Technology doesn't always fix the problem

I met with a prospective client a few weeks ago to discuss the possibility of organizing her business office. During our initial consultation we talked about the problems she was facing with her desk and why it was always unkempt. At one point in the conversation our attention turned to the disorganization within her computer and why her computer files and emails were not being managed properly. It highlighted an often forgotten fact…Technology does not automatically make a person organized! In fact, sometimes it can make their situation worse. My prospect’s desk and computer were remarkably similar: her papers were all mixed up on the desk and so were her computer documents. Her physical filing system was not functioning properly, and she had not yet created a system for her computer files that was efficient and effective. In the end I believe that good habits and discipline make someone organized, not necessarily the technology they use. For some people, electronics and technology are a God send and make life easier. For others, it highlights and accentuates the current lack of organization.

Organizing tips for newlyweds

Setting up your new house or apartment with your spouse is an important part of starting the next stage of your relationship together. The goal is to have living quarters that are comfortable, functional and conducive to your own living habits and preferences as well as your spouse’s. The worst mistake most new couples make is not listening to the other person. Both individuals should give and receive opinions openly and be willing to compromise on non-essential preferences. Organization is a very personal thing, often molded to our own unique habits and lifestyle choices. Working together, you can build systems that are easy for both of you to follow and maintain. Sit down together and discuss the different rooms in your home, and determine how each of you thinks they should be used. Consider the activities you do or want space for, and assign these activities to the room(s) you think will best accommodate them. Be creative; for example, a bedroom could be your craft area or second den. Then think about the furniture you want to use as storage. Ensure that it fits what you want it to hold, and that it will make sense in the room in which you would like it to reside. Storing items by how they are used, grouped or categorized into specific spaces is the easiest and most efficient way to find things. If you both lived on your own previous to living together and have two households to combine, remember that you do not need two of everything. First, decide what non-duplicate items you would like to keep. Ask yourselves if it is useful to your lifestyle and if you want it. Then tackle the duplicate items. First look at the space you have to work with. While having two sofas is nice, your living room simply may not be large enough. Ask yourselves if you really need, and will use, two sets of utensils or dishes. Don’t always expect your spouse to make the tough call all the time. Be willing to let some of your personal belongings go. If you decide to keep more duplicates, consider storing the second item in a basement, attic or closet if it is not going to be used frequently. You will leave more space for things you are going to use on a regular basis, and cut down on clutter in high traffic areas. Starting fresh with the registry gifts you receive and items you buy together can be easier. However, there will always be a few gifts that weren’t really what you were looking for. Do not be afraid to return things that you do not need, will not use, or do not want. Your guest would prefer that the gift be used and wanted rather than sit in a box because you did not want it. Replace the item with something else you need or have not yet received. Finally, create a simple filing system for bills, statements, personal information and household information. Mail and paper can become overwhelming. Catalogs, bills, invitations etc should all have a place once they cross the threshold of your home, like wall mounted mail sorters or nice baskets. Any papers that need to be kept should be in a filing cabinet with all papers in clearly labeled, hanging files. Long term or archive storage can be in bankers’ boxes or plastic file bins in the basement. Remember to always ask yourselves if you need a document you are about to save. Can you condense the information elsewhere? Are you ever going to refer to it again? Do you really need it for tax purposes? By following these suggestions, you will ensure a smooth transition into creating a manageable and organized household with your spouse!