My Podcast on Organizing

I was recently a guest speaker on a website called “It’s All About Women,” which features therapists and other mental health professionals talking about life challenges. I speak on “Why Can’t I Get Organized, Once and For All.” It runs about 18 minutes. Here is a shortcut link to the podcast. Hope you enjoy it!

http://tinyurl.com/atrc99r

After you listen, come back and post a comment for a chance to win a free hour on your next organizing session. May the best comment win! And while you’re on my blog, look at the past entries too to learn some surprising things. 

What You May Not Know. I'm A Flea Market Junkie.

Since flea market season is approaching, I want to let you in on a little secret. While I'm a Professional Organizer, I'm also a passionate collector. I have beautiful books on interior design, from European villas to industrial salvage funk (see my Pinterest boards).

I collect cookbooks with pictures of savory stews styled in antique tureens, kitchen paraphernalia and serving pieces, and many antique and vintage items. These fuel my passion for interior design and cooking.


My home is filled with both antique and modern furniture, all functional, some of which I've had since my first apartment. I love treasure hunting at thrift shops, estate sales and flea markets. You get better quality and timeless design. As a designer, I purchase rarely ... only when an object inspires my soul.


I'm not a minimalist and I've never aspired to be one ... although I admire those beautiful spare homes of polished concrete and steel, every object culled from the Museum of Modern Art, and that one large vase, a stunner filled with exotic leaves. The mundane items are hidden behind walls of storage. Love that – but ordinary bare bones homes make me sad. I like a home to have personality. 


William Morris is often quoted as saying: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” 


I've collected for decades so I also love to simplify. In fact, de-acquisitioning is my new hobby. I've been downsizing my collections for years, weeding down to the best and offloading the rest. I help my clients do the same. I've come to realize there's only so much I can use and enjoy. 


Here’s the lowdown about collections:


• If they could talk they would tell you they want to be out in the open. That means clean, not dusty and proudly displayed, not hidden. Only keep those you can care for. Like too many cats, collectables easily get out of hand.


• They want to be cherished. Even better they'd like to be used. Pull out that lovely old silver set you inherited and enjoy it every day. Find a way to organize your treasures so they are accessible.


• Books look beautiful when artfully arranged on the shelves. There are many ways to do it if you have the touch. If not, hire someone like me, so you can enjoy them forever.


• Like birds of a feather, collections like to flock together, like with like, among their friends. Put all that pretty pottery you've been collecting on the console, rather than spreading it out one by one throughout the house. Miraculously, it becomes a cohesive, thoughtfully displayed collection, rather than clutter.


• Use an organizing principle whether it's shape, color, or contrasting sizes and textures. If you like change, create a fresh tableau each season, storing others until it's their turn.


• Dispose of broken bits and pieces. Keep the treasure, toss the trash. Donate lesser pieces. Your collection will be more precious and you'll feel good about doing good.


• Be sure the items you collect are worth acquiring. Not every tchotchke you see is worthy to be in your home. Please refrain from collecting every dollar store owl in the universe, or coins and plates advertised as “newly-minted collectables.”

• Don't forget the cost of owning is not just the cash. It's time to take care of your collection which can entail carting it home, finding a space, getting rid of something else (real estate is expensive), repairing, washing, dusting (repeatedly), polishing, packing and paying for a move, maybe even storing someday. So be sure the item is worth it.


Treasure those vintage, antique or collectable items of beauty and function which can be had for a pittance. I predict you will love them for years to come. The search is half the fun. Happy hunting!




January: A fresh start

“The true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life."    –  William Morris, The Aims of Art 

A Time for Change

It's a new year, a good time to reassess your goals and kickstart all those organization projects jumping around in your head. Getting them done will enhance your life while you enjoy the benefits of productivity, serenity and reduced expense. Here are some projects we recently completed. The names have been changed for confidentiality but the projects are typical, and may resonate with you.

Home Makeover

Holly's apartment never felt right to her, despite new appliances and nicely painted walls. Her furniture arrangement didn't fit, there was clutter everywhere, and she could barely function. We came in for several days to rearrange the spaces, redesign and accessorize with her own belongings. Now it looks fantastic, the storage works, and Holly can finally relax in her own home.

Business Recordkeeping

Bill needed to institute a more efficient system for his finances. We set up his checkbook and accounting in a computer bookkeeping program so he can manage his finances, both business and personal. Now, at tax time he can give his accountant a general ledger, expenses and income without spending days on calculations. As his business grows, we can refer a trusted bookkeeper to visit monthly to pay bills, invoice clients and reconcile accounts. Bill's finances are in order and he has time to focus on growing his business.

Mail Clutter & Paper Piles

Marion couldn't manage paper. Paper piles were everywhere: junk mail she hadn't read, medical paperwork, investment reports, unfinished projects and old papers. She spent a lot of time looking for things in order to manage her work and personal affairs. First we set up her home office in a more efficient arrangement. Then we sorted and filed into a system of current files. We packed away past years' archives. Now taking advantage of our winter sale for coaching, Marion's on track to more organized habits. 

Project Management

Peggy needed to keep up with the demanding projects and quick deadlines at work. We helped her institute a simple Japanese follow-up system, a hot file setup, computerized calendar and two important lists to keep her on track. We are training her in new time management methodologies for ongoing maintenance.

Closet Rehab

Claudia needed a closet intervention. It took her so long to get dressed that she was continually late to work and appointments. We reworked her closet so her clothing, jewelry and shoes are all beautifully organized. Claudia can find everything and best of all, she's shopping in her closet rediscovering clothing with the tags still attached. Who knew?

Bills & Taxes

Beth asked us to eliminate the pileup of bills and receipts she has collected in many bags and boxes. We set up a simple to maintain system to streamline bill paying and data collection for taxes. We moved her bills into online or automatic payments. Once a year, after taxes financial files are archived.

How to Make a Shift

Small changes lead to big results. Feel the power to make a shift. When you see a problem that needs fixing, acknowledge that change begins with your willingness. With a new system in place, you can work on new habits for 30 days until they become part of you. January is the perfect time to get started. 

The Real Deal

Ask about our Winter Specials to sweeten clutter clearing and organizing in January and February. And remember, you get a free hour at your next session any time you refer a friend who completes a 4-hour session.

We Love Compliments

If you like this newsletter, please make a comment on our blog.

ID Theft - Don’t Let It Spoil Your Holidays!

View this video for a hilarious response to identity theft. Then read the article. Seriously!

http://tinyurl.com/cgdy24j

Yes, it does happen. Especially at this time of year you can’t be too careful. People fall for email scams and more often, their private information is compromised.

Much as my clients protest, I insist you buy a good shredder. Situate it right next to your desk, plugged in and use it whenever you open the mail. Shred, shred, shred.

Never give out credit card or bank account information to anyone in an email (or phone call unless you initiated the call).

Items you must shred:

• Address labels

• Preapproved credit card offers

• Any paper with a signature, social security numbers, account numbers, email, etc.

• Documents with driver’s license, maiden name, passwords, pin numbers or other ID information

• Utility bills (phone, internet, gas, electric, cable, etc.)

• Financial offers, checks or new account solicitations

• Bank statements, loan information, ATM receipts, old/void checks, receipts, deposit slips

• Credit reports

• Credit card statements or receipts, bills, carbon copies

• Pay stubs, resumes or employment records, personnel information

• Legal or insurance documents, leases

• Investment or property transactions

• Medical and dental records including x-rays which require special handling

• Birth certificate copies

• Expired passports or visas, military IDs, other IDs

• Resumes, transcripts, school records

• Tax forms, returns

• Travel itineraries, airline tickets, luggage tags

• For laminated items, cut up with scissors and place half in two different garbage bags

• Digital data and media are especially important. There are secure companies that can shred these.

• Erase all hard drives before getting rid of computers


If you need help, call on me. I welcome your emails and calls!


Happy Holidays! And don’t fall for any scams!

Anna

End of Year Review

Even though we're all busy with holiday festivities, year end is the best time to consider and consolidate our organizing systems – so we can finally relax with a cup of tea and a good book.

Here is a shortlist of some important year-end items:

Tax Planning 

December offers the last chance to reduce your tax bill. None of us like tax preparation. If there are receipts, bills and papers scattered throughout your home and office, tax preparation become an arduous project. Efficient capture systems make tax season less onerous. If you didn't create a tax file at the beginning of the year, start one now to corral tax-related papers.

Medical Review

Check medical expenses to see whether you can take the medical deduction. If you are close to the amount needed, you may elect to do annual tests now to reach that amount. Review your flex spending plan. Some plans end on Dec 31 however others extend the period until March 15. Check whether yours says "use it or lose it" by year end. 

Financial Audit

After Hurricane Sandy, it should be obvious that home insurance and health insurance are essential. Review your insurances to ensure yours is in place for your current needs. You may want to do a photo inventory of your possessions to store offsite. Review your portfolio allocations. Some IRAs require minimum distributions by December 31 or you may face penalties.

Disaster Plan

Hurricane Sandy reminds us that stuff happens, even in the city. Let us help you create a Go bag and gather essential supplies so you are prepared for emergencies like extreme weather, power outages, terrorist events, fire, illness and injury. A family disaster plan gives you confidence that your family members know what to do and where to meet up if disaster strikes. We can help if you are facing caretaking challenges as well.

Digital Calendar

I recommend a digital calendar. Before January 1st, extend your repeated items into the next year. If you go to the gym on weekday mornings, schedule it in as a recurring event, reserving that time slot on your calendar. Enter important dates, birthdays and events. It's essential to program in travel from one location to another and transition times for different activities. Plan email for a few times a day, and no more. The beauty of a digital calendar is you can Block in your day and see exactly how it looks. Conflicts stand out so you don't plan more than is possible in 24 hours. It helps you to be realistic about time and make good  choices. Another benefit is redundancy. No worry if you lose your phone. It's synched to your computer, so you're back in business without missing a beat. If you need time management help, call us.

Paper Planner

If you prefer a paper planner, buy one now for the best selection. Stores run out quickly as they don't stock too many. You can customize a binder type calendar for your particular needs. Use only one paper calendar and keep it close. It should be as essential to your life as your cell phone or wallet. The trick is to use it daily. More than one calendar is a sure recipe for errors. 

Tech Upgrades

Take advantage of holiday sales to purchase upgrades for your business which you can use as business expenses. With up-to-date technology work is more efficient. Now is a good time to do a digital cleanup. Your computer will be happier and run more efficiently. We can help you with digital organization and a tech plan.

Office Sweep

Revamp your home office, whether it's a spot to do bills or a fully functional home office for business. We help with space planning and set up. Being organized makes work so much more fun when you are not drowning in paper and searching for supplies. We can transform your desk into a place where you want to work. If you run a business, now is the time to purchase a shredder, ergonomic chair or supplies you need to work efficiently. Don't agonize, organize – for a happier, more productive year and a more successful business. Cha-ching!

Vision & Plan

Finish old projects, clear clutter and make way for the new year. Write a plan for 2013, not a to-do list but a list of goals. What do you want to accomplish in 2013? What do you need to let go of to simplify your life? Organizing is not a project – it's a process where we set up systems that work for your lifestyle and how to maintain them. Let go of perfectionism. Magazine photos are created by stylists and photographers. Apply the principles and ideas but understand those pictures are not replicas of real life. Still, it's fun to look at them so gather those books and magazines together in one spot, and dream. Simplicity is the goal, not perfection. Let us help you get to a more organized life.

Winter Specials

Ask about our winter deals to sweeten clutter clearing and organizing in December and January. And remember, you get a free hour at your next session any time you refer a friend who books a four-hour session.

There's no better time to get organized. Call us now if you need help.

After Hurricane Sandy

I hope everyone is ok after this devastating storm. 

If you haven't been able to communicate with family and friends, there is a Red Cross website where you can list yourself as safe and well.

https://safeandwell.communityos.org/zf/safe/add

We all think it can't happen here. I was a bit skeptical too. After all, NY usually doesn't have these severe natural disasters. Well, never say never!

Some were affected more than others. According to a friend on First Avenue, there was a river on her street from East River surges. Some of the the streets in Chelsea were flooded too as the Hudson River breached. With the subway system dark, no buses running and few cars on the road, NY was eerily quiet. Many trees were down and power lines were affected. Power was out in many neighborhoods. 

I was luckily not one of those whose power was cut off but I now advise all my clients to put together a Go Bag.  

https://www.nyredcross.org/?nd=be_ready_cross_ready

http://72hours.org/go_bag.html

Once storm repair is over, call me if you need help creating a Go Bag or Family Disaster Plan.

Be safe and be well!

End of Summer Organizing

“I’m fascinated by the mystery surrounding ‘getting organized.’ ”  ~ David Allen


End of summer last licks

I’m probably the only one you know who is happy to see the end of summer, and I’ve been using the last few days of this month to work on my own organization.

Yes, Organizers also need to organize. Clutter comes into our lives daily. I anticipate the brisk cool days of Fall when we can put away the summer gear and focus on our indoor spaces.

As we get ready to spend more time indoors, ask yourself: Is my home a soothing haven or a stressful mess? Which gets me thinking ... what does it actually mean to be truly organized? Organization is simply having what you need, when you need it. Too much stuff gets in the way of that; even too much of a good thing can be overwhelming.

Here are some ideas about organization:

Organization is not products
Often new clients ask me what to buy for the first session. They are surprised when I say nothing. Organizing products are great but most of the time, they end up as clutter because one has purchased something that looks great in the store but doesn’t function for our needs. Most of us already have all the stuff we need, or we can repurpose what we do have. It’s critical to sort and purge first; then determine the space, and only then think about what storage products to buy.

Disorganization is not deciding
Organizers say clutter is postponed decisions ...which is why it takes time to get organized. A room filled with stuff without a home might mean 5000 decisions. Should I keep it? Do I love it? Is it functional? Does it contribute to my life? How many do I have? How many do I need? Where should it live? What would happen if I give it up? Who do I give it to? Stuff seems to take over our time. Yet humans are collectors so we need to make good decisions.

Paper multiplication is a dilemma
Paper seems to multiply. If a room full objects is 5000 decisions, a box of paper can be 5000 decisions. That’s why it’s important to minimize paper. Convert to online bill paying. Contain necessary paper in an effective file system. Toss obsolete newspapers. Shred financial offers and get off the mailing lists. Minimize mail through one of the unsubscribe services. Make decisions a few minutes daily before you have that backlog which takes over your space.

Organization is having a place
You’ve heard the wise adage ... “a place for everything and everything in its place.” Where is the place your mail resides until you can read and process it? What about your current action papers? Do they have a home or are they scattered about? Your extra paper towels, office supplies, photos, shampoos, boxes of tea, sweaters ... Does every item have a proper place so you can find it when you need it? Or do you waste precious time looking, get stressed or spend money to buy items you know you already own, leading to more clutter?

What you keep adds meaning 
Figure out what adds meaning to your life and eliminate the rest. Here’s where an Organizer can help. We guide you to make the right decisions. We help you set up systems that work. We keep you accountable to the process until it gets done.

Freebies & Specials
Is there an end of summer organizing project you want to accomplish? Call for a Complimentary Phone Consultation to discuss your projects. Our rates go up in January. Take advantage of the last quarter of the year to get organized once and for all.

Have an organized day,
Anna