys to keeping your papers straight is treating action items differently from reference items. Action items require you to do something. Common action categories are:
• To Pay
• To Call
• To Write/Email
• To Copy/Fax
• To Enter (as in data entry)
• To Read
• To Follow-up
• Future
My secret power categories are “To Follow-up” and “Future.” Items that need follow-up are currently being acted upon by someone else but for various reasons you may have a need to make sure that the action is completed satisfactorily. The real power behind the follow-up category is to make a note in your planner on a date you need to follow-up. Future is the place to store the items you need for an event in the future – like theater tickets. Use the marker to label some folders with action categories that apply to you.
Label additional folders with the names of your current projects. Papers will be filed in the appropriate project folders when there is no action needed on it and the information contained within it is not easily available elsewhere. So if a paper contains information that is available on a website, there may be very little need to keep it. The less you have to keep means the less you have to manage. Make good use of the trashcan.
Now you are ready to sort those papers into the folders and the trashcan. When you’re done, put the action folders in a vertical sorter or a slanted folder on your desktop. Put the project folders in the file drawer. Before you know it, your desk is cleaned off and you know exactly where all of your papers are.
Grab the following items:
• The Trashcan,
• Folders,
• A Marker and
• If you can get away with it - some snappy music on your iPod to create the proper desk clearing mood.
One of the keys to keeping your papers straight is treating action items differently from reference items. Action items require you to do something. Common action categories are:
• To Pay
• To Call
• To Write/Email
• To Copy/Fax
• To Enter (as in data entry)
• To Read
• To Follow-up
• Future
My secret power categories are “To Follow-up” and “Future.” Items that need follow-up are currently being acted upon by someone else but for various reasons you may have a need to make sure that the action is completed satisfactorily. The real power behind the follow-up category is to make a note in your planner on a date you need to follow-up. Future is the place to store the items you need for an event in the future – like theater tickets. Use the marker to label some folders with action categories that apply to you.
Label additional folders with the names of your current projects. Papers will be filed in the appropriate project folders when there is no action needed on it and the information contained within it is not easily available elsewhere. So if a paper contains information that is available on a website, there may be very little need to keep it. The less you have to keep means the less you have to manage. Make good use of the trashcan.
Now you are ready to sort those papers into the folders and the trashcan. When you’re done, put the action folders in a vertical sorter or a slanted folder on your desktop. Put the project folders in the file drawer. Before you know it, your desk is cleaned off and you know exactly where all of your papers are.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Organized for Travel
Asking yourself just three questions will help you prepare for and organize all of the details of travel:
1) How are we getting there and where will we stay?
2) What events do I need to plan and pack for?
3) What supports need to be planned for in my home and office?
Capture your answers to these questions in a paper-filled binder with subject dividers labeled “Travel,” “Events and Packing,” and “Home and Office.” Use the subject dividers with pockets and you’ll have handy places to organize your travel documents too. The binder is easy to pack so all of your notes and documents will be quickly accessible during your trip.
It may be easier to print one of the great packing lists already available on the Internet rather than create your own packing list. Slip the list into the your binder, but bear in mind that you still need to plan your outfits. This is where your list of events comes in handy.
Pick out clothes that are appropriate for the events and activities for each day of travel. Make sure you can mix and match items so you can pack less. Three tops and three bottoms take up little space, but they will yield nine outfits when everything matches. Use the top of the bed to lay out the clothes with the accessories to create your outfits, and take notes in your binder. Clear plastic bags are classic tools for organizing clothes and accessories in your suitcase.
When it comes to planning your home and office support systems, think about what will happen to your pets, plants, mail, newspapers, appointments and work while you are away. Planning for all of the things that enter our lives on a daily basis may actually take more time than planning your travel itinerary! Allow yourself enough time to plan for and set up your support systems. Keep any documentation that pertains to these support systems in the pocket of the subject divider.
Planning and organizing prepares you for the adventures of travel and prepares your home and office for your absence. You’ll spend less time stressing and more time relaxing – which is the point of vacation after all!
And speaking of travel...
There were no questions for "Stump the Organizer" last week, which actually worked out well for me. We just returned from a trip to Mackinac Island, Michigan. What a beautiful - and chilly - place!
What organizing challenges have you perplexed? Send me your questions through email or by posting a comment here.
Just a reminder that the Letting Go and Lightening Up Class starts this Saturday, and yes there is room! Letting Go and Lightening Up is an approach that enpowers you to get organized and stay organized. Each of the four classes in the series focuses on a unique area. Between classes you put the lesson plan into practice, and if you need a little help you can make a support call to me. Go to my website to enroll today: http://clearspaces.org/workshops.aspx.
1) How are we getting there and where will we stay?
2) What events do I need to plan and pack for?
3) What supports need to be planned for in my home and office?
Capture your answers to these questions in a paper-filled binder with subject dividers labeled “Travel,” “Events and Packing,” and “Home and Office.” Use the subject dividers with pockets and you’ll have handy places to organize your travel documents too. The binder is easy to pack so all of your notes and documents will be quickly accessible during your trip.
It may be easier to print one of the great packing lists already available on the Internet rather than create your own packing list. Slip the list into the your binder, but bear in mind that you still need to plan your outfits. This is where your list of events comes in handy.
Pick out clothes that are appropriate for the events and activities for each day of travel. Make sure you can mix and match items so you can pack less. Three tops and three bottoms take up little space, but they will yield nine outfits when everything matches. Use the top of the bed to lay out the clothes with the accessories to create your outfits, and take notes in your binder. Clear plastic bags are classic tools for organizing clothes and accessories in your suitcase.
When it comes to planning your home and office support systems, think about what will happen to your pets, plants, mail, newspapers, appointments and work while you are away. Planning for all of the things that enter our lives on a daily basis may actually take more time than planning your travel itinerary! Allow yourself enough time to plan for and set up your support systems. Keep any documentation that pertains to these support systems in the pocket of the subject divider.
Planning and organizing prepares you for the adventures of travel and prepares your home and office for your absence. You’ll spend less time stressing and more time relaxing – which is the point of vacation after all!
And speaking of travel...
There were no questions for "Stump the Organizer" last week, which actually worked out well for me. We just returned from a trip to Mackinac Island, Michigan. What a beautiful - and chilly - place!
What organizing challenges have you perplexed? Send me your questions through email or by posting a comment here.
Just a reminder that the Letting Go and Lightening Up Class starts this Saturday, and yes there is room! Letting Go and Lightening Up is an approach that enpowers you to get organized and stay organized. Each of the four classes in the series focuses on a unique area. Between classes you put the lesson plan into practice, and if you need a little help you can make a support call to me. Go to my website to enroll today: http://clearspaces.org/workshops.aspx.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Reminder: Last Day to Enroll at the Early Bird Rate!
Today is the last day for the early bird discount on the upcoming Letting Go and Lightening Up class series. Normally the twelve hours of class time (4 classes that are 3 hours each), the comprehensive workbook, and support calls cost $300. But you will get $50 discount if you enroll today. Enroll with a friend and you each will receive another $50 discount, bringing the cost of the class to $200!
The classes enpower you to let go of the clutter in your mind, your home, your office and your life. The first class meets on July 11. The class will meet on the second Saturday of each month with the final class meeting on October 10 -- you can be organized by the holiday season! You can get more information about the class and enroll on my website: http://clearspaces.org/workshops.aspx.
Tomorrow is Thursday which is "Stump the Organizer" Day! You can post your questions here or email me at Denise@clearspaces.org. I am looking forward to hearing from you! I will be on the road for most of the day but I will answer your questions as soon as I get an internet connection.
The classes enpower you to let go of the clutter in your mind, your home, your office and your life. The first class meets on July 11. The class will meet on the second Saturday of each month with the final class meeting on October 10 -- you can be organized by the holiday season! You can get more information about the class and enroll on my website: http://clearspaces.org/workshops.aspx.
Tomorrow is Thursday which is "Stump the Organizer" Day! You can post your questions here or email me at Denise@clearspaces.org. I am looking forward to hearing from you! I will be on the road for most of the day but I will answer your questions as soon as I get an internet connection.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Got Organizing Questions?
It seems that organizing is on many people's minds these days. It's pretty common that I am asked questions about organizing in social situations.
Sometimes people know exactly what they want to do and how they want to do it, they just need a little validation. Validation can be really motivating. It can eliminate the fear that you are doing something wrong, or that there must be something unusual about you because you prefer to work in a way that's different from how your neighbor works.
Basically I've been asked just about every type of organizing question that I can think of. But I'm sure there's more out there. Let's hear them!
Every Thursday I will post the "Stump the Organizer" article. Post your organizing question on this blog. Based on the number of questions I get, I will either directly answer your question in the post or I'll summarize the questions to provide an efficient answer through a post.
So what's stumping you? What organizing question do you have that, when answered, will get you going on your project?
Sometimes people know exactly what they want to do and how they want to do it, they just need a little validation. Validation can be really motivating. It can eliminate the fear that you are doing something wrong, or that there must be something unusual about you because you prefer to work in a way that's different from how your neighbor works.
Basically I've been asked just about every type of organizing question that I can think of. But I'm sure there's more out there. Let's hear them!
Every Thursday I will post the "Stump the Organizer" article. Post your organizing question on this blog. Based on the number of questions I get, I will either directly answer your question in the post or I'll summarize the questions to provide an efficient answer through a post.
So what's stumping you? What organizing question do you have that, when answered, will get you going on your project?
Friday, May 22, 2009
Clear Spaces Announces The Next Organizing Class Series
Are You A DIYer Who Wants To Get (and Stay) Organized?
Join Professional Organizer and owner of Clear Spaces, Denise Lee, on Saturday, July 11 for the beginning of her 4-class series, “Letting Go and Lightening Up – In Your Mind, Your Home, Your Office and Your Life.” By combining organizing systems with life-guiding principles, Denise will help you make conscious choices about what to let go of, what to keep and where to put it. All materials, a comprehensive workbook and a snack are included. The classes will meet the second Saturday of the month with the last class meeting on October 10. Be organized in time for the holidays!
Space is precious - enroll by July 1!
KICK-OFF CLASS:
Saturday, July 11
1:30 – 4:30 P.M.
Subsequent classes meet the second Saturday of the month, same time.
WHERE:
Vitality Unlimited Spa (www.VitalityUnlimitedSpa.com)
29 West Moody Ave.
(in the rear meeting room)
Webster Groves, Missouri 63119
INVESTMENT: $300
TO ENROLL:
Call the Denise at 314-956-2282 or email Denise@clearspaces.org
For more information:
visit www.ClearSpaces.org or www.LettingGoandLighteningUp.com
Join Professional Organizer and owner of Clear Spaces, Denise Lee, on Saturday, July 11 for the beginning of her 4-class series, “Letting Go and Lightening Up – In Your Mind, Your Home, Your Office and Your Life.” By combining organizing systems with life-guiding principles, Denise will help you make conscious choices about what to let go of, what to keep and where to put it. All materials, a comprehensive workbook and a snack are included. The classes will meet the second Saturday of the month with the last class meeting on October 10. Be organized in time for the holidays!
Space is precious - enroll by July 1!
KICK-OFF CLASS:
Saturday, July 11
1:30 – 4:30 P.M.
Subsequent classes meet the second Saturday of the month, same time.
WHERE:
Vitality Unlimited Spa (www.VitalityUnlimitedSpa.com)
29 West Moody Ave.
(in the rear meeting room)
Webster Groves, Missouri 63119
INVESTMENT: $300
TO ENROLL:
Call the Denise at 314-956-2282 or email Denise@clearspaces.org
For more information:
visit www.ClearSpaces.org or www.LettingGoandLighteningUp.com
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Are You Ready To Get (And Stay) Organized in 2009?
Exciting News!
Join Professional Organizer and owner of Clear Spaces, Denise Lee, on Saturday, March 7 for the beginning of her 4-part series, “Letting Go and Lightening Up – In Your Mind, Your Home, Your Office and Your Life.” By combining organizing systems with life-guiding principles, Denise will help you make conscious choices about what to let go of, what to keep and where to put it. All materials, lunch, and a snack are included. Space is precious - enroll today!
KICK-OFF CLASS:
Saturday, March 7
1:30 – 4:30 P.M.
WHERE:
Wired Coffee Cafe (www.WiredCoffee.net)
3860 South Lindbergh Blvd.
0.5 mile south of Watson Rd.
Sunset Hills, MO 63127
TO ENROLL:
Call the Denise at 314-956-2282 or email Denise@clearspaces.org
For more information visit www.ClearSpaces.org or www.LettingGoandLighteningUp.com
Join Professional Organizer and owner of Clear Spaces, Denise Lee, on Saturday, March 7 for the beginning of her 4-part series, “Letting Go and Lightening Up – In Your Mind, Your Home, Your Office and Your Life.” By combining organizing systems with life-guiding principles, Denise will help you make conscious choices about what to let go of, what to keep and where to put it. All materials, lunch, and a snack are included. Space is precious - enroll today!
KICK-OFF CLASS:
Saturday, March 7
1:30 – 4:30 P.M.
WHERE:
Wired Coffee Cafe (www.WiredCoffee.net)
3860 South Lindbergh Blvd.
0.5 mile south of Watson Rd.
Sunset Hills, MO 63127
TO ENROLL:
Call the Denise at 314-956-2282 or email Denise@clearspaces.org
For more information visit www.ClearSpaces.org or www.LettingGoandLighteningUp.com
Monday, January 05, 2009
Get Organized! Part One
Is “get organized” on your list of resolutions for the New Year? If so, you’re not alone. “Getting organized” is one of the top ten resolutions that people make every year. Maybe “getting organized” is a perennial item on your resolution list.
You’ve heard me say this before: organization is more about behavior than it is tools. Oh tools are important – the wrong tool for the job can certainly make things difficult. The right tool can make a job easier and more fun. But tools by themselves will not make you organized.
Since behavior is at the crux of organization, getting organized will take time – it is not instantaneous. Why? It takes time to change behavior. To create behavior change we need strategies that encourage that change. Those strategies provide the framework for other changes that we wish to make.
The framework is generic in that it does not specify what is being changed. So if your resolution is to “get organized,” the organizing strategies are the “what” of the change. Concentrating on a generic framework for change may strike you as a digression. But in reality, creating a framework for behavior change allows you to approach any goal with more confidence, more focus and a better chance for success.
The steps that make up the framework are summarized below. Rather than think of steps in a linear fashion – you’re finished when you have accomplished step six - look at it as a circle. Once you have accomplished step six, take your changes to the next level and go to step one again.
1) Visualize the change. Visualization provides the direction needed to make changes. I often ask clients to create a collage of pictures that represent the look and feel of the goal they are pursuing. The collage – often called a dream board – helps bring focus to a goal and make it more tangible. When it is hung in a place that the client frequents it provides a constant reminder of the what the client wants to accomplish.
2) Write down your goals and visit that list often. Written goals have a much better chance of being actualized. Writing provides a way of formalizing goals. It doesn’t matter if you write your goals in a diary, a personal planner, or a poster as long as they are in a place that you refer to frequently. Because my goals shape how I spend my time, and I manage my time with my planner, I personally feel the planner is a fantastic place to record my goals.
3) Break the goal down into smaller goals with milestones. Change takes energy. Try to change too much at the same time and you will exhaust yourself. Refer to step two. Small goals make it easier to incorporate change, and as such will increase your likelihood of success. Reasonable milestones for achieving small and large goals can “light a fire” under us to motivate us toward success.
4) Track the changes. That which we measure tends to be reinforced. Check marking a calendar, putting stars on a chart, and keeping a journal are simple and effective ways to track your behavior. Choose what works for you. A word to the wise: if you have never tracked your behavior or used a journal before, you may want to spend a few weeks just doing that. Create the habit of self-reporting before engaging in any other changes.
5) Reward progress. In the beginning frequent, small rewards will help reinforce the changes you wish to make. A small reward might be ten minutes of reading a new book or an extra cup of coffee. Over time you can decrease the frequency of small rewards. Significant rewards at established milestones will help set a certain amount of excitement and help motivate you. A significant reward might be dinner out, a new pair of shoes, or maybe a whole afternoon pursuing a hobby.
6) Ponder, not punish, the setbacks. Life is full of challenges. When things don’t go as you had hoped, analyze what led to the setback. Use the analysis to take proactive measures when faced with a similar situation in the future or to accommodate changes in your life. In your analysis make sure you acknowledge what went right as well as awry. The balance helps combat all or none thinking.
Make the framework for change part of your life, and increase the odds for accomplishing your goals and resolutions. Make this year the best year for you.
You’ve heard me say this before: organization is more about behavior than it is tools. Oh tools are important – the wrong tool for the job can certainly make things difficult. The right tool can make a job easier and more fun. But tools by themselves will not make you organized.
Since behavior is at the crux of organization, getting organized will take time – it is not instantaneous. Why? It takes time to change behavior. To create behavior change we need strategies that encourage that change. Those strategies provide the framework for other changes that we wish to make.
The framework is generic in that it does not specify what is being changed. So if your resolution is to “get organized,” the organizing strategies are the “what” of the change. Concentrating on a generic framework for change may strike you as a digression. But in reality, creating a framework for behavior change allows you to approach any goal with more confidence, more focus and a better chance for success.
The steps that make up the framework are summarized below. Rather than think of steps in a linear fashion – you’re finished when you have accomplished step six - look at it as a circle. Once you have accomplished step six, take your changes to the next level and go to step one again.
1) Visualize the change. Visualization provides the direction needed to make changes. I often ask clients to create a collage of pictures that represent the look and feel of the goal they are pursuing. The collage – often called a dream board – helps bring focus to a goal and make it more tangible. When it is hung in a place that the client frequents it provides a constant reminder of the what the client wants to accomplish.
2) Write down your goals and visit that list often. Written goals have a much better chance of being actualized. Writing provides a way of formalizing goals. It doesn’t matter if you write your goals in a diary, a personal planner, or a poster as long as they are in a place that you refer to frequently. Because my goals shape how I spend my time, and I manage my time with my planner, I personally feel the planner is a fantastic place to record my goals.
3) Break the goal down into smaller goals with milestones. Change takes energy. Try to change too much at the same time and you will exhaust yourself. Refer to step two. Small goals make it easier to incorporate change, and as such will increase your likelihood of success. Reasonable milestones for achieving small and large goals can “light a fire” under us to motivate us toward success.
4) Track the changes. That which we measure tends to be reinforced. Check marking a calendar, putting stars on a chart, and keeping a journal are simple and effective ways to track your behavior. Choose what works for you. A word to the wise: if you have never tracked your behavior or used a journal before, you may want to spend a few weeks just doing that. Create the habit of self-reporting before engaging in any other changes.
5) Reward progress. In the beginning frequent, small rewards will help reinforce the changes you wish to make. A small reward might be ten minutes of reading a new book or an extra cup of coffee. Over time you can decrease the frequency of small rewards. Significant rewards at established milestones will help set a certain amount of excitement and help motivate you. A significant reward might be dinner out, a new pair of shoes, or maybe a whole afternoon pursuing a hobby.
6) Ponder, not punish, the setbacks. Life is full of challenges. When things don’t go as you had hoped, analyze what led to the setback. Use the analysis to take proactive measures when faced with a similar situation in the future or to accommodate changes in your life. In your analysis make sure you acknowledge what went right as well as awry. The balance helps combat all or none thinking.
Make the framework for change part of your life, and increase the odds for accomplishing your goals and resolutions. Make this year the best year for you.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
A Half-Dozen Exercises to Help You Become Organized
The real secret to becoming more organized lies in shaping your behavior. Here is a list of exercises that will shape up behaviors that will provide a great framework for developing organizational skills. They are simple and no sweating is involved!
1) Use the “RC Calendar” method to help stay on top of your schedule.
* Record all your commitments on the master calendar as soon as you learn of them. Remember to record special dates such as birthdays and anniversaries. If you loathe writing in the recurring commitments then use stickers or abbreviations to designate the activity. Let the calendar do the remembering so your brain is free for thinking.
* Check your calendar several times a day. It’s amazing what we can forget between breakfast and lunch! Take a peak at the upcoming week with an eye towards preparation. Are there birthday gifts to buy? Are there meetings to prepare for? Make sure you take care of those action items ahead of time to avoid last-minute panic.
2) Always be prepared. It works for the scouts and it can work for you. In addition to checking your action items, start with a few other focus areas.
* Prepare for the morning before you go to bed. Check your calendar. Lay out your clothes. Put your packed book bag or briefcase by the door. Make lunch. Set up for breakfast.
* Plan your menu for the week or at least a few days a head of time. You’ll avoid the late afternoon panic of what to fix for dinner.
* Keep a ready supply of essential items, and check your inventory before heading off to weekly grocery shopping. Paper products, canned food, pet food, and coffee might be on your list of things you hate to run out of. Keep a list of essential items by your storage area to facilitate taking inventory.
3) Zone your home, and coordinate storage with the zones. With paper and pen in hand, walk through your home and take note of the types of activities that occur in each room. Some activities may be confined to specific areas of a room. Make sure that the items needed for the activity are stored in the same area of the activity.
We have a family room where we watch TV and play video games. The TV remotes are stored in a drawer next to the sofa. Our DVD collection is stored in the room’s closet on built-in shelves. The game system hardware and the games are stored on shelves along the side of the room. Because my husband loves to surf the net while watching TV, his laptop is also kept on the table. Since the room’s activities have been defined, we know what belongs – and what does not belong – in the room.
5) Everything needs a home with an address. Once you have established what kinds of items belong in a zone, determine exactly where an item belongs. Put items that are frequently used in very convenient spots near where they are needed. Items that are used less frequently can be stored in less convenient locations, such as the top shelf of the bookcase. It may make sense to label the item’s home so everyone knows exactly what belongs at that “address.” It’s much easier to put things away when everything is clearly labeled.
6) Practice the “Quick Tidy” at least once a day. Logically if you take something out, you should put it back. But sometimes things don’t always make it back to their homes. Spend 5 to 10 minutes every evening putting things back in their place. The “Quick Tidy” can be a family activity. Even the very young can participate, especially if it is treated as a game rather than a chore. Use a timer and see who can return the most items to their homes.
1) Use the “RC Calendar” method to help stay on top of your schedule.
* Record all your commitments on the master calendar as soon as you learn of them. Remember to record special dates such as birthdays and anniversaries. If you loathe writing in the recurring commitments then use stickers or abbreviations to designate the activity. Let the calendar do the remembering so your brain is free for thinking.
* Check your calendar several times a day. It’s amazing what we can forget between breakfast and lunch! Take a peak at the upcoming week with an eye towards preparation. Are there birthday gifts to buy? Are there meetings to prepare for? Make sure you take care of those action items ahead of time to avoid last-minute panic.
2) Always be prepared. It works for the scouts and it can work for you. In addition to checking your action items, start with a few other focus areas.
* Prepare for the morning before you go to bed. Check your calendar. Lay out your clothes. Put your packed book bag or briefcase by the door. Make lunch. Set up for breakfast.
* Plan your menu for the week or at least a few days a head of time. You’ll avoid the late afternoon panic of what to fix for dinner.
* Keep a ready supply of essential items, and check your inventory before heading off to weekly grocery shopping. Paper products, canned food, pet food, and coffee might be on your list of things you hate to run out of. Keep a list of essential items by your storage area to facilitate taking inventory.
3) Zone your home, and coordinate storage with the zones. With paper and pen in hand, walk through your home and take note of the types of activities that occur in each room. Some activities may be confined to specific areas of a room. Make sure that the items needed for the activity are stored in the same area of the activity.
We have a family room where we watch TV and play video games. The TV remotes are stored in a drawer next to the sofa. Our DVD collection is stored in the room’s closet on built-in shelves. The game system hardware and the games are stored on shelves along the side of the room. Because my husband loves to surf the net while watching TV, his laptop is also kept on the table. Since the room’s activities have been defined, we know what belongs – and what does not belong – in the room.
5) Everything needs a home with an address. Once you have established what kinds of items belong in a zone, determine exactly where an item belongs. Put items that are frequently used in very convenient spots near where they are needed. Items that are used less frequently can be stored in less convenient locations, such as the top shelf of the bookcase. It may make sense to label the item’s home so everyone knows exactly what belongs at that “address.” It’s much easier to put things away when everything is clearly labeled.
6) Practice the “Quick Tidy” at least once a day. Logically if you take something out, you should put it back. But sometimes things don’t always make it back to their homes. Spend 5 to 10 minutes every evening putting things back in their place. The “Quick Tidy” can be a family activity. Even the very young can participate, especially if it is treated as a game rather than a chore. Use a timer and see who can return the most items to their homes.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)