Deck the Front Door

(From: Picture of a Perfect Christmas)

     I get a kick out of looking at magazine headlines this time of year.  Half of them are:  How To Have the Perfect Holiday in which Everyone is Joyous and Your House Looks Like a Magazine Photo Shoot.  The other half are:  How to Avoid Holiday Stress.

      I don't know about you, but there are times when I've knocked myself out trying to do both at the same time.  Now I'm convinced it just isn't possible. 

     It took me some time to figure out that NOTHING on my list of holiday have-tos is compulsory--not even being happy or having a good time.  It would be fun to have a house that looks like it's been decorated by Martha Stewart (who probably doesn't even do her own house by herself) but when I looked a little more closely at that desire, I realize it comes from a place of wanting to appear more capable than I actually am. 

I can't think of a more useless waste of time.  Why would anyone want to do that?  If people think I'm perfect I'd be under constant pressure to remain so, and anyway, let's face it, most of us sort of resent someone who seems perfect.  We secretly think they need to get a life.

I love having the the house decorated and the tree up, but I've stopped pretending I'm doing it for anyone but me.  I've let go of the timetables and the lists, and as a result I enjoy the process much more.  No one has ever come in to my home and asked, "Where are the festive garlands crafted out of used coffee filters?" (a true project from a magazine).

It's great to give the perfect gift that the recipient will treasure and remember always, but not when trying to do so results in a month-long frantic search right up to Christmas Eve, ending with the purchase of a gift card.  I decided to skip the shopping part and go right to the gift card or cash.  So far, no one has complained.  Eventually, most of us have decided that, since our gifts "cancel each other out", we'll just skip the whole thing and give each other a toast or a hug.   

Sometimes, the holiday stuff is magical and wondrous, and sometimes it's just something you think you have to do.  I've found that when I let go of my expectations and my need to make it so, the magic and wonder can sneak up on me at the most unpredictable moments without the least bit of effort.  

And, if I want a Norman Rockwell Christmas, I can always look at a Norman Rockwell print, because I'm pretty sure that's the only place it exists.

(From: Around the World in 110 Days)

To find solutions for your organizing challenges, 

schedule a free consultation, 

or have a conversation about your organizing needs:

Call Linda Palmer

at Create Order

Home Organizing and De-materializing Service
 In the Milwaukee, WI and surrounding areas

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email: createorder1@gmail.com

On Facebook:  Linda Palmer/ Create Order

True Confession

People often ask me if my own house is organized and I have to say that I  have a place for everything--even if everything isn't always in its place.  And I only have what I love, need, or use, and will fit in the space.  In that sense, I'm doing o.k.

But there is one area in which I'm just like most of my clients -- the computer!

The desktop is crammed with stuff, some of which I don't even recognize.  When I open up the download file, I take one look and quickly close it right back down. And those photos!  I have some files that I created about two years ago, but everything else is in a place labeled "misc".  I delete a bunch of emails every week, and tell myself I'll file the others "later", so they're piling up.  Don't even talk to me about backing things up on the cloud or anywhere else!

The only difference between my computer and a desk overflowing with piles of paper is that I can't see the computer mess when I walk in the room.  Otherwise, it's exactly the same, and I deal with it in exactly the same way that many people deal with their physical stuff:  I procrastinate.  I sit down to organize the computer and get sidetracked for about an hour and a half reading emails & catching up on networking. I feel overwhelmed, so I shut the thing down and walk away.  I try to put the niggling thought that I have to do it away, but I can feel the weight of it bogging my down in other areas of my life, just as physical clutter does.

Well, that stops now!  It's time to make an appointment with myself (my most challenging client) and  and start taking my own advice.  I'll break up the job into smaller tasks, set a time frame to work, and tell myself gently at first,and then a little more sternly, to stay on task.  I'll remind myself often of what it will be like to have a nicely organized, clutter-free computer where I can easily find everything I need.

If that doesn't work, I know lots of Professional Organizers who will be happy to assist me!  Wish me luck.

For more on this topic:  Organize Your E-Clutter Like a Pro

 For solutions to your organizing challenges,

to schedule a free consultation,

or have a conversation about your organizing needs:

Call Linda Palmer
262-784-3957

at Create Order

Home Organizing and De-materializing Service

                                  In Waukesha and Milwaukee WI counties, and surrounding area

on the web:  createorder.org

email: createorder1@gmail.com

facebook:  Linda Palmer/Create Order Organizing Service

Be Rich Without Money!

     Most of us think we have to have a lot of money in the bank to feel rich.  In truth, there are a lot of VERY wealthy people who are anxious and worried about money, and a lot of happy people who may or may not be rich.  The good news is: we can all be a part of the second group!  Here are some ways to trick yourself into feeling rich.

Give: whenever you get the chance.  Even if you're having trouble making ends meet, you might put 25 cents in the MACC fund can at the counter, a packet of spaghetti in the food collection bin at the store, or add a dollar at the register to support a cause.  You can do things for people--any people.   Over-tip whenever and whatever you can.  It makes you feel benevolent and generous, a vibe which some people (me)  believe will attract abundance.  And, it feels so much better to put something in that bell-ringer's bucket than trying to sneak past without making eye contact!

Pretend:  When I went through a period of feeling seriously cash-deprived, I would go to the mall and pretend I could have anything I wanted.  I surprised myself by being very picky in my choices, which made me realize I didn't want most of that stuff after all.  One time, a friend and I did this at an art fair, giving ourselves $50,000 to spend.  We were amazed at how attentive and helpful the artists were as soon as we started "shopping"!  Neither of us managed to spend the entire amount.

Practice Gratitude:  This can include a gratitude journal, counting blessings etc. but there are a few other fun things you can do. Say "Thank you" at every possible opportunity. Before I started paying everything online, I would write little notes on the bills when returning them with payment:  "Thanks for the electricity!  We really enjoyed it during this hot spell." or " I so appreciate you lending me the money for my car.  I don't know where I'd be without it." I know it sounds crazy, but it completely transformed the bill-paying experience for me.  I imagined that someone would open the envelope, see the note, and maybe have a good laugh with someone about it...or send the men in the white coats...but it was fun for me.

(fromhttp://www.buzzfeed.com/lukelewis/middle-class-problems?s)

Keep things in perspective:  Some time ago, I read a little piece on BuzzFeed called Middle Class Problems.  It made me laugh, but it also made me realize that the 80% of the world's population that doesn't have enough to eat, a place to sleep, or clean water, would love to have my problems.  When I find myself fretting or complaining about finances, I remind myself:  This is a middle class problem!  Instantly, it seems less problematic.

Last, but not least:  Get Rid of Stuff!  Letting go of extra stuff sends a subconscious message to your brain: "I have what I need, and I can get what I will need in the future."

When you realize you have plenty, you're less likely to acquire a lot of stuff you don't need. Which allows you to have more space, more order, and more of what you need and love in your life.  And who doesn't want that?

More reading on this topic:  How to Feel Rich and Wealthy

 For solutions to your organizing challenges,

to schedule a free consultation,

or have a conversation about your organizing needs:

Call Linda Palmer
262-784-3957

at Create Order

Home Organizing and De-materializing Service

                                  In Waukesha and Milwaukee WI counties, and surrounding area

on the web:  createorder.org

email: createorder1@gmail.com

facebook:  Linda Palmer/Create Order Organizing Service

 

How to Create Order in Any Space

If the thought of cleaning out your purse, never mind a closet or the garage, makes you want to RUN in the opposite direction and play hours of solitaire on the computer or watch a "Petticoat Junction" marathon on t.v., here are some simple steps to get you started in almost any space.

     Before you begin, be clear about your purpose for the space.  Is it going to hold cleaning supplies, winter coats, ex husbands? (Anecdote:  I have a friend who is very clear about the purpose of her handbag, which contains:  grooming and make up center, first aid station, wardrobe malfunction emergency kit, supplies and tools for possible mechanical breakdown, various record keeping items:  address, phone number, calendars, lists of various sorts, financial necessities and  hydration and nutrition items. All perfectly organized).

Allow yourself roughly twice the amount of time you think this project will take.  Hurrying is the enemy of organization!

 EXHIBIT A   (photo from houndrat.com)

Take EVERYTHING out of the space.  As you take it out, you can sort into 4 separate piles or bins.

     Bin #1:  I can't use it and neither can anyone else--toss!  Be ruthless!  I know you don't want to put extra stuff into landfills, and you shouldn't.  Resolve that in the future, you will be mindful of that when you're considering a purchase.  But also consider whether you want it hanging around your house for the rest of your life, only to go right into the landfill anyway once you are gone.

     Bin #2:   I don't use it, love it, or need it, but someone else might--donate. (Warning:  be careful of putting things aside to give to someone else.  Those items have a way of sticking around for a LONG time and sometimes forever!)

     Bin #3:   I use it, love it, or need it, but it doesn't belong in this space.  You don't have to figure out where it will go right this minute....this bin can be put aside to deal with later.

(photo: Jeri's Organizing & Decluttering News)

     Bin #4:   I use it, love it, or need it and it belongs in this space.  Keep in mind the purpose you've given the space, and the amount of space available.

     Now you can put the stuff from Bin #4 back into the space in an orderly way. Group similar items together, and use bins or labels as needed.  Throw the items from Bin #1 in the garbage,  box or bag items from Bin #2 to donate, and find homes for the items in Bin #3 (this could be a separate project).  Dust off your hands and give yourself a big pat on the back.

     You deserve it!  And remember, if you need help, your friendly home organizer is always ready!

   For solutions to your organizing challenges,

to schedule a free consultation,

or have a conversation about your organizing needs:

Call Linda Palmer
262-784-3957

at Create Order

Home Organizing and De-materializing Service

 

                                  In Waukesha and Milwaukee WI counties, and surrounding area

on the web:  createorder.org

email: createorder1@gmail.com

facebook:  Linda Palmer/Create Order Organizing Service

   


 

Order Without Organizing

Would you be surprised to know that you can start to create order in your life without touching or moving even one object?  Yes, you can take action without diving into large piles of "homeless" possessions--even if you don't have time to start sorting objects at this very moment.
Here's how:

Be rested:  Being organized involves a lot of decision making, and fatigue can drastically affect our ability to make decisions and follow through with action.  It's easy to find plenty of information about good sleep habits.  For people like me, it's usually as simple as:  Put down that darn remote!  And go to bed!

Pay attention to your energy level:  Eat well and get exercise. You've heard this many times, so I won't go on about it. It's important.

Meditate: This is huge!  You'd think that sitting still and doing nothing for a short amount of time would be a relief in our over-scheduled lives, so why does it seem difficult for most of us to establish a regular practice of stillness?  I don't have the answer, but I can tell you that it's well worth it to make it a priority and not give up on this one.  The mental and physical benefits will have a positive effect on EVERYTHING in your life. And you don't have to be a yogi or a guru for that to happen.

Practice mindfulness:  After a week in which I lost a glove, a pair of glasses, and my calendar (and found all three plus an extra glove I had lost earlier), this is a big one for me.  I am still working on the habit of doing ONE THING AND ONE THING ONLY at a time and keeping my monkey mind on that one thing.

Shop consciously  (or--shop like a man):   Don't shop because you're feeling bored, angry, inadequate, or stressed -- shop because you need something specific. Go out with a list, and stick to it.   If you happen to see something you love while you're out - yes, even if it's on sale! - tell yourself you can have it if you still want it after a week.  You'll actually save money, because after a week you often forget about the item, or realize you don't really want it anyway.

  Creating order isn't just about having a neat home or office.  It's also about being present in your life, and having the time and energy to do what needs to be done, to relax, and to enjoy yourself.

And, if you find you need help once you're ready deal with the "stuff", your helpful professional organizer is just a phone call away

(Thanks to Julie Gray, of Profound Impact Coaching and Organizing. for the inspiration!  To visit her website:  profound-impact.com )

For solutions to your organizing challenges,

to schedule a free consultation,

or have a conversation about your organizing needs:

Call Linda Palmer
262-784-3957

at Create Order

Home Organizing and De-materializing Service

  In Waukesha and Milwaukee WI counties, and surrounding area

createorder.org

email: createorder1@gmail.com

facebook:  Linda Palmer/Create Order Organizing Service

"Stuff Nirvana"

     I'm always looking for ways to break the organizing process down into ideas that are easy to remember and understand.  That's why my ears sort of perked up when I came across a video on YouTube  featuring Andrew Mellen.  (see video)

     Andrew is described on his website as "The most organized man in America", which made me wonder...is there a "most organized man on the planet?"  If so, I want to know about that guy.

     I watched the 44 minute video, and one minute later I was on Amazon buying his book Unstuff Your Life.  One thing I know for sure about Andrew is that his marketing methods are HIGHLY EFFECTIVE, as I am not normally an easy sell.  The tag line on his website,  andrewmellen.com, is:  "More Love, Less Stuff!"  Now, who can resist that?  I am hooked.

     Andrew has so many great ideas, but my favorite is his "Organizational Triangle" which consists of three rules:

      1)  One home for everything. This sounds like a no-brainer, but when I thought about it, I realized that  I don't always follow this rule.  Example:  keys and glasses.  Need I say more?  I'm always looking for them. Once I lost a set of keys because they were in the refrigerator AT WORK.  Embarrassing story, but it is true.

     2)  Like with like.  Objects that are similar in form or function live together.  Andrew even goes so far as to give preparation utensils and serving utensils separate "homes" in his kitchen, which I greatly admire and would totally do if I had more drawer space.

     3)  Something in, something out.  Genius!  Andrew defines "stuff equilibrium" as the state of having only stuff you use or love, and a home for everything.   Once you've reached "Stuff Equilibrium",  (which I prefer to call "Stuff Nirvana"),  you're no longer in the process of acquiring, but are now replacing items you no longer need, use, or love.

     Easy, right?  Just follow these three rules and your life will be perfect.

      Well, okay, not exactly that easy, but if you keep these three rules in mind as you work, it may help you to navigate your journey toward Stuff Nirvana. And if you need help getting inspired or getting started, remember:  your friendly professional organizer is just a phone call or an email away.

To find solutions for your organizing challenges, 

schedule a free consultation, 

or have a conversation about your organizing needs:

Call Linda Palmer
262-784-3957

at Create Order

Home Organizing and De-materializing Service

  In Waukesha and Milwaukee WI counties, and surrounding area

createorder.org

email: createorder1@gmail.com

On Facebook:  Linda Palmer/ Create Order

I

What Resolution?

 

     Change isn't easy, and if we could do it with resolutions, we'd all be perfect by now!  I'm not a big fan of resolutions, having made and broken many over the years, but if you're looking to live a more orderly life, here are some suggestions:

• Get rid of one item a day for 365 days.  It sounds like a lot, but you might be surprised  how easy it is to find things you don't need.  Even a broken paper clip counts!
• Stop telling people that you need to "get organized."  This only reinforces your thought that you're NOT organized.
• Make a list of ways your life (inner and outer) would be different without all of the extra "stuff".  Read and add to the list on a regular basis.
• Daily or weekly,  fill a box or bag with items to recycle, throw away, or donate. Schedule  a specific time to take donations away weekly or monthly.
• Another list:  A magic fairy appears and offers to do it all for you, but you have to write down every single thing that needs doing, and order it from most to least urgent.  Now, take number one on the list and write down every step she (or he) will need to take to accomplish the task.  Do the first step. (for example:  Task: Clean out the coat closet.  Step 1:  take everything out that is not a coat, boot or hat)
• Practice some form of gratitude, every single day.  Get in the habit of noticing, speaking or writing about your blessings.   This will help you realize that you have  "enough", and it will be easier to let go of items you don't need.  For some tips about keeping a gratitude journal go to :  Simple Abundance . 
• Give some thought to your relationship to your "stuff".  Keep a journal or ask a friend for a listening ear (remember, though, no whining or complaining!)  Most people say they've acquired so much stuff because they just don't have the time to take care of it, but often behind that there are feelings of loss, sadness, and even anger that we may be avoiding.

         Resolutions, dreams, intentions, wishes--whatever you call them, you do have the power to make them come true in 2013, and every year!  Here's hoping this year is the best yet for all of us.

To find solutions for your organizing challenges, 

schedule a free consultation, 

or have a conversation about your organizing needs:

Call Linda Palmer
262-784-3957

at Create Order

Home Organizing and De-materializing Service

  In Waukesha and Milwaukee WI counties, and surrounding area

createorder.org

email: createorder1@gmail.com

On Facebook:  Linda Palmer/ Create Order