Getting Organized: Where, Oh Where To Begin

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am INSANELY organized. Well, with the exception of my desk, which I fear will be eternally UN-organized (sigh). I am able to organize the crap out of things. It's a gift, a curse, my cross to bear...anywho...my friends are always asking me how I do it. The thing is, there is no one sure-fire way that is going to work for every single person. I can, however, tell you what works for me and direct you towards people that may be able to help you in your specific situation. So, in order to kick start the "Get Organized!" portion of my blog, I'll leave you the following tips:



WHERE TO BEGIN

1. YOU'RE NOT ALONE - Remember that despite how embarrassing it can feel, despite the looks people may give you, despite the fact that you feel overwhelmed, you are NOT alone. I can't tell you how many people I know that come to me so upset and depressed because they feel like some kind of failure for being so unorganized. You aren't the only one! Please, please, please remember that.

2. BE POSITIVE - If you keep thinking to yourself, "This is never going to get done," then it's probably never going to get done. Keep a positive outlook on getting  yourself organized and you'll be more likely to succeed.

3. PARTNER UP - I find that the best way to overcome a personal struggle is to find a buddy or a mentor. Find someone who will help you on your journey to becoming organized and make sure it's someone supportive! If you can't find someone, contact me! I'll be glad to help.

4. MAKE TIME - Set aside a block of time that you can devote to organizing. Whether it's once a day, three days a week, or once a week, setting aside time will ensure the job will get done eventually. I find that in order to GET organized, setting aside 30 minutes to an hour a day can be very effective at getting your house organized in a short amount of time. Once your house is organized, you won't need to devote as much time every day to organizing, you'll be less stressed, and you'll have more time to do the things you love.

5. SET GOALS - Set some REALISTIC goals for yourself...and write them down somewhere you will see them every day. If you always have them in plain view, you'll be a little less likely to avoid them. 

6. START SMALL- Start with one room and divide the room into several organizational projects. Tackle a new project each day and chances are, you'll be all cleaned up and organized in no time at all.

7. TOSS IT - If you haven't seen it, used it, or thought about it in over a year it's time to get rid of it. Let go of the inner pack-rat in you. It will be ok, I promise. This is the hardest step for a lot of people. Throwing away something that you may possibly need at some point in your life is difficult, I know, but you will feel better when your house is less cluttered. Plus, it will make it easier for you to stay organized when you don't have boxes full of things you NEVER use piled in closets and under beds. You can do it, I believe in you!

8. REWARD YOURSELF- Getting organized is not easy. If you've done a good job, take a little time for yourself. Go out to eat, watch a movie, take a walk or whatever you fancy! You deserve it!


I hope this has been helpful thus far! If you can't wait until my next "Get Organized!" post, please feel free to contact me (info in the contact me section of my blog) and I'll be sure to get back to you asap. Or, if you feel that you have a mess no one can handle, send me a picture! If you live in the Huntsville, Alabama area, I'll help you get it done FOR FREE.