Creatively Organized Spaces for Organizing & clutter clearing tips for simplified living

Create a Practical Command Center

June 21, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Kids & Family Organizing, Organize, Systems & Techniques, Tips & Resources 3 Comments

Today, I’m sharing ideas to Create A Practical Command Center. Since this month is all about kid-friendly organizing in the home I think it’s important to have a place where you can collect everything needed to “take command” of schedules, stuff and tasks for your family!

I’m going to break it down by why, where and what! Not every command center (and there are thousands on Pinterest to choose from!) will have what YOU need.

[bctt tweet=”Get inspired by others but don’t get stuck repeating someone else’s idea of success.” username=”hkpowerstudio”]

Do you need help to Create a Practical Command Center?

Let’s start with your why. Defining the reason you need to create a command center is the first step!

Perhaps you’re losing things or can’t keep track of them, feeling overwhelmed, feeling rushed and you’re juggling too much information!
Mail is tossed everywhere including the kitchen counter, the coffee table, the dining room table or some other horizontal surface which means when you go to pick up, things get misplaced.
You have a hard time getting out the door with everything you and your family need.
Maybe you can’t locate homework or school paperwork & neither you nor your kids know where these things belong.
Do multiple schedules (both parents and kids) have you scrambling, missing appointments or running late?
Always looking for last minute gifts because you missed that party invitation? information for your babysitter or other important items you need regularly.

The next important step in creating a practical command center is knowing what you need to include.

Mail sorting station-which might include trash, recycling bins and shredder-with individual slots for household members
Calendar or schedule-either a traditional paper system or a white/blackboard calendar. Decide what information will be included on this calendar. Maybe it’s just for the kids and family activities (sports, parties, Dr’s Apts, school events etc). Each family member or category can be assigned a color for easy tracking.
Charging Station
Grab & Go Kid Stuff-If you have small children, having extra supplies in a cabinet, ready to go is a great time saver. Include activity books, diapers, bug spray, change of clothes or other essentials for small children.

Bags, backpacks and other gear-if you have the space you can incorporate cubbies, baskets or hooks for storage. This area is for regularly used shoes, bags and purses and is a great place for people to drop items without cluttering up the main part of the house. Something similar can be set up in a closet, with an organizer hanging inside the door. Label each household member’s hook, cubical or shelf. Practice regular weekly to tidying (putting things away, cleaning out bags etc).

Key Hooks
Basic utility items-this can be a drawer or a hanging organizer with things like batteries, pens/pencils, chargers, scissors, notepads, a hammer/screwdriver, tape measure and anything else you use regularly. Identify what you want to keep where so it doesn’t turn into a “Junk drawer”!
Fun stuff-a bulletin board, white/black or magnetic board, or hanging system for artwork and fun messages!

Via Your Home Theater

Lists-to do, grocery or chore charts for parents and kids.
Household Binder-this is a great place for emergency contacts, vital household information (for babysitters etc), schedules, invitations and more! If space is limited you can create a command center in a binder! Just use different tabs for the different information you need to keep track of and keep it in a central location.
Via Thirty Handmade Days

We all have different needs and when you know why you need some sort of command center it will give you insight into what to include. If you look at the list above and you say to yourself that you only need a couple of the items I included as examples then you can focus on creating a system that includes only what you need. Sometimes we get sucked in by other peoples systems because they have shared how great they work (for them) or we think it looks so incredible!

Being specific and simplifying your home management system will set you up for success!

Now that you understand why and what you need for creating a practical command center, let’s identify where this system should be.

Depending on your home and space considerations, here are a few places you might want to put a command center. If you don’t have space to put everything in one spot, that’s okay. Paperwork, mail, electronic’s, your binder or supplies could go in one area and hooks for keys, clothing and gear could go someplace else.

Near the front door
Mudroom
Kitchen
Laundry Room
Hallway or other central location
Closet or niche-including the inside of the door
A simple binder or portable bin (accordion file, file tote etc)

Here are a few tips to help you identify how to install your command center.

Go Vertical to get things up off your counters and on the wall. You can use the side or inside of a cabinet. If you have a lot of shelves, bins etc to hang, create paper templates and tape them up until you’re happy with the arrangement. This will save you patching unnecessary holes!

Hooks-anything from command to fancy decorative hooks
Shelves-floating or brackets, for small lightweight items
Baskets and bins-from shoes to paperwork, corral it in bins

I love to use these clear pockets for small stuff (bug spray, glue, gloves and more!).

Label things and assign lower spaces for small kids, upper spaces for adult stuff you don’t want the kids to get into!

Keep it simple-eliminate un-necessary clutter. Maintain your new system by assigning one day a week for a quick tidy up. Friday’s and Sunday’s are both great days for this 15 min assignment. After a few weeks or month keep it simple and eliminate the unnecessary clutter of items you are not using. Start simple and if the system works, expand upon it and get creative to make it as beautiful as it is practical!

Need additional help identifying why, what and how to create a practical command center? Give me a shout and let’s see how I can help you create a perfect command system for your household!

A cozy and tidy girls room makeover

June 12, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Kids & Family Organizing, Organize, Organizing Projects, Systems & Techniques Leave a Comment

In this cozy and tidy girls room makeover there were actually two spaces. Our goal was to create boundaries and storage for clothes, homework and personal space for a 13 year old girl. This is something important to every kid going into teen years!

A Cozy and tidy girls room goals::What’s Important? Boundaries, age appropriate space, homework space, easy to maintain systems, room for clothes, comfort, cute, cozy and private.

Organizing can help establish rules, show your kids you trust and value their choices and create age-appropriate systems. This space wasn’t really working all that well and didn’t feel right for her needs as her interests and maturity level change.

This young lady has a really cool space, with a cozy bedroom and open “hangout” and homework area outside her room that she wasn’t really using. It always helps to evaluate how your kids use their rooms. Then you can create “zones” for them to do homework, hangout with friends (if you allow that), read, get dressed and sleep. Her desk, printer, a chair and large dresser where in the space outside her room, which also serves as a cut through to the bathroom and a guest room. Since her room has glass windows instead of walls, privacy is also an important issue! Curtains were ordered to eliminate this problem. With her help, we cleaned out her dresser and closet, the nightstand and small table at the end of her bed and decided what items (less used etc) could be kept in the dresser outside her room.

Her small built in closet cabinets also present a bit of a challenge.We re-arranged the contents to make putting clothes away easier. We moved the sports equipment and the second night stand below out of the room (clutter collectors).

She’s got her own bathroom (lucky girl!) with ample storage and we discussed keeping toiletries in the bathroom, not the bedroom (for the most part). As I organize with kids, I use it as an opportunity to learn why they do what they do and try to guide them to making choices that perhaps they did not realize were available, better or more appropriate? I hesitate to say right or wrong and I always defer to the parents house rules (which I determine before we begin) as well as teaching kids basic sanitary and hygienic systems (like no food in bedrooms?).

By attaching a few command hook inside her cabinet doors we freed shelf and drawer space. Go vertical whenever possible! These hanging pockets and hooks held small accessories she uses regularly, like sunglasses, her wallet, an umbrella etc. We moved shoes from the floor into the closet drawers and accessories like bags and hats to the dresser. We displayed her trophies and ribbons on a shelf above the dresser, rather than crammed in drawers and boxes. Since her desk was not being used in the space outside her room, we moved it to the wall opposite her bed. She now has space to do her homework in her room, on her bed or at her desk.

She’s taken to keeping things organized as much as a pre-teen takes to anything! She continues to come up with her own clever organizing solutions.

Kids love their space and value how great it feels to be organized, which creates lifelong value!

I LOVE to help kids get organized and most of the time they LOVE to be organized! Kids love structure and they love to be heard. When I work with them, I ask a lot of questions and listen so that I can help create systems that will work for them (and their parents). When we learn good organizing systems we are more likely to remain active in creating and maintaining organizing solutions!

Do you need help creating order in your kids rooms this summer? I’d love to work with your family to establish lasting organizing systems your kids will use for a lifetime! Get in touch today for a free Discovery Call.

Moving Advice for Gracious Living

May 22, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Move Management, Organize Leave a Comment

My dear friend Celeste has a lovely blog filled with an assortment of observations to enhance your modern life! She was kind enough to allow me to share her pearls of wisdom and Moving Advice for Gracious Living here with you…

From the desk of Celeste B.
Moving? A friend of my acquaintance is a master at it. She has undertaken and supervised 5 moves in 6 years in New York City as well as many others during her adult lifetime, including a recent one to the coast of Maine, of all places!
Anyhoo, I have managed to glean some very helpful tips from her as to how to maintain sanity and equilibrium in general during the process, without excessive medications. She also advises to save cocktail time until the end of the packing workday which I feel is entirely sensible given the chances for mishaps. Of course if you can afford to have your movers wrap, box and load all your worldly goods then this will not pertain to you and you may as well not upset your routine happy hour in any way.

The truck rental and movers have scads of boxes and material of all kinds. Bite the bullet and pay for them for a couple of reasons: the boxes are uniform in shape, they are in new condition, they are available in one place and they can be returned if not used.

If you must scavenge boxes elsewhere, be choosy about their condition. Set up a temporary area in every room for wrapping and boxing, preferably on a table of convenient height with good lighting. Gather your supplies: pens, stickers, wrapping paper and legal pad. That last is paramount. Make a list. Number every box (see above) and make a fairly detailed list of the contents of each box. If that sounds like a lot of work, I can only say that it will be worth it when you are trying to find the toaster and coffee maker among the jumble of everything. When you plainly number boxes, write it on at least four of the six sides, otherwise you will certainly be looking at stacks of boxes with a number only on top. You will be able to assign arrival rooms to boxes by number at any time if you haven’t stickered them with a color code scheme for the movers. And Ladies, protect your hands from the drying effect of wrapping paper by wearing gloves. That paper draws all the moisture from your skin!
Don’t fill a box beyond its limit and be mindful of weight. Using another box won’t hurt a thing and will safeguard against possible tragedies. Books are a good example. Just because a box will hold them all does not mean it is appropriate, that’s why there are mover-designated book boxes which are about the size of a liquor box, a perfect restraint against overloading. Use your blankets, towels and pillows to cushion items. Use that sticky paper tape to seal boxes, not the flimsy plastic type better used for mailing. Don’t be shy about sealing the bottom with two strips of tape.

Don’t feel that everything must be boxed. Movers deal with oddly shaped items all the time, but do wrap them if they are vulnerable.
Let us not forget that we have too much stuff in general and that de-accessioning as much as you can will allow you to be less of a slave to possessions. Grandmother wisely reminded me that the Latin word for possessions is impedimenta. Find a good consignment
shop and breathe easy.
Smooches,
Celeste

Your Moving Guide to Uproot With Ease

May 16, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Move Management, Organize, Productivity, Systems & Techniques, Tips & Resources Leave a Comment

Moving can be one of the most exciting events in your life. New city (or just a new zipcode), new terrain, new people – for many the perfect way to hit reset on life. But that free spirit mentality only lasts so long once confronted with the realities of moving. Then comes the stressors of a new job, finding a place to live, new social circles, not to mention the move itself. Moving is considered one of the top stress activities in life but with this quick guide we hope to help make moving a breeze.

Are you flying, driving, shipping or towing your belongings? As the to-do’s pile up, the dollar signs follow, but armed with the right tips you can avoid some unforeseen hiccups on the road.

Uproot with Ease, Your Guide to Make Moving a Breeze

Location, Location, Location
– Moving on a whim? Do your research. How does the cost of living compare? Job market? Weather? These characteristics will all factor into your overall happiness post-move.
– No car? Check out the new city’s walkability score and how effective their public transit systems are first.
– Yes car? If the climate is different where you are headed you may need to make some adjustments to your vehicle such as all-season or snow tires. It is also worth taking note of parking. While many cities may offer street parking, some may require you pay for a garage.
– Weather change? While your instinct may be to layer up for cold weather or pare down for warmer climates ahead of time, it may be worth it to wait. Unless your are headed from 80 and sunny to 10 and snowy, scope out what residents are actually wearing. That born and bred neighbor will likely be able to give you better advice than a weather forecast.

The Long Haul
– Driving? Plan your route, and a backup, ahead of time. If your travel time amounts to multiple days pinpoint where you would like to stop and stay. Try to avoid big cities during heavy traffic times and trade off drivers if possible. Also remember, it’s a road trip! Maybe you can check out some landmarks or the largest ball of yarn en route!
– Towing? Consider your options. There are many different moving services providers today including U-Haul, Budget, etc. Companies offer multiple sizes in vehicles from minivans to mac trucks, but check to see if your nearest location offers the size you have in mind, and if they allow you to drop off the vehicle at a sister location.
– Shipping? When you consider the cost of a rental, gas, and hotel stays for some moves, shipping your belongings may make more sense. Companies like Pods and U-Haul offer such services which can include storage and the option of them packing the unit for you.

New Digs
– Renting? If Craigslist is your go-to consider additional sources like Trulia, Apartments.com, as well as local realty companies. Many real estate companies include lists of available properties, but call and find out if there are others soon to be available that are not showing on the site. Also inquire as to whether maintenance is performed between tenants, what is expected in terms of personal maintenance, can Fido come, and what may or may not be included in the rent price, i.e. electric, water, etc.
– Brand new? Explore the different neighborhoods, preferably during a trip pre-move. Does the social scene cater to young adults or established families? How convenient are things like laundry, groceries, etc?
– Downsizing? Do a purge before the move. Donate any clothing, kitchenwares, furniture that either won’t fit or won’t belong. Chances are you will be doing another overhaul post-move.

Getting Social
– Exercise? Join a local yoga studio or fitness club. Running and cycling meet ups are not only a great way to meet people, but also to explore your new home. Use the MINDBODY App or head over to the local recreation center to find activities near you.
– Networking? Whether it’s through a social-based platform like Meetup or a local “young professionals” group, there are a number of online sources to network in a social or business setting. Two personal favorites are Meet My Dog and Supper Club.
– Lend a hand? Volunteering will not only give you all those positive feels, but getting out in the community will help you learn more about the city and its residents. Not sure where to go? Volunteer Match can help with that.

Most importantly, keep an open mind. Living in a new place gives us the opportunity to learn more about ourselves and this great, big world we live in. Don’t let the burden of packing and hauling and unpacking cast a shadow over the new people you will meet and experiences you will have. Plan ahead and take the plunge!

Favorite Moving Tools & Tips

May 12, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Move Management, Organize, Organizing Projects, Tips & Resources 1 Comment

Today, I’m sharing a roundup of some of my favorite moving tools and tips. These include basic supplies and tried and true tips to help every move run smoother.

A Small accordion or tickler file folder for all your important moving-related paperwork (including your inventory, moving contract, supply and to-do list, real estate agreements, etc.)
Notepad for inventory or digital file for inventory (of boxes and contents)
Sticky notes & painters tape-use these for identifying where items will go. Painter tape will not stick permanently to surfaces.
Eco-Friendly Boxes- Look for boxes with recycled content that can be reused repeatedly!
Durable packing tape-I like scotch or Staples brand and prefer clear with a handled dispenser. Some packing tape is very thin and flimsy. Check before you buy!

Bubble wrap for very fragile items.
Packing paper (you can use newspaper, but it leaves your hands dirty). A mix of recycled newspaper and new packing paper is a nice compromise.
Blankets, pillows, towels, and other textiles can all be used to cushion and add padding to fragile items.
Scissors, box cutters & permanent markers with bold tips in black and color (color code boxes-use RED for fragile items, etc)
Trash bags-Kitchen size and larger-clear for donations and recycling
Cleaning supplies-glass cleaner, paper towels, gloves, rags, multi-purpose cleaner, sponges, goo-gone, and wood cleaner are all useful for wiping things down before you pack or as you unpack and put things away
Snacks, water/beverages, and a small assortment of paper plates and utensils- better yet, keep reusable items out for each household member and have a “kitchen kit”!

Is there anything I forgot that you think is essential to have on hand? I would love to hear your contributions! If you’re feeling overwhelmed about any upcoming move, please get in touch with me to schedule a quick consult call to learn how I can help!

Makeover Monday:Escalators on my bookshelves

April 24, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Books, Home, Inspiration & Education, Organize, Systems & Techniques Leave a Comment

I’ve been super busy lately and haven’t shared many makeovers:( But I’ll be back soon with loads of great before and afters. In the meantime, here’s a quick Monday makeover from my own Living Room with color Escalators on my bookshelves!

OCD Bookshelf Organizing: Color Escalators on my Bookshelves!

I’m sure you’ve seen this kind of thing before and I actually love to group books within color “families” but one evening last week I was laying on my sofa looking at this bookshelf thinking, I need to give this a serious update! I love color and I love order but this was just feeling way to rigid, would you agree?

I also have this other shelf in the same room with my collection of cookbooks and pottery, so I worked on both shelves together, bringing some of the books to the other shelf and some of my pottery to the taller shelf. Color is still a big part of the finished arrangement but there are no longer “escalators” of colors…running across each shelf:)

Instead, there are groups of books by color, size and subject, arranged in both vertical and horizontal manner to break up the space and create display vignettes that show off some of my pottery and other favorite objects (crystals, this vintage capiz shell globe etc).

My lawyers bookshelf still contains my cookbooks and some other books, as well as more objects and collections. I have a lot of feathers that I love and have to keep out of the way or the cats will steal them! So, my feather collection remains behind glass as well as some of the more delicate porcelain and pottery pieces.

While I was at it, organizing and re-arranging…I also took the opportunity to purge a bag full of books for donations. I love books and I still have more books not shown but I can’t bring myself to part with the many books I refer back to again and again. What do your bookshelves look like? Would you like to share them with me on social media? If so please find me on IG or FB and share your bookshelves with the hashtag #creativelyorganizedbooks!!

Trying to cram in as much as you can…

April 13, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Art, Art & Design, Inspiration & Education, Productivity, Wellness & Mindset Leave a Comment

We all have more ideas, hobbies, dreams and wishes than we may realistically ever be able to achieve. Though if your like me your trying to cram in as much as you can! In the past week I’ve taken some time off of work to do something I always love to do at this time of year, garden and garden related volunteering (I’m a Master Gardener!).

I value the freedom and flexibility of owning my own business so that I can shift gears when I need to and escape to pursue a passion or hobby that may not be related to Organizing or even my Art! But we creative’s can be very tempted by bright shiny objects, new ideas, new materials, the latest gadgets and tools…and they don’t necessarily help us execute our creative ideas in a more fulfilling way.

Sometimes, more is just a big distraction and excuse to not get to work on our own making and art.

I am totally guilty of this as my brand new sewing machine sits in my studio barely used and a warp is on my loom, only barely begun with a new weaving project. There are also times when stepping away from what we work on daily to “Take a Beauty Break” (as my friend Lisa would say), is a great way to reset the soul and give us clarity and focus again!

I’m not suggesting that we should not ‘invest’ in new tools and materials when we need them but as any gardener, quilter or knitter knows, sometimes you have to use up the stash before buying more!

Casting our ideas and creative focus in too many directions can leave us scattered.

Having too many creative pursuits, ideas and materials around us can be a distraction. A tip I often suggest is to pack up one or more different materials (supplies) and put them away for awhile (a few months or longer). Allow yourself to focus on one or two burning creative ideas! If your a writer, you can collect thoughts for future writings into a “NEXT” folder (the suggestion of a great PR person I recently met). If you find that you are not called back to these supplies, then donate them, sell them or give them to a friend. They may be just the inspiration someone else needs to set their ideas on fire!

By setting some of our ideas and creative pursuits aside, we make space to focus on what we really want to be creating. We distill our creative energy to be more potent and concentrated. Have you ever had to say no to some of your creative ideas for awhile in order to focus on your current creative direction?

An Easy Guide to detox your cleaning routine

April 4, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Home, Inspiration & Education, Uncategorized, Wellness & Mindset Leave a Comment

It’s springtime! Before you load up on green smoothies, start with this easy guide to detox your cleaning routine.

Nothing beats a crisp spring day to make you feel more rejuvenated after a long busy winter with the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Spring is also the time to open the windows and let fresh air in to motivate our spring cleaning. While that cross-breeze may feel fresh, the chemicals in many cleaning supplies are not. To protect your family and the environment here is a helpful guide to going green with your cleaning supplies.

detox your cleaning routine

Chemicals To Avoid:

Chlorine & Ammonia – These active ingredients can irritate the skin as well as the respiratory system, and when mixed, can create hazardous fumes.

Phosphates – Some examples include nonylphenol and octylphenol which can lead to algal blooms. Protect our marine life!

Phthalates – Often found in fragranced products, phthalates can be absorbed through inhalation or through the skin and are known endocrine (hormonal) disruptors.

Triclosan – Also suspected to be endocrine disruptors, triclosan is more commonly associated with antibacterial products, which are generally to be avoided, and is known to promote the growth of drug-resistant bacteria.

2-Butoxyethanol – These compounds contribute to respiratory problem in addition to such serious conditions as narcosis, pulmonary edema, and liver and kidney disfuntion. Unfortunately the EPA does not require this ingredient to be listed, but it can most often be found in window and multipurpose cleaners.

Chlorine – The body’s response to chlorine can be as minimal as a respiratory irritant to as severe as a thyroid disruptor. To minimize your chlorine consumption check out the ingredients in store-bought toilet bowl cleaners, laundry whitening, mildew treatments, and scouring powders.

Sodium Hydroxide – This extremely corrosive chemical can lead to serious burns on the skin and eyes. NaOH is often found in drain and oven cleaners.

Perchloroethylene “Perc” – Now classified as a “possible carcinogen” by the EPA, perc can also cause dizziness and inhibit coordination. This neurotoxin is often found in upholstery and carpet cleaners and dry-cleaning solutions.

Reputable Products: Green Gear

E-Cloth – These nylon and polyester cleaning cloths pick up 99% of bacteria without absorbing any of the grime, so a quick soak in hot water and the E-cloth is back in action.

The Duop – This “bucketless mopping” gadget has a ball-and-socket joint with a detachable microfiber cloth that can washed and replaced making it one of the cleanest and greenest mops on the market.

Reputable Products: Green Brands

Dr. Bonner’s – Try their Castile Soaps and Sal Suds

Seventh Generation – All Purpose Cleaner, Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Bathroom Cleaner, Shower Cleaner, and Glass & Surface Cleaner

Our House – Sanitizing Surface Cleaner & Shiny Surface Cleaner

Naturally Yours – Enz-Away; Basin, Tub and Tile Cleaner; and Gentle Soap

Eco-Friendly DIY All-Purpose Cleaner:

1 cup distilled water
1 cup white distilled vinegar
1/2 lemon juiced (optional)**
15 drops essential oil (opt for calming scents like eucalyptus and lavender or something zingy and citrus based)

Mix all ingredients in a 16 oz. spray bottle, shake up and get cleaning!
**If using lemon juice, store cleaner in fridge between cleanings.

There are some products on the market that hit the mark on eliminating some but not all of the ingredients listed above. Each person’s sensitivity to chemicals and ingredients is individual and it’s best to research the ingredients on any product you are using before determining if you find the ingredients tolerable. When we are educated about our choices we make better choices! I also don’t want anyone to feel they have to dump everything down the drain and start from scratch. Maybe you make this transition gradually or all at once, the choice is yours.

Sources:

Organizing using the 5S Methodology

March 28, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Organize, Paper management, Productivity, Systems & Techniques, Tips & Resources 1 Comment

Long before the Kondo Method came along…the Japanese were using the 5 S Methodology

Learn how it can help you Get Organized! It’s so simple it’s brilliant!

The 5 S Methodology

This post was originally published Oct 19, 2011. I recently learned about a fascinating methodology used in Japan for organizing the workplace. I found this long before the currently popular Kondo Technique and books came along. Perhaps she had read and learned something of this technique too! I have a love of most things Japanese and this methodology is one I feel could be effectively implemented by many business’s or individuals even though it’s primary application seems to be in the manufacturing sector (Toyota and Canon are examples of Japanese companies that have implemented this system).

I tend to better remember systems that employ a simple name mnemonic‘s. I think the Japanese agree!

The 5 S Methodology works by sorting, straightening, systematic cleaning, standardizing and sustaining.

Seiri or Sorting
Seiton or Straightening (setting in order / stabilize)
Seiso or Systematic cleaning
Seiketsu or Standardizing
Shitsuke or Sustaining (sustaining the discipline or self-discipline)

It’s so simple it’s brilliant!

The main objectives in the 5S methodology include improve productivity and quality.

Another benefit is that this system encourages each person to take ownership of every item and their surroundings.

This is where personal creative participation should be encouraged (whether it be getting the children involved or the employees!) Health and safety improvements can be included as additional benefits. As with all systematic changes that individuals or companies may choose to adopt, they must be clearly understood by all and there should be clear goals associated with the implementation of such a system for it to be effective. If you would like to learn more about this methodology check out

If you’d like to learn more about this methodology check out Wikipedia to start with. From there you can find many other informative articles related to “lean principles“.

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Curb the Chaos…with a swift kick!

March 6, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Organize, Organizing Projects, Systems & Techniques, Tips & Resources, Uncategorized, Wellness & Mindset Leave a Comment

Since we are almost officially into Spring now I’ve heard a lot of people getting the itch to de-clutter and do a nice deep round of spring clean out! As we ease our way out of our winter hibernation mode, this can feel like a lovely time to focus our energy on the home front, creating a sense of order, doing a nice round of deep cleaning and giving a swift kick in the butt to the chaos in our life! Consider this a Healthy dose of Spring home maintenance!

*Note-if your feeling like you need to hire an organizer than try this technique with a small area first to see how it goes. This is more of a “Maintenance” round than a deep organizing or cleaning session.

Here’s a little visualization tool to help you feel your home as you want it to be!

Lets start by closing our eyes, taking a few deep breaths and envisioning how we want our space to look and feel. Are you seeing a light filled space with windows that frame blue skies, puffy white clouds and tree’s and flowers budding out? Do you feel your feet sliding across floors that are clean and clutter free? Are your kitchen counters, sink and table clear of papers and anything else that might stop you from preparing and sharing healthy nurturing meals for your family? Are your clothes (dresser, closet etc) easy to take out and put away, with your go to favorites well cared for and easy to access? I hope you can see your home as a relaxing space that you can enjoy with your family in your down time. If you can envision it with your eyes closed and feel it, then you can totally create it when you open your eyes! If your ready to make this feeling a reality, take a few more deep breaths and set your intention to create this reality in your home.

Great, now lets get started kicking chaos to the curb! Give yourself a few hours for this whole house “once over”. This can be very helpful to do before you deep clean (if that’s a part of your routine).

Curb the chaos anytime your feeling the “urge to purge”! This usually happens to me several times a year and when it does, I try to take advantage of that feeling and go with it!

Before we break it down, get yourself some water, turn on some music, light a candle or diffuse some essential oils to support your energetic work! We will not be focusing on deep cleaning here…we will be focusing on the chaos that you need to kick to the curb! That’s going to be different for each of us, take a mental tally of what that means for you and we can start right at the front door…

Grab a laundry basket or bin to gather things into, for putting away and trash bags for toss and donate items.
Empty your car so it’s ready to take donations that day or have a donation pick up scheduled for the next day. Don’t let things linger where they can be a temptation.
Clear away anything that doesn’t welcome you or serve a function to support your family as you come and go in your daily life. If you keep shoes, bags and keys here, that’s fine, just give them homes (hooks, shelves, a bench, cubbies, baskets etc). If you’ve got a “donation” bin started here, great, we can add to that. Remove anything that doesn’t belong. *Don’t stop now to put it where it goes, put it in your “put away bin”, toss or donate bag-this will keep you moving room to room.
Work your way into your home, from the “front” or whatever main entrance you use, towards the back. Leave out major storage areas like the attic, garage or shed. In this round we focus on living spaces.
Start from the bottom and work your way up, skimming the floors-picking up toys, clothes and anything out of place. Remove clutter from surfaces and sweep the chaos into “put away”, “toss” or “donate” bags/bins. If your not sure where something goes but you know it doesn’t belong in that room, that’ fine. Add it to the put away bin. If trash or donate accumulate rapidly, take them right out to the car or put them by the door and get new bags.
Repeat this process in each room, especially your main living spaces, kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms. As you got into each new room, check to see if anything in the put away bin belongs and put it away:) Chaos need not linger!
Be brutal, be quick, touch each item if you need to and decide if they “spark Joy” as KonMarie has now famously en-sighted:) If not, kick it to the curb!
Once your done with each room, haul your trash and donate out. Scan your put away bin and see what is left. If there are things that don’t have permanent homes, think about why. What category are they? Can they be stored with other like items or someplace you commonly use them? Once everything is put away, thrown away or hauled out for donation, you have officially kicked your chaos to the curb!

Congratulation! How does that feel? Can you see yourself doing a quick version of this several times a week or even daily? They less we let our chaos build up, the less overwhelming it becomes. There will always be chaos in our life. It’s messy, it’s ugly, it drags us down and makes us feel heavy at times, but we don’t have to let it stick around. It’s our choice to curb the chaos in our life and our home. Good luck and reach out if you have any questions about this process!