Organize -N- Refine

Thank YOU for Your Continued Support

2011-09-07T22:21:00.001-05:00

I would like to thank each and every one of you who have supported me and Organize N Refine from the beginning. Your comments, emails, and messages do not go unnoticed.I feel very blessed to have such a great support system filled with such innovative, inspirational, and motivational people. In the next few months you will see new changes to thesite, blog, and our overall media presence. I look forward to sharing my growth and success with each and every one of you! God bless.

Goal Organization

2011-08-29T02:29:00.000-05:00

Most of us have goals and visions of future accomplishments. At times it may be hard to actualize these thoughts, due to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, it is important to prioritize and find balance between acting out your daily routine and creating time to contribute to your future ambitions.

Do you feel overwhelmed by all of your desires, plans, tasks, projects, future ambitions? Do you ever feel like there is so much to do and so little time? Do you find yourself saying "I don't have time for..."? If so, it may be time to Organize N Refine your goals. Goals cannot be effectively executed when left unprioritized. Create a priority checklist of 10 specifically stated short-term goals with a completion date/deadline. Place list somewhere highly visible in your home or office and as you accomplish one goal, check it off the list until all goals have been obtained. Remain diligent and focused in your pursuit of growth.

Remember, time waits for no man. As much as we would like, there will never be more than 24 hours in a day. Today is the day to stop making excuses for what you haven't done and start prioritizing your goals. Only YOU have the power to change your habits.

In order for there to be a change in action, there must be a change in mindset. Is your MIND SET on goal achievement?

CEO, Organize N Refine

Don't Know Where to Start? Start Small.

2011-03-03T02:39:00.000-06:00

I've been receiving so many tweets asking for tips on where to start when tackling a space. My friends on twitter have inspired me to blog! A challenge for some may be where to start - where as, for others a challenge may be how to start. Regardless of which category you fall into, the solution is simple: just start!
Yes, it is important to have a plan of action, but it is equally important to not fall into a place of analysis paralysis with productivity. As we all know, in life experiences we can prepare until our brain hurts, but there is noting like getting up and getting started.

Many of my followers have families and feel overwhelmed with the load and responsibility of taking care of home. It is important to remember that family is an inclusive word. Family does not mean "you". Therefore, when things are out of order and the home needs to be cleaned and/or organized, it is vital that you include the family. Assign an area or a room to each child, along with a feasible list of tasks to complete. Assign yourself and your spouse an area, as well. work together as a family unit and create a more comfortable environment for everyone. If you get in the habit of this while the kids are young, you will be less likely susceptible to being viewed as the maid or the butler.

Many tasks are simple, but because we often don't feel like taking action - we make things more complicated. This leads to procrastination, which is the opposite of productivity. Avoid totally neglecting big home or office responsibilities by starting small. Pick a corner, a shelf, a cabinet, or a countertop and begin! Complete a little bit each day and take pictures of your progress. This will give you a visual of where you started and how far you've come. Completing household chores like cleaning the kitchen, dusting the furniture, or doing laundry can potentially be a one day affair, if you are willing to set aside the time to get it done and include the entire family.

For instance, my schedule permits Monday afternoon to be a great "cleaning and errand day." After handling my daily business between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., I run all errands (note: I create an eList on my cell phone the night before of tasks to complete), I swing by the local store to pick up cleaning supplies, trashbags, or organization tools I may need, and when I arrive home I get started. Typically, I start laundry first because while the clothes are washing and drying, I can focus on other areas. Next, I focus my attention to the kitchen and bathroom, because those are common areas. Lastly, once all clothes are dry, I sort, fold, and hang them in my closet while straightening the bedroom, as well.

I acknowledge that everyone has different priorities and daily responsibilities. However, if you create systems that require you to live in a clean and organized fashion, you'll find that you have less cleaning/straightening up to do during the week. Below are a few ideas that make household tasks less stressful and save time.

Use 2 hampers for colors and whites. This allows your clothes to be pre-sorted before doing laundry. If you have a large family, designate a hamper for each person or even better, use 2 hampers for the boys' colors and whites, and 2 hampers for the girls' colors and whites.
Use the dishwasher as you go. Each time you use a cup or dish, rinse it out thoroughly, and place into the dishwasher. Once the dishwasher is full, turn it on, and there you have it! This minimizes the chore of washing dishes down to only pots, pans, and glassware that shouldn't be placed in the dishwasher.
Make your bed. This may sound like something you tell your 8 year-old, but a neat bed gives the bedroom a neat and orderly appearance. You are less likely to throw things across your bed, if you make it everyday.
Keep all cleaning supplies in one spot.
Clean off countertops, desks, and dressers before you end your night.
Create a To-do list for tomorrow's priorities.
Toss all junk mail from the mailbox before entering the house.
Shake out mats and small rugs regulary.
Clean countertops and load dishwasher immediately dinner.
Take out the trash immediately when full.

There are thousands of ways to keep your household clean and orderly. Keep reading our blog, as we continuously provide weekly tips to creating your balanced lifestyle. Thank you twitter friends for the wonderful questions and inspiration. I appreciate you all!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Tidy Tuesday Tips - Go Paperless

2011-03-01T12:45:00.000-06:00

Once again, it's Tidy Tuesday! Today, I would like to share a few tips to help you get started in your transition to a paperless office and household. Reducing the amount of files and paper you have laying around eliminates clutter and gives you a more seamless workspace. Yes, going paperless requires you to rely on technology more, but with constant technological evolution - it's inevitable that eventually, computers, scanners, USB flash drives, and the like will have to become your best friend. Why not make the transition now?

Let's get started!

If you do not already own the following, it will definitely be a wise long-term investment to maintain a paperless environment:

Computer
Scanner
Shredder
Recycle bin
USB flash drive - 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB depending on the data load

1. Go paperless

Each bill you receive monthly paper statements for - go to your account online, find the "go paperless" link and click it! Eliminate unecessary mail. If you have been paying the same bill for years, you do not need paper clutter reminders. You know when your bills are due and typically, how much they will be. Everyones' monthly responsibilities are different, therefore, if you have a substantial amount of bills and notices each month, take time to write them on your calender (i.e. May 15 - Sallie Mae: $600) or switch to email reminders. If you choose the latter, be careful to not transform paper clutter into email clutter.

Photo from http://www.officedepot.com/
Ativa® LD60 6-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder
http://bit.ly/f8NOLK

2. Sort through all paper files, bills, and scattered documents.

Shred all outdated documents you will not need in the future that contain your personal information. (i.e. electric bill from 2007, 2003 W-2, old notices, credit card offers, etc.) Remember to recycle all shredded documents!

3. Categorize remaining documents.

Create temporary neat piles for the remaining files. (i.e. Car Insurance, Tax Forms, Tuition Receipts, Student Loans, Discover Card, Electric Bill, Mortgage Lender, and the list goes on) Remember, the remaining documents should be current and most likely needed for near-future reference.

4. Create e-folders.

Under the "my documents" section on your computer, create a "new folder" for each category created in the previous step.

5. Scan and save

Once all of your folders are created and labeled, begin scanning each document and saving the uploaded dcoument to the appropriate folder. During this process, it's a great idea to convert all documents to a PDF file. You can learn more about how to convert by clicking here. This can be a bit tedious but remember, you're not trying to create a paperless environment overnight. It's a process. Throughout the scanning process, remember to intermittently stop and back up all files to your USB flash drive.

6. Back up all files

It is extremely important to invest in a USB flash drive. You can find them just about anywhere from Walmart to CVS. I carry one on my keychain. Upon completion of scanning and converting all documents to PDF's, insert flash drive into the USB port, and back up all important data. Trust me, you'll be glad you did.

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Coupon Control

2011-03-01T04:30:00.001-06:00

Whoever invented coupons is a genius! Whoever invented clutter, eh, not so much.
Coupons are a great tool to save money, catch great deals, and enjoy good food, entertainment, and recreation on a budget. The problem comes when the coupon collection becomes disorganized and you have no real view of what can be used and what has expired. Treat your coupons like money. No, you cannot deposit them into your savings account or tip your waiter, but you can create what I like to call, a coupon portfolio. In essence, a simple binder or photo album used to collect and categorize all coupons.

Typically, for photos it is not in your best interest to buy a photo album with sticky pages, because the adhesive can damage them over time - but with coupons it's perfectly ok. Let's get started! Follow the tips below and get your coupons organized so you can begin using them before the expire!

1. Purchase photo album

Visit your local Walmart, Big Lots, or dollar store for an inexpensive photo album. Be sure to purchase one that is fitting to the amount of coupons you save. (i.e. 8 x 10 album with 50 pages, 3 x 5 album with 20 pages) I recommend a larger album because you have space to add more coupons, if necessary.

2. Sort through coupons

The sorting process simply requires you to look through all of your cluttered coupons and toss (recycle) what has expired or what you will never use. If you have a coupon for the Big & Tall store, and you are small & short, TOSS IT! Another option is to give the unexpired coupons away to a friend or relative. However, do not use this as an excuse to hoard the coupons and eventually, recreate coupon clutter.

3. Categorize binder

Label categories throughout the binder providing a guideline for how you will organize the coupons. You can organize them by expiration date, product (i.e. beauty, restaurant, recreation, fashion), or alphabetically.

4. Stock the binder with remaining coupons

These simple steps will help you better organize your coupons. Remember, if there isn't any room to add new coupons, it's time to sort, toss, and make space. To ensure use, consider keeping 1 or 2 coupons to your favorite restaurant or store in your wallet. Continue saving money and using great discounts in an organized fashion!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Tidy Tuesday Tips

2011-02-22T23:51:00.000-06:00

This Tuesday is all about transforming the entrance to your home! Let's get started!

The entrance or foyer of your home is the first area seen upon arrival and the last area encountered upon departure. It is important to set the tone for the rest of the home with an organized and inviting entrance. Here are a few tips to declutter your foyer and develop an entrance that exudes calm and positive energy.

1. Invest in a small shoe rack

Place a small shoe rack by the door, preferably inside the coat closet, if one exists. This allows the family and guests to store a limited number of shoes by the door. What doesn't fit on the rack must be placed in the bedroom closet.

2. If you do not have a coat closet, consider using a coat rack

This is a great storage solution for rain and winter coats, or for storing umbrellas.

3. Consider installing a peg rack for coats, umbrellas, and keys

4. If space allows, place a decorative storage bench in the foyer

The storage bench is great for blankets, newspapers, etc. Depending on the depth of the bench, you could potentially store shoes inside, as well.

5. Invest in a decorative mirror with hanging hooks for keys or umbrellas

This option allows you to add a nice decorative touch with a mirror, while providing a place to hang keys and umbrellas.

6. Revisit the foyer entrance before bed.

Before you retreat to bed, walk through the entrance and take all items that should be stored elsewhere, and put them away in their respective locations. (i.e. mail, excess shoes, etc.)

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Get Rid of the Book Collection Blues

2011-02-19T20:50:00.000-06:00

How many of you have books scattered throughout your home: in drawers, cluttered into shelves, ontop of tables, or in the car? Literature is designed to educate, enhance, and stimulate our minds. You should find solace and relaxation in sitting down with a good book. A disorganized book collection takes away from the relaxing literary experience. Also, how many times have you needed a reference tool for a certain topic and couldn't get answers, because you had no clue where the book was amongst the clutter? Today, is a new day and we are going to revamp our book collections together! If you don't think you have a collection, it's because your books are probably not organized collectively in one common place. Follow the list of instructions below and get your books in order. Are you ready?

1. Pull all books off the shelves, tables, out of the car, etc.

This allows you to physically see exaclty how many books you really own and how much shelving space is necessary to store them properly.

2. Quickly flip through each book. Remove items, such as bookmarks, money, sticky notes, etc.

You would be surprised how much money and how many lost documents are found inside of books, used as a bookmark. I'd hate to bust any bubbles, but your 2009 W-4 is not the best idea for a bookmark. :) Anything that was not attached to the book when it was purchased should be removed.

To make things more interesting, all money found, if any must be donated to a charity of your choice. Those funds could be better allocated, if they were simply a "place holder" in a book you haven't read in years.

3. Seperate wanted books from unwanted books.

Books from your personal collection are a great, inexpensive gift idea for a loved one. Sort through your collection and DONATE or GIFT all books you no longer need. Place these books neatly in a box and drop them off or ship them to a great literary organization

Here are a few national programs dedicated to increasing literacy through donated books:

   - http://www.housingworks.org/
   - http://www.booksthroughbars.org/
   - http://www.booksforafrica.org/
   - http://www.craigslist.org/
   - http://www.justgive.org/
   - http://www.bookcrossing.com/

4. Write down titles and authors of all damaged books. Then, recycle them.

All books that are damaged or torn to the point of being illegible must go! There is no point of holding onto items with no purpose or use. If the book is worth having, jot down the author and title, visit your local bookstore, and repurchase.

5. Thoroughly clean the shelves with furniture polish or all-purpose cleaner.

If you do not have a shelving system in your home or do not own bookshelves, there are several inexpensive shelving options. Visit your local Target, Walmart, Container Store, Big Lots, or even http://www.craigslist.com/ for great shelving solutions.

6. Organize your collection onto the shelf.

Decide how you would like to organize your collection. There is no set way to categorize your books, because everyone's collection is different. Choose a system that is individually unique and stick with it.
Here are a few cateegory ideas:

   - by title
   - by genre
   - by size
   - by author
   - by subject

Be sure to keep it simple. Overcomplicating this process is a sure way to end up disorganized in a matter of weeks. Personally, I organize my books by genre and size. For example: Self-help (genre), tallest book starting from the left of the shelf, decreasing in book size to the right.

7. Consider labeling the shelves based on your previously selected categories.
Use a hand-held label maker and neatly label each part of the shelf that represents a new category (i.e. Authors A - C, Titles D - G, Horror, Romance, Kids, Reference)

Get rid of your book collection blues and follow these steps! Please, comment below on your progress or tweet me @organizenrefine on how this worked for you. Enjoy your day friends!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Tidy Tuesday Tips

2011-02-15T16:40:00.000-06:00

Good afternoon friends!

Today's Tidy Tuesday will focus on tips to create and maintain an organized living room for everyone to enjoy. Let's get started!

1. Create Stations or Zones

Yes, the living room is a zone within the house, as a whole, but create space within that area for specified activities. A few stations, include: entertainment, games, reading, arts and crafts.

2. Keep the Living Room Common

The living room is a common area for everyone to come together and enjoy family activities, whether it be watching TV, playing a board game, or reading. With this in mind, there is no place for other items, such as shoes, toys, and other personal belongings that do not have a specific zone in the living room.

If you have childrem and enjoy playing with them in the living room, create an organized play station for a few toys and make sure they put them away before they move on to another part of the house. However, the majority of the toys should remain in the children's room or gameroom, if one exists.

Photo Retrieved from Target.com

3. Utilize Storage Baskets

Storage baskets are great for storing newspapers and magazines. What doesn't fit in the basket must be recycled. If you are an avid magazine reader, be sure to keep your magazines up-to-date with new issues. There is no need to keep magazines and newspapers from 2 years ago. If there is and article that stood out to you in an old issue, invest in a photo album or scrap book and begin to save them in a less cluttered fashion.

4. Invest in Furniture With Storage Capability

Furniture, such as benches, ottomans, coffee tables with shelving, or even an entertainment center with plenty of shelving and drawers gives you greater flexibility in displaying and storing items throughout the living room. Placing a decorative storage bench underneat the window is great for additional seating and storage for blankets, board games, and photo albums. Entertainment centers, similar to the photo presented below from The Room Store are great for displaying family photos, a few collectibles, and storage for movies and music.

Photo Retrieved from RoomStore.com

I hope these ideas helped your organizational wheels to turn and create a more functional living room for the entire family. Stay tuned for next Tuesday's tips! I have much more to share with you!

Until We Blog Again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Valentine's Day Donation

2011-02-14T17:06:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

I hope you are spending it with people you love and who love you. I spent the majority of the day decluttering and making a few trips to Goodwill. I donated several complete bedding sets and attempted to donate about 6 like-new pillows, but learned that Goodwill does not accept pillows. Once I thought about their potential reason for not taking donated pillows, it made sense. Perhaps, there is a concern for bed bugs and sanitation. Now, I am racking my brain and searching for suggestions on getting rid of pillows. I refuse to trash them and I'm not super handy with needle and thread, therefore making throw pillows isn't an option.

Overall, I feel extremely accomplished. I set out with an agenda this morning and completed all tasks. There's nothing like being productive and feeling that sense of accomplishment at the end of the day. Now, it's time to relax with my good friend Godiva (yummy) and a movie.

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Inspirational Quote - Be Grateful

2011-02-13T20:10:00.000-06:00

"Be grateful for the home you have, knowing that at this moment, all you have is all you need."

- Sarah Ban Breathnach

I want each of you to know how blessed and loved you are. We have been given so much and it is important to remain grateful for that which we have. Continue to maintain the glass-half-full mentality and watch your life take miraculous turns. From my home to yours, I wish you progress and peace in your positive lifestyle changes.

Until We Blog Again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Tips To Make Moving Easier

2011-02-04T07:36:00.013-06:00

How many of you have jumped head first into the process of moving, to land butt first in a pool of stress? Moving can be exciting, overwhelming, and stressful all at the same time, but I am here to share with you a few tips to help you keep your cool.

1. The first step is to PLAN. Without a plan, there is no progress and without progression, there is no move. I encourage you all to PLAN, PLAN, PLAN! Oh yeah, and plan some more.

The planning process consists of things like:

- Selecting a move-out/move-in date

- Scheduling movers for a specific date/time (mark calendar)

- Sort through all belongings and label each item: Keep, throw away, donate, or sell. Remember: If you did not use it in the old house,there is no need to move it to the new house.

- Label all boxes. (i.e. cutlery, artwork, bathroom ensemble, etc.) Also, make it easy to unpack by labeling which room the items in boxes belong. (i.e. kitchen, master bedroom, pantry)

- If you are moving to another state, collect all information necessary to obtain a new driver's license, change of address, vehicle registration, and other important matters

2. Decide how you will decorate the new space in advance. This will help with the initial sorting process at the old place. If it doesn't meet the criteria or decorating scheme for your new space, it must go.

3. Notify friends & family via email blast of your new move, moving date, and new address. This will inform those who matter of your move and address change.

4. Look in each room and make sure all items are removed.

5. Other tips to consider:
- Secure a babysitter on moving day
- Secure a petsitter, such as a friend, neighbor, or relative
- Don't spend tons of money on buying boxes. Become a box hustler and gather them from local grocery stores or office buildings
- Stop all papers and subscriptions 2 weeks prior to the move
- Change address information listed under online accounts: Amazon.com,
credit card sites, banking sites, etc.
- Consider selling on Craigslist. Be flexible in pricing, as the idea
is to sell to create space, not get rich!

Moving does not have to be a dreaded headache. All it takes is a little planning and preparation. I hope these tips were of assistance. Feel free to comment with more tips and ideas you have picked up throughout your moving journeys!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

FEBRUARY SPECIAL!!!

2011-02-01T17:08:00.000-06:00

Do you live in Houston, TX or a surrounding area?

If so, for the month of February ONLY...

Organize N Refine is offering 25% OFFall in-home organization services!

CALL 713.344.1712 to schedule a consultation

Get started on creating the functional space you've always imagined TODAY!

Centralize & Simplify

2011-02-01T16:57:00.001-06:00

Hello there!

February is here and today's blog post will give you more insight on how centralizing your activities and information in the home and/or office will keep you on the track of staying organized.

General Centralization

Often times, we have documents, tools, and generic stuff scattered throughout our environment. An important key in maintaining a functional space is to centralize these things. For instance, if you love photos and scrapbooking like I do, invest in a storage box or basket to keep all loose photos, film, and scrapbooking materials in one area. Also, consider creating a photo workspace in your home with a small desk and storage drawers for all items pertaining to that hobby. Another example of centralizing your information is to keep all files in a single location. Tax documents shouldn't be in one space and car insurance documents in another. Yes, these items should be filed seperately, but all files should be in one primary location. This keeps filing simple and easily accessible. How many times have your forgotten where you filed something, simply beacuse it was not located with your other files? Eliminate confusion and centralize your documents.

Family Centralization

This idea becomes extremely important when running a household effectively. Create a family calendar and clip it to the fridge or an area in the living room (central place). This way you, as the parent, and the children are able to see what activities are taking place within the family that month (i.e. soccer games, church, volunteer functions, choir rehearsal, gymnastics, etc.)

Set up a paper tray in a common area where the kids can place all forms, field trip information, waivers, and report cards. This eliminates you from forgetting to sign or review imporant school documents and keeps the children from saying "I put it on the bed for you to see it" or "I gave it to you. Remember?"

Keep things centralized and simple. Remember, there is a place for everything and everything in it's place.

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Household Time Management Tips

2011-01-30T07:05:00.000-06:00

Tips for Household Time Management:
1. Grocery shop once a week in bulk, instead of making multiple trips throughout the week.

2. Designate "laundry day" and complete all laundry that day. (i.e. Saturday) or if you have a large family, designate two laundry days.

3. Iron uniforms and/or weekly wardrobe once at the beginning of the week.

4. Buy birthday cards and/or greeting cards at the start of the month.

5. Prepare a menu for dinner each week and daily lunchbox meals.

6. Have a family calendar in the common area and detail all events & family ocassions. (i.e. games, tutorials, vacations, PTA meetings, etc.)

7. Have a "family tray" where all forms, slips, report cards, and field trip forms are placed for parental review.

8. Prepare briefcase or backpack materials the night before.

There are many more ways to save time and work more efficiently within the home, but this should get you off to a great start! Stay tuned for more blogs with more tips! :)

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Encouragement...Here Comes February!

2011-01-30T06:46:00.000-06:00

We are now at the end of January. It's time to assess what changes you have made, thus far in the new year. Remember all of those resolutions you boasted and bragged about in December? You are only 1 month in. What have you done differently to accomplish your lifestyle goals? What mistakes have you learned from? Is this organization thing as easy or as difficult as you thought?

Remember:

Getting and staying organized is not meant to create more stress. Instead, it is meant to enhance your lifestyle with unbelieveable clarity that will allow you to make more focus and forward-thinking decisions. Stay strong and keep working hard! Do not overwhelm yourself by tackling the largest room in the house or the messiest space in the office. Start small. Small progress beats no progress! Be encouraged! There is nothing like living life in order and efficiently.

I hope my words of encouragement inspire you to remain diligent in your personal effort to Organize N Refine your life. I'm rooting for you 100%!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Small Bathroom Tips

2011-01-26T03:57:00.000-06:00

Hello all!

How many of you have small bathrooms and you feel as though when you enter, you are standing in the tub, sink, and toilet simultaneously? Ok, that may be a bit extreme, but we all have encountered a small space or two.
The best place to look with limited space is UP. Work vertically.

Here are a few tips to assist you in creating more space in the bathroom:

1. Use the medicine cabinet for everyday toiletries such as toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, facial soap, etc.

2. Use drawer dividers or trays to compartmentalize makeup, shaving kit, combs, brushes, cotton balls, Q-tips, etc.

3. Invest in a stylish, yet simple toilet paper holder from your local Target or Walmart.

4. Invest in tiered shelving or a linen cabinet to place over the toilet for towels.

5. Use shower caddys to keep all soaps, shampoos, and scrubs together under the shower head.

6. If you usually keep your hamper in the bathroom, consider relocating it to the closet or laundry room to create more bathroom space.

7. Use small storage bins or wire racks in the cabinet space underneat the sink, allowing more space or two levels of storage for cleaning supplies, extra toiletries, etc.

There are a variety of ways to create a comfortable bathroom when space is limited, but I hope these tips will help you get started.

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Inspirational Quote

2011-01-25T05:48:00.002-06:00

"Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind." - Christian Larson

I discovered this quote today and it spoke to me. Organization gives us clarity, peace of mind, and razor sharp focus on the days' agenda. It takes a strong mind and effort to maintain organized living, especuially with the busy lives we lead. There are days we all feel like screaming from the stresses of life, the pressure of running a family, managing your work load, and attempting to find one second in the week for yourself. I understand, but in the midst of the commotion, be strong and do not let anyone or anything disturb your inner peace. Peace of mind is a prized possession that you need not sacrifice or give away. This is one thing I will never encourage you to donate. :) Hold on to your inner peace!

Until We Blog Again...

Ceo, Organize N Refine

Let Go and Let Flow

2011-01-25T05:38:00.003-06:00

Hello friends & fellow organizers!

I know that I have been M.I.A., but I am back! Happy New Year to you all and I hope you are ready to be inspired, encouraged, and motivated to get organized in 2011! This is your year! Leave all clutter, junk, and useless things behind in 2010.

Today, I encourage you to take a look around your home or office and ask yourself, "What could I do without?" Be a blessing to the life of another by giving of things you no longer need. If you are looking for a reason, a "why?", or an excuse to declutter, let donating be your outlet. There is no need to hoard or cling tight to what once was. Remember: when you keep your fist clenched tight around the good you have accumulated, thus far, you block bigger and better things from entering your grasp. LET GO & LET FLOW.
Have a beautiful day and I wish you all peace of mind and positive energy!

Until We Blog Agein....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Better Use of Our Greatest Asset

2010-07-27T12:23:00.000-05:00

Before we can stop a bad habit - we must assess why it exists. One of the biggest, if not THE BIGGEST killler of time is procrastination. I have blogged about this before, but it is such a large problem across society that I thought, "Why not discuss it further?"

To procrastinate is to waste time. To waste time is to self-sabotage. Let's explore what we can do differently to better use our greatest asset - time.

1. Multi-task or Single-task:

Depending on the nature of the task and its attached requirements, you may want to consider breaking a single task into smaller tasks, or dividing multiple tasks into groups for better management. If multi-tasking decreases your productivity and quality of work, consider single-tasking. Overall, do not overload or underload your plate. Plan your tasks, prepare accordingly, and execute efficiently. Also, designate a certain day or days for task completion and outline what will be done each day. Winging it won't take you far.

2. Be Decisive:

Decisiveness will save you time and money. Be quick in your decision-making. I am not implying that one should not put thought and intellect into daily choices - but don't use the time you could be acting, to think and decide. Get moving! Be decisive. Be productive.

3. Over-commiting:

This idea ties into multi-tasking and single-tasking. Be mindful of what you alot your time to. Do not over-commit and possibly, under-deliver. Create a list of tasks to complete, time alloted to each task, and deadline for completion.

4. Be Assertive:

How assertive are you? How often do you view a task or opportunity and jump into action? If your answer is "not often", you may consider increasing your assertiveness. It is important to be self-assured and self-confident. The people who wait around for someone to guide or instruct them, waste time standing around when they could be moving.

The world is filled with golden opportunities to advance and leverage our lives! Take action and get moving! Don't waste time, wasting time. Save time by prioritizing tasks, quickly making decisions, controlling your comittments, and being assertive!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Storage Front - Thank You!

2010-07-26T03:54:00.006-05:00

Words cannot express how thrilled and appreciative I am to be featured by Storage Front! What a wonderful company and group of people!

Use Storage Front to find the right facility to store your most prized possessions!

Also, check out my featured blog post HERE!

Thank you Storage Front for allowing me my first interview and feature blog post! I am grateful for your recognition!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Organize Your Vision

2010-07-21T11:36:00.000-05:00

Our vision is one of our greatest assets and makes us individually unique. Management of your ideas and visions is extremely important. It's the foundation for your goals and success. Disorganized ideas cripple your progress and disable you from actualizing your goals. My mother gave me the wonderful idea of creating a "Look Book" for keeping file of my different visions a few years ago. I've kept one ever since.

What is a "look book"? A look book is simply a photo album or binder filled with photos of all the places you wish to see, real estate you'd like to own, furniture you'd like to have, fashion you'd like to wear, design ideas, cars you like, influential people, etc. It can be whatever you envision it to be. Often, we keep our visions trapped in our minds and it's time to set them free!

Create your own look book:

1. Get an 8'x10" photo album with full-page sheets.

2. Sort through magazines, newspapers, or the internet and begin to clip images that reflect your vision in a particular area. (i.e. fashion, real estate, travel, design ideas, influential people, charity, etc.)

3. Begin to place clippings into the photo album. Feel free to use creative stickers, markers, etc.

4. Type 1-page bulleted list or summarized sentences of your displayed visions.

The idea may seem similar to a scrapbook - but what makes it so unique is that you are compiling images reflecting your future pursuits, projects, and envisioned accomplishments. Scrapbooking is primarily used to preserve past memories (i.e. college, holidays, childhood, etc.) for future generations. Allow your look book to guide your vision and serve as inspiration to make your dreams into reality.

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Organizer of the Week - Jennifer Palais

2010-07-12T18:30:00.000-05:00

Every Monday, starting today, I feature an Organizer of the Week on my website www.organizenrefine.com/. The idea came to me as I was thinking of generous ways to showcase other organizing stars while building my professional network. Organizing is my passion. Organizing professionally is my business. I thought it would be fantastic to highlight organizers around the world taking clutter by storm.

Organizer of the Week

Jennifer Palais

Professional Organizer

Venice Beach, CA

Specialties:
- Paperless office transition
- Business and home office organizing
- Time-management coaching
- Working with couples to eliminate clutter

What inspires you most?: Dessert. Oh...and seeing the guilt and anxiety lift from clients as they learn new skills.

Favorite Quote: They laughed at Joan of Arc, but she went right ahead and built it. - Gracie Allen

Contact Jennifer Palais:

Website: http://www.palaisprofessionalorganizer.com/

Twitter: @JenniferPalais

Facebook: www.facebook.com/PalaisProfessionalOrganizer

Shoe Fanatic

2010-07-06T13:47:00.000-05:00

I love shoes! I can't deny it. I wouldn't say that I have a shoe fetish because I have met women who love and own more shoes than I do - but all in all - I love shoes! This can be a problem when working with limited closet space. Unless, you are fortunate enough to have your very own shoe closet. Depending on the size of your shoe collection, you have several different options to keep them organized. Take a look below:

Shoe Boxes - Shoe boxes are a great idea for shoe storage and cleanliness. Boxes allow you to stack your shoes on top of each other neatly creating more space for other closet items, or even more shoes! Purchasing plastic shoe boxes from the store can become a bit expensive - so depending on your budget and the amount of shoes you own, it is quite alright to use regular cardboard shoe boxes. I suggest taking 30 minutes to photograph each pair of shoes. Once developed, tape each photo to its corresponding pair of shoes. This enables you to clearly see what each box contains without going through each box to find a pair.
Shoe Racks/Shelves - This is a great storage solution, as well - but your shoe storage is limited to the amount of rack or shelf space you have. This can create an overflow problem. Consider sorting through all of your shoes before shelving them. I'm willing to bet there will be a few pair you can do without due to wear-and-tear or they are just simply out of style. The cool thing about shelving is that you can implement shoe boxes, as well! Be creative!
Overdoor - Overdoor shoe storage systems come in handy when you have limited floor or shelf space. This solution may also require you to minimize your shoe collection, as well - as most overdoor shoe bags only contain 24, 30, or 36 pockets. Also, keep in mind that most overdoor storage systems cannot hold bulky shoes, such as boots, clogs, and certain style tennis shoes. In the past, I have used overdoor shoe storage primarily for flip-flops and sandals.
Shoe Tree - Shoe Tree's are primarily used in small spaces for shoes to be temporarily stored - such as by the front door, garage door, or even in your office. They come in 3-tiers and 4-tiers, and are often adjustable for a custom fit. I wouldn't recommend this product for your entire closet shoe collection, but if you have an area in your home where shoes are often piled by the door - this would be a great solution.

All of these shoe storage ideas can be found and purchased in stores like Target, Walmart, The Container Store, Bed Bath and Beyond, etc. Hopefully, these options gave you shoe lovers insight on how to better store your shoes!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Keep the Kids Entertained While Traveling

2010-07-03T19:21:00.001-05:00

It's the summer! Most of you parents are taking the kids on some sort of vacation - whether it be camp, visiting the grandparents, Disney World, or a family road trip. It is important to keep the trip as orderly and peaceful as possible. The idea of peaceful may be far fetched when traveling with the little ones.

Here are a few ideas to keeping the kids occupied and entertained, while giving you peace of mind on your travels:

1. Portable DVD Player - This is a costly, but wise investment ranging from $80 - $150 at Walmart. Get
one of these for the kids, pop in an action-packed kid flick or educational program along with headphones
    and watch them be entertained for hours. If you have more than one child, the portable DVD players will
    play just as great without the headphones. Check out this link: http://bit.ly/9i7ohI

2. Travel Journal - Invest in a disposable camera, colorful notebook, markers, and colorful pens/pencils.

   Help your kids create their very own travel journal documenting all the sights and activities experienced on
   your trip. This is a great way to capture memories, promote creativity, and keep them occupied artistically
     while traveling.

3. Map for the Kids - Give your kids a map, markers, and stickers. Let them help your track where home
is where you're going, and what you've seen, thus far. Involve them in the travel experience. Allow them to
    feel like co-pilots!

4. Card Games - This is a no-brainer for most of you. Games like Uno, Old Maid, Crazy 8s, Speed, Go
Fish, and so many more always keep the kids entertained.

5. Scavenger Hunt - Give the each child a list of things to look for during the trip. This can be created in
advance and adjusted for the scenery. (i.e. Things in the airport, things along the road trip, places, people)

There are thousands of games and ideas to keep the kids occupied this summer, but this should start you on the right track. My favorite is the scavenger hunt idea. Feel free to comment and let me know how your travels went this summer! Have a wonderful vacation!

Until We Blog Again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Determine Your "Y"

2010-07-03T02:35:00.000-05:00

Take a look around. What do you see? Is your space a reflection of who you really are? If not, it's probably time to get organized. Often, we want to start but have no clue where to begin. This is when it becomes extremely important to identify your "why". Why do you want to be organized? How will being accountable for your habits change your life? How will a new system or positive habit benefit you? Why have you become disorganized over the years? These are all pertinent questions when assessing where to start. If you have no idea why you should travel - you will most likely stay at home. It's time to step outside of your comfort zone and into your growth zone. Explore your mind and habits. The possibilities are endless!

Becoming organized is a challenge for many people - but the results of gaining control over your time and life are quite rewarding. You have to want peace of mind for yourself and determine why it is important to you. Do you want a better relationship with your spouse? Do you want to have dinner as a family at the kitchen table once the clutter is gone? Do you want to have time for yourself or your family? Do you want to have company over once you can see the floor? Do you want to get ahead financially once all of the bills are sorted? Whatever the reason - I support you and believe in you!

I encourage all of you to look around yourselves. Your energy is as positive or negative as the environment which surrounds you. Let your best self shine through! Do not live the rest of your life timeless, stressed, and surrounded by clutter! If you don't know your why - let it be simply because you deserve to live in peace and harmony. Let's get organized together - one space at a time!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Space Savers to the Rescue

2010-07-01T00:16:00.000-05:00

If you are a Twitter-lover like me - #Follow @spacebag.

www.spacesaverscommunity.com/

As their tagline reads, they are "A Community Dedicated to Saving Space & Getting Organized." I have yet to purchase my first space bag therefore, I cannot provide a product review - but I intend to invest in the near future. Their products can be used to organize bedroom closets, basements, linen closets, travel packing, and so much more. They are a great solution for cutting clutter and creating space.

Join the Space Savers like I did and receive monthly newsletters, promotions, and 20% off the Space Bag Starter Set. You'll be glad you did!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

10 Minute Quick Fixes

2010-06-30T23:16:00.000-05:00

Time is our greatest asset, yet we often feel as though we don't have enough of it. Here are a few quick fixes for organizing your life when you don't have much time. If you can do a few of these in 10 minutes - imagine what you could accomplish in 30 to 45 minutes.

Quick Fixes:
1. Clean out your purse and/or wallet
2. Clean out the refrigerator
3. Create a grocery or shopping list
4. Create a quick menu for the week
5. Put away clean laundry
6. Take out the trash
7. Clear off the kitchen counters/put dishes away
8. Make your bed
9. Clean out a drawer or cabinet
10. Pay a few bills on line

There are many more quick fixes - but this should get you started on the right track!

Donation Days!!!

2010-06-30T22:51:00.000-05:00

I love to donate! It not only helps when decluttering - but it feels great to give back, as well. I encourage friends, followers, and clients to designate preferably 1 day a month for donating clothes, household items, etc. I understand that for many, 1 day a month may be too often - but a minimum of 4 times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter) will suffice in the beginning.

Think about this: 1 donation each month (X) 12 months = 12 donations a year
12 donations a year = A LOT OF HAPPY PEOPLE & LESS CLUTTER

If nothing else motivates you to get organized, allow the thought of someone else's life being enhanced through the gift of your donation to jumpstart your movement. You can donate anywhere! Goodwill, church, Disabled Veterans, charity, a local shelter, etc. The options are unlimited.

I have listed a few for you to consider:

1. www.freecycle.org
2. www.goodwill.org
3. www.HoustoncharityAgency.org
4. www.justgive.org
5. www.cvm.org
6. www.dav.org
7. www.booksforafrica.org

AND SO MUCH MORE! Let's join together and donate our "stuff" to be a blessing in the life of another!

What day is your Donation Day this month? My day is July 17, 2010!

Declutter and donate today!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Really Cool Photo Storage Trays

2010-06-29T15:47:00.011-05:00

If you follow me @organizenrefine on Twitter - you'll read that I love Kangaroom Storage! The site is awesome and they have really cool storage solutions. As I was browsing the site recently, I found these cool photo storage trays.

(Images from http://www.kangaroomstorage.com/)

If you're like me - you LOVE photos! I have an extensive photo library on my laptop, desktop, as well as photo albums.
These neat trays store up to 400 4x6 photos. The site also sells photo storage boxes that store up to 800 4x6 prints.
Pretty cool, if you ask me!

Visit the site: www.kangaroomstorage.com
Visit this link: http://bit.ly/djwi1l

If you have photos everywhere and would like to keep them organized until they make it into an album - order one of these cool photo trays or boxes today!

Until We Blog Again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Use the Expiration Date

2010-06-24T15:30:00.003-05:00

When cleaning out the medicine cabinet, bathroom drawers, the fridge, or even the pantry - the most important thing is to look for expiration dates. Many of us have at least ONE item in our home that should have been thrown out 2 years ago.
Here are a few tips to help you declutter those cabinets and pantries:

1. Toss all expired food and canned goods.
2. Toss all expired prescription medicines.
3. Toss all make-up over a year old.
4. Toss all perfume over 3 years old.
5. Toss all lotions and sunscreens over 2 years old.
6. Toss all cleaning supplies over 2 years old.

There are many more items to be covered, but this should be enough to get you started. Now, go tackle those cabinets!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Eliminate Junk Mail! Take Control of Your Time!

2010-06-21T23:29:00.000-05:00

Are you tired of the endless junk mail and e-mails? Take back your time and energy.

1. Contact the Direct Marketing Association to end e-mail solicitation.

2. Call 1-888-567-8688 to eliminate pre-approved credit card offers.

3. Add yourself to the Texas no call list for $2.25 to eliminate cold calls and telemarketers by calling 1-866-896-6225.

4. If you live outside of Texas, visit: www.donotcall.gov

Stop Carrying Clutter

2010-06-21T22:53:00.007-05:00

Ladies, how many of you have purses double stuffed with junk, napkins, receipts, and make up? Stop carrying the clutter around. A purse is meant to carry necessities while on the go such as - your wallet, keys, inhaler, cell phone, etc. Women lead such busy lifestyles and often feel the need to keep everything on hand at all times, in order to multitask effectively. This practice can be a blessing and a curse. The key to eliminating purse clutter is to one, stop before you start. Before placing an item in your purse- ask yourself, "Can I go an entire day without this?" "Will I need this to make a purchase or to show identification?" "Will I need this at a definite time while out?" The answer to these questions will allow you to easily determine what stays in the purse and what goes. Also, at the end of the day when you arrive home - sort through your purse completely and immediately toss all unnecessary receipts, paper, candy wrappers, etc. Start fresh the next day!

If you wear make-up and can't leave the house without it - keep a small make-up bag full of your everyday cosmetics. Upon arrival of your destination, leave the cosmetics in the car, with the exception of small items, such as lipstick, compact, or mascara. If you need your cosmetics while at work - leave your make-up bag in a drawer at your desk or cubicle.

Hopefully, after reading this - you empty your purse and ask yourself the 3 suggested questions. Stop carrying the clutter and start creating solutions.

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

What Makes Your "Stuff" Sentimental?

2010-06-12T21:06:00.001-05:00

What is your definition of sentimental? Most people find sentimental items to evoke an emotion of some sort - but we must remember that when clearing out the clutter, you may find a sentimental item that you're unsure about, ask yourself this question "Does this item bring about positive or negative memories?" If the answer is negative - you must part with it.

A large part in getting and staying organized is creating a functional and positive space. If you surround yourself with blasts from the past, you will subconsciously never be able to move forward with your life or move forward in that specific area of life. Do not allow sentimental items to hinder your best self.

When sorting through the overwhelm, if you find for example, old elementary school artwork your children created - find a creative way to display a few of your favorite pieces in your home. Perhaps, framing them, creating a collage, or if they cannot be hung, place them on a shelf for display. I recommend asking yourself about positive or negative sentiment, instead of happy or sad sentiment, because I understand through life there are items we accumulate that cause happy and sad thoughts for example, the death of a loved one. If you have sentimental items of that person you loved - you may laugh and cry when you look at them - but the ultimate question is "Does this item create a positive energy in your life or a negative energy?" Keep only items that make you smile and remind you of a positive time in your life. Let the rest go. Do not allow yourself to remain stagnant in clutter, simply to hold a moment in time when you received certain items. Hold on to special memories and the joy of a certain time period. Move forward in your organizing journey. Move forward in your life.

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Do You Have 5 Minutes?

2010-06-03T01:14:00.000-05:00

Do you have 5 minutes out of the 1440 minutes in each day? I think we all do. As a child, my mother often said, "It only takes a minute." This has proven to be true. Many things we moan and whine about doing - only take a minute.

In this day and age, people are leading busy lifestyles and no one seems to have time for anything. Truth is - we make time for what is important to each of us. Is creating order in your home important? Is having better clarity important? Is managing and saving time important? If so, it only takes a minute.

Each night before bed - take 5 minutes to clear off a space, such as the nightstand, bathroom counter, or kitchen table. Do not go to bed with a sink full of dirty dishes. Instead, take 5 minutes and load the dishwasher or depending on how small the load - wash the dishes. Lay out your clothes for the following day, alongside shoes and socks. All of these things only take a minute. You will be surprised at what can be accomplished in 5 minutes or less. Let's stop focusing on what we don't want to do and why we don't feel like doing it - and GET IT DONE. Get organized 5 minutes at a time.

Until We Blog Again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Start Small

2010-05-30T02:17:00.000-05:00

"There is no such thing as a long piece of work, except one that you dare not start. " - Charles Baudelaire

The simple thought of organizing an entire room wall-to-wall is overwhelming for most of us. It is important to start with small spaces and surfaces. It is easier to manage a countertop, dresser, bookshelf, or cabinet - in comparison to an entire closet, kitchen, bedroom, etc. The desire to change your habits and create order in your home is a big step forward. Be proud of yourself. Taking on more than you can handle initially may cause you to take two steps backwards. I've witnessed many people excited to clear out the clutter - to then be in the middle of the project and quit from being completely overwhelmed by their "stuff". Don't allow yourself to have a "clutter breakdown." Start small and save yourself the headache.

Write down the small space you want to organize and the date you will complete the task. Once you begin to see how great that small area looks - you will most likely be motivated to organize the next space, and the next space, and the space after that, and so forth. This idea is similar to losing weight. Once we work hard at losing the first 15 pounds and see the great results - we become motivated to work-out harder to acheive greater results. Take baby steps and allow your desire to drive your results! You'll be glad you did!

Until We Blog Again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Do You Think More Stuff = More Success?

2010-05-26T22:11:00.006-05:00

What is your definition of success? Look around you. Does your environment make you feel more or less successful? Often times people think the more "stuff" you have, the more successful you are. This isn't necessarily true. Are you keeping things you don't use or value much, simply because it makes you feel as though you have more?

Well, I am not here to preach or define what success should mean to you - but I am here to tell you that success goes beyond material treasures. There are millions of people across the globe in need of the things you refuse to do away with. I'm not just referencing third world countries, but right here in the U.S. Donating and being charitable allows one to clear their space, alongside their mind and heart - while positively enhancing the lives of those in need.

Do not live a life of chaos and clutter, blindly thinking it is symbolic of progress and success. The only thing clutter symbolizes is your weakness for material things and your dependency on "stuff". I want each person reading this blog to take a look around their home and find 5 things to GIVE AWAY. This is a great start toward creating a balanced lifestyle. There are several ways and places to donate your items. I've listed a few suggestions below - but ultimately, choose a place or person you feel most comfortable giving.

DONATE IN HOUSTON, TX

1. www.Houstoncharityagency.org
2. www.Houstonhelpinghands.com
3. www.houston.donatestuff.com

DONATE NATIONWIDE

1. Local Salvation Army
2. Local Goodwill
3. www.actiondonation.org
4. www.cars4causes.net
5. www.donateforcharity.com
6. www.donationwizard.com

There are so many more options across the globe. Pick one! Donate! Donate! Donate!

Until We Blog Again

CEO, Organize N Refine

Keep Up With Your Computer

2010-05-25T00:27:00.007-05:00

When it comes to your computer, keeping up with numerous manuals, passwords, and software can be a hassle. Most people set up their computers and toss all associated documents to the side or amongst other irrelevant papers. This is a big mistake! What does one do when searching for a password or when attempting to find the manual? The answer is usually, get a headache first and second, call someone to help you figure out information that is probably laying around your house somewhere - disorganized.

Let's face it! Computers are becoming more and more of a necessity than a luxury. Most people can't function without one and if they aren't on their laptop - they're on their smart phone. It is important to keep record of all passwords, software codes, and manuals - because technology is man-made, and there will always be the possibility of error or crashing. You do not want to lose everything or be unable to access necessary information simply because you can't find the associated papers and passwords.

Here's the easy way out. Purchase a small binder and neatly place all manuals, software documents, and passwords in an orderly fashion. If you have more than one computer, feel free to use the same binder, but use dividers to separate computer #1 from computer #2. This one method will save you hours of searching, frustration, and headaches. Be sure to store the binder in a private area, but where it is easily accessible at your discretion.

Until We Blog Again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Create Space for the New You

2010-05-20T23:58:00.005-05:00

One of the greatest benefits of gaining control over your clutter and getting organized is the freedom you feel to be a new you. Often times our clutter is a daily reminder of bad habits, chaos, stress, and the negative points in our life - but when you create space in your environment, you are not only creating a functional environment, you are creating space for the new you.

This is crucial to your future fulfillment and overall peace of mind. You have limitless potential and are able to start fresh every day. The great thing about tomorrow is that it's a new day to be a new you. Do not allow work, family responsibilities, or life's tasks to hinder your progress and comittment to a fulfilled life. I write, not only about getting and staying organized, but about first, acknowledging your worth, your potential, and your capabilities. Regardless of your sex, status, or circumstance - YOU have the ability to live a remarkable life - but it starts within you.

Look around your home or office. If it seems to be out of wack - your life is usually a reflection of your space. When you are cluttered in space, you are cluttered in your thoughts. Therefore, becoming cluttered in your daily tasks and responsibilities. Create order in your life and see the change in clarity and precision within yourself. Create space for the new you!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Junky Love

2010-05-15T01:30:00.010-05:00

Love and relationships are great for the soul - but how does one neat freak deal with their junky significant other? It is important to acknowledge that all clutter dampens the energy within any environment. If your home or the bedroom you share with your significant other is disorganized - your relationship may reflect this energy. It is important, whether you are Mr. Tidy or Mrs. Messy, to communicate with your partner and create strategies to maintain order and peace within your shared environment. Work together to create positive and relaxed energy. A major factor in this equation is to build each other up and actively listen each person's frustrations and new ideas. For example, if your partner works from home and uses the bedroom as the "office" - suggest creating a new office area in another part of the home to run their business. Return your bedroom to its original purpose - a place for relaxation, rest, and enjoying the company of the one you love. When people living together have items thrown about the house, it shows they don't feel they have a place of their own. No matter how much you love a person or how long you have been together, everyone wants a private space to call their own, whether it be a separate closet, game room, work shed, office space, etc. Do not be the partner that dominates the home while your significant other takes the left-over space, like the corner by the front door, a shelf in the laundry room or a single night stand on their side of the bed. When a person has a place or space of their own for the items they value - it is shocking to see how organized they keep it. Look around your home and ask yourself if, although a shared general environment - do we each have a space to call our own? If not, collectively develop a plan to ensure each other feels as though they belong.

We often hear the common phrase "opposites attract" and this has proven to be true. As a neat freak, I know first hand the difficulty involved when sharing a living space with a clutter-happy individual. Do not exhaust your precious time and energy trying to change the person. Be more productive and show through actions and encouragement how organizing one's surroundings can create a more intimate and less-stressful environment for your relationship to flourish. Don't allow papers and junk to create a wedge in your love life. No more paper cuts from late night cuddling on a pile of unorganized documents! Do not allow cluttered spaces and lifestyles to drown the excitement and intensity of your relationship. Get a hold of yourself and/or your partner. Get organized! You'll be glad you did.

Now, for my single friends, it is important that you acknowledge your behavior patterns that could use improvement and create new space in your home. The space you create by ridding yourself of clutter will help to lift your spirits and increase your energy - which will make you more enjoyable and attractive to everyone you meet. As I have stated before, if your space is in shambles - your life is probably in shambles, as well. Don't let disorganization be the reason you aren't living and enjoying the great life you have been given. We attract that which we are. If your life is chaotic, you attract chaos. If your life is in order, you attract others living in order and clarity. Make a change!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

The Night Before The Day Of

2010-05-14T04:25:00.008-05:00

What do you do the night before the day of? Do you prepare or do you simply "wing it"? I'll tell you one thing. Winging it won't allow you to fly far. Many have learned that the hard way. One of the key components to ensuring your day runs smoothly and balanced is to prepare the night before. Preparation includes reviewing your scheduled events/priorities for the following day, creating what I like to call an "Execution List". We all have things "to do" but ultimately, it's about execution and completion of high-priority tasks - not just doing stuff.

As a professional organizer, I see the worst of the worst and the best of the best when it comes to time and task management. I've seen first hand the benefits of pre-day preparation, alongside the chaos of day-of winging it. Often, our daily activities lack thorough planning, causing high stress levels which lead to disorganized environments. When your mind is out of order - your space usually serves as a reflection.

To prevent your morning from starting off downhill, it is important to create a mini blueprint of your day the night before. Decide what you are going to wear and what you're going to accomplish wearing it. Our wardrobe reflects our mood and our purpose. Create your purpose the night before and knock 'em dead the next day. As working individuals - whether it be corporate, small business, home business, or even flipping burgers - it is important to always be on your A-game. You never know what opportunities may come your way. Another idea for preparation is to get your paperwork and/or briefcase in order the night before. Write down people or businesses you must contact the next morning. Wake up ready to handle business. Your results are correlated to your preparation. Here's a thought. If you didn't prepare to run a 10 mile marathon for a charity of your choice and simply decided to wing-it, wouldn't your results reflect your lack of preparation? You would probably pass out on the first mile! (Depending on your fitness level - maybe the second mile, but you get my drift.) PLANNING IS KEY!

As I have stated before - time is one of our most valuable assets. Use it wisely and efficiently. Don't waste time winging your life away, while not flying anywhere. Spend time preparing, executing and accomplishing. I know many of us have varying lifestyles and finding time to ensure our tomorrow starts great tonight may seem time consuming - but truth is - we all make time for the people and things we deem important to us. Is tomorrow important to you?

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Procastination Evacuation

2010-05-11T21:18:00.011-05:00

Procrastination is a terrible plague affecting many people across the globe. How do we stop it? What is the cause? What is the cure? It's time we stop thinking about making a move and just MOVE. For some of us - it's that simple but for others - it's not.

I have asked many friends, followers, and clients their opinions regarding the cause of procrastination and the ongoing responses boiled down to one main idea - fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of success, fear of failure, fear of completion, and the list goes on - are all reasons people delay taking action. Procrastination leads to lack of achievement and wasted time. Time is one of our greatest assets, yet millions of people waste it, as though it were trash. Your time is valuable and your goals are critical. Until you fully grasp that idea - you will waste much more of your valuable time.

Procrastination occurs amongst all ages. It is important to address the issue the moment you recognize it as an issue. Denial will only prolong your positive development. The first step to progressively changing a bad habit is to first, acknowledge one exists. Once you have acknowledged your habit of procrastination - think about the effects you've experienced from waiting until the last minute, never completing a project, or never starting. I'm sure the results that come to mind won't be pleasant. It's time to make a change.

The first step is addressing your fears. I understand that this idea alone may not be the easiest, considering we all come from different lifestyles and upbringings. Unfortunately, I don't have the pleasure of meeting each individual reading this blog, but I am willing to bet my last dollar that you are all awesome people and have each been positioned on this earth to do amazing work. Do not allow fear to hinder your growth personally and professionally. Your success awaits you.

Often, procrastinators make excuses while simply thinking of the task at hand. They create a million scenarios as to why they can't start or finish the task, think of other things that have priority over this task, etc. The fact of the matter is that when you think this way, you are subconsciously sabotaging yourself and your success. Why would you want to sabotage someone destined for greatness? Yeah, I'm talking about you!

Tips for Procrastination Evacuation

1. Write down all goals short and long term. Create a daily task list of things you must accomplish before the days end. As you complete each task - check it off in a bright colored marker. This gives most people a great feeling of satisfaction seeing their goals realized on paper.

2. When starting a task - turn off all potential distractions. (i.e. TV, music, cell phone, etc.) You work smart to play harder! (I don't believe in "hard work". I believe in "smart work". Work hard at working smart - it will take you far.)

3. Create a schedule for your tasks. Stick to it! This idea works better if you complete each task in sequential order. Do not move forward until the current task is completed.

Learning to act now, instead of later is a continuous process - but with time and practice - you will experience greater freedom, less stress, and an undeniable feeling of accomplishment.

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T19:00:00.003-05:00

This post is dedicated to all mothers, step-mothers, grandmothers, great-grandmothers, adopted mothers, Godmothers, and Guardian mothers. Your courage and unwavering love for the children you raise will never go unnoticed.

Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs... since the payment is pure love. ~Mildred B. Vermont

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. ~Tenneva Jordan

The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. ~Rajneesh

When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child. ~Sophia Loren, Women and Beauty

OrganizeNRefine would like to wish all of our beautiful and hard-working mothers a Happy Mother's Day! Your continual love and support is forever appreciated.

Have a wonderful day full of relaxation and joy.

CEO, Organize N Refine

You've Got Mail!

2010-05-06T16:36:00.007-05:00

Do you ever feel overloaded with advertisements, bills, notices, letters, and everything of its kind? I'm talking about mail! We all have it - but how do we manage it? Most people toss it off to the side to read or take action later, but when exactly is later? Often times later never comes and the junk pile gets higher and higher. Allow me to share with you tips to handle the task of mail sorting without getting overwhelmed.

Tip #1: GO PAPERLESS

It is 2010. The internet rules the world and the majority of banks, credit unions, electric providers, cable providers and the like utilize this convenience. If most of your bills are coming through your mail - go paperless immediately. Save the trees and save the stress! If you are unsure of how to do this, go to the website of the company billing you, log in to your account and there is usually a link available that reads "go paperless." Click it! This alone will make your mail easier to handle each day and each month.

Tip #2: TOSS/RECYCLE IMMEDIATELY

Depending on the proximity of your mail box in relation to your home, if you pass a recycling bin on the way to your front door - toss the junk mail before it enters your home. Junk mail is an unwanted visitor. The more papers you bring into the home and say "I'll read that later" - the easier it is to become cluttered and overwhelmed. If you find yourself bombarded with junk mail and only 1 or 2 envelopes are of importance, contact the company mailing you the "junk" and request to be taken off their mailing list.

Tip #3: OPEN MAIL INSTANTLY

Face your fears and face your mail! Do not go out to check the mail if you do not have time to sit down immediately after and open it. This idea may take some practice but the payoff is great! When you face your mailbox dead-on you are able to act on important matters more efficiently. How many of you have received a court notice for a traffic citation or a final notice for a bill - but didn't open your mail for days even weeks, to then discover you missed all deadlines and are now a complete wreck? You instantly panic and your thoughts are as scattered as the mail you're days behind on opening. Getting in the habit of opening your mail instantly will save you the headache and the heart attack.

Tip #4: CREATE STORAGE FILES

Although it is better to go paperless, some items must come through the mail and be stored for future reference. Create a simple filing system for mail documents that must be kept. Once you immediately open all mail and discern its importance, place all necessary documents into the appropriate file. You can purchase a simple multiple file folder or portfolio folder from Wal-Mart or Target for around $8. Your peace of mind from the mail madness costs $8! Go figure!

Until We Blog Again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

I Look Better Organized

2010-05-06T02:49:00.009-05:00

As a professional organizer, I not only value the task of organizing but I understand its ultimate return. For many people, decreasing the clutter and seeing a clear-cut space gives peace of mind and allows one to be their best self. Our daily schedules are constantly packed to the max, attempting to make time for everyone and everything. Our homes should be our sanctuary. When was the last time you entered a cluttered sanctuary? Never, right? Then why should your sanctuary be the exception?

Sorting through the old and the new things gives us all the opportunity to create change in our lives. Primarily, positive change. When we rid our environment of items that keep our minds in a constant chaotic state, we are then able to function in a state of ultimate clarity and direction. How many of you have a difficult time in the morning simply because you cannot find all of the things needed, in order to leave the house for work or to drop the kids off for school? If there were systems in place and/or everything was in its appropriate storage area - those frantic mornings would be slim to none. Ideas such as once your closet has been organized, lay out the clothing items you plan to wear the following day. Do the same for the kids. Choose a weekend afternoon to write out a breakfast and dinner menu for the week. This practice will take the stress out of deciding "what to cook?" or it could keep you on track with your health regimen, or even make it easier to grocery shop since you know exactly what you're cooking.

I have found that when I am organized everything in my environment and interactions with the world seems to fall in place. I dress better and my appearance is neater. My work is of greater quality and I make more precise decisions because I don't have to think through the clutter. Overall, I just feel better about life in general. People underestimate the power of a refined space. My mother always told me, "A cluttered house is a cluttered mind." Even in my adult years that holds true in my mind. Let's get organized friends! Let's better ourselves in the process!

Until We Blog Again.....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Twit Pic's and more...

2010-05-03T04:05:00.004-05:00

Hey there! Here at OrganizeNRefine we enjoy and appreciate comments from our friends, followers, fellow bloggers, and blog readers.

Follow us on twitter @OrganizeNRefine.

Send us a Twit Pic or Tweet Photo of your problem area and we'll post an informational blog geared directly toward your trouble area. Or send us a Twit Pic of your before and after organizing photos! We will post your de-stress success on our blog! We would like to be a part of your journey to more efficient and relaxed living.

Follow: @OrganizeNRefine

Website Coming Soon!!!

CEO, Organize N Refine

Bathroom Blow Out

2010-05-03T03:03:00.012-05:00

Many of us have bathrooms that are seemingly organized and clean yet, when we open those cabinet doors, drawers, and the linen closet it looks as if the closet or cabinet had a fist fight with the clutter and the clutter won!

How many times have you repurchased items that you couldn't find initially due to bathroom disorganization to then find it later? Overtime you begin to accumulate doubles and triples of items you already have. This is the beginning of a messy monster! Stop the bathroom clutter cycle now and consider the following steps:

1. What is your daily bathroom routine?
We all know the obvious answers - shower and "use it". Establish what routines are performed in your bathroom specifically versus other rooms. For example, some women apply their make up each day in their bedroom mirror while others apply their make up in the bathroom mirror. Once you have established your bathroom routines you will have a clear idea as to what should and shouldn't be located in your bathroom. I have seen many linen closets stuffed with clothes, toys, boxes, etc. These items belong in their appropriate spaces throughout the home.

2. Sort through the toiletries and junk
Take time to sort through all the brushes, toothpastes, soaps, body creams, makeup, razors, cotton balls, medicines, and all other things creating a traffic jam in your bathroom. If you see more of an item than there are people in your home - toss it. There is no need for 7 spare toothbrushes when you live alone. How many teeth do you have? :) What could you possibly do with 8 hair brushes? Unless you are a hair stylist you should toss 6 of them unless they each have an individual desired effect on your hair. If you are initially uncomfortable with the idea of tossing a few toiletries - create a gift basket of unused and unopened toiletries and donate it to your local women's shelter, homeless shelter, or church. Get creative but get it out of your way.

4. Invest in affordable storage solutions
Visit your local Target, Wal-Mart, or even Family Dollar and invest in a few affordable drawer dividers, trays and storage bins, laundry hampers, etc. I understand that every bathroom is unique and the level of disorganization may vary, but from experience if you minimize your extra "stuff" and only keep what you can and will use regularly - your investment shouldn't be more than $30. Also, feel free to use storage items you already own. You don't have to go purchase storage items if you have something at home - but put it to use! I recently reorganized my bathroom and purchased 4 organizing crates, drawer divider trays, and a new hamper for a whopping $12! You can't beat that with a stick.

5. Everything in its place
Now that you have your storage solution materials in place, begin assigning your bathroom items a storage space. For example, all of my cosmetcs are in my 4th bathroom drawer under the sink. Each group of cosmetics has its own storage tray inside the drawer such as, foundation, lips, eyes, nails, blush, brushes, cosmetic cleanser. With this system in place all of my cosmetics are in one place and situated for efficient use. Be sure to make the items you use regularly (i.e. deodorant) easily accessible and the items you don't use as often (i.e. hair dryer) should be neatly stored away.

Following these 5 steps will give you the blow out your bathroom needs! Let's get organized together one space at a time!

Until we blog again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Be Receptive! Be Astonished!

2010-05-02T01:19:00.007-05:00

There are thousands of tips and strategies to creating a more functional space. Often times we don't know where to begin once the clutter has become overwhelming. I've engaged in many conversations with clients regarding organizing solutions for their space and I often hear the common phrase, "I know."

We all like to feel in control of our lives and enjoy showcasing our knowledge, but the fact of the matter is that if we knew everything - we wouldn't find ourselves in half of our current situations. When reaching out for professional help regarding your organizational matters - be receptive. In the end, your results will astonish you.

Until We Blog Again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Website Update

2010-04-30T01:33:00.005-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know the website is coming soon! The site is under construction but the organizing business is still booming. I love the art of designing an attractive website and I am willing to wait patiently for greatness! I will keep you all posted! I am here to service you with honesty & integrity. In the meantime in between time...stay tuned for my daily blogs on organizing and refining your life. Live efficiently! :)

Until we blog again...

CEO, Organize N Refine

Clutter Bugs

2010-04-30T01:06:00.006-05:00

Funny Story! Thought I'd share it with my fellow bloggers.
April has been a very busy month for me to say the least. Plenty of traveling and by the time it was all said and done my closet was a mess! Luggage tossed around, clothes unfolded, unhung, and unpacked. Let's just say it did not resemble that of a professional organizer. Even the most organized are allowed to have a FEW days out of the year to be a complete wreck! :) I'm human.

Moving along... Not many days passed by before I grew tired of living out of my suitcase in my own home. So I began to do what I do best - CREATE ORDER! As I began to do laundry and reorganize my closet I got the bright idea to rearrange my current filing system for bills, tax info, etc. As I reached to the top shelf of my closet where I keep my file folders neatly placed - I see a HUGE roach the size of my thumb! Yikes! Funny thing about it - I was on the phone with my internet provider because my connection was down. I scream something very obscene into the phone, in which the customer service rep replied "Is everything OK ma'am?" Luckily she found it humorous and was willing to call me back.

One think you must all know is *drum roll please* I HATE BUGS! Big ones, small ones, skinny ones, fat ones, and anything in its species. Apologies to my bug lover friends but I will not be joining the bug club anytime soon. I realized that it had come from outside when I opened the windows to air out my house. That answered my original question of "How in the hell?..." :) Now, I just had to figure out how to get it out without screaming bloody murder if it jumped on me. What did I do next? I did what any strong and courageous business woman would do...

I CALLED MY NEIGHBOR! (Don't judge me)

My faithful neighbor came to my rescue. Luckily we swap favors often so he owed me one! :) He managed to kill it, in which I was able to move on with my organized life. Needless to say, the moral of the sotry is CLEAR OUT YOUR CLUTTER! The more junk you have laying around is merely a playground for unwanted pests! Yes, I know, the other moral of the story is to KEEP YOUR WINDOWS CLOSED at night when creepy crawlers are looking for shelter. :)

Until we Blog again....

CEO, Organize N Refine

Summer is Near...Get in Gear

2010-04-29T03:12:00.012-05:00

Summer is just around the corner and it's time to put that old phrase "Out with the old and in with the new" into motion. I find that April/May is the perfect time to get organized for the summer and all the fun it brings. It's time to store away the bulky winter items and bring your sizzling summer wardrobe to the forefront. Depending on the amount of closet and storage space you have in your home and the amount of "things" you have, the idea of getting in organizational gear for the summer may bring more pain than joy - but the end results will always give you a great feeling of accomplishment.

Tips to Begin Summer Closet Organizing:

1. Remove all winter/fall items from your closet.
I find that initially removing all items in a particular category (In this case, winter items) enables me to quickly clear space and see how much room I have to work with. Once you have all your winter items out of the closet - sort through it all. What is of value? These items will be stored for next winter season. What is broken, dated, or of no use? These items will be donated, recycled, or simply thrown away.

2. If summer items are stored - remove them from storage.
This step enables you to also sort through your 2009 and beyond summer gear. Is that swimsuit still appealing to you? Can you fit those shorts? Is that tank-top faded and worn? Ask yourself these questions. The same rule from Step 1 applies here. What is broken, dated, or of no use must be donated, recycled, or simply thrown away. Once you have removed your summer gear from its appropriate storage area - you now see how much room you have available to store your winter items. This idea creates the great concept of:

If it doesn't fit. You and it must split.

Kind of corny, but the principle serves its purpose. Keep in mind that items such as ski boards, snow boots, and other bulky winter gear will be considered and stored in an appropriate area.

3. Replace your Winter chill with Summer heat
Now that you have the remaining relevant items from your Summer and Winter collections. Store the winter clothes you intend to keep in the storage area/bins previously used for summer wear and begin to fill your closet with those beautiful bright colors, stylish sandals, sundresses, and more!

I hope these few steps are resourceful in jump-starting your summer organizing spree. Of course, there are several ways to arrange your items neatly and accessibly in your closet, but that my friends will be shared tomorrow.

Until we blog again....

CEO, Organize N Refine