November 2007, Issue 1

Small Steps, Big Changes.

Welcome to the first issue of you ORGANIZED!

How many times have you tried to organize your bedroom, office, closet - whatever - only to find it messy three days later? You've probably ended up feeling disappointed, discouraged and downright tired. Organizing can be a frustrating process - especially if you feel like you are in it alone. But that's where we come in!

The mission of you ORGANIZED, the newsletter, is to offer you monthly support and guidance during your organizing journey. We're here to motivate you and inspire you through it all!

So let's get started...

Now, where do you begin? Good question. The answer: start small. The organizing process begins with taking just one step forward. So many people think that if their bedroom doesn't look like Martha Stewart's, then there is no hope for them - or their space. However, their bedroom didn't get messy in just one day - and likewise, it's not going to magically transform in one day either. People who ultimately succeed in the organizing process are patient, set realistic expectations, and, most importantly, just keep on going. Remember, slow and steady wins the race.

1. Clean out your wallet. Wallets hold more than just money. Old receipts, expired credit cards and gift certificates clutter its pockets and often prevent you from finding the one credit card you actually do use. Money is such a source of angst for people, that clearing out your wallet is a great first step to breaking down those anxiety-ridden feelings.
2. Empty your sock drawer. This one's simple: any sock that's missing its pair - throw it out. If you haven't found the other one yet, it's probably gone for good.
   
3. Survey the medicine cabinet. Take five minutes and scan the shelves - toss what's expired and write a list of what needs to be replaced now.
4. Invest in an inbox. Where do you put your mail when you walk in the front door? The kitchen counter or maybe just some surface in the front hallway? Instead, grab an empty shoebox and use it as a temporary (or permanent, if you like) container for your incoming mail. This way, you'll know exactly where to look when you're finally ready to sort through it all. Otherwise, the pile tends to mix with all the other clutter already lying around there.
5. Clear off your nightstand. Your bedroom should be a haven, a peaceful place to relax and reconnect with yourself. Accordingly, the time before you go to sleep is time for you to decompress, let go of the day and reenergize for the next one. Having clutter right next to where you sleep prevents this from happening. Right now, take the unopened mail and scattered receipts, and move it all somewhere else. Honor the time before bed and decide to give it to you - and not your clutter.
   
   Wishing you a month of big changes.
   
   
   
   Jordana
   Founder, live ORGANIZED
   
   love it:
   Letterboxes (seejanework.com, $40)
   
   

Perfect pick for an inbox once you're ready to make the upgrade.
Colors: pink (above), lime, maple brown, arctic white, and light blue.