Question 1

Where do I start?

Accepted Answer

Putting like things together in 10-15 minute increments to start. (Example: one drawer)

Question 2

How do I make a decision?

Accepted Answer

Prioritize!

Question 3

How many piles do I make?

Accepted Answer

One to keep
One to throw away
One for others to enjoy or donate
One to recycle / for consignment / for yard sale
One to put in a labeled box and revisit in one year (if needed)

Question 4

What is the vision and purpose for the life and the home I want?

Accepted Answer

Continue to ask that question while going through possessions and/or when considering buying (even if on sale). How does it fit in?

Question 5

How long do I have to keep records?

Accepted Answer

Please review the following website:www.personalorganizing.about.com

Question 6

What records do I keep forever?

Accepted Answer

Diplomas, academic records, portfolio work, and adoption papers. Check with www.irs.gov for more information.

Question 7

How do I stay organized?

Accepted Answer

Go through the mail and discard daily.
Remember your place for stuff and visit daily.
Reinforce organizing by handling items daily.

Question 8

What are good organizing tools?

Accepted Answer

smart phones
Post-its
baggies
rubber bands
markers, labels, and adhesive chalk labels
ever notes
drawer dividers/clear containers/folders
key racks/bulletin boards

Question 9

Why get organized?

Accepted Answer

Less stress, guilt and better time management with a place for everything.

Question 10

How much is your clutter costing you to keep?

Accepted Answer

The answer is a challenge! Many people feel guilty about letting go of gifts and they also feel like they will need certain items someday even if they’ve never used them. A simple way to reduce costly clutter is to say “if I am not using it, then I will give it to someone who will.”

FAQs

Frequently asked question & organizing tips: