Clutter Conversions

Why is this task or project not getting done?

     Most of us have a task or project we want to do but keep putting it off.  If you are a business, it may be that you want to organize your desk, files or storage area.  If your project is at home, you may be putting off painting a room, cleaning out the garage or planting a garden. 
Below are a few reasons that may be stopping you from getting the task or project completed.

• Do not know where to start - generally start with the area that is closest to you on your right and work yourself around the space.

• Overwhelmed - break it down into smaller tasks. Use timers to help you work for short periods of time.
  

• ^{No Plan - answer these questions: what items are needed, who do I need to help me, how much money do I need, what tools is needed and how much time can I spend on it? Once you have answered these questions, mark it on your calendar to do it.}
  

• Do not know how to do the project - research the project or ask a professional for assistance or guidance.

• What to do with items no longer needed - before you begin, figure out how you are going to deal with the trash, where are you going to take donations or how are you going to get items back to the original owners?  Again, you can research local nonprofit organizations or ask a professional.

• Fear - I may not do it perfectly or I may fail to finish or meet someone's approval.  There is no such thing as perfection! If you follow the plan, you will finish. Finally, your approval is all that matters.  What matters most is that you are happy with the process and end results

     Once you have all these questions answered and a written plan, your stress will be decreased and beginning, implementing and completing your task or project will be a huge success!

Back to School Organizing Tips for College Bound Students

*Space- Remember that they most likely will not have the amount of space in the dorm room that they had at home. Think compact.  Use multi-purpose containers and furniture.  Some colleges and Universities will not allow you to put holes in the wall or paint so check with them before you begin packing.   Also, if you are able, visit the college and measure the dorm room to see how much space you will actually have before packing things that will not fit.  Use a small cleaning caddy to carry personal items back and forth from the bathroom. *Packing - use collapsible storage containers to put items into while moving and then they can either be used for storage in the dorm or folded down and stored away. *Time management is key to success!  Use a calendar/planner to map out a routine.  College is supposed to be fun but it does need some structure to it if you are going to succeed without having a major melt-down at some point.  College can be stressful enough without adding the pressure of being late for class or not allowing enough time to write a term paper. *Color code your things, label them, bring some pictures and a few loved items from home to make the room more comfortable and relaxing. *The Container store has a couple of great articles to help you get through the college transfer.

Dorm Room Tip #1

Off To College We Go!!!

Now is the time of year that you are going to leave the comfort and security of your parents home and move into a whole new world. It can be exciting but also very overwhelming and stressful.You will be going to live in new place with people you don't know, making new friends as well as experiencing deadlines like you never have before. Here are some tips from "The Container Store" to help you make the transition less stressful and more enjoyable.

make a list By making a list of items you want to take to school, you're less likely to forget something important. It's not necessary to list and pack certain things, like your winter sweaters, if you'll be coming home for a visit shortly after school begins. Make sure you include items that might not be so obvious, like cleaning supplies, a sewing kit, tools, plastic dinnerware and silverware. Include toiletries and linens that you know you'll need. And you'll want photos or special keepsakes that will make your new space feel like home.

things to do Let your friends and family know your new mailing address, phone number and email address. Update your address book with their information. If you have a cell phone, make sure your plan will cover any long distance charges you might incur while at school. You may need to secure a calling card to make long distance calls from campus — check with the housing office. You may want to open a local bank account. Back up important computer files and leave an extra copy at home. Check with the housing office about guidelines for electronic equipment and appliances. Communicate with your roommate about who will bring shared items such as a microwave, refrigerator and television. Label items like CDs and reference books that you are likely to lend to other students. It's always a good idea to label your clothes in case of a mix-up at the Laundromat. If you have a car, have it serviced before leaving for campus.

prepare to pack Pack everything you can inside storage containers. This will save on the number of moving boxes you'll need. Plus, you can use the containers once you get to school to organize your belongings. If you're driving to campus, use collapsible containers to pack your things. You can use them to store stuff at school or fold them down for easy storage. If you're shipping most of your things to campus, make sure to use the proper packing materials and shipping boxes to protect your belongings. Insure the contents of the boxes and always include an extra address label inside each box.

Dorm Room Tip #3 Help! I ' m Sharing My Space

Dreading your dorm room clutter?

When I attended college at James Madison University I had to share a room with 2 other girls. Space and privacy seemed to be ongoing upsets.

I wish I had the knowledge about organizing back then that I have today.  Cool tubs and gadgets are now available that make organizing a breeze. Dorm life would have been so much easier!

The Container Store has incredible organizing gadgets, tips, and tools. Studying is much easier when you're organized.

Sharing your space...no worries!  Would you like a personal consultation about your organizing challenges?  Contact Clutter Conversions today.