The first rule of anything in regard to organization is:
Don't overload yourself with too much all at once.
Remember, it's a lifestyle. Organization is on-going and cut yourself some slack. You can get pretty overwhelmed if you attempt all the jobs that need doing at once. Here's what I do...
1. Get mentally and spiritually prepared by understanding that blessings cannot come to you if you are too full or too maxed out to receive them.
When you 'gift' items you no longer use, need, or things that are attached to old memories you'd rather not have any more, they can bless others who WILL use them and even LOVE them. If you think of giving treasures to someone, it's easier to do somehow.
2. Elimination is the biggest step toward organization.
It's not just about putting all the blue sweaters together and folding the white t-shirts alike. (Although that helps...) It's about making room in your life. This is really step one and two. Get rid of the clutter in your life, and it brings peace. It's a really simple concept. If I see something I want, I don't get it unless I make room for it by getting rid of, gifting, or eliminating something that's taking up space where the 'new thing can live'. When you get right down to it, you don't really need a lot. The more space you create, the more creative you can be in that space.
3. Creative Space-making helps you organize.
After you've given away some things, and you feel that wonderful joy of giving, consider making money on things that have been cluttering your life. Did you know that consignment and re-sale shops are a great way to make a few bucks on things you don't need? CDs and books that are falling out of your shelves can be sold to a used media shop, and make a little spending cash for you. People who are ebay geniuses can really create a nice business on the side by selling things that take up 'peaceful places' in your home. There are shops that will 'ebay' your things for you, too! (for a price)
Consignment stores for clothing, furniture, and of course classified ads are great ways to turn your "not-neededs" into money. (Do be careful however, about inviting strangers to your home. Do we still need to say that? Consider selling at a public place like an office or a storage unit with lots of people around. Don't deliver items to people you don't know either. Period.)
The ever popular yard sale is fun and lucrative if you do it with friends. Create a bonding time and make it a party! Take anything that's left-over directly to the charity and thrift stores and get a receipt for donation for tax purposes. Remember, if you could live without it for the yard sale...you can live without it.
Think about saving all that money for a special vacation or a 'me' day.
You've done it! You've begun...and that's the first step.
It's a lifestyle...and it's only just beginning!
faith ford
