More Tips to Simplify and Get Organized
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Articles on Getting Organized
Take a shortcut to more "me" time.
Do you often feel that there just isn't enough time to get everything done? If so, before making a special trip across town to save a few cents, ask yourself if the money that you are going to save is worth the time, energy, traffic, hassle and gas that you'll have to give up in exchange. You may be pleasantly surprised that it's actually cheaper in the long run to buy the item from a nearby store for a few dollars more and use the extra time for yourself!
How to decide where to get involved.
Second grade room helper. Cookie maker for Girl Scouts. Greeter at church. Small group leader. Homemaker. Housekeeper. Family chef. Family Chauffeur. Errand runner. Bill payer. The list goes on and on. It's flattering that we are so needed, but it can leave you completely drained and worn out. If you ever run into troubles trying to decide which activities you should get involved in and which ones you should decline, remember this. Pick the activities that really matter and don't feel bad for saying no. It's better to keep your health than it is to try and do it all yourself.
The goal will be much sweeter if we learn to enjoy the journey.
Sometimes we get so wrapped up in what we have to do, where we want to go, or what we want to be that we forget to enjoy the journey to the goal. If you feel like you're always pushing ahead, take a few minutes to be thankful for where you are at and enjoy what you've already accomplished. This may give you the boost you need to keep moving ahead!
Keeping Party Plans in Check
Have you ever invited another couple over for hot dogs and chips and ended up throwing a formal dinner party for 26? Sometimes we can be our own worst enemy by overextending ourselves unnecessarily. The goal of the evening was probably a fun, relaxing time of fellowship. Don't forget your goal and let the event get the best of you. Your guests will look to you to set the tone of the night. If you have fun and enjoy yourself they will too. And isn't that the true measure of a successful party?
Keys to Enjoying Life
Find happiness by finding your passion.
Do you wake up each morning eager to face the day ahead? John 10:10 says that Jesus came that we might enjoy life. If you feel overwhelmed and burdened, you're missing out on the good life that God wants for you.
A primary reason people aren't enjoying life is that they don't know their purpose. As a result, they feel obligated to do everything and end up enjoying nothing. Once you know what God’s purpose is for you, it’s much easier to stay focused and eliminate any activities that distract you from your goal.
The world is full of great opportunities, however God never intended for you to take them all on yourself. Give yourself the freedom to say "no" to certain activities so that you can say “yes” to the ones that really matter and bring you true enjoyment.
1. Find out what God's purpose is for this season of your life.
2. Evaluate all opportunities against your purpose.
3. Accept the fact that you cant do it all.
4. Learn to decline requests that don't line up with your purpose.
5. Practice being good at being you.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 29:18, Eph 4:1-6
Get Out of the Rocking Chair
Forget the past and enjoy the future!
Do you feel like you are exerting a lot of energy but never seem to go anywhere? Many people unknowingly wear themselves out by living in the past, wallowing in guilt, and allowing themselves to be angry, resentful, and discouraged.
The good news is that you don't have to continue rocking in a chair that is going nowhere. If we simply repent and confess our sins to Him, God is faithful to forgive us and He sets us free from all guilt and condemnation.
God has already forgotten your past so why don't you? Make a choice today to stop wasting energy looking back and focus on the good things God has in store for your future!
Scripture Reference: I John 1:9, Romans 8:1-2
Overflowing Closets?
Designate a donation drop zone to keep closets organized.
When you come across an item that needs to be given away, place it in a designated drop zone. Your drop zone can be a box in your closet or an area in your basement or garage. This will help to keep closets under control and will make it easier to know when it's time to make a run to a local charity.
Are You a Paper Pusher?
Learn to efficiently traffic paperwork to increase productivity.
Have you ever watched the path a piece of paper takes in your home? Maybe it starts on the kitchen table but gets moved to the kitchen counter at dinnertime. Then the kids want to make cookies so it gets moved to the desk. You sit down to use the computer so you drop the paper in a pile on your desk to make more room. The next day you go through the pile and decide you don't want to act on it just yet so it gets put in another pile. Eventually it finds its way to your filing cabinet.
If this rings a bell, I encourage you to try to get papers, bills, statements, etc. to their final destination earlier in the process. The goal is to touch each piece of paper only once to ensure your time is used efficiently. Of course this may require a change in family habits or some creative solutions but I'm sure you'll find a way. And I'm sure that you'll be very pleased with the results!
Give When You Get
Prevent closet clutter and brighten someone's day!
Every time you buy a new article of clothing, select something in your closet to give away. This will prevent your closet from overflowing and you will feel good about brightening someone else's day.
Caution...Danger Zone Ahead!
Find a home for everything and find peace.
Do you cringe when you hear the old saying "A place for everything and everything in its place?" As corny as it might sound, it really does have merit. Things often end up in a pile somewhere because we just don't know where it should go. Of course this leads to uneasiness and stress because that pile is looming on the countertop reminding us of our disorganization.
I challenge you to take some time and go room by room looking for homeless items. Then get creative in finding the right spot for everything. When we take time to make a home for everything, there is more chance that things will get put back into their designated space later. And perhaps most importantly, it helps us live a more peaceful and stress free life!
I've been building a list of simple ways to cut costs and save money. Click the blue "Money Saving Ideas" button to read through my tips list. I've also included links to tons of articles on saving money, cutting costs, and finding good deals.
Other Resources
Declutter Fast - Get Your Home in Order!
The Definitive Guide to Home Organization for Busy People!
Ultimate Homeschooling Moms Planner
How to Organize and Get The Most Out of Grocery Coupons
Blogs!
Jeri's Organizing & Decluttering News
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