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BY Dru Rafkin Jackman
1. Breathe – It is going to
get better.
2. Decide. Where you would
like to start? Look at what is causing you the most
worry, guilt and stress.
3. Break it down. Many
organizing tasks require more time and energy than we
realize when we begin. Look at the big picture and break
it down into smaller, manageable steps that you can
actually complete.
You may need to schedule more than one appointment with
yourself. In most cases, it took a long time for this
“project” to develop; it only makes sense that it will
take some time to dismantle it.
4. Schedule. Pick a date and a
time frame. Do your best to stick to it. This is
important to you and it deserves your attention and
focus. Clear your calendar for that time. You may even
choose to let the phone ring and not pick it up.
5. Prepare. Have empty boxes
or sturdy bags on hand. Post it notes, a pad, pencil and
a marking pen will make the process as well as the
clean-up easier. Clear a little space for yourself
before you begin.
6. Be focused and consistent.
Don’t stray from the task at hand. If you are clearing
off your desk, counter tops, or attacking your basement
pick a spot to start and stay there until it is done.
It’s oh, so tempting to move on to another area when you
hit an item that you don’t know how to handle, so...
7. Keep, Recycle, Give Away, Toss.
This is your mantra as you sort. Each
time you pick up an item ask yourself, “Do I keep,
recycle, give away or toss this?” Put the item in the
appropriately marked box or bag.
8. Assess. You should now only
have left what you need and want to keep. What’s left?
Do you have enough space? Are the items where they
should be or is there a more appropriate and/or
accessible place to keep them. Hint: Think about how and
when the items are used.
9. Measure twice, shop once.
Do you need any items to help keep you organized and to
customize the space and its contents. It’s tempting and
expensive to shop before you know what you have and what
you need.
10. Maintain and follow-through.
Now that everything has its place, you’ll
need to actually put things back in their place when you
are done with them. Take the extra few seconds to put
the paper in the file and the file in its drawer. If you
get behind, spend 10 minutes at the end of your day
putting things away properly; that way you’ll always
start with a clean space.
You’ll probably need to make a run to the garbage can,
recycling drop-off, thrift store/library/school (don’t
forget to get a receipt for your tax deduction).
10 ½. Treat yourself – well done!
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