Tame Clutter Today!

To contact me:

 

Jaime Householder

Professional Organizer

PO Box 835

Mansfield, OH 44901

Phone: 419-512-2768

jaime@jhorganizing.com

Clutter Corner

 (Readers Questions)

Q: What do you suggest to help me organize my dog walking supplies. I have a leash and mess baggies.

A: Since you said “dog walking supplies” I assume you are not talking about food, treats, etc. I will also assume that you are probably

keeping the leash and baggies by the door. Depending on your space, I would either use a hook located close to the door to hang the supplies on, or a basket on a table that is located near the door to put the supplies in. The important thing here is to keep it convenient for you. Happy walking

When people find out that I am a professional organizer they assume I have a spotless home and am prepared for anything. I think this is one of the downfalls of the profession. Truth be told, we are all human and we can all learn new things.  I want to share my new thing with you.

At the end of April I attended NAPO’s annual conference, which was located conveniently in Ohio this year. For me it was three days of exciting learning and reaffirmation. The biggest ah-ha moment came when I was in a session that discussed time management.  This was during my first day. You see, I was an hour late the first day due to poor time management on my part. I had done an organizing presentation  for a church group and needed to drive 1 hour and 20 minutes to the conference. The problem was that I did not allow enough time in my schedule for questions after the presentation, which made me late in getting out. I also did not leave enough travel time in the schedule in case I got lost or had to use the rest room (I was lost 20 minutes and the rest areas were closed).

I tried to remain calm, but I have to admit I was getting a little flustered as I drove.  I rolled down the window to get some

fresh air and bug just so happened to splat into the side of my head. Needless to say, I did make it there.

Try these strategies for gaining time:

1. Prioritize—Decide on what is most important (have to do’s) and write them down on your schedule.

2. Block Time Off—Block off enough time to complete the task. Add extra time for travel, bathroom needs, etc.

3. Schedule Needs Time—This is time for lunch (no skipping) and down time. The down time is for a fun activity you enjoy. This is very important to add to your schedule and will help you feel rejuvenated when it is time to go back to work.

4. Set Goals (personal and business)—Any task you have blocked time for should have a clear deadline to help you stay focused.

5. Check-In—Set aside 15 minutes daily  to check your schedule and plan for the next day!

To finish my conference story, that evening after the long drive home, I was preparing for bed when I notice the remains of the bug stuck in my hair:) What a day!

 

Gaining Time

Clutter Check Gazette

Tips for putting clutter in check!

June 2010-July 2010

Volume 2, Issue 4

Copyright 2010 Jaime Householder

If  you have an organizing question , tidbit or comment, please e-mail me at:

newsletter@ jhorganizing.com

Your question or tidbit could appear in our next issue!