I couldn't come up with a catchy title for this short list of miscellaneous tips.
But since we all have one and instantly recognize the term 'junk drawer', let's go with it.
Of course, I'd recommend a junk drawer more like this simply because it's easier to find things, but you get loads of credit for containing it at all.
So here goes, a few tips to consider and the most important is at the end.
Don't put it down...Put it away. Repeat aloud.
Label Label Label. Help your future self, and those around you, know where to put things. We get distracted every time we have to stop to remember.
Label the fridge and pantry shelves, the light switches, tools, flashlight, bike, drawers, and the dog. Click the button to see what I recommend. The first one I had lasted 24 years.
Wallet. Lay out your cards and photo the front and back. Store with your essential info. Do you have an ID card in it? Click the button for a freebie.
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Organize your critical info
While it's helpful to reduce papers floating around your home and office, odds are nothing dire will happen if you can't find your electric bill this month.
But, gathering your vital information into one reliable place is critical.
We don't like to think about it, but how will they know how to find your passwords in an emergency? If you're sick or out of town and need help, how will they know what to do and who to call? Have you created legal permissions?
Click on the photo or the button to join our low-cost 5-session online meeting to complete this not-much-fun but incredibly important task. Your family will be grateful, and you'll feel pretty good about it too.
Email. Create a 'junk' email for the bazillion lists you subscribe to and rarely read.
Yes, I hear you say, "But I'll never check it, I have too much to look at now." That's the point. Separate the unnecessary from the important.
Tasks. Whether paper or electronic, find a task manager you like, and stick with it until it's a habit. There's only one best version: the one you'll use.
There are thousands of styles for free or purchase, but for most people a simple paper notebook, or Google and Apple Reminders and Notes apps (free and built in), are easiest.
Space. Reconsider how you think about empty space.
You don't need to fill it; it's already full. Consider the simple and expansive Japanese concept of Ma.
It's the pause in music, the calendar without a plan, the area without furniture, the wide walkway that invites you to explore.
Summary
If I had to sum up decades of organizing experience into one tip it's be kind to your current, and future, self.
Reduce what you have, what you owe and are obligated to, what you are irritated by, and what you leave unfinished. Declutter your time and space. Prepare for the future but live in the moment.
Master you.
Want help with any of these ideas? Let's talk.
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