How do Professional Organizers Stay Organized? That is the question! Shared by Birdie Brennan, CPO
I love the concept of sharing our inside secrets as organizers. Throughout the month of May I have asked my colleagues to share what works for them. I know you will enjoy this guest post from Birdie Brennan, owner of Birdie Brennan Professional Organizers.
It is usually a question that comes about when working with a client. I tell them my house isn’t perfect but I do practice what I preach. I have always derived pleasure from putting things in order. So, I have created a home for everything. You know that old saying; A place for everything and everything in its place. It may be cliché but it is true. For me, once I have a “home” for everything life is easier. I recently found not only is life easier, but having a home is necessary when life throws you a curve ball. I had an accident and was immobile for 5-6 weeks. No major illness, nothing to worry about but I could not put any weight on my foot. We had to bring someone in to help me get through the day. It was perfect because they had no idea where anything was. Instead of hunting, they could ask me “Where is the pitcher for the tea?” I could answer the cabinet all the way to the left on the third shelf!
Having a “home” for everything also helps when I have a busy week and I let things slide. I can spend a few minutes after the craziness and quickly put things away.
I recently downsized with a move. Before the move, I continually pared down my belongings. I wanted to create a space that held items that I used and loved and leave the unnecessary items behind. It’s funny; I remember looking at my cookbooks several times before the move. Each time I could let a few more go.
I think organizing space and belongings is easy. It is how I’m wired but I have to work on organizing my time. That is a struggle. With my time struggle, I have put some systems in place to streamline the paperwork that goes with having a business. We have created a calendar with specific projects for week 1-4 every month. Systems help create calm because you know things will get done and will not fall through the cracks.
I have found that technology is a great way to save time. I love finding and sharing apps that save time! I love using Google calendar with all of the recurring events and special dates along with reminders.
I also have learned that delegation is necessary. I have even given up some of the jobs that I enjoy doing because it frees up my time to do the tasks that are my responsibility.
To live an organized life, I practice what I preach with my home and office, am aware of my time management issues and continue to improve with life balance!
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