Organizing Solutions For Stuff You Didn't Even Know You Could Organize

How Tos

By: BonnieDossKnight 06-Feb-2012

Introduction:

So, you think you're organized? Your junk drawer contains little sorters and envelopes for odds-and-ends. Your pantry is in tip-top shape and the canned goods are sorted by ABCs. You've cleared your closet of things you no longer wear. Wait! Here is a list of organizine solutions for stuff you didn't even know you could organize. Are you ready to create serenity in your life?

Thought Management

I once took a management class where the focal point was MBWA (Management by Walking Around). When one of my esoteric students pleaded with me for a solution to get her disorganized thoughts in order, I adapted the acronym.

You can properly practice thought management the way I instructed my student - MTBWA - manage thought by walking around. You'll need a pen and paper. This practice can be done anytime, but early morning is preferable when your brain is active after a night of rest.

For example, walk around your kitchen while waiting for water to boil. Don't force a thought to surface. Just let thoughts happen. Don't try to brainstorm solutions. Each time a thought pops into your consciousness, write it on the paper.

Practice MTBWA for about 10 minutes daily. You might end up with: telephone calls to return, appointments to make, things you've put off that you need to tackle and upcoming birthdays. By putting all your thoughts in one place, you'll have a jumpstart on your day!

Worry Planner

Get a blank book and label it "Worry Planner". On Sunday afternoon, write down everything you can think of that is making you anxious. Put the planner away.

Allot 15 minutes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday to worry about everything you wrote. Do not write new worries in the planner, no matter how tempting. Wait until Sunday.

During worry time, you may be delightfully surprised that some of your worries resolved themselves. Cross those off the worry list.

Each Thursday night, select one active item from the worry list and think of potential ways to solve it. Don't work on the entire list. Try to resolve one worry at a time. If you can't find a solution, talk to somebody you trust for advice.

Bothersome Interruptions

First, don't let your own thoughts interrupt you. This is distracting and a big waste of productive time. Dump bothersome thoughts on your MTBWA list and if necessary transfer them to your worry list once a week.

Unwanted phone calls are huge bothersome interruptions. Tell the caller you are busy worrying and you will call back.

Keep a kid pad handy and teach your children to write questions out when you're busy or on the phone. (Excepting emergencies, of course.) When you've finished your task or telephone call, take time to answer the questions. This is also a valuable way to teach your kids to respect your time.

Organize Quiet Time

All of us need a personal retreat where we can take mini-getaways. If you can't devote an entire room in your home for quiet time, at the least, section off a corner of your bedroom. Put a comfortable chair, reading lamp, a scented candle and your journals or magazines in your safe space.

Go to your quiet place to drift, dream, take a power nap, write in your journal, meditate or simply sit and stare into nothing. Solitude is valuable. Ensure that you organize quiet time to relax and recharge.

Structured Workouts

Many of us resolve to lose weight and get fit every time a new year comes around. Add structure to your resolution by keeping workout clothes and shoes in our car. When we're always prepared, we can take a fitness break at lunch two or three times a week.

Walking is the exercise most recommended by medical professionals. If there is a grocery store in your neighborhood, walk there when you just need a few items.

If at all affordable, work with a fitness trainer at your health club. He/she will propose structured workouts and provide plenty or praise when you meet milestones.

Give this list a high five!

Comments

Post a Comment

goodselfme 2/7/2012
Flag This Comment

I know I will be reading this more than once. I don't have too many worries, but they seem to gang up when they come and I will need to read and work on this great plan in this valuable list. thank you.
dashboardc33 2/6/2012
Flag This Comment

Nice tips! Thanks!
ElaineChastain 2/6/2012
Flag This Comment

Brilliant Bonnie, just brilliant! It is our thoughts and our worries that clutter our lives so much more than the clutter in our homes. You're very good providing information to soothe and smooth our lives. Thank you!
clewand550 2/6/2012
Flag This Comment

I really need to do some major organizing. Great job on this list of 5.