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How to be true to your extraordinary superpower!

February 22, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Tips & Resources, Wellness & Mindset Leave a Comment

Have you considered the way in which you feel ordinary might be your extraordinary superpower?

What we think about our strengths or weaknesses are likely not the full picture. The psychological term for this is strength blindness, coined by Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener.  In other word, we take ourselves for granted!

Recently I’ve been in a deeply reflective place, seeking a better understanding of ‘who’ I am. I’m digging in based on the context of my upbringing, spiritual influences in my life, my personality & my education. What I’ve come to realize is that some of my beliefs about myself are either not true or so biased I need to investigate further.

One such belief is that being a sensitive person is a weakness.

On the contrary, in my work as an organizer, being a highly sensitive person gives me compassion! It also helps me be non- judgmental and find deep connections with other.

This newly discovered strength has been also been one of my greatest challenges. The idea of women fully embracing their ’emotions’ has historically been an example of how women give their power away! We do not have to act like something we are not. In doing so we don’t serve anyone, least of all our higher selves or God (goddess, higher power- what you equate to God).

your extraordinary superpower

Discovering our super powers is the most sacred work we are called to.

These are lessons that will come to us again and again, desperately asking us to go deeper and become more aware of ourselves. By understanding ourselves outside the terms of “strength or weakness” we see how our differences makes us incredibly strong! Here is where the transformation can happen. When we emerge from the depths of a place we once viewed as weakness, to discover a different perspective, it’s like breaking up from a deep dive to invite a full breath of oxygen into our lungs! When this happens, we feel the most incredible sense of release, like a burden has dropped away, we can breath again fully!  From that new found perspective we begin to see the world differently, beginning with how we think about ourselves.

The key here is that we shift our focus from what others have been telling us about ourselves to what we say is our truth!  

That’s what I a superpower is all about!  Believe first and foremost in your gifts and do not just give them away to please others. 

Being Well means Sleeping Well

February 15, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Tips & Resources, Wellness & Mindset 1 Comment

Being well means sleeping well and feeling well literally begins with getting a good night sleep.

I know that I generally need 7-8 hours of sleep a night to feel my best.

We each have to listen to our internal clocks to determine the right amount of sleep and the optimal time for sleep.

If you have a hard time adjusting and getting to sleep, do what you can to support your circadian rhythms. This can mean removing electronic’s from near your bed, or even from your bedroom all together. Some people swear by melatonin to help regulate their internal clock but working towards a natural state of relaxation is certainly the most healthy approach.

Creating a peaceful environment to sleep in is very personal. Removing “Clutter” and objects that can keep your mind working overtime will make it easier to unwind when your head hits the pillow.

Imagine entering a room that is painted in a soothing color (whatever that might mean to you!) with calming artwork that evokes peaceful, harmonious rest. Your room smells clean and fresh, you can diffuse lavender oil or use a naturally scented candle to further help you unwind. Maybe the room has a comfortable chair and lamp to read, write in a journal and relax in.  There are no piles of clothes on the floor or in corners because you have easily accessible storage for your clothes including drawers, hanging and folding space and a few hooks for a robe, PJ’s or other frequently used clothing.  You have space next to your bed for something to drink, one or two books and a lamp but it’s not piled up with books and clutter. Your bed invites you to curl up and sink in, fully supported! The natural daylight filtering in your window helps you rise with the sun, feeling fully rested. When you get up in the morning it is easy to make your bed, not too many pillows, just what you need for the best sleep possible. 

Creating a pattern that supports our internal rhythms and helps us to relax might include a cup of warm caffeine-free tea, reading or taking a bath.

We also need to think about what activities keep our minds and bodies in a more active state and stop doing those things at least an hour before bedtime. These activities may include certain kinds of exercise, eating, drinking alcohol and “screentime”. Keeping digital devices at least 10 feet away and/or getting into the practice of putting our phones on “airplane” mode can minimize some of the impact.

What to do when you find yourself waking in the middle of the night, restless, anxious and not able to get back to sleep? For each of us that depends, on our schedule, how much sleep we need, what we have to do the next day. If you need some tips for taming the restless mind check out this great article by Unstuck. The consensus seems to be that laying in bed for hours of restlessness is unhelpful for anyone though, so do what you can to either get back to sleep or get up and get your mind out of the anxiety rut.

I know the practice of napping is something some people swear by but I’ve never been able to nap.  I’m just not a napper, wish I was!  So that means I need to get that sleep at night because once I’m up, I’m up.

There are so many fascinating studies that illustrate all the ways in which sleep is important for us.

Lack of sleep and fatigue can lead to stress, weight gain, depression, anxiety, heart and other health problems (especially with sleep disorders) and it can be downright dangerous (as in driving and falling asleep etc). Take a few minutes to listen to this excellent TED Talk by Arianne Huffington which reveals Health Research on Sleep deprivation & Sleep disorders

Do you get enough sleep? How many hours does that mean for you?

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Trusting without hesitation, a Sacred Exercise in Trust

February 12, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Inspiration & Education, Wellness & Mindset

Trusting without hesitation can be both liberating and challenging. How can we invite more trust into our lives? What would it mean to allow yourself to trust without hesitation? This quick exercise is one way to get in touch with your internal sense of trust. It’s like any muscle and the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. So today, or sometime this week, take a few minutes and write…stream of conscious style…what you trust, without hesitation!

Trusting without hesitation

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DIY Device Cleanup

January 31, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Digital Organizing, Organize, Productivity, Systems & Techniques, Tips & Resources, Uncategorized Leave a Comment

DIY Device Cleanup

DIY Device CleanupDIY Device Cleanup doesn’t have to be a challenge but you can’t just ignore and hang onto everything digital forever! I’ve recently had conversations with friends, fellow organizers, and clients about cleaning off old electronic devices in order to recycle/donate or resell them.  This is something I am constantly addressing because people are intimidated or don’t know how to clear off their data.  Privacy is a critical issue to most of us these days and I’m not saying what anyone should or shouldn’t do.  Let me preface by saying that decisions about our privacy are very personal and so each of us has to make a decision based upon your personal level of comfort.

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Getting the Most out of Kid’s Consignments

January 24, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Closets, Organize, Tips & Resources, Uncategorized 1 Comment

Tips For Understanding Kids Consignments

Getting organized and deciding what and how to consign your children’s toys and clothes may feel overwhelming. But by following a few simple step and guidelines you can actually have fun and earn some extra cash! Here are some easy tips from Tiny Tadpoles to help you with your kids consignments.

First Step:  Save Time!

Go to a few children’s resale/consignment stores in your area. See what they sell. Look at sizes, brands, etc.  Ask what items they are currently accepting. Ask to subscribe to their email list. Most stores have a website &/or social media sites they update with items they need.  If it’s someplace you shop frequently, there is a good chance they will want to re-consign or purchase from you.

kids consignmentsSecond Step:  Get Organized!

Go through your children’s closets, drawers, toy boxes, and bookshelves.  Make 3 piles: 1. items that you want to keep (clothes still fit, toys are still being played with etc) 2. Items that you want to pass to friends or relatives, donate to a charity, yard sale, or toss.  3.  Items that you want to be considered for consignment.  Sometimes first timers aren’t sure what to put in this pile.

Here are helpful hints on what to consider consigning: only select items that you would want to buy yourself.  Consider what Season the store is currently taking. Preferred and designer brands are usually selected. Make sure these items are clean. Items that have been stored need to be freshly laundered. Button and snap everything. No excessive wrinkles. Make sure all toys are working and have all original parts.  Keep things current, toys and clothes over 5 years old aren’t usually selected.

kids consignmentsThird Step:  Start Consigning!

Bring your selections to the kid’s consignment store of your choice.  Most of them offer cash with an additional percentage to spend at the store. This is key when you have small children who grow so fast! Feel good about yourself. Your gently used item will be sold again at an affordable price and put a smile on another child’s (and mom or dad’s) face.

Most small consignment stores are locally owned by families in your community.

Bonus!! You’re keeping extra packaging and waste out of the landfill.

Kids ConsignmentsYes, consigning is a little more work than tossing everything in a bag for donation but by taking a little time to Understand Kids Consignments, it’s worth it!

The benefits of consigning include organizing your child’s room, making money, supporting local businesses, and reducing your carbon footprint etc!

Kelly Hartong

Owner

Tiny Tadpoles Children’s Resale Boutique

Kids Consignments

 

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Creative Filing Systems

January 19, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Digital Organizing, Organize, Paper management, Productivity, Systems & Techniques, Tips & Resources Leave a Comment

Is your filing system in total chaos?

These creative filing systems may be just what you need to transform your paperwork (and digital files)!

Creative filing systems

“Filed Away” by Allison Koch (Charleston, SC- Installed at Artfields, 2016)

You’ve identified your filing mistakes, you’ve whittled down your paperwork to keep only what you need and your ready to set up your new creative filing system. Not every filing system has to be the same. Use your creativity to create a system that you’re more likely to maintain. If your files are digital rather than paper, many of these ideas will still work!

Creative Filing SystemGet a handle on volume! How much paperwork do you need to keep versus toss?

Do you have just the essentials or a whole cabinet full of paperwork? The first step is to find storage to suit your style and space needs. There are tons of beautiful and creative filing cabinets, boxes and more to choose from. Here’s my latest roundup.

In the organizing industry, we refer to “filers” and “pilers”.

If your not into a re-purposed or disguised file cabinet and are looking for something different, a binder filing system might be right for you. Some people can’t stand filing papers!

Someone who tends to “pile” papers might be more suited to a binder system. nstead of a drawers you use a series of binders. I’ve created lots of these systems, some color-coded (by  pereson or category), others with all the same color and labels.

Creative Filing SystemBroad filing categories should be broken down further by accounts, dates or sub-categories.

  • For example, “Investments 2016” might include several brokerage accounts.
  • Determine the volume you have for each category (this post might be helpful) and what you need to keep before purchasing and setting up your system.
  • Three-hole punch the paperwork individually or use clear sheet protectors to keep papers in place.
  • Use binders for visual things you reference but don’t need as often.
  • It’s a great system to use for files that need to be transported frequently or referenced by many! I recently learned about the Trio (3 in 1) Organizer by Samsill (while attending NAPO Conference) and love the idea of a binder and loose accordion pockets all in one. There are 7 sections which you could use as a modified “tickler” system (more below).  It’s a new product and I really like it, just wish it was a hardcover instead of the more flimsy plastic outer.

Have you ever heard of the tickler system? You’ve probably seen in use somewhere (& I don’t mean in the bedroom…;).

  • The original and most well-known is the 43-folders system includes 31 numbered “day” folders and 12 folders for the months of the year. This system is based on getting things done on time or at least on target.
  • A great system for someone working with projects, on deadlines or managing productivity and finances more tightly.
  • Simplified versions use 4 folders, one for each week of the month-use to keep on top of tasks that need to “get done”.
  • This system doesn’t really work for “archive” or files that need to be kept but not handled but it’s a great productivity system!
  • Think of it as a daily (weekly or monthly) “inbox” for all your to-do items.
  • As more and more of us get away from handling “paperwork” you might want to consider setting up a “digital tickler” system for your inbox. More can be found about the tickler system at Life Hack.

I can’t do a post on Creative filing systems without mentioning color coding!

Colors might be by category, person, project, date or any classification to help you to quickly identify what you’re looking for. I like to ask what colors people use to identify with each category. For example, if your home is yellow, you might use yellow folders for anything related to household. Likewise, financial papers might be in green folders or binders. You get the idea if your visual, color matters!

Creative Filing System“We are all primarily visual, color is first, symbols second, numbers are third… and words last.” Graphic Design USA

Using file indexes is another great creative tip that I don’t see a lot of people using these to their advantage. Indexes can be for either folders or binders and can include color coding, categories, sub-categories and more. It’s helpful to have an index with binders or file drawers (in the front). Keep a backup index with your essential documents so that you have a record of everything in case you ever need to recreate what you lost. I hope these creative ideas help you tackle your filing with renewed enthusiasm!

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Start to Finish, Manage Projects with Momentum

January 16, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Organize, Productivity, Tips & Resources 1 Comment

I didn’t set out as an organizer to find long-term, ongoing projects, but they seem magnetically attracted to me!

Maybe it’s my background in Project management that helps me to look at a big project and begin to break it down into the most “obvious” (to me;) steps to get started, create momentum and maintain.

I  know that when I’m not emotionally invested in something, it’s a lot easier to step back and be objective about where to start and how to break something big into smaller actionable steps. So let’s talk about that…

How to choose your starting point when you’re trying to achieve a big goal.

project management momentum

Get Started

Let me step back in time to my former days as a carpet designer where I managed design projects for entire hotels. I didn’t work alone, I always had a team that included sales, technical and creative interior designers and architects as well as other experts.

  • Ask yourself, who’s on my team? Who can I enlist to help me achieve my objectives?
  • Identify your strengths in the process and theirs. Do you have a friend who’s got a great sense of fashion who can help you clear out your wardrobe? Do you know a nutrition or health coach who you can enlist the help of to get your kitchen healthy? Keep them in mind but don’t reach out to them just yet!
  • What one small or big accomplishment is going to make you feel amazing? With that in mind, you will know where to start.

Get Inspired

  • Look for inspiration online, in magazines and as your going about your daily life. See something you like while taking a walk? Snap a photo and begin to create a Vision Board on Pinterest or on a poster board…
  • Collect ideas that will get you excited and keep you motivated when you slump.

Get Real

  • Setting and maintaining goals is really all about setting yourself up for Success!
  • Manage your expectations. Really ask yourself, is it realistic for me to think I can organize my entire house in a weekend? What about my garage?
  • Break your goals down into realistic objectives, take it one step at a time and think about how much time and what resources you will need to Succeed!

Get a Plan

  • List your objectives in order of priority.
  • Think “Domino” effect. Great project management is all about thinking a few steps ahead. If you buy supplies before knowing what you need then you’ve wasted resources!
  • Give yourself a timeline with some loose but realistic deadlines.
  • Does that pile of paperwork in the office make you cringe? Do you dread going into the garage?
  • Now’s the time to enlist help. Ask, interview, hire and schedule people to help with the bigger or more challenging phases of the project.
  • Schedule the time, block out hours, days or longer on your calendar to work on each phase of the project.

Get Going

  • Make a commitment to see this through to a specific point before you even consider quitting! Don’t give up before you get started, give yourself the best chance to succeed.
  • Reward yourself! Sometimes the accomplishment is the reward. But for certain phases of a project, you might just need to dangle a carrot out there.
  • Block off time. Get childcare, remove distractions, turn your phone off, don’t answer the door. Turn up the music and get moving!
  • Give yourself the support you need. This means getting the coach, friend, organizer or other expert to be on your side. It also means not over doing it. Do what you can to make it easier.

Get Happy!

  • Celebrate milestones along the way! Snap pictures to remind yourself of how great your accomplishment is! When the closet is clear and it’s easier to get dressed every day, you can’t help but start the day with a smile!
  • Give yourself room for backsliding.It’s okay if it doesn’t always look or feel like it did when you just finished. Remind yourself of that happy place and recommit!
  • Now that you finished your project, break down the small tasks needed to maintain by week, month or quarter.
  • Make time for maintenance. Schedule it in, just like you did getting started. Commit to the routine and it won’t get overwhelming.

What Big Ideas, Goals or Plans do you have for 2017? Please share them below.

Do you find it challenging to stay on track? Need an accountability coach? If so click here!

 

 

 

 

 

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Friday Favorites::What’s in a Jar?

January 13, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Organize, Tips & Resources, Uncategorized Leave a Comment

Collecting Jar’s is nothing new to me!

I’ve got a lovely collection of vintage and new jars I use for decor as well as storage and display.

Jars, Infinity Jars

What is it about Jar’s that I love so much?

Large or small, old or new I love how glass jars capture the light. I love that while holding objects of adoration, you can see their contents and keep them safe. I use jars for flower arrangements and terrarium’s, leftovers and spices, and all kinds of kitchen goods.

Jars, infinity Jars

I keep all manner of collections in Jars, from butterflies and feathers to buttons and pins and I use them in practically every room of my home.

Jars, infinity jars jars, infinity jars

There’s practically nothing that can not be kept in a jar or at least displayed for a short period. But sometimes, the light that creates such a beautiful display can also harm the contents of the jar. Things like oils, herbs, and other organic matter can break down more quickly if exposed to air and light. Some of these same contents are too precious to trust to plastic containers. I’ve seen and used lovely colored glass jars and have read about how darker glass offers more UV protection than clear.

What's in a Jar?

Most of the dark jars I’ve found don’t have lids and probably are not the cleanest. I’m happy to look at them but probably wouldn’t want to store certain items in them.

What's in a Jar?

The darker the glass the better protection but until recently I hadn’t seen any contemporary glass makers creating black (or almost) jars.

Lucky for me, last year some beautiful black glass jars found their way to me! The Infinity Jar company got in touch with me and asked me if I had ever used their jars or if I would like to give them a try. While I did purchase some jars from them, in full disclosure I will share that they offered me a few to try for free!

As an organizer, I come across and use all kinds of containers and these jars are really pretty amazing.

I selected a variety of styles to use for kitchen, bath and other goods.

What's in a Jar?

These jars are thick and sturdy and appear to be black but when held up to the light you can see that they are a very dark blue, blocking the UVA rays (more about the science of these jars here).

Jars, Infinity Jars

Since I like to keep olive oil on my counter and handsoap on my sink, I used a couple of the jars (the spout and pump jars) in the kitchen.

What's in a Jar?

Since the bathroom is humid and the temperature fluctuates I decided on a few jars to store homemade herbal soak, scrub and room spray (essential oils). I formerly kept these items hidden away in a dark closet off the bathroom because I didn’t want the quality to degrade but now I can keep them conveniently right where I can use them daily.

What's in a Jar?

I’ve been using them now for a few months and I love them. They are more expensive than your average jar but if you have items that you’ve handmade and want to keep the contents fresh the are a valuable investment. If you want to display everyday items in beautiful style, check these jars out. There are so many sizes and styles to choose from. I even have a tiny spray bottle I keep in my purse for a quick energy spray to lift my mood. If you give them a try, or have already, please let me know what you think! Do you love a good jar as much as I do?What's in a Jar?

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Five Common Filing System Mistakes

January 9, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Digital Organizing, Organize, Paper management, Productivity, Systems & Techniques, Tips & Resources, Uncategorized 1 Comment

The first response I usually have when someone asks “what do you organize” is “Paperwork”. After working my way through hundreds of hours of paperwork these are the five common filing mistakes that I notice again and again.

common filing mistakes

If your files are digital you can apply the same process to your digital systems. 

The first mistake I notice is  have NO system at all, bags and/or boxes are a jumbled mess. There can be many reasons for not having a system, including lack of “office” space or some kind of interruption in physical health or home (moving, remodeling etc). Some people don’t need a whole filing cabinet but even the paperwork minimalist’s should have a small fire safe box of essential documents at minimum.

The second mistake (this one doesn’t apply to digital files so you can skip it!) some make because they don’t like the look of filing cabinets or don’t think they can afford the space in their homes. There are a ton of attractive file drawers, some made to look like furniture and in complete disguise. If you don’t end up needing a whole file cabinet, just a drawer or a box may do just fine. I did a round up of stylish filing cabinets here if you’re looking for some ideas.

The third mistake I see are overly complicated systems. Most people don’t need more than 10-20 over-arching categories (finance, vehicles, investments, medical, insurance etc) with sub-categories under each. In this way, it’ becomes easy to go to the “financial” section and find the specific bank or investment you’re looking for. Create a quick list of the paperwork you tend to keep and group them by category for an idea of what your system may need to include. This works equally well for digital files and sub-files.

The example below is beautifully labeled but the “Alphabetical” system is so detailed without broad categories that it may be impossible for anyone but the person who created it to find anything. That’s something to keep in mind, be sure other people using the system will also be able to understand it. Too much detail or too complicated=total frustration & a failed system!

common filing mistakes

The less you have, the less you have to maintain and the easier it is to find what you need when you need it.

The fourth mistake (similar to third) is systems that are too vague and don’t capture categories clearly. A box labeled “files” or paperwork is one such example, when you open it, you can’t find anything because there is no order to what you’re keeping. I go into more detail here about creating filing categories.

The fifth and final mistake I’ll mention is that some people may never become “filers”. For such folks, using a binder or other creative filing system may be the key. common filing mistakes

Striking the right balance when creating a filing system can be the key to maintaining it. There are a lot of different filing systems out there including tickler systems, the Freedom filer and more but in my experience, it’s finding the most simple system for the paperwork you need to keep that will work best for you. One category that everyone should keep on hand are vital documents. Check out my post that break’s down the essentials everyone needs to keep on hand and safe.

 

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Word of the Year::Acceptance

January 4, 2017 by Heather Filed Under: Inspiration & Education, Planning & Goals, Wellness & Mindset

The word that has discovered me for 2017 is Acceptance.

“Acceptance is a virtue that doesn’t require any form of doing in the “physical sense” of the word, it’s a chosen way of being.”–The Power of Acceptance

After quite a few years of selecting a word of the year, the process has become more fluid. I use some of the tools I listed at the bottom of this post but I’ve come to discover my word by taking a meandering path, jotting down words that stand out to me and letting them sit with me for some time until my word for the year reveals it’self like a beacon. Over the past two years, I have noticed this is especially true. I have chosen words that are on the periphery, I dance around the edges until I can simplify the feeling that I’m trying to get to the truth of and voila, my word pop’s out to me while reading or talking to others. I write the word down, near all the others and continue to let it sink in. But I usually know it when I discover it, or really…my word discovers me!

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