10 Sure Ways to Get Organized in the New Year

10 Sure Ways to Get Organized in the New YearIt’s a new year and the perfect opportunity to do something different. That’s what New Year’s Resolutions are for, right? This year, if getting organized is on your list, don’t just say “I want to,” say “I will” and this is how.Declutter – A cluttered space = A cluttered mind. Start fresh this year and shed the excess clutter. Go through your entire home and/or office and pare down. If you are having difficulty making decisions on what to keep, use this Clutter Free Emergency Card. Use One Calendar – Ask yourself, “Do I prefer paper or plastic?” This will determine how you keep your calendar. Will it be on paper (planner) or plastic (smart phone/computer)? Cut out the confusion and use the method that will allow you to be successful.Set a Date – If you want to get things done, you have to schedule a day and time on your (one) calendar, to do it.Make a Daily To-Do-List, but Tap Out at 3”x3” – 3”x3” is the size of a Post-it Note; if your daily agenda won’t fit on a Post-it, it probably won’t fit in your day. Yes, you may use front and back : )Learn to Say No – You will be amazed at how less stressed you will feel and how clear your calendar will become when you start saving you “yeses” for the most important things in life.Delegate – Apply the “one for me, one for you” system. Allow other people and professionals to assist you with your goals. For example, moms, instead of picking up after everyone, write a chore list for the entire family. Spend your energy doing tasks that energize you; that’s why I organize!Personalize Your Space – When you love your space, good things like motivation, inspiration and productivity are sure to follow. To accomplish this, I recommend hiring an Interior Designer like Holly Bellomy of Holly Bellomy Interiors. Until you are ready to hire a professional, Holly has provided you 5 Easy Ways to Personalize Your Home.Establish a Convenience Store Mentality – Store what you need, where you need it. This will save precious time and prevent clutter.Put it Away Mary Poppins Style – At the end of each day, you should put things back where they belong and “a song will move the job along”. Sing A Spoonful of Sugar or one of your favorites and put the items away. Work is much more fun with music. I think I can hear you singing it now! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLkp_Dx6VdISharing is Caring – Share your organizational goals and systems with everyone they will effect. For example, members of your household or office. This way, everyone is on the same page and there is a greater likelihood of you staying organized.Now that you have the tools to be more organized in the new year, go ahead and set a date, in your (one) calendar to get started!ShailaShaila D. Milbry is a Lifestyle Manager and Professional Organizer in Dallas, Texas.You can follow her blog The Clutter Free Corner here and visit her website here.