How to Manage Messy Spaces

"I have never found a better way to enhance the communications process than by reinforcing the points or concepts I wish to make with timely, memorable quotations." ~Carolyn Warner

Cleanliness is next to Godliness. This saying, while simple, has a very deep meaning. When you are knee deep in projects, client calls, social media marketing, etc., it may seem easier or more expedient to leave your surroundings messy and out of order, but an organized home and home office space leads to a clear mind and a sense of peace. When your things are in order, you avoid the frantic, irritable scrambling to find your car keys when you're late for an appointment. The important papers you need are easy to locate when you need them. And, a cluttered space constantly reminds you of all those stressful things you could be doing instead of relaxing. It just makes good sense that a tidy home or office saves time and reduces stress. Follow these easy tips to turn your home or workplace into a productive, peaceful space:

• Make a "things to do" list every day. Prioritize your list by placing the most important items at the top. This will provide a framework for your day and keep you on task. Your to-do list minimizes distractions and keeps you focused on the best use of your time throughout the day.
  • It's easier to stay on top of clutter when you manage your schedule effectively. A structured day provides the motivation and foundation you need to set things up in an orderly manner.
• Complete everything on your your list today. When you make your to-do list short and manageable, your day runs more smoothly. Seek to limit the items on your list to the most important five or six, and strive to complete them all by the end of the day. A clean slate for tomorrow means less clutter in your space and in your mind.
• Rely on yourself. Self-reliance builds self-confidence. And, when you pick up after yourself instead of relying on others to do it for you, you know exactly where you put things. That way, everything has its place and you know that place.
• Make it a habit to put things back in their place after use. This is the easiest way to keep your surroundings tidy. The next time you need that important document, telephone number or appointment reminder, or you're rushing out the door and need your car keys, you'll know exactly where they are. You'll save time and feel less frazzled throughout the day. Something my mother always told me as a child has stuck with me all of my life. In a large family it is impossible, not to mentioned irresponsible, for one person to be constantly picking up after everybody else. She would tell us all, "Every time you bring something into a room, take it with you when you leave and put it back where you found it." Once you establish that habit, you will instantly be tidier!
• Finish tasks early. One of the most efficient ways to create a peaceful home or work environment is to provide a cushion in your schedule for things that may go wrong. If you wait until the last minute to accomplish everything that needs to be done, your life will be in constant chaos and you will be listening to a lot of negative self-talk about what a dolt you are. This makes you feel even worse than you already did and is not in the tiniest bit helpful.
  • Instead, plan your schedule so you finish projects a few days early. Less scrambling at the last minute means less of a paper pile up. It also means fewer missed deadlines and less stress for you. I know you remember this stress from high school and college! How did it work for you then?
• Throw stuff away. The most frequent cause of a disorderly home or office is just too much stuff. The quickest and easiest remedy is to grab a large trash bag or two, ready your office shredder for service, put on your favorite upbeat music and get busy. Decide what goes, what gets stored in a closet, what goes to charity, what gets filed, and what gets shredded. Dedicate a few uninterrupted hours to getting rid of as much stuff as you can, and reward yourself with a nice bubble bath and a great book after you are done.
  • Go through each item or piece of paper, asking yourself if keeping the item is really necessary. When was the last time you used this item? When will you need this item or paper again? How is it contributing to your happiness or success? Can it be safely thrown away or does it need to be shredded? The more ruthless and analytical you can be in this process, the more productive it will be. If your home office is equipped with a scanner, use it! And then toss or shred those papers that are taking up so much of your peripheral vision.

If you genuinely don't have the time, or the will, to get organized consider calling in a professional to get you where you need to be. Simply Google "professional organizer" to find someone in your area, or even a virtual online organizer to assist you. With these simple steps and the determination to reclaim your space, you can experience the tranquility that you deserve within your home or office. Get started today and begin to manage your mess just like magic! Here are a couple of recent posts in the same vein that might be helpful: Work From Home Time Wasters From Mom to Supermom - Tips For Work From Home Mothers