Clutter Busting: So, you say you want to get organized…

One of the most repeated New Year’s Resolutions is “to get organized.” I have probably added this to my own list many times in the past. The problem is that it is such a vague resolve, and one that cannot be measured. Let’s take a look at some other popular resolutions: pay off debt, lose weight, volunteer, eat healthier, exercise more, etc. Isn’t it amazing to see how becoming organized can help achieve these resolutions?

Before I explain the steps in becoming organized, first let’s discuss what it actually means to be organized. If it is perfection you are seeking, you will never find it. If you are looking to create a world completely free from any type of clutter…good luck. So, if becoming organized will not bring you a perfect uncluttered life, what will it bring?

To become organized is to have a clear set of priorities and goals and actions that reflect accordingly. To become organized is to know what you want and be on the road to achieve it. Being organized is not the result of your achievements; rather it is the actual process.

Steps in becoming organized:

Priorities and Goals

What do you want for you and your family? Why do you want to become organized? What are the things that are most important to you? These are the questions you must first ask yourself. Sometimes you have to adjust your dreams to your realities.

Create steps to achieve goals

Once you have answered the above questions (which may be the hardest part), it is time to create the steps to achieve the goals while taking into account your priority list. For example, let’s say you want to go back to college to get a new career. Depending on your priorities is how you will organize your life to achieve this goal. It may take you 2 years full-time, or 6 years taking a class at a time. I am a FIRM believer in everything is possible. You simply take your end goal and break it up into steps. These steps must be achievable and not too rigid. If you try to reach for perfection you will always fall flat on your face, and often times find yourself one step ahead and two steps behind.

Ask and accept help

Once you know what you want, and have properly balanced it with your priorities, it is time to ask for help. You should not be ashamed to seek help, especially when it is offered. It is okay to not be able to do everything on your own. Often times; true strength is shown when pride is dropped and weaknesses are shared with others.

Celebrate the small successes

As I mentioned above, being organized is not the end result. It is the conscious effort to keep on the path even with the path gets bumpy and roadblocks come your way. If you keep your priorities at the center of your life’s plan, your goals may change, but contentment and satisfaction will still be found in your efforts. Throughout 2008 and far beyond, praise yourself for a job well done. Believe in yourself and your abilities and others will as well.

How to create an organized home

Let’s take the principles above and see how they will help create an organized home. For example, let’s say that you would like to organize your kitchen. Perhaps your priorities are your family and health and your goals are to save money and live more simply. Some steps in creating this would be de-clutter your cabinets, streamline your kitchen tools, create meal plans, and create a grocery checklist. By taking the steps to organize your kitchen you can save time and money while improving the overall health of your family and creating and happier place for you.

Throughout 2008 I will share little tidbits on how to organize your home and life. Please feel free to ask questions and add your own comments and tips. May the New Year bring simplicity and contentment to your life!

Betsy