Simple Organizing 101: Creating O.R.D.E.R. in Your Life (part 2 of 4)

Simple Organizing 101 Creating O.R.D.E.R. in Your Life (Part 2 of 4)

Now that you have set your goals (in part 1), we can move to the steps that will bring your goals into reality. Whatever method you take to get your space organized, there are certain principles that apply across the board. The acronym O.R.D.E.R. is an easy way to keep things moving along in your quest for clutter management.

Observe

Use your eyes; see what's around you. Take a few moments and take an honest look at your space. What is the real problem with this space? Does it lack a purpose? Does it lack a trash can? Don't try to fix it, just look. Inventory your space. What is here? Are there dishes or junk mail or soda cans where they don't belong? Are there broken things or gifts that still have to be given?

Take inventory of yourself, too. Think about your personality, when you work best and what your needs are. What is realistic? What support do you have? What tools do you need? This is an important step. You need to think about yourself in order to set yourself up to succeed. Now that you have inventoried, you are ready for step 2: releasing things to their proper place.

Release

Everything has a suitable space, and as you decide what to put where, don't allow yourself to feel overwhelmed. Take it in small bites and take breaks. Play some energizing music, wear comfortable clothes and work when you are at your best. It's important to keep a clear head and positive attitude so you can do your best.

Don't be afraid of the circular file. There is a cleansing sensation that comes with purging, or throwing things away. It creates more room in your life for the things you love. But a key to this step is knowing what not to toss. Things you want to keep include:

• Bank statements and other financial records
• Receipts for big ticket and items under warranty
• Addresses and phone numbers (write them in your address book and then toss them)
• Invitations

Things you might toss include:

• Magazines (clip the article you want out of it)
• Junk mail
• Old lists and bills
• Receipts for small items
• Torn or broken items that are not worth fixing

Label four boxes-toss, mend, give, keep. Place all items in one of these four boxes. After you have emptied your space take the "toss" box to the trash. Remove the temptation to go back and sift through it. Place the "mend" and "give" boxes in another room. (Deal with these boxes another day.) Now you only have to work with the things left in the "keep" box. You're ready to designate a home for your keepers.

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