clutter STOP

The Kitchen Pantry and The Clutter

2011-03-30T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

We previously discussed the clutter in your kitchen during “Get Organized Month” in January. We talked about the cabinets and drawers and how to get them organized. Now let’s walk over to your pantry and open the door – watch out! You might get hit by a falling box of “what on earth is in that box anyway?”

Starting at the top shelf, remove all the items and put them on your kitchen counter. You may need to use a step-ladder for this. If so, get someone to take the items from you and place them on the counter. Probably the items you have stored up there are things you only use occasionally. Check these items over to be sure that you want them all. If you have small items, along with larger items on that shelf, find a box, crate, or bin to put the small items into and label the box with the contents. It would be better if the holding item is clear so that you can see what is inside. Now return these to the top shelf. Again, ask someone for help with this if you are on a step-ladder. If you have found items on that shelf that you would like to use more, remove it so you can place it on a shelf that makes it easier for you to get it. You can now stop for the day, or continue on to the next shelf.

The items on the next shelf down can be corralled so those like items are all together. Let’s say it’s the shelf you put all the cereal boxes on, plus other items like flour, sugar, etc. Do you absolutely want all those items on that shelf? If yes, group them so that they are clearly visible, i.e. keep the cereal boxes to the left and the baking items to the right. If you have other items on this shelf that have nothing to do with cereal or baking, remove them and put them on your counter. Continue to the next shelf.

On this shelf you have lots of canned goods. The problem is, you haven’t a clue what you actually have. The easiest way to handle this is to take them all out, put them on your counter (if you have room, otherwise you’ll have to use the floor – oh no!), and start sorting. Put all your soup cans together, all the vegetables together, put the tomato products together, and so on. Put them back on the shelf as a group so you can see exactly what you have.

Let me give you some words of caution about the canned goods. Check the top of the cans for their expiration dates. This is very important with the tomato products. In helping people clear out their pantries, we have found canned goods that were five years old. A few months past their expiration dates is really not a big deal, but when you are talking years, it is. Even though the cans have improved and are now lined for your safety, the product can create gases and force the cans to explode. Or worse, become tainted and will make you ill. If the tops or bottoms of the cans are bulging, open them immediately (carefully), and throw out the contents. Always put new canned items behind the ones you already have. Never buy multiple quantities of canned goods unless you have a family to feed. In the beginning years of my working life, I worked for Libby Foods, and for Dial Amour Foods. It was through these companies that made me be aware of the shelf life of cans and other food products.

The next shelf might hold bottles of olive oil, vinegars, sauces, etc. It is best to keep the bottled items on a lower shelf in case someone bumps the shelves, or there is an earthquake or other disaster. In fact, putting all the bottles into a bin will be safer and also easier for you to group items. The expiration dates on these items are not as critical as they were for the canned items. But, I would still pay attention to them. You really do not want to use rancid olive oil for cooking or baking! It might be best to put opened bottles of oils in the refrigerator.

Other items that you might have in your pantry would be crackers, coffee, plastic containers for leftovers, and snacks. Coffee and tea items could go into another cupboard in the kitchen if you are using these items fairly often. Boxed items, like crackers, can be put on the shelf with the cereal, if you have room, otherwise try a shelf in the kitchen. The other items can go where you want to be able to reach them easily. Even the plastic containers can go into the kitchen, provided there is room.

The overall idea to making your pantry less cluttered and easily accessible is to group all like items together so that you can clearly see what you have, and what you need.

Questions? You know where to find me!

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP® Sheila@clutterstop.com, www.clutterstop.com, 520-822-4036

The Hoarding Issue and Grief

2011-03-21T16:17:00.001-07:00

At a meeting of my professional group last week, we had a speaker who is a therapist dealing with grief. In the course of his dealings, he discovered that many cases of grief lead to hoarding. Since hoarding has become a topic for many TV and radio shows, I decided to offer you what I learned from this therapist, and in my own dealings with clients who hoard.

In the words of the therapist, grief makes you “crazy.” And, he said that grief is the “tax you pay for loving someone.” So, I guess, it stands to reason that the longer you have loved someone, the more “tax” you have to pay. I never quite thought of it like that, but it does make sense on a purely non-emotional basis. Having gone through several bouts of grief, I totally get the “crazy” part because that is exactly how I felt. It was as though someone had drugged me and I was constantly fighting to find a way out of it.

Grief also brings with it, “diminished capacity,” and that is where hoarding comes in. Since you have this diminished capacity while you navigate the waters of grieving, the things that you usually do are not done – cooking, cleaning, paying bills, keeping appointments, making appointments, and keeping up with your work at home or the office. There is a fog that surrounds you as you try to make sense of the normal everyday comings and goings of people around you. Do they not understand that someone just died?

The things we need in order to clear clutter and keep it at bay are no longer at our disposal. Focusing, concentrating and remembering are things of the past and not available to us in our current state of grief. The therapist stated that even asking for help is an “advanced process,” a process we aren’t quite ready for.

The therapist suggested that we create a “new normal.” That means that we might have to wait a year before we are ready to truly tackle all that has accumulated around us. For people prone to hoarding, this waiting makes the issue more difficult. How do you get rid of belongings when you don’t understand the value of the item; or you have a deep sentimental tie to it; or you are just plain afraid to let go of something. Sometimes donating items of the deceased is like getting rid of all memories of the person, (or relationship), who died.

On the other hand, getting rid of items immediately may be a way for someone to not face what actually has happened. If you don’t see their jacket, or their shoes, or their prized dining room table, then the death really didn’t happen. I experienced this within my own family. My sister had passed away after a very brief but ugly illness. Her son wanted everything gone – right now – because he didn’t want to look at it. At the time I didn’t understand what he was doing. I only knew that I was being pressured to rid her home of all belongings through any means possible. The problem was that I was walking through this fog at the same time! There were unpaid bills to deal with, Social Security to deal with, insurance companies to deal with, estate sales people to talk to, etc. It was extremely hard.

So when I work with hoarders now, I know that a trauma of some kind has become their constant companion. It could have been the death of a loved one, the end of a long-time relationship, or the putting up of barriers (literally) because they have been physically or emotionally (or both) scarred. When you see this condition in a friend, a neighbor, or a relative, tread lightly. You never know what is behind all of it. I only know it is NOT because they are lazy and don’t care about their surroundings. It is not easy to help them out of the situation, and a good therapist with a background in helping hoarders can make a big difference.

This is an emotional topic for many people. But the person who is hoarding is the one who is hurting the most. They need therapy and possibly medication to see them through. And, lots and lots of patience.

“Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP® Sheila@clutterstop.com, www.clutterstop.com.

The Garage Clutter

2011-03-07T17:41:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Have you had it with your garage? Has it become just a storage room for everything you and your family no longer want? Or, maybe a storage room for a dead relative's furniture that you just can't part with? Are you storing the children's toys in there, but they are now 30 years old?

Did I step on any toes? Did sweat pop out on your forehead? Did you inwardly groan? Take heart, all is not lost. We all have a tendency to put things in the garage that we aren't using at the moment. The problem comes when that "moment of use" never happens. And then one pile leads to another, and then another, and . . .

Yikes! Let's stop all of this. It's not a pretty job, but as the saying goes, "Someone has to do it!" Roll up your sleeves, put on some work gloves and let's get to work.

1. If you do not have shelving units in the garage, buy some at Home Depot or Lowes. They carry plastic resin shelving units (brand name is Workforce) that hold about 250 lbs. per shelf, are 36" wide, 24" deep, and 72" tall. They have a smaller size that is 12" deep, but these will not accommodate large plastic bins, which are ideal for shelving units.

2. Buy clear plastic bins with tight fitting lids. How many will depend on how much you want to store, and you can always return those not used.

3. If you cannot see anything in the garage because of the clutter, pull it all out onto the driveway.

4. Put up the shelving units if none are in the garage, or if you want to supplement shelves you already have.

5. Grab a bin and fill it with all like items that are now in your driveway. (Not talking about furniture, bikes, lawnmowers, etc.) Be sure that you TOSS or GIVE AWAY items you no longer need. If the kids are 30+ there is no need to keep their toys! If you just can't part with them, give the toys to the kids and let them decide what to do.

6. If you fill up one bin and still have things you want to store, grab another. Mark what is inside the bins by using an 8 1/2 x 11 piece of paper on which you write in a black marker what is inside. Put the piece of paper on the INSIDE of the bin - that way you won't have a label falling off. I prefer that a piece of paper is put on all 4 sides of the bin, including the bottom. That way you never have to guess and you never have to tug at a bin in order to turn it around to see the label.

7. Furniture from dead relatives is a real problem, and a common one. If you cannot use the furniture in your own home, and your children do not want it, please think about the people who can use the furniture and have no money to buy any. Mothers with children who are coming out of half-way homes and going into their own apartments for the first time are one group that definitely needs furniture. People whose homes have been burned to the ground can use the furniture. Think about it - there are many, many people who would bless you for your donation. If the furniture is antique, call an antique dealer and see what it's worth. Let them take it on consignment. Or, if you have quite a bit, find out about having an "estate sale."

8. Items that typically live in a garage are:
- Holiday Decorations (use a bin for each holiday and put on shelves)
- Car Supplies (put these in an open container for easy access - on a shelf)
- Tools (put in a tool bin)
- Nut, bolts, screws, etc. (store in drawer containers, or in glass jars with the lids
nailed to the shelf)
- Lawn care equipment (put rakes, hoes, weedwacker, etc., in tall garbage can to contain
them)
- Lawn mower (near the door)
- Bikes (put on hooks on walls or ceiling)
- AND THE CARS!!!

Hope you are able to get your garage in order before the hot weather hits. If you need physical help with this, just call me at 520-822-4036.

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Spring Into Spring-Organizing

2011-02-28T15:48:00.000-08:00

Winter is almost gone, so now is the time to start streamlining, and enjoying, your environment. Lightening your rooms of clutter will help to remove the dreary days of winter by providing you with open and airy spaces.

> Take a good look around. What is sitting on shelves, hiding in cupboards and languishing in garages or storage facilities? How many people do you know that would truly treasure any of these items if you gave them away as gifts? How happy will a grandchild be when you "gift" him with one of your long favored treasures for their birthday, or Christmas? Gifting this way for Seniors is a blessing, for both the giver and the receiver. Seniors have lived with these treasures for many years and it hurts to just give them away to a stranger. Beautifully wrapping it and giving it to a loved one who will also cherish it is much more satisfying. This is especially true for jewelry or the small train sets that people love to play with.

>Do you really need all the overstuffed furniture that you have - or even the furniture that others have given you because "no one else wanted it?" If you truly do not know anyone who would like what you've always treasured, then call any of the shelters in your area, or the thrift shops, to pick up the items. There are so many people who need these things - so share what you're able. Think about how much easier your movements will be from one room to the next without all that bulky furniture around. If it's really expensive furniture, call a company that does estate sales.

> Look through your collection of dinnerware. Pull them all out on the counter. Do you really need three full sets of china? And four sets of stoneware, melmac, chipped plates of assorted patterns, in addition to the thirty coffee mugs or tea cups or glasses that just collect dust? What a great gift a full set of china would make for the new bride in the family, and you don't have to spend a dime! While you’re at it, look through all your silverware pieces.

Enjoy your Spring! For help with your organizing, or to get Coaching help, contact Sheila at 520-822-4036, Sheila@clutterstop.com, or www.clutterstop.com.

'Til Next Time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Time & Technology

2011-02-21T11:44:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

My Pastor gave some very eye-opening statistics to the congregation this past Sunday. I was so amazed that I decided to write about it – and what better place than here!

According to what he had researched and found regarding technology, look at these statistics:

• 78% of 12 to 13 year olds go to bed with their cell phones so that they don’t miss any calls!

• 86% of 14 to 15 year olds go to bed with their cell phones! And,

• 21% of 18 to 30 year olds can’t go through the night without checking Facebook!

First of all, this made me feel very old. But, secondly, look at what is happening to these young people! Technology is great, and it has brought major improvements to our lives in the way of medicine and communications. Unfortunately, it may lead to a time when our children will forget about reading a book, or learning how to spell, or going out to meet people for food and conversation. Why do all that when you can just sit down, or even walk, and keep in touch with whom you want?

Just prior to hearing these statistics, I was reading the March 2011 edition of Reader’s Digest. The writer, Susan Maushart, (who’s article was excerpted from The Winter of Our Disconnect), who had her family disconnect from all technology for six months. She started with the electricity for a 2-week period of time and then banned TV, cell phones, IPods, etc. for 6 months. If they needed computers for school they had to go to the library. They did not receive, nor send any emails, tweets, or whatever for 6 months! Instead they learned how to communicate with each other, and spent time around the piano singing, or playing other instruments.

While that type of withdrawal would leave even ME feeling deprived, it all made sense. What did we do before all of these wonders? We actually walked to a phone (usually just one), and called someone. We walked to a friend’s house, or drove if we had a car. We spent time chatting with others, in person! What a concept.

Considering the statistics on the kids, I still stick to my old rules – do not spend all day in front of, or on, all of these devices. How many of the “friends” that you have, have you ever seen? It really is a great tool for reaching out, but I think we have gone way beyond just reaching out. People are having contests to see how many “friends” they can get by the end of the month. Really? Is this what life and love are all about – chats in a chatroom? No more walking hand-in-hand somewhere? No more feeling the fresh air on your face? No more waiting in anticipation for a friend (a real friend, not a make-believe friend), to tell you some really personal great news? No more real birthday presents? How very sad.

Even at networking events, seminars, and workshops, you can see people on their cell phones or texting. Are they, or you, really that important that you HAVE to take or make that call? And if so, why are you at that event? I can understand a medical doctor who is at an event, or seminar, and has to rush out because a patient needs him/her. What about the rest of us?

So, again, take time off of the devices dangling from your ear, inside your pocket, attached to your belt, or clipped to your purse. And read your emails at home or in your office and not while you’re supposedly having a conversation with someone!

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP® Sheila@clutterstop.com

Work, Networking, & Your Wardrobe

2011-02-14T17:22:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

As a colleague and I were talking during lunch the other day she was lamenting the current crop of individuals looking for work. She has to hire someone and is amazed at the type of clothing people are wearing to an interview. Since I was a Human Resources Director in my former life, I decided to write about this, and also to extend it to activities we do outside of work.

There are certain environments that exist in all companies, large and small. When you are looking for work, it is your responsibility to find out what the atmosphere is in the company you are seeking employment with. Everyone I know today is on the computer, or is texting, or using their blackberry or I Pad, or whatever other new device is out there. It is easier than ever to go on-line to find out about the company you will be interviewing with.

If you are going to a fast-food restaurant to find a job, then wear clean pressed pants/slacks or skirt, and a clean pressed top. It isn’t necessary for you to wear a tie and jacket, but it couldn’t hurt. Whatever you do, avoid blue jeans and flip-flops. Forget the garish nail polish and an over-made face. Be sure your hair is clean and not in your face. If necessary, pull it back in a hair band (for guys who have longer hair). You probably won’t get rejected because you’re wearing an earring, a stud on your tongue or face, or both, but you won’t be the first person picked either. Tattoos can also be a turn-off, but there isn’t much you can do about them except wear long-sleeved shirts or blouses. The idea in all of this is to look as clean as possible. After all, you ARE looking for a job in a restaurant where cleanliness is extremely important.

Interviewing for a law firm? Check them out first. Is this a firm that is extremely conservative and everyone looks like cloned copies of everyone else? You better go in looking the same or your chances of getting the job will be slim, even with good credentials. Remember, there is a glut of people out of work right now and employers have their pick of the litter, so to speak.

If the company you are seeking employment with is a casual advertising firm, but you are extremely conservative in your dress, you had better learn to dress like everyone else or you are going to be given the cold shoulder by your fellow workers. And you might not get hired just because of the way you look. They might think you’re too “uptight” to work in their casual environment. You can still be conservative in a more relaxed way. Just look at what everyone is wearing that works at the company you want to work in. You can visit the place by sitting in the parking lot just before work hours, or right at the end of the day, and see what the employees are wearing.

If you really are at a loss about what to wear, confide in someone you trust who can teach you how. Or, if you can afford it, find a stylist who can show you. What to wear on the job is one issue. The other issue is, what do you wear as an entrepreneur and you have no guideline from others? One visit to a networking group will let you know! For instance:

You own a landscaping company and you, and everyone else, is wearing blue jeans. Dressing for the job is one thing, but why go to a networking group in grimy jeans, shirt and flip flops? Really, how many people will be moved to shake your hand? You would be perfectly presentable to go in clean jeans and a shirt with your company’s name on it. If the weather is cool, wear a casual jacket.

You own, or represent a beauty salon and cater to upscale clientele. You dress casually on the job, and even wear gym shoes for comfort. You go to a networking event without changing, with too much makeup on, hair going every-which-way, nail polish chipped, and you wonder why you’re standing off by yourself and can’t get new clients?

I could go on with different occupations, but I think you get the point. Networking is like being on the job. You have to look the part of the professional you are, who knows and understands their business. Sexy, short, tight clothing is not appropriate. Even if you are in a women’s networking group, you have to be professional looking. And it is not appropriate for men to wear shirts unbuttoned almost to their navel with their chest hairs sticking out. If you’re on the make, go to a bar. Some of us wonder if any of you would come dressed in your pajamas because it’s “just” a networking event. It’s time to look at your wardrobe and decide how to look as business-like and as professional as you can. Everybody is taking notice!

“Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP®

Organizing Your Closet

2011-02-09T11:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

Are you able to walk into your closet to retrieve clothing, or is it too cluttered to get into? Or, can you reach into your wall closet and get what you need without struggling to push other clothes aside? Do you jam shoes, purses and other miscellaneous items on the floor, beneath your hanging clothes? Are the shelves above your clothing filled with items of clothing that you've flung up there in your haste because it didn't fit, or it was the wrong color, or it had a stain? And do you shove things on that shelf that you can't figure out where else they go?

Take heart! You can handle all of this. My recommendation, however, is to do this slowly. Whatever you do, DO NOT take everything out of the closet and dump it on the bed! It won't take long before you tire of this and then you will have to shove the clothes on the floor to get to bed. Do this about 2 hours at a time. DO NOT do it all at once because you will absolutely hate doing it and never try it again, totally defeating your purpose.

Unfortunately, the very first thing you need to do is to remove everything from the floor of the closet, and the shelves whether it's a walk-in or a wall closet. Put these items into bins, boxes or bags and put them out of your way. The next step is to go through your clothing and remove everything that is either too small to wear right now, or too big and needs to be given away. (Keeping too-big clothing invites weight gain.) Put these clothes into bins, boxes or bags.

Now you should just be seeing your actual closet. Starting with black, find all your clothing that is black and put them all together. Then go on to gray and do the same. Continue on with all the colors you have. If you have mixed colors in one item, find all of those and group them together. If you have double rods in the closet it might be easier to place all shirts (or blouses), on top and all slacks beneath, keeping the colors together. When you are through with this exercise you should be able to see all of your clothing and what color is predominate.

You may find that you have many items that are black, but only a few pieces of brown, or white, or red. Go back through the items that you have a majority of and see if you really wear everything that you have. If you're not sure, hang all of the items backwards on the rod. When you wear one and wash/dryclean it, place it correctly forward on the rod. You will soon see what clothes you wear and which ones you don't. Maybe it's time to let some items go to donation so that others can enjoy them.

Hopefully by now your closet should be near perfection! You can go in, find something easily, and take it out without struggling to push other items aside. Now, it is time to tackle the items that you removed from the floor. Follow the same logic - group shoes and purses color. Are you using all of them? Don't remember? Put all of your purses upside down on the shelf above your clothing. When you use one of them and return it, put it on the shelf right side up. Put your shoes on the floor underneath your clothing and also group by color. You can put them all in the way you really don't like them - toes pointing out toward you, maybe - and then place them in with the heels pointing toward you after you've worn them. You can also place your shoes on the shelf the same way, or on a shoe rack. If you keep your shoes in their boxes, put some type of mark on the end of the box. When you wear a pair and return it, turn the box around so that you no longer see the mark.

This exercise can take you several days to accomplish. As long as you are determined to do it, you will succeed. Having something to drink close by also helps (your choice!). If you absolutely cannot tolerate dealing with any of this, you can always call me.

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Time Management and Your Habits

2011-02-01T15:41:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

Have you ever . . . ? That's the phrase we were asked to finish today at a women's networking luncheon.

So, have you ever been late for an appointment? If you usually are, then think about what you're doing prior to leaving for the appointment. Where are you and what are you doing? Is it really important that you do it now, or can it really wait?

Many people have a syndrome known as, "Just one more minute" itis. Sure, you can look up one more thing on your computer. Sure, you can finish painting the picture. Sure, you can make it through traffic and arrive 20 miles away in just a minute. How many "sures" are guiding your life?

In order to get yourself out the door, away from the painting, off the computer and safely navigating through traffic, you probably can make use of some tricks:

Put everything you need to take with you at the front door, or in your car as soon as you are awake and dressed for the day.

Set a timer 30 minutes before you have to leave. When the timer goes off, stop what you are doing, save what you're writing on the computer, go to the bathroom (!), and check yourself over to be sure you look alright. THEN LEAVE!

If the 30 minute timer doesn't quite move you into action, set another timer 15 minutes before you have to leave. When that one rings, you better leave!

This can apply to appointments out of your house or business and will get you to where you're going safely and possibly with a few moments to stop and breathe before you have to meet someone, or go into a meeting.

Hate to arrive early and wait for others? Take a book with you; take a report with that you haven't had time to read; take your bills with and get them paid; and do whatever else you hate to do while waiting!

Happy "no more late days" to you!

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

CLUTTER & TAXES

2011-01-24T14:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

Here we are again. Tax time. No, not the filing date, but surely the time to find all the papers you need to file your taxes. How many of you out there have no idea where your tax papers are? It is definitely time to find out.

Grab a box and go to every room where papers are lying around. Don’t bother looking at them right now, just pick them up and get them in the box.

Once you have found all the papers lying around, it is now time to sort the papers. Grab two more boxes and slowly look at the paperwork you collected. If the paper you are looking at has nothing to do with taxes, put it in one of the two boxes you have. If the paper you are looking at does relate to taxes, put it in the second box you have. Continue until you have emptied the box of papers you initially collected. You now will have a box of tax papers and a box of unsorted papers.

In order to know what to do with the tax papers, pull out last year’s income tax record. Look at the pages that your Accountant sent to you. At the top of each page is a definition of what needs to be recorded on that page. Make a file folder with the definition name for every page you have that shows you have information within that page. For instance, for myself, I have a Schedule C in my tax records, which pertains to my business and all of my business deductions are on Schedule C. There is a Schedule A for different items that you're allowed to deduct. You should see different "Schedules" for everything that pertains to your deductions. Once you set these file folders up and put them in a hanging file, it will be easier for you to just drop paperwork into them every time you receive something that is tax related. Typically, these types of documents will come in after January when businesses are required to mail out 1099's, W2's, Dividend info, Interest Info, etc.

But, what do you do when January of next year rolls around and you haven't yet filed this year's taxes and the file folders are full? Make duplicate file folders of the Schedules that you used for this year, but put them in different colored file folders, and in a different hanging file, just behind your current year's files. That way you won't confuse this year with next year's documents. Do NOT put the year on the tab of the file folder - just the name of the documents that will go into that file folder. When you file your 2010 taxes and empty the file folders, place those empties BEHIND the 2011 file folders, again in a separate hanging file. Now you have tax file folders ready and waiting for two year's worth of documents. When you walk into your Accountant's office with file folders filled with documents for the Schedules he has to fill out for you, he will be very happy, and so will your wallet. And if you want your wallet to be even happier, total up all the documents in each file folder and leave that total in each file.

When you take your tax records to your Accountant, and they are not separated or individually totaled out, he or she is going to charge you for the time it takes him to do that. If you don't care, and don't have the time to do that yourself, then paying your Accountant to do so might be a better advantage for you.

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GET ORGANIZED MONTH

2011-01-17T12:22:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

This entire month is being dedicated to getting organized. Of course! It’s when people make resolutions that they absolutely want to keep. Getting organized is one of them.

In order for you to take ownership of this resolution, here are some tips that will help you get started. Take the entire month to do this, in one or two-hour sessions, at most.

In your home, start organizing with the kitchen. Generally, the kitchen is the place that usually gets the most cluttered and looks the messiest. Follow the steps below:

1. Pick one upper cabinet and remove items that you are not using, have never used and probably never will use. Put those items in a box and put the box in a room where you will not trip over it, and where it will not be an eyesore the minute you walk into the house. Do not do anything else with this cabinet right now. The room you have freed up may come in handy once you’ve gone through all the cabinets and drawers in the kitchen.

2. Pick one drawer in the kitchen and do the same process you did for the cabinet. If there is room in the box that you used for the upper cabinet, then put all the unused items in that box also. If there is no room, grab another box (any kind of box will do, or even a heavy-duty shopping or tote bag).

3. Both of the above items together may take you up to one or two hours, so stop for the day.

4. The next day, go through a lower cabinet and just remove unused or unwanted or broken items. Put in a box (throw away the broken item unless you can really fix it!).

5. If you have time after doing the lower cabinet, pick another drawer to go through.

6. Continue with this regimen until you have gone through all the cabinets and drawers in the kitchen. Remember, you have the remainder of the month to do this.

I will give you further instructions for the kitchen next time!

‘Til then . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP®

New Year's Resolutions & To Do Lists

2011-01-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

Please excuse my lack of blogging lately. After coming home from 2 trips out of the country, I was blessed with “Walking Pneumonia.” This is my fourth week of coughing myself silly. The Doctor tells me that it can go on for two more months and all I can do is rest and drink plenty of fluids. Anyone who knows me knows that’s a tall order. I like to be up and active. So, I decided that I could not wait any longer to reach out to all of you, especially now.

Here we are in the first weeks of a new year. Have you made resolutions for this year? Did you make any last year? If so, how many did you keep?

Every year I hear people making resolutions about many things – lose weight, exercise more, get organized, go to bed earlier, wake up earlier, start a book, finish a book, cut my hair, color my hair, be nice to my relatives, complete my To Do list, etc.

While all of the resolutions sound laudable, and some people actually do keep them, the majority of people don’t. The list of resolutions affects us the way our “To Do” lists affect us – a sheet of paper that conjures up guilt on many levels. We think, “Why can’t I get this done?” “What is wrong with me, am I lazy?” “Others seem to get their ‘To Do’ lists done, why can’t I?” And on and on you go, berating yourself over what you think is a major failing in your life.

One of my clients that I was speaking with recently was lamenting over her inability of finishing her “To Do” list. I asked her how many items she had on the list. “About 30” she replied. THIRTY? How does anyone expect to complete 30 things in one day? It’s the same with resolutions. You want to do them, and you want to do them NOW. And you don’t need anyone around chiding you that you didn’t finish your list – you do that all by yourself very well!

Q: How then, do we stop beating ourselves up over things we just can’t get done.
A: STOP MAKING TO DO LISTS & RESOLUTION LISTS!

You already know what you have to do, and what you want to change in the coming year. Wouldn’t you be happier taking a clean piece of paper and filling it up with things that you have done during the day? It’s much easier. Just write down what you just finished doing. Even if your sheet for the day contains just one item, it’s more than no items – which is usually what you get done when trying to finish your To Do list, or your New Year’s resolutions list. It takes the guilt away. And yeah! You finished something!

Today I am feeling great that I have now done this blog. And that is all I am going to get done today because my energy is now gone, and it’s only 12:30 pm. But that’s o.k. because maybe tomorrow I’ll get more done. I have learned to stop beating myself up when I do not accomplish as much as I would like. Having a “Finished” list is much better for my ego than the list of items yet to be done.

Let me make something clear. It is important that you do have a list of things that need to be done so that you don’t forget important things – especially in business. However, do not use that list as your To Do list. Name it whatever you want to name it – your “Reminder” list, your “Goals” list, etc. I believe that you will find you are able to get more done by using your “Finished” list. It will also keep you working on a project at your own pace.

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP®

ADHD, Children, & Who's at Fault

2010-12-08T14:48:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

We're finally back from Israel. What a trip! But, I will leave that for another day in order to answer a question that was posed to me by Everyday Health at http://www.everydayhealth.com/adhd/expert-answers-on-adhd.aspx

They requested my opinion in relation to the opinions of doctors and therapists' views of ADHD: How you get it, how you live with it, and if parents are to blame for their child's ADHD.

The best advice came from Linda Aber:

"Linda Aber (lindaaber.com): Symptoms of ADHD like distractibility, hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattention, disorganization, and forgetfulness are not the result of lax parenting. ADHD is a neurological, biochemical brain condition, a heritable trait that is influenced by genetics. The same genes also promote positive qualities, such as creativity, sensitivity, high energy, imagination, and persistence, as well as thinking that can be characterized as being “out of the box.” These strengths are the hidden gems that parents need to point out daily and celebrate with their children."

Having ADHD, and not finding out about it until I was well into adulthood, I really applaud Linda for her succinct and positive approach to this issue. FINALLY someone understands that we are creative, sensitive, full of energy, have imagination, and great persistence. Add tenacity to that list! When we are in our "zone" we stick with what we are doing and do not let go until it is done, even if it takes hours upon hours. Being a Coach and Organizer I see this in my clients not for the organizing, but for other things that interest them. (Organizing is basically boring so I've come up with ways to help my clients through the boredom.)

Having been off sugar and fried foods since 1971, I can attest that my ADHD never lessened because of it. Having been on many vitamins for just about as long has not lessened by ADHD either! So, for those who blame food and environment, I just say hooey! We are born the way we are born. A lack of vitamins or hormones in the mother may cause physical problems, but not ADHD.

I have seen that the best way to help children with ADHD, is to have a structured environment, where times on Video games are limited, times in front of the TV are limited, and that in general they know what is expected of them day in and day out. Rearing a child with ADHD is not for the weak. You have to understand the outbursts of frustration, and the moodiness coming from left field, but then also the joys of seeing them excel in one or more subjects in school, in sports, or in the workforce. As adults, we like to express our opinions on things that we are very knowledgeable about. We also like for people to understand that abrupt noises can drive us to distraction! People whispering and munching on food at the movies makes us want to scream. Cell phone use during a movie will likely get you a sharp rebuke from us since the light from the phone is VERY distracting!

Please respond with your own issues so that others can see who we are and what we excel at.

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Company, Clutter, and the Holidays

2010-10-21T15:05:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Below is an article that I wrote back in 2005, so I am bringing it back out for you. The same issues still apply today.

OH-OH, COMPANY'S COMING!

Our Arizona climate brings many visitors to our homes over the summer, and then winter comes and the "snowbirds" flock in! You're wondering "Where do I put them?" or, "How do I stay organized with all these extra people around?"

Having company is certainly a challenge. Overnight isn't too bad, but days, weeks or months at a time can be a nightmare. If you work, it can really get tense. All you want to do is come home, kick your shoes off, and collapse. Following are just a few tips to help lighten your load:

If you lack a guest room, buy a Sofa Bed or Futon. You can also rent Fold-Away Beds so that your investment is minimal. Inflatable mattresses are also an option, and can be deflated each morning.

If the room your guests are in has no doors, buy a tension pole long enough to fit the doorway and hang a sheet from it for privacy. This can be removed during the day. If you lack closet space, buy an over-the-door hanger for their clothing, or a rolling clothes rack that can be disassembled and stored. Foldable items can be put in a stylish rattan basket-like 4-drawer chest, a multipurpose plastic 3 or 4-drawer chest with wheels, or an under-the-bed organizer that gift wrap is usually put in. Just stretch your imagination and you'll come up with possibilities all your own!

Cook and freeze a number of meals. If you work, this saves time and stress. Leave a list of what you made and your guests can decide what to thaw and cook! If you need errands run, ask them if they would please do that also. After all, if they want your calm company in the evening, then they need to be cooperative. If they are long-term guests, show them where the cleaning supplies are also!

Point out where the linens, toilet paper and soap are stored and give your guests small covered plastic bins to put their bathroom items into. This makes it convenient to carry their toiletries back and forth instead of cluttering up the bathroom.

Decide what day you want to do your laundry and what day your guests would like to do theirs. Maybe they'll offer to do yours also! NEVER offer to do theirs. This may be their vacation, but you are not a hotel with room service.

Before your guests arrive (especially if you work), label all your cupboards as to contents, write down how much soap your dishwasher/washing machine needs, directions to your favorite grocery store(s), the best place to pick up quick meals, the nearest park or playground, the best dessert place in town, and of course, the best restaurant(s). Even if you don't work, this can save you lots of time. Don't forget telephone numbers for the doctor, dentist, babysitter, police, fire, etc.

The more prepared you are, the better off you will be!

Sheila is available for seminars & workshops pertaining to all matters of clutter! sheila@clutterstop.com, www.clutterstop.com, 520-572-2244, 520-822-4036

© clutter STOP 10/2010

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP 12!

2010-10-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Today is the last installment on the "Permanent Solution" 12-step program. I trust that you have learned something about yourself that you are ready to carry on into the future!

STEP 12

This step is for you to understand that you are weak when it comes to clutter. You bring it in and drop it. You take it out and leave it. You open it up and walk away. These are all things that you now must be aware of and try to avoid. If you are working with a professional then you know how to get organized. It's sticking with it that counts toward your sanity. Do not walk away from what you've learned.

Organizing and taking care of your surroundings is a habit of doing something automatically. It can take 21 days to 3 months to have this happen, but you have to do it consistently. Let's talk about the time it takes to build a good habit.

We are going to use an example of keys. This would include your house keys and your car keys. Find a spot where you want these keys to always be so that you can easily find them again. Now, leave those keys in that place for 7 days. If you notice within these 7 days that it just does not feel right, then pick another spot and try it for 7 days. Now you are coming into the house and putting your keys in that spot. But you have to think about it. Over the next 7 days this type of concentration should lessen, making it feel more automatic to you. And finally, in the next 7 days this should feel like you've been doing it forever.

Some people's time frame for doing this may take a shorter or longer period of time. We are all different and we react to things differently. Once you get the hang of doing something automatically, try another thing that has been adding to your clutter. Maybe it's making your bed in the morning, or putting the lid back on the Peanut Butter and putting the jar away. Whatever it is, do that one thing as described above and then go on to the next. Before long you will find that making your bed, or putting things away is just a natural part of who you are.

Congratulations! You have gone through the 12 steps. Carry on and continue reading here for more examples of how to get yourself organized!

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Repeat article on ADHD & Creative Genius

2010-10-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

I am repeating an article I posted in August as I neglected to properly attribute the article to Linda Walker. Here is her article with her info and website.

ADHD & Creative Genius

It's Time to Unleash Your Creative Genius
By Linda Walker (a coach)

The end of summer signals the beginning of the back-to-school rush and for many of us, students or not, it's also a time when we make resolutions. ADHDers often see resolutions as an opportunity to "fix" productivity problems.

You resolve to buckle down and get a fresh start. You promise you'll get organized, do your paperwork on time, stay focused and stop procrastinating, even the stuff you hate. You vow you'll be so productive, people better just step aside and watch you go!
Unfortunately, it's very discouraging, not to mention counter-productive, only to look at what's wrong, even if it's with an eye to fixing it. Instead, I'd like you to consider a different approach. Use your out-of-the-box thinking for a moment.

Imagine yourself, not as a struggling ADHDer, but as a Creative Genius. Focus on the positive. No one is perfect, but you have a lot going for you. Consider the things you can do that no one else can, or the things only you can do in the way you do them. Pay attention to your strengths, talents, interests and passions.

I am not minimizing the impact of ADHD, on the adults who live with it or on their families. Nor am I trying to "pretend it doesn't exist." I speak from personal experience when I describe the devastating effects ADHD has had on my daughter, on my husband and on our family. Without the right help and knowledge, life with ADHD is something to endure rather than enjoy.

However, what you focus on grows. If you focus on the problems of ADHD, you'll have more problems. You will succeed when you pursue your passions, doing things your own way and creating in the way only you can. And as for your weaknesses (yes, we all have them), if they're an obstacle to pursuing your passion, with this positive approach, you'll be better motivated to tackle them. What's more, in using your strengths to overcome your weaknesses, you'll be in a much better position to minimize their impact.

As a Creative Genius, your brilliance lies in your non-conformity. Your parents, your friends and your teachers have invested tremendous effort to mould you and make you conform, even though you're not like everyone else. Little wonder it can be hard to recognize your own Creative Genius if you've spent years ignoring it, tamping it down or covering it up to fit in with "normal" people.

ADHDers often work with me to improve their productivity, and that's important work, because if you want to explore and develop your talents but you find trying to keep up with what's "normal" takes everything you have, you'll have no time or energy left to pursue your passion or to explore and develop your strengths and talents. I'm all for being more productive, but I've found that traditional approaches to getting more done hinder rather than help.

If you find yourself working in a job you hate, doing things you aren't particularly good at and expending enormous effort to overcome your weaknesses, instead of trying to fix your ADHD problems (or running away!), look for ways to unleash your Creative Genius. You'll be much happier, and far more effective, when you are free to do what you really love and do it in a way that works for you, "acceptable" or not.

Back-to-school is the perfect time of year to make resolutions, even if you're not a student. But this year, I invite you to focus on developing your strengths and talents, forget about trying to fit in and throw yourself wholeheartedly into the pursuit of your passion. You'll soon discover that, ADHD or not, you have many positive traits. Focus on those and guess what grows?!

By Linda Walker. Linda Walker empowers Entrepreneurs, ADHD Adults and other Creative Geniuses to unlock their true potential and overcome the ADHD traits that are holding them back. Learn more on her Web site, http://www.CoachLindaWalker.com.

I liked this article because it focuses on the brilliant positives that we, as ADDers, bring to the table - any table! I would love to help you unleash your brilliance through coaching - anywhere in the country! And don't worry about the cost, it's negotiable. Just do it! Admit you need help and look for it. I can be reached at sheila@clutterstop.com, or 520-572-2244, or 520-822-4036 (cell).

Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP 11 !

2010-10-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

This step is the next to last. It is not a difficult step, but one that bears reminding you about.

STEP 11

This step is one in which you have to understand your own need to get organized, and staying that way. By now you have learned that putting things away as soon as you use them is essential to your success to remain clutter-free.

Because you have learned different techniques from your Organizer (or Coach) in how to maintain your clutter-free existence, it is important that you not start a new technique every other day to see if it's better. If you have concerns about something that you feel is not working well for you, then check with the professional that you have hired. That's what they're there for.

I have just mentioned "Coach" to you. Sometimes hiring a Coach will work for you if you are able to follow directions and do the physical work yourself. Having a Coach in another part of the country, or world, will be just as effective as having one in your home State as Coaching is done by phone, or Skype. This process takes longer than having an Organizer work hands-on with you, but in the long run it could also be less expensive. Organizers typically work by the hour, sometimes requesting at least 4 hours per day. Fees can range anywhere from $50/hour to $200/hour, depending on where you are located, and the expertise of the Organizer. Coaching is typically done per month, with fees running from $100/month to well over $1,000/month, depending again on the expertise of the Coach. A good Coach will be teaching you, as well as guiding you in ways to look at things differently than you currently are. You must have a good rapport with your Organizer or Coach, so be selective about the one you choose.

The last step will be Step 12, where I will tie all these steps together for you. Good for you for hanging in!

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP 10

2010-10-08T12:21:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone:

The previous 9 steps have probably kept you pretty busy. Afterall, admitting your problems with clutter, getting someone to help you, and then apologizing to those around you who bore the brunt of your tirades because you couldn't find anything is a daunting task.

So now we go on to our next step. This one is more thought-provoking than an action step.

STEP 10

Since getting organized is not something you can do overnight, you will have to become accustomed to an every day look at your surroundings. Yes, you have hired an organizer to help you, or even that trusted friend. However, much like combing your hair one day and expecting that to be permanent forever, organizing once doesn't work either. It will have to become a life-long goal for you.

We Organizers get disorganized also. When we are busy helping others to achieve their goals, our own surroundings get neglected. However, since we know the value of having certain homes for everything, our re-organizing doesn't take any time at all. And that is the way it will be for you once you get everything where you want it. Please remember that your family or roommate(s)are going to have to share in the organizing structure. If they are not included then you will have chaos going on - you putting things where you want them - they putting things where there's an open spot. So get everyone together and make decisions on where everything should be so that all of you are comfortable with the choices.

Keep putting everything back in place immediately after using it. You will be surprised at how easy life can be when you are not bumping into, jumping over, or walking around all the clutter that once was in your way!

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP 9!

2010-09-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Were you able to make it through Step 8? If so, congratulations! You have come a long way. If you are still struggling with Step 8, do not go on to this step. Stay at 8 and practice, practice, practice until you get it done. It does take a lot of soul-searching and only you can make it happen.

STEP 9

This step is about goal setting. Like organizing, goals are great as long as you don’t go overboard with them. If you go from being a messy to a compulsively neat person, you will also create problems for those around you. Both places (messy or compulsively neat) are areas to avoid.

Your goal in this step is to find homes for everything you own. This is a home that doesn’t move around from week to week. Just think how you would feel if you were on your way home and couldn’t find your house because it had moved!

When you think you have found a home for something, work with it for a few weeks. If that home is really uncomfortable and unmanageable for you, then change it. These homes are not set in concrete, but absolutely need to stay for awhile. Whenever you change something you have to get used to it. You really don’t want to do this every other day - you will drive yourself crazy – and others also!

Also, try not to set too many goals at once. Because changes take time to get used to, it is best if you don’t have 20 to contend with. For instance, you decide that you want your keys hanging from a nice looking hook behind your front door. You decide to put it there so that when the door is closed and you are walking toward it, you can see it. That is one change. You also decide to put a large basket near the front door to hold your shoes that you kick off when entering your home. And, you put a smaller basket on a small table, also near the front door (or whatever door you use most to come and go). This basket will hold your wallet, purse, briefcase, sunglasses, etc., that you do not want to forget when leaving the house. Those are 3 goals that are combined together in one place, which makes it easier to accomplish. If you decided on goals in different rooms all at the same time you will find it hard to remember and also hard to do.

Combine no more than 3 goals in any one place when it comes to clearing clutter. Now, go forth and conquer this step!

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP 8 !

2010-09-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

It has been about a week since you were asked to follow Step 7. I hope that you are doing great with the steps. Now we go on to the next step, which might be the hardest you will have to do, but please give it a shot.

STEP EIGHT

In this step you are to look at, and recognize, the problems you have caused for others because of your clutter.

Remember your family members, or roommates, who you yelled at or even bullied because YOU could not find what you were looking for? Yes, them. You can clearly see the scene of your yelling fits. It isn't pretty, is it? How do you think you made them feel when you yelled at them, or bullied them into searching for items that YOU lost?

Getting help for your clutter problems may also solve the tension that arises every time YOU lose something. It is no one's responsibility to keep track of your items, except YOU. So, get some help and learn how to put things away so that you can find them again. Help that will
give you specific systems designed strictly for you. It will completely end the frustration you have with paper and things, and it will make things better between you and others.

Oh, the final thing you have to do in this step is to apologize (yes!) to all those people who you raged against, or even accused of taking your things and putting them elsewhere. This is a grown-up thing to do. And I know that you can do it!

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP SEVEN !

2010-09-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I just returned from a beautiful week in Honolulu, Hawaii. It was my first trip there. It is certainly a beautiful place, but I had a really hard time with the heat and humidity. If I go again it will have to be in the winter!!! What surprised me were the Japanese ladies who were wearing sweaters and coats! They told me, (after I asked because I'm nosy), that in their country it is so hot that Hawaii is on the cold side to them! Remind me not to go to Japan!!!

Have you had time to absorb and tackle the first 6 steps of my 12-step program? It might take longer than a week to get to this point, so don't despair. Hang in there and the rewards will come.

STEP SEVEN

This step is crucial to the person who is going to help you. Hopefully, you have an organizer helping you, otherwise this step isn't necessary unless the person helping you feels the need to know.

This step is all about confessing where you create messes! Don't bother to try and clean them up before your organizer arrives. They really need to see what you are having problems with. I know some of you panic when a cabinet is opened, or even a drawer or door, but the organizer needs to see this!

The advantage of having an organizer help you is that systems will be created for you that are personal to you. They may not work for your next-door neighbor because they have been designed for you. And when your organizer understands what gets in the way of your being able to take care of your papers, or your clothes, or your laundry, etc., they can then help you in figuring out how to overcome these problems.

Don't be afraid or embarrassed - just call! Or, go online and find someone in your area. The website is www.napo.net, (the National Association of Professional Organizers). If you feel that you are having problems with hoarding, then go to www.nsgcd.org, (National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization), to find an organizer. The NSGCD specializes in people who hoard, or have ADHD, etc. Sometimes an organizer belongs to both organizations, so you may see the same names in both places.

When looking for an organizer you will want to interview them. How long have they been working? What is their specialty (expertise) area? Do they have extra qualifications, like Certifications? Are they reasonable with minimum hours and rates?

With the last question - be aware of anyone telling you that they have a minimum of 4 hours if you have ADHD. You and I both know that if you last 3 hours it will be a small miracle. When I work with ADDers, I let them set the pace and I also let them decide when they've had enough. So the important thing is for you to be aware of how long you can honestly maintain focus on what is definitely a chore! Organizing is not fun (usually), for most people. For anyone with ADHD, or other possible learning disabilities, or even hoarding issues, the time spent is difficult. This should all be a concern for the organizer you choose.

And you can tell over the phone whether you like the person who is speaking to you. Coaching organizing, as I do, is all done by phone, so you must be very comfortable with this person. We all have different personalities and temperaments. If you call someone and they sound cold and harsh to you, then move on and call someone else! If you do start a project with an organizer and you discover that you clash too much, end that person's service! Move on and get someone you can relate to. Let them know if you tend to be crabby because your medicine makes you feel sick. Also ask what their cancellation policy is. If you are feeling sick when you wake up you probably are not going to be in any shape to get organized. Call your organizer immediately and let them know. Many have 24 hrs cancellation notice or you have to pay. I personally fudge on that one because I know what it's like to get up feeling ill. Luckily for me my organizing clients also have ADD, so they understand. It has to be a 2-way street.

Well, that's it for today. I hope this has helped and I will return with Step 8 soon.

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Correction to Post of August 21, 2010 on ADHD & Genius

2010-09-13T17:12:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I must apologize to Linda Walker who wrote the wonderful article on ADHD, entitled "ADHD & Creative Genius" that I offered to all of you on August 21st. The full credit is as follows:

"By Linda Walker. Linda Walker empowers Entrepreneurs, ADHD Adults and other Creative Geniuses to unlock their true potential and overcome the ADHD traits that are holding them back. Learn more on her Web site, http://www.CoachLindaWalker.com."

Coach Sheila . . . of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP SIX!

2010-09-01T11:50:00.001-07:00

Hi Everybody:

Step 5 was to see how committed you are to getting organized. Step 6 is pretty close to Step 5, but it goes deeper.

STEP SIX

You will want to find an organizer who is an expert in what you need; an expert organizer who knows exactly how you feel and how you will respond to instructions and guidance. Since they are being paid to help you, they will not get bored and will stick with you until the project is complete.

Organizers and coaches from both NAPO and NSGCD have signed an Ethic’s document. They are restrained from talking to others about you, or your needs. Everything will be confidential. They can also speak with your therapist if you are working with one. All you will need to do is get a signed form from your therapist that they are willing to collaborate with your organizer, or coach.

We are now half-way through the 12 steps to organization. I will post these 6 steps immediately and then you will not hear from me again until I return from my trip on Monday, September 13th. I suggest in the meantime that you carefully look at these first 6 steps and that you are ready, able, and willing to continue.

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP FOUR!

2010-09-01T11:48:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Today we’re going to look at, and list, all the places where you tend to be messy. This goes right along with Step 3 from yesterday.

STEP FOUR

This is a very important step and will have an impact on your self-reliance and self-respect.

Let’s first look at your kitchen. Are you dumping things on your counters? Write that down. What about the pantry in the kitchen? Can you easily find what you are looking for? Are your kitchen cupboards set up so that you can easily retrieve what you need? If not, write that down also.

Now, let’s go into your bedroom. Is your bed made? Are your dresser drawers set up so that you can find anything you want easily, without even thinking about it? And what about your closet? Are your clothes in a constant state of wrinkle because they’re all crammed in? Or, is your closet a joy to walk into, with plenty of space between each hanger, shoes in a shoe rack or in their boxes up on a shelf? If all of these are not happening, write it down. Did you know that you can fold all the items in your dresser drawers so that you can stand them up, thus creating a lot more room in the drawer?

Going from your bedroom to the Linen Closet, what do you find? Is everything folded, or just thrown in? Did you know that folding your towels and sheets so that you can stand them on end will give you more space? And you will be able to pull out exactly what you want because you can see it all? If not, write it down.

Do you have a file cabinet? Is it easy to find the papers you are looking for, or to file? Again, write it down if this place is messy and you struggle to file or locate what you need.

If any of the above bothers you, then watch for STEP FIVE.

For your information – if you are already weeding out the clutter and can’t figure out what to do with it, go to www.DonationTown.org, to find a charity that picks up! They offer services throughout the Tucson metropolitan area and suburbs.

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP FIVE!

2010-09-01T11:39:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Well, you made it through 4 steps. Now on to STEP FIVE!

STEP FIVE

This step is all about commitment. Will you commit to clearing all those spaces that we talked about in Step 4?

Can you get organized on your own? If so, great! That means you can get organized fairly quickly. All this exercise did for you (the prior steps), was to get you to look at what you were doing. So many people do things without even thinking about it – like dumping your stuff on the floor and walking away.

Sometimes people will ask a friend or relative to help them in getting organized. In one case that I am familiar with, a client could not afford to continue in our work and asked a good friend to help her. The friend turned out to be very critical of all the stuff my client had and why she couldn’t just “throw it away!” They got into such an argument that they are no longer friends. That is very sad. If you’re going to ask someone to help you, be sure that you set ground rules with them – “don’t judge me, just help me.” Some family members love to talk about your mess, and how useful they were in showing you how messy you are and that they have the answer to all your problems. And my client? Yes, she did come back to me and we did finish the work she wanted done. Sometimes the pain of paying is better than the pain of lost friendships and gossiping relatives.

If you do need help, and absolutely do not want a friend or relative to help you, consider hiring a Professional Organizer. You can find one in your area by going to the National Association of Professional Organizers: www.napo.net. Within that Association are Certified Professional Organizers (CPO). There is also another organization (the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization), who’s members deal specifically with people who are hoarders. You can find someone at their website, www.nsgcd.org. Within that organization are Certified Professional Organizers as well as Certified on Chronic Disorganization members, which will show as CPO-CD. And then there are Organizer Coaches who can help across the miles if you are able and willing to do the work. These Organizer Coaches can be found at both of those organizations.

For your information – if you are already weeding out the clutter and can’t figure out what to do with it, go to www.DonationTown.org, to find a charity that picks up! They offer services throughout the Tucson metropolitan area and suburbs.

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP THREE!

2010-09-01T09:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Welcome back to “Got Clutter?” Today we are going on a hunting mission, so get yourself fed and refreshed before embarking on this trip! Eventually we will cover all 12 Steps.

STEP THREE

In this step you have to carefully and fearlessly look at your habits and how they affect your disorganization.

Ask yourself, “Why do I clutter?” Or “Why can’t I put things back from where they came from?” Some people want to blame others for their mess. That’s the easy way out. Blaming someone else is NOT going to help you in your quest for peace and calm.

Let me say, however, that sometimes we truly are the victim of another’s mess. That still does not release you from your part in it. If you have a messy person in your home that is strewing trash and stuff everywhere, you need to draw boundaries. I will admit that my loving husband is a messy. He’s a professor – and yes, the absent-minded professor. He spends a great deal of time looking for his glasses! Since we both have our own offices, I have stated that he can keep his mess in his office, not mine, nor in any of the “communal living areas.” This does create a burden for him as he just HAS to start piling papers on any clear counter, table, or chair. But, you have to stand your ground. It is not up to you to clear someone else’s mess, whether they are an adult or child.

Now back to you. If you are the messy, start paying attention to what you do every time you walk into the house. Do you just drop what you’re carrying right at the door – or do you carry it in to the kitchen and drop it on the counter? What do you do then? Do you go and watch TV? Do you just expect someone else to clean up after you?

That is your homework for today – taking an inventory of all your habits. Step 4 will be about the places you mess up.

For your information – if you are already weeding out the clutter and can’t figure out what to do with it, go to www.DonationTown.org, to find a charity that picks up! They offer services throughout the Tucson metropolitan area and suburbs.

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP TWO!

2010-08-31T15:41:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Do you get sick to your stomach every time someone rings your doorbell? Or accidentally walks into a room in your home that you closed, on purpose? What about when they are searching for something in your kitchen when they’re a guest in your home (when you DO let them in)? Well, we’re going to go on to Step 2 to look at this problem.

STEP TWO

In order for you to rid yourself of all these anxieties, you not only have to admit that you have the problem – as in Step One – but you must now take action. It doesn’t do you much good to admit you are a messy if you are going to continue to be a messy. Look around you. Do you really want to continue living with all the “homeless” items around you?

This takes resolve and a desire to change. People who have ADD; learning disabilities; mild traumatic brain disorders; or hoarding issues, have an extra hard time with this Step 2. They may have the desire to change, but the resolve gets eaten up in their quest to just make it through the day. So, if you have any of these issues, please do not despair. We are going to take this slowly so that you can master this resolve in order to fight your enemy – the clutter.

For your information – if you are already weeding out the clutter and can’t figure out what to do with it, go to www.DonationTown.org, to find a charity that picks up! They offer services throughout the Tucson metropolitan area and suburbs.

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

GOT CLUTTER? FOLLOW STEP ONE!

2010-08-30T16:11:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Do you thrive on the drama you experience when you’ve lost something? Does it give you an adrenalin rush that is better than your daily coffee, coke or tea? If not, and you hate those feelings, follow me on a trip that I am going to take you on in order for you to regain control of everything around you, including yourself. I’m going to lead you on a 12-step program to get you ready to organize the chaos in your life! Once that is done, I will help you organize the spaces you live in, and also the paper you deal with every day. I hope that you are ready!

STEP ONE

Admit that you are a messy, a clutterer, a hoarder, or any other word you want to use that describes TO YOU what you are. The only word that is not allowed is “packrat.” A packrat is a rodent, and I refuse for you to call yourself a rodent! It doesn’t matter what someone else might say about you and your stuff, but it very much matters to you. Without admitting you’re a messy, you just cannot go forward in clearing it up, or in starting this program to begin with.

The very first step towards any habitual addiction is to admit that it exists. And yes, being a messy is an addiction. Fortunately for you, this addiction can be helped fairly quickly. Unlike a heroin addict, however, your addiction will not take you down dark alleyways to meet up with your supplier!

This addiction that you have is not a sin! Nor does it mean that you are lazy, or crazy, or stupid! BUT, you really do have to admit that this problem is creating extreme anxiety for you and you must do something about it.

If you can get to the point of admitting this, then you are ready for Step 2. Don’t even bother to read about Step 2 if you cannot admit that you are a messy and need help.

‘Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

ADHD & Creative Genius

2010-08-21T13:10:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!

You are going to be bombarded with articles that I have received today. They are much better at informing you about all sorts of things relative to ADD. Here's another example!

It's Time to Unleash Your Creative Genius
By Linda Walker (a coach)

The end of summer signals the beginning of the back-to-school rush and for many of us, students or not, it's also a time when we make resolutions. ADHDers often see resolutions as an opportunity to "fix" productivity problems.

You resolve to buckle down and get a fresh start. You promise you'll get organized, do your paperwork on time, stay focused and stop procrastinating, even the stuff you hate. You vow you'll be so productive, people better just step aside and watch you go!
Unfortunately, it's very discouraging, not to mention counter-productive, only to look at what's wrong, even if it's with an eye to fixing it. Instead, I'd like you to consider a different approach. Use your out-of-the-box thinking for a moment.

Imagine yourself, not as a struggling ADHDer, but as a Creative Genius. Focus on the positive. No one is perfect, but you have a lot going for you. Consider the things you can do that no one else can, or the things only you can do in the way you do them. Pay attention to your strengths, talents, interests and passions.

I am not minimizing the impact of ADHD, on the adults who live with it or on their families. Nor am I trying to "pretend it doesn't exist." I speak from personal experience when I describe the devastating effects ADHD has had on my daughter, on my husband and on our family. Without the right help and knowledge, life with ADHD is something to endure rather than enjoy.

However, what you focus on grows. If you focus on the problems of ADHD, you'll have more problems. You will succeed when you pursue your passions, doing things your own way and creating in the way only you can. And as for your weaknesses (yes, we all have them), if they're an obstacle to pursuing your passion, with this positive approach, you'll be better motivated to tackle them. What's more, in using your strengths to overcome your weaknesses, you'll be in a much better position to minimize their impact.

As a Creative Genius, your brilliance lies in your non-conformity. Your parents, your friends and your teachers have invested tremendous effort to mould you and make you conform, even though you're not like everyone else. Little wonder it can be hard to recognize your own Creative Genius if you've spent years ignoring it, tamping it down or covering it up to fit in with "normal" people.

ADHDers often work with me to improve their productivity, and that's important work, because if you want to explore and develop your talents but you find trying to keep up with what's "normal" takes everything you have, you'll have no time or energy left to pursue your passion or to explore and develop your strengths and talents. I'm all for being more productive, but I've found that traditional approaches to getting more done hinder rather than help.

If you find yourself working in a job you hate, doing things you aren't particularly good at and expending enormous effort to overcome your weaknesses, instead of trying to fix your ADHD problems (or running away!), look for ways to unleash your Creative Genius. You'll be much happier, and far more effective, when you are free to do what you really love and do it in a way that works for you, "acceptable" or not.
Back-to-school is the perfect time of year to make resolutions, even if you're not a student. But this year, I invite you to focus on developing your strengths and talents, forget about trying to fit in and throw yourself wholeheartedly into the pursuit of your passion. You'll soon discover that, ADHD or not, you have many positive traits. Focus on those and guess what grows?!

I liked this article because it focuses on the brilliant positives that we, as ADDers, bring to the table - any table! I would love to help you unleash your brilliance through coaching - anywhere in the country! And don't worry about the cost, it's negotiable. Just do it! Admit you need help and look for it. I can be reached at sheila@clutterstop.com, or 520-572-2244, or 520-822-4036 (cell).

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila at clutter STOP

ADHD, Pregnancy, and Related Items that may cause ADHD

2010-08-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Today I received this article from a Canadian ADD site. You may notice that some of their words are spelled differently than in the U.S., so don't think that they don't know how to spell!

This article relates to women who are pregnant, and the dangers their child faces for getting ADD while still in the womb.

PRE-NATAL LINKS TO ADD

Whatever a pregnant woman is exposed to during pregnancy, it is quite safe to assume that the foetus will be exposed as well. It is generally a wise approach in terms of minimising any harm to the growing foetus.

Finding out which kinds of exposures could lead to a heightened risk of ADHD once the child is born can help us to prevent ADHD cases around the world. A number of studies have associated various chemicals and other factors to a higher risk of ADHD.

Alcohol

While alcohol is a known cause of foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and effects, it is also linked with ADHD. Some children will suffer from ADHD as a result of their FAS, further compounding their challenges. Research on safe amounts of alcohol for a pregnant woman have been very mixed and controversial. If you can, it is best to completely avoid all alcohol during pregnancy.

Low Birth Weight and Premature Birth

Several studies have found a link between low birth weight or premature birth and a heightened risk of the child developing ADHD. There are many factors that can also underpin a low birth weight or an earlier birth.

Illegal drug use, alcohol, smoking and some legal prescriptions can predispose a woman to an earlier birth and a child with a lower birth weight. It is one reason why it is so important to talk to your doctor before becoming pregnant to ensure your medications are safe to take.

Cocaine

There has been a small amount of research on cocaine and ADHD. While there are many other reasons to avoid cocaine use during pregnancy – both for your own health and the health of your developing foetus – helping to prevent ADHD may be another one. Researchers found that in animal studies, exposure to cocaine led to offspring having difficulties with attention and overall concentration, both symptoms of ADHD.

Smoking and Lead

A very recent study linked exposure of lead and tobacco to ADHD. While each resulted in a higher likelihood of the child developing ADHD, their combined effect significantly increased the risk. It is best to avoid all sources of tobacco smoke during pregnancy. If you plan to become pregnant, quitting prior to pregnancy is the best approach. Also ensure you avoid all sources of secondhand smoke.

Stress

There is even some research that links prenatal stress to ADHD. Stressed mothers will have higher levels of a stress hormone known as cortisol. Toward the end of pregnancy, babies will need more cortisol for development but early on it can cause problems.

While stress is perhaps a difficult thing to avoid, it is something you can try to take control of during pregnancy. Where a pregnancy is unplanned, stress may be particularly high. It is best early on to build a good support network and to see your physician for a counseling referral if you feel stress will be high during your pregnancy.

Taking Precautions Before and During Pregnancy

Whether you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or know someone who is planning for a baby, it is wise to limit exposure to these chemicals and factors very early on. Talk to anyone you know who is planning for a child. Explain to them the prenatal links to ADHD and how it is important to minimise exposure. Together, we can all help to reduce the incidence of ADHD.

I hope that this article is helpful to you. Have a great weekend!

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Feeling Down but Standing Up!

2010-08-04T12:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Despite how you feel, always look and walk like a winner! Remember: YOU are greatness! Walk in your greatness despite the fear and regardless of your circumstances or situation.

The above statement is from a colleague in NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners), who is from the Inland Empire chapter in California. Her name is Gwen Thibeaux and she is a motivational speaker.

It's interesting that I got her newsletter today about these statements. I wish that I had had them when I was speaking with two different clients this morning. They both needed that motivation, and while I try to motivate them as much as possible, sometimes the words I want are just not there. The statement of walking like a winner is wonderful. It is wonderful because you can actually change how you feel by doing this. AND it changes how you look! Pretty soon you ARE feeling better. I know this works from my own experiences of being ill quite often when I was in my 20's, but when I got to work I made sure that I always smiled and pretended that I was feeling great. Concentrating on smiling and pretending to feel great actually took my mind off my illness!

I would love to hear from you as to what motivates you. What person or thing helped you get through a down time in your life?

Just wanted to share this, although it has nothing to do with clutter or my book! When I hear great statements, I have to share them!

'Til next time . . . Your Coach & Organizer, Sheila of clutter STOP

The Should of Your Life - Is It Necessary?

2010-08-03T10:41:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Today I received Jennifer Koretsky's Newsletter in which she discusses the word SHOULD and how we all use it at one time or another, and sometimes, all the time! Read over these examples and see where you fit.

How many times a day do you find yourself using the word "should"?

ADDers are full of "shoulds": I should do the dishes, I should clean out the fridge, I should see that movie, I should call my friend, etc.

The word "should" can be very dangerous to an adult with ADD, because it often results in unnecessary guilt.

If you're carrying around a lot of guilt over the things that you tell yourself you should be doing, then it's time make a change. In order to break through this unnecessary guilt and to help you prioritize the things that are on your mind, try exploring your "shoulds" by asking yourself the following question:

Is this "should" a necessity, a desire, or guilt?

Here are some examples:

1. I should do my taxes.

Necessity: If you don't do your taxes, you can find your finances slipping out of control. You can end up owing the government penalty fees. And you will absolutely have undue stress. This "should" is a necessity.

2. I should buy that CD.

Desire: This is something that you want to make you happy. You like the music you hear, and therefore you want to own it. This "should" is a desire.

3. I should clean my house more often.

Guilt: If the "should" comes when you compare yourself to others, then guilt is probably involved. It often happens when we feel like we are not living up to the performance or expectations of others (or our perceived performance/expectations of others.)

If you visit a friend's house and it’s neat and clean, you may falsely interpret this to mean that your friend cleans all the time. In reality, your friend may have spent hours cleaning her/his house before you arrived to make it look nice!

If you are physically and mentally comfortable with the amount of time you spend cleaning your house, then cleaning more often is not a necessity and it's not a desire. It's merely a "should" that is nothing more than useless guilt!

Try this exercise for a whole day: Every time you find yourself using the word "should," ask yourself if it’s a necessity, desire, or guilt. I promise that you'll feel a lot better about all the things you think you "should" be doing!

Hope this article was helpful! And remember, I still have some slots available for low-income people to get coaching & organizing help. All confidential, caring and compassionate!

'Til Next Time . . . Your Coach & Organizer, Sheila of clutter STOP

Business Tips for Networking & Your Business Profits

2010-08-02T18:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

The following newsletter tips from Mary Ellen Tribby are a great start to helping you network, and to continue your business relationships. Enjoy!

The 10 Best Business Relationship Building Tips to Help Your Profits Soar!

1. Know something personal about the people you do business with. Some people don't believe in mixing business with pleasure. But your business should be your pleasure! Think about how much time you spend on your business. It makes it so much nicer to know what's important to your colleagues. For anyone who has kids, there is nothing more important to them. Make an effort to know their children's names.

Or if your colleague is an avid golfer or tennis player; ask them how their game is going. This doesn't have to monopolize the entire conversation. But it is a great way to start off a business lunch or meeting, especially if you have not seen that person in a while.

2. Always be sincere. Has this ever happened to you? You are at a conference, and you meet someone in your industry. You seem to hit it off well. And you think this could be a good business connection. Your new business connection even initiates the card exchange and says, "Call me anytime." You follow up right away with a phone call or email... and nothing happens. After a few weeks of trying, you realize it's a dead end.

If you have no intention of cultivating a relationship do not give the impression otherwise. It's really ok not to offer cards at conferences. And if someone asks you if they can call and you know you are not interested - tell them up front. Be polite and respectful but never give the impression that you are going to do something when you know you will not.

3. Respond to colleagues in a timely manner. We are all busy. Someone else's biggest priority is usually not our own. However, if you agree to do something for someone, do it in a timely manner.

Recently a colleague wrote a book and wanted some feedback on his first chapter. Unfortunately, his request went onto my junk email folder. When I saw the request three days later, I immediately sent him an email explaining the situation and told him I would read the chapter right away and send him my comments.

It was 11:00 p.m. when I saw the request, but I still read the chapter and sent off my comments right before midnight. Sure, I would rather have gone to bed and done it in the morning. But I knew this was important to him. We had been colleagues for 10 years. We had worked on multiple projects together, and he never missed a deadline.

Sure enough he was online and sent me a big thank you as soon as he received my email.

4. Always arrive on time. Fashionably late does not exist in business. Showing up late for business meetings or lunches lets the other person know you don't respect their time and that you think your time is more valuable. It also makes one question if the project will get done on time.

5. Never use your children as an excuse. Many times the reason for not finishing a report or being late for a meeting very well may be because one of your children wasn't feeling well, or they couldn't find their homework or you forgot to pack school lunches.

Regardless of the reason, never walk into a business meeting that you are late for and announce that spot ate Carmon's homework and you spent the last hour redoing the assignment. Simply apologize for being tardy and ask what you missed and move on.

There will be times when real emergencies occur. At that point it is perfectly fine to let your colleagues know that you need to leave because your child needs you.

6. Be Positive. No one likes to be around cranky people. Beside the fact that cranky people take the fun out of things, it can be draining and counter-productive. A study published in The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology shows that positive people accomplish more than negative people.

7. Know something about your potential business associate's company. If you are off to meet with a potential business associate make sure you do your homework. Understand the company's main function and core competencies. Know how long they have been in business. Have a basic understanding of how you can work together. With the Internet, all of this information is just a keyboard away.

8. Never, ever gossip. Being known as a gossip is the fastest way to destroy a business relationship. Regardless of your skill set, no one will want to work with you. Gossip can destroy careers and takes up valuable time that could be spent on gratifying situations.

9. Give more than you get. Karma does exist. If you are known as the WIIFM (what's in it for me) type, you need to work to change your image. When you are willing to help others without payback, it comes back to you ten-fold. Don't get me wrong. We are all running businesses, working towards maintaining a balanced life. However, helping a business colleague without the expectation of payback will be far more beneficial to you in the end.

10. Just say no. Being a working mom, we try to please everyone. However there are times when saying no to a request in business is better than saying yes. If your plate is full and you know that you will not be able to honor the request in a satisfactory manner, then don't do it. If you know the outcome will be substandard, you are at risk of hindering your credibility, disappointing your colleagues, and missing deadlines on projects you have already committed to.

By saying no, your colleagues will actually respect you more for your honesty and commitment to finishing what you already started.

Make it your goal to work on this vital business building skill. Improving your relationships with business partners, colleagues, and all those you work with will bring many benefits.

I think one of the most important tips here is BEING ON TIME! You have no idea how the other person feels when you show up late. It could kill any potential sales or other type of business you might get because you didn't care enough to be there on time.

'Til Next Time . . .Your Coach & Organizer, Sheila of clutter STOP

Alarm Clocks for ADDers and Everyone Else!

2010-07-23T11:45:00.000-07:00

Hi again!

Below is more info related to sleep - only this article deals with WAKING UP! Written by Michael Sandler for ADDitude Magazine, I found this article full of great products to use for getting out of bed - not something I like to do! I really love just staying in bed, for awhile anyway!

The Best ADHD Tools: Alarm Clocks

An ordinary alarm clock may not be enough for attention deficit adults. We pick the best of the best ADHD tools! by Michael Sandler

ADDitude Magazine

My alarm clock buzzes, chortles, and even vibrates, but I have an amazing talent for turning it off and going back to sleep. Check out eadhd.com and addwarehouse.com

Like many other adults with attention deficit disorder (ADD ADHD), I struggle to wake up in the morning. My alarm clock buzzes, chortles, and even vibrates, but I have an amazing talent for turning it off and going back to sleep.

My clients (I'm an ADD coach) are equally talented. Despite their best efforts to get out of bed on time, many are late to rise on a daily basis. I've had them try setting multiple alarm clocks, positioning their alarm clocks across the room, even placing alarm clocks inside their pillows. All to no avail. Surely there's an ADHD tool that will help them rise and shine. Right?

I began my quest at ADD-oriented sites like eadhd.com and addwarehouse.com. I found great timers, but little in the way of a surefire alarm clock.

The closest I found was the Shake Awake ($34.95 from epill.com). Unfortunately, this vibrating, tuck-inside-your-pillow device didn't create enough of a ruckus for sleepyheads like my clients and me. We need a foghorn.

Then it occurred to me: adults with ADD aren't the only folks who have trouble waking. How about people who are seeing- or hearing-impaired? A few mouse clicks later, and voila! I discovered that "adaptive technology" retailers carry lots of industrial-strength alarm clocks.

At maxiaids.com, I came across two possibilities, including the Motivator. This $14.95 vibrating device attaches to your existing alarm clock and goes under your mattress or inside your pillow to shake you out of bed. Or, if you've ever wondered what it's like to be a deer in the headlights, there's the $19.95 Hi-Power Strobe Light. Then there's the $54.95 Sonic Boom from sonicalert.com. In addition to shaking your bed and flashing lights, it generates a 113-decibel shriek.

Not loud enough? The Screaming Meanie ($29.95 from nfss.com) clocks in at an ear-popping 120 decibels. (For inquiring minds, that's louder than a jet airplane.)

For many of us, the challenge is not waking us up but keeping us up. At latestbuy.com, I came across the ingenious $49.95 Jigsaw Puzzle Clock, which shuts off only after you complete a puzzle, and the $49.95 Kuku Alarm Clock, which shuts off only after you collect the plastic eggs it just scattered across the floor. Both clocks require you to be physically and mentally awake to stop the racket.

During my research, I met a woman who swore by the Progression Wake Up Clock (3), which I found for $49.95 at hammacher.com. Over a 30-minute period, it gradually wakens you with light, nature sounds, and aromatherapy. Something soothing to start the day, kind of makes you go ahhhhhhh.

My friend Cali, a notorious insomniac with a flair for feng-shui, suggested the Zen Alarm Clock ($109.95 from now-zen.com). Since I'm always looking for ways to calm the ADD mind, this sounded appealing. It turns out that Now & Zen's headquarters is just a few miles from my house. I went over to sneak a peek, returning with their $139.95 Zen Timepiece (4). The literature claims that this clock can "awaken the soul," and, as I discovered the next morning, that's not far from the truth. First once, then with increasing frequency, it sounded the gentle, soothing chimes that one associates with mountain monasteries. After 10 minutes, it coaxed me out of bed. I felt calm and refreshed.

Only one hitch: The effect was so relaxing that I just had to try it again. So I reset the alarm and crawled back into bed.

NOTE: Product names, models, prices, and specifications were current as of print.

The pictures of these products would not copy over, so I do hope that the websites help you locate something that will help.

'Til Next Time . . . Your Coach & Organizer, Sheila of clutter STOP

Great Sleeping Advice for those with ADHD & Without ADHD

2010-07-23T10:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I found some good advice for sleeping in the ADDitude Magazine that I received today. It is being copied here so that more of you can see it! AND - although this article is written for people who have ADHD, this is good advice for everyone!

SLEEP DO'S AND DON'Ts FOR ADULTS

Many adults and children with attention deficit disorder struggle to fall asleep and stay there. Sleep can be easily disturbed by mental and physical restlessness, which in turn can impact a person's ADHD treatment.

Use these ADHD-friendly sleep tips to get a better night's rest every night.

Drinks

Do: Drink warm milk. Milk contains tryptophan—the same natural sedative that's found in turkey—and it could do the trick for even the busiest ADHD mind.

Don’t: Drink alcohol. Digesting alcohol can affect your ability to stay asleep, and may result in frequent waking. Alcohol is a diuretic, and will also cause frequent bathroom visits during the night.

Caffeine

Do: Drink chamomile tea. Chamomile has a mild sedative property, which increases when combined with the soothing effect of a warm liquid.

Don’t: Consume anything containing caffeine (including coffee, caffeinated tea and chocolate) less than four hours before bedtime. In addition to being a stimulant, caffeine, like alcohol, is also a potent diuretic that could cause you to wake up to go to the bathroom.

Showering & Eating

Do: Take a hot shower or bath an hour before bed. This will soothe and relax your muscles and cue your body that it's time to sleep.

Don’t: Eat a large meal. It takes about four hours to digest a meal, which can keep you awake, so wrap up meals early.

Do: Eat small snacks. When you go without eating for a long period of time your body sends out signals to increase sugar levels in the bloodstream.

Medications & Conditions

Don’t: Take certain medications before bedtime. Many over-the-counter pain medications contain a hefty dose of caffeine—as much as a cup of coffee! Certain asthma medications, migraine and cold preparations, and antidepressants may also contribute to sleeplessness.

Do: Get evaluated and/or treated for restless legs syndrome (RLS). The name of this common sleep disorder refers to the "creepy, crawly" sensation in a sufferer's legs, which causes an urge to move and makes it difficult to get to sleep.

I hope that the above info helps all of you who have a hard time getting to sleep AND staying asleep. Happy Dreams!

'Til Next Time . . .Coach & Organizer, Sheila of clutter STOP

Help for those with clutter who have ADD, LD's, hoarding issues, mild traumatic brain disorder

2010-07-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I know that there are many of you out there who desperately need to get organized but feel you just cannot afford to hire someone to help you.

While getting organized can tremendously improve your life, you will balk at the price you have to pay to get there. This is an investment for your future. You either get a grip on your clutter, or you will continue to spend endless moments, days or years with that pit of anger in your stomach because you feel you should be able to handle this on your own. In reality, if you look at your organizing attempts, you can clearly see that the clutter is still around you, and the papers are now mountains instead of molehills. Please, call and get help!

Some of you really cannot afford to hire an organizer. It is not a choice for you, and because of you I am offering my Coaching and Organizing services for "what you can pay." I work by phone and have clients across the country taking advantage of this offer. Why am I doing this? Because I have ADD, dyslexia and a mild traumatic brain disorder from an accident many years ago. I know the distress that these conditions bring and I want to pass on to you what I have learned to get around them. I know that many organizers and coaches help people with these problems. The problem is, they are charging their normal rates. If I charged you my normal rate, you would not call me. So, please call if you need this help and truly cannot afford my going rate. This blog is the only way I have to reach out to all of you and I do hope that you are ready, willing, and able to start to regain your life! You can call me at 520-822-4036, or email me at sheila@clutterstop.com to discuss this.

Your Coach & Organizer . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

Habits that may destroy your will to de-clutter

2010-07-14T18:07:00.000-07:00

The following is from Susan DePugh, a Coach. She has a newsletter that I get fairly often and I wanted to share today's with you.

Habit Inventory

Habits are routines of behavior that are repeated regularly and tend to occur subconsciously, without one being conscious about them.

Have you ever inventoried your habits?

I did this recently. I didn’t seem to have the time to “get it all done” and still have time for the things I wanted to do. I began to wonder what habits, the things I did repeatedly without even thinking, were holding me back. I proceeded to do an inventory of my habits. This is how I did it.

GOOD HABITS: What are your current habits that serve you well? This list was longer than I expected. I think yours will be too.

Examples: I pay my bills on time, work out, take classes and do my homework, keep the house neat, and have my daily prayer time.

HABITS TO ELIMINATE: What are your “bad” habits or the things that hold you back?

Examples: I play too many computer games and I eat out of boredom.

HABITS TO IMPROVE: What are your current habits that you need to strengthen or improve? You may want to do more or these or make these more routine.

Examples: Take my supplements more regularly, be on time more often, be more responsive to emails, workout more often.

HABITS TO ADD: What do you want to establish as a habit? What will enrich your life without adding to any busyness? Go easy here.

Examples: Schedule my work, pay me first by putting money into savings, and take Yoga classes.

Take your inventory habit! It may surprise you.

'Til next time . . . Coach & Organizer Sheila of clutter STOP

Time Management, ADHD, Procrastination & Body Doubles

2010-07-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Today I bring you remarks about Time Management and Procrastination. As Michele Novotni notes, we ALL procrastinate. I didn't think that I procrastinated because I'm usually on top of whatever I need to do.

HOWEVER, I DO procrastinate over very large projects that I need to break down into smaller units so that I can get it done. For instance, I want to put video up on my website and on this blog and Twitter. I went out and bought the video cam, but I'm sitting here and not doing anything with it! I bought it because it is too costly to have someone else do the video. With my own I will be able to change the video at will. BUT, I have to start! In typical ADD fashion, I find it overwhelming, but I know in reality it is not. I just have to START! To that end I received these newsletters today and thought they were great for sharing:

From Michele Novotni, Ph.D.

ADHD Time Management Tip: Make Yourself Accountable

If you need external pressure to stick to a task, enlist a body double: someone who will sit with you quietly while you're working on a boring chore. This lends an element of accountability, and will often curb the ADHD tendency to give in to distractions or otherwise put off the thing to be done.

More on ADHD time management.

Making ADD Work, by Blythe Grossberg, Psy.D.

We all procrastinate. Unfortunately, folks with attention deficit disorder (ADD ADHD) procrastinate more than others. Although it seems harmless, procrastination causes conflict in personal and professional relationships. When we fail to complete tasks on time, others see this as a sign of disrespect, incompetence, or laziness. To change this habit, realize that procrastination is a purposeful behavior. It lets us avoid doing something we would rather not do. And it works -- for a while.

Because procrastination is essentially a mind-set, cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques can help even chronic procrastinators break the habit. If you've been putting something off for days (or months), focus and try the following ADHD time management tips:

1. Do something pleasant first
Once your interest is piqued, it's easy to apply that positive involvement to the task at hand. Rather than follow traditional behavior-management cues and reward successful behavior after the fact, many people with ADHD find it helpful to do something they love first, to "light up" the brain. After that, it's easier to move on to less enjoyable tasks.

For my clients, these pleasant activities have included basketball, computer games, dancing - even taking a bubble bath. (Set a timer for 20 minutes to make sure you don't get so absorbed in the pleasant task that you forget to do the necessary one.) Any stimulating activity you love will work.

2. Create the right work environment
People who have ADHD often function best amid unconventional surroundings. Experiment to find your best working environment. Instead of wearing earplugs to ensure silence, for example, you may find that you're more productive when listening to loud music. If you use ADHD medication, it's generally best to schedule difficult tasks for times when your symptoms are fully covered.

One of my clients knew that she worked best under pressure. Unfortunately, this meant she'd begin to work on projects only the day before they were due, no matter how involved the task. She'd either turn her work in late or exhaust herself by pulling all-nighters. We solved this problem by having her set her own deadlines for completing portions of the project. This way, she could still work under pressure to finish each portion "on time" - and would have the entire project completed by the actual deadline.

3. Eliminate negative self-talk
What we silently say to ourselves about doing the task at hand has a strong impact on how (or whether) we do it. People with AD/HD tend to beat themselves up by playing and replaying negative messages in their minds.

Instead, try telling yourself positive, but realistic, messages - and see what happens. Once you replace "This will take forever, and it's so late already... " with "I might not be able to finish this today, but I can do the first two steps within the next 30 minutes," you'll see that it is easier to begin.

The messages you send yourself when you complete something on time can also be powerful deterrents to future procrastination. Procrastinators are used to feeling guilty about missing appointments and deadlines and turning in work that doesn't measure up to their ability - and they don't enjoy that feeling. Once you begin experiencing the relief you feel after finishing something well, it will be hard to go back to the guilt.

4. Just get started
Merely to start a task - even if it's started poorly - makes it easier to follow through. Next time you find yourself avoiding something, take a "first sloppy step." If you need to write something, for example, start by typing random letters on the page. It is gibberish, but at least you will no longer be looking at a blank page.

5. Take one step at a time
Break large tasks into pieces. One of my clients came to me several months after her wedding, worried because she still hadn't sent out thank-you cards for her gifts. She felt guiltier about it by the day, and she was approaching the problem by thinking she had to find a block of time when she could sit down and write 150 cards. I gave her "permission" to write and mail only five cards a day until she was finished. This helped her begin - and, eventually, finish - the task.

If a project can't be completed piecemeal over several days, keep up your momentum by focusing only on the next doable step. Write this step on a sticky note and post it within your line of sight. Put on your blinders, and focus on this rather than on the task as a whole. When that's done, move on to the next step in the same manner. Before you know it, you'll be done.

Now I have to pay attention to these tips, and you also if you resemble these remarks!

'Til next time . . . Coach & Organizer Sheila of clutter STOP

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Summer Heat & Taxes - How to find what you need in the clutter

2010-06-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

It's summer and the weather is hot and muggy here in Tucson. This might seem strange to people who don't live here, but we are now going into our Monsoon season. When the storms come they are truly awesome to watch - lightning flashes crackling everywhere, the wind blowing tree branches into a frenzy, and then comes the rain! Then we get some relief from the heat, so we all look forward to Monsoon season!

But, the crux of this post is to all of you having problems with your taxes - making the heat of summer even more unbearable! Do not groan. Below is an article sent to me by Pamela Smith, CEO, of NUMBERS,etc.

June 2010 Edition

10 Common Small Business Tax Deductions

Although there are many business expenses which can be used as tax deductions, most small businesses only have access to a few of the most common deductions. Here is a short list of the most common expenses a small business can deduct.

1. Expenses for Accounting, Bookkeeping, Taxes
2. Advertising and Marketing Expenses
3. Reference Materials, Computer Hardware and Software
4. Use of Your Car/Truck for Business Purposes
5. Insurance Expenses
6. Interest on Business Debts
7. Legal and Professional Fees
8. Office Supplies and Materials
9. Tax Expenses
10. Business Travel and Entertainment Expenses

By Jean Murray, Guide to Business Law / Taxes

Hope that helps you get an idea of what you need to face your taxes. Tax time is one of the most stressful times for businesses, large OR small. For the solepreneur it can be worse than the worst storm in Tucson! If you are in Tucson, don't despair. I live here, and can help you get your paperwork together by setting up the files you need now, or for the future! If you live elsewhere, you still don't have to despair because I can still coach you via the phone - or email!

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Time Management & Dancing Bears

2010-06-18T10:39:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

A friend of mine in California, Deborah Johnson of DJ Works, who is an accomplished singer and musician, sends out articles and information about where her next performances are. Her article, below, is about how she manages her time and I bring it to you for inspiration!

DANCING BEARS

"When I had 3 sons 4 years and under, to say life was busy is an understatement. There was constant activity from dawn until dusk. But I managed to keep the household on a pretty good schedule, meanwhile working part-time and writing.

"I had some good friends who did a great job at decorating their homes, including their kids rooms. I was very inspired to do the same, all on a shoestring budget. I distinctly remember getting a deal on the cutest wallpaper with dancing bears for our youngest son's room. I loved it. So after prepping the room, I started in. One piece at a time. After about two weeks, when I was about halfway done, I was visited by one of my friends. She went into the room aghast. How can you do that? Just put up part of the room and leave it? I said, That's all the time I have. Maybe one or two pieces a day was all I could handle. I would get it done little by little.

"I then realized that life is like that. Sometimes we don't want to face a project because it seems too big and insurmountable. It's hard to even start. And it's just as frustrating to be in the middle of something with no end in sight. But while working on my son's room, I visualized the bright and cheery pastel dancing bears and how I would feel like dancing every time I would walk in the room.

"I still use the little by little approach when cleaning my house or office or facing a big project. I don't think I'm alone in the world of creative minds when it comes to organization. I have kept a timer for years in my office, which I set for 10-minute increments to stay focused. Pretty soon I have set it 3, 4 or even 5 times and by then, I have accomplished what I need to accomplish. My children now think I should have been tested years ago for ADD, but I really think many creative minds are like mine. Writing songs, musicals and business proposals work the same way. Do a little at a time and they eventually get done. But it takes patience and focus and the ability to divide them up into bite-sized pieces. This really helps me when organizing my office or even facing laundry-ugh!- or a kitchen full of dishes. Using a good timer not only helps me stay on focus, but it limits the time that I spend on a singular project.

"I am happy to report that my son's room eventually got done. We had dancing bears in his room for years, although he did manage to pull off much of the wallpaper close to his crib. But I didn't replace it. Because it reminded me that things and decor are not the most important focus in life. But accomplishing goals, enjoying family and friends and dancing with the bears once in awhile is. And everything else will get done, little by little, just like wallpaper."

I do hope that this inspires many of you to do things in short bursts rather than waiting for the "perfect" day to finish it all, or to start and finish it all. Life is much easier and less stressful when taking this approach.

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

TO DO Lists

2010-06-08T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

A fellow Organizer, Dawn Reitz, writes a newsletter and one that I saw which she wrote in January was on To Do lists. I offer it here to share with you in the hope that it helps you:

TO DO LISTS

I swear by "to do" lists. They can be kept daily, weekly or monthly depending on what works best for you. However, there are some guidelines that should be followed in order to make them successful.

1) DON'T OVER DO IT List items that are reasonable to accomplish in the day, week or month that you wish to finish them. Set your goals.

2) WRITE IT DOWN, REFER TO IT AND CHECK IT OFF Create your list on paper or in your pda/cell phone and glance at it throughout the time period. Once it is finished...check it off or delete it from your list.

3) PRIORITIZE AND CARRY OVER Some items may be MUST COMPLETE and others are things that you would like to get done. I like to use the number system. I number high priority items with the #1, medium priority a #2 and low as #3. Carry over should only be reserved for priority #3. We live in a busy and hectic world so don't punish yourself for not getting to the #3 items. Just carry them over to the next day, week or month's list and raise their priority level to a #2 or #1.

4) DON'T PROCRASTINATE Some tasks are things we just don't want to do. Schedule an appointment with yourself that cannot be cancelled. Have a friend or family member come help and motivate you. Take the task and make it into smaller, more manageable tasks and list these items individually. Remind yourself how you will feel when the task is done.

5) REWARD YOURSELF Look over your completed list and feel a great sense of accomplishment. Enjoy a relaxing bubble bath. Spend time with your family or a dear friend.

There are some great sites out there to help you. Below are a few...

http://www.printablechecklists.com
http://checklists.com
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC100760061033.aspx?CategoryID=CT101172571033

I will continue to bring some of Dawn's newsletters to you. It helps when we all share the vast knowledge of our trade.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Dogs, Financial Planning & Business Expenses

2010-05-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Busy Monday. But then, Mondays are usually busy. However, today was not involved in working. This morning we had to take our male dog in for some shots. He is a red mini Doberman and weighs about 23 lbs. This is the dog that we got from the shelter who had been abused. Because of this he gets nervous and anxious when he's around people he doesn't know. The last time we took him to the Vet he snapped at her when she tried to look at his teeth. And when we took him to the groomers, he snapped at the groomers also.

So, we have done the responsible dog owner thing - we bought a muzzle for him. And of course, I stroked his ears and cooed to him the entire time the Vet was checking him out. This was a different Vet and he seemed to do much better, but I will still have him muzzled for these delightful trips! I think it will let him know that snapping at people is not a good thing, plus it's much better for us that our dog does not bite anyone!

Then, this afternoon we spent a couple of hours with our lawyer doing some financial planning, which reminded me that I wanted to share a great newsletter that I received from Pamela Smith regarding business expenses and what you can deduct. Here it is - enjoy!

May 2010 Edition - Pamela Smith, NUMBERSetc, Chandler, AZ

The IRS allows many legitimate business expenses to help you minimize your business taxes, but there are some business expenses you cannot deduct. As you try to come up with extra deductions to pump up your refund or reduce what you owe Uncle Sam, you may accidentally take a few flights of fancy. This month we are providing you with a list of non-deductible business expenses to help keep you on track.

10 Business Tax Deductions the IRS Will Say NO To

As you complete your business taxes, you may be gathering information and wondering what's deductible and what's not. This is a list of expenses that are NOT deductible on your business tax return (or your personal return, for that matter):

Fines and penalties. You can't deduct the fine you paid for not estimating your taxes last year, or underpayment penalties. Or any other fines and penalties related to your federal tax return.

Political contributions. You can't deduct contributions your business made to a political party or to a candidate. That includes lobbying costs and costs for campaign events. You may contribute to any qualified charity, and there are ways to deduct charitable contributions, but not political ones.

Illegal activities. You knew that, but I'm just reminding you. These illegal activities also include bribes and kickbacks.

Capital expenses. These expenses are for the purchase of long-term capital assets, like vehicles and equipment. These costs can be depreciated (extended over the life of the asset), but they can't be deducted in one year. There are some exceptions, for start-up costs, for example, but for the most part capital expenses are not deductible in one year.

Federal or state income taxes, gift taxes, and other taxes. Your tax bill is not deductible from your federal business tax return. Some states may allow you to deduct a portion of your federal tax bill, but not all. Check with your state or your tax preparer.

Hobby losses. These are expenses which create a loss in an activity which is mostly a hobby and which is not deemed to be a business. The IRS has guidelines on whether your activity can be considered a business and thus has deductible expenses, or not. Check with your tax preparer for more information on your specific circumstance.
Club Dues. If you belong to a country club, social club, fitness facility, or other club, your dues are not a deductible business expense. Even if you take clients or customers to this club, the IRS says it's not deductible. You can deduct costs related to a professional business or trade organization directly related to your business.

Commuting costs. Everyone travels from home to work, and the IRS says these costs are not deductible business expenses. If you travel for business from home to meet customers, that's deductible. Or if you travel between business locations, that's also deductible. But if you get in your car to go to your office and come back at night, that's not deductible.

Business gifts over $25. The IRS says, "You can deduct no more than $25 for business gifts you give directly or indirectly to any one person during your tax year."
Business clothing (except uniforms). Costs of buying clothing to wear to work, unless it is a uniform, is not deductible. The "rule of thumb" is that if you can wear it outside of work, it's not deductible.

I should also note that you can't deduct it if you didn't spend it. That may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised at what people try to deduct.

That's it for today! Enjoy your week.

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOPjavascript:void(0)

Creativity & How to Hurry Up & Wait

2010-05-18T15:38:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

What a crazy two weeks it has been. It's a good thing that I'm an Organizer by trade or I would really have been going crazy. Too many projects with deadlines all at the same time. A national talk, an article, and a new business venture. But, isn't that what makes our juices run? Isn't that what spures us into action and activates our brains with ideas bouncing hither and yon? Yes, you know what I'm talking about - it's called creativity! If we have nothing to be creative about we tend to slither around and do nothing, but once someone plops something in our lap, boy, away we go!

Also, to add to this delightful state of being, my book, The Floor is Not an Option! has been blessed by the National Indie Excellence Awards with its SIXTH award! I am really amazed that this book has won all these awards. If you have not read it, maybe you should!

The week is young, so I hope that you are able to crank up your creative juices. In the meantime, I would like you to read a post from a friend of mine who is a very exceptional singer and pianist, Deborah Johnson, of DJ Works Music, www.DoubleGrandeEntertainment.com. She is also a very deep thinker!

HURRY UP AND WAIT

I watched as the two cats sat on our back block wall. Frozen and crouched with their heads dipped way below the normal human center of balance. I stood still and watched them for at least 5 minutes until one of them lost interest and left. I now understood why the lizard population in our backyard had gone down. We had so many lizards that my assistant called our yard Jurassic Park. But all of a sudden, we seemed to have more cats than usual slinking through our yard. And they were willing to wait, motionless for their prey.

I'm not always willing to wait. I find that I have the traffic lights down our street timed pretty well. I know they'll stay yellow long enough for me to race through if I'm in a hurry. I know there are others, like me, who check out the lines at the market to see which one will go the quickest, only to realize the person at the front of the line has a strange request that backs your entire line up for an extra five minutes while the cashier clears the register. I get anxious when I don't hear back soon enough from a client, so I check my email and phone messages way too often when I should be taking some time off or working on other projects.

Hurry up and Wait has become a common phrase for Americans. Our computers don't boot up fast enough, our cars don't accelerate quickly enough, the test results for our last medical exam don't come back soon enough, it takes way too long to get a promotion or build a business. So we sit on the edge of our emotions waiting, waiting. But then life hits us in the face with some reality checks.

I recently was walking my mother down the hospital corridor after a major surgery and we went by several newborn bassinettes. Babies that have already learned to cry when they don't want to wait. I wanted to whisper to them that there was a lifetime ahead of choices, of waiting rooms, of tests and traffic lights. But as I held on my mother's arm, I bit my lip. Don't say a thing. They have to learn for themselves, like we all do. None of us knows how long we have here on this earth, but we can live with thankfulness, gratefulness and a giving spirit that will bring joy to those around us.

As I'm looking at our large apricot tree in the back area of our home, which for the first time in four years is loaded with apricots, I can't wait until the little green fruit starts to turn to a warm orange. I always wonder if I'll just eat the mall off the tree or have enough to make jam and pies. (There's always more than enough!) There's no rushing their ripeness, like there's no rushing someone's road back to good health, a job promotion, or inroads into a career.Someday I won't have the privilege of walking my mother down a hospital corridor or of waiting in a check-out line with disgruntled shoppers. So as I put one foot in front of the other, I will relish my time to hurry up and wait.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Looking for Work

2010-04-29T14:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I was at an ASBA (Arizona Small Business Association) networking event yesterday and was speaking with a gentleman about all the people out of work. I told him that I had been to an event in the recent past where I had heard a speaker talk about the way one should present themselves when looking for work. The particular audience at that event were women coming off of welfare.

The speaker started by saying that one should go on an interview as though you are going on a date. This brought some giggles from the audience, but when she continued speaking it made perfect sense. She made specific points:

> Bathe
> Wash your hair
> Brush your teeth and use mouthwash
> Shave (in appropriate areas if a man or woman)
> Don't overdo makeup
> Don't overdo perfume or aftershave
> Wear only clean and pressed clothing
> Wear clean shoes and socks or nylons (without runs in them)

These are all items that most people employ when going out on a date. If you do it for a date, then use it while interviewing.

As a former Human Resources Director I can tell you that this information is very valuable. Also important is the way you behave. Smile, be confident about who you are,and offer a good handshake. Never come to an interview without knowing as much as you can about the company that you are interviewing with. Be interested in the position you are interviewing for, and act interested. Answer all questions honestly, but never bad-mouth a former employer. Do not ask when they're going to call you with their decision, or anything else that smacks of desperation even if you are. Believe me, if the company wants you, they will call you. They might even call you on the same day as the interview.

The hardest part about looking for work is that it is a full-time job. You really do need to go out there and network and search the want ads and talk with friends, etc. It certainly isn't easy, but sitting at home and moaning isn't going to help. Many people have taken jobs out of state just to get a paycheck. Don't limit your options. The times we are in right now are pretty similar to the depression and many families are split up because jobs are no longer available where we live. It is also why so many people have decided to open up their own businesses. For others, this is simply not an option.

So, start out with a bath, put on your smile, and do the best you can to conquer whatever job matches your skills and talents. Hopefully you won't have to go beneath them in order to survive.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Anniversary, ADHD, & Time Management

2010-04-21T16:53:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

The past two weeks have been filled with some anxiety. I have been planning our 50th Wedding Anniversary and Re-Marriage celebration for my husband and I, with the help of my two daughters and one of their best friends. Being ADD, the anxiety was high with the snafu's that happened.

The best friend was helping (graciously for free) with the decorations. We went out and bought what we thought was needed. I basically let her take the lead and I just sort of stood there and let her dump stuff into my extended arms. She also offered her two brothers to help with the setting up and taking down of the chairs/tables, dirty plates, etc. So, all in all, that was taken care of, whew.

As a member of NAWBO, the National Association of Women Business Owners, I have access to many talented women. One of them owns 'Gourmet Girls' and her name is Mary Gibson, along with her cooking partner, Susan Fulton. I had requested some Jewish food as appetizers and also for dinner. They came through with flying colors! I asked for a special cake. My husband didn't want a dry white cake. I didn't want an all chocolate cake. So, I asked for a chocolate/lemon swirl with raspberry filling. They had never done that combination, but no problem. The frosting was off-white buttercream with fondant ribbon draping and small rosettes with blue stars of David, plus yellow crosses within the stars.

I had ordered my 2-piece dress from Alfred Angelo's Bridal. I tried on one size which was a little snug, so I ordered the next size up. The day it came in my husband and I were in a hurry so I didn't try it on, I just left with it.

One evening we went to a nightclub to hear a DJ that we wanted for this event. He was marvelous, and a real cutie. He got everyone up to dance and was able to create real excitement on the floor. I talked with him and we arranged for him to play at our event.

On Tuesday of the week of our event, my decorator called to tell me that her husband had arranged for them to leave the next day for the mountains because it was his birthday and she would be unable to help me with the decorations. Her brothers, however, were still on board to help. She arranged to meet with me and her brothers (becuase I didn't know them), and she explained as best she could how the decorations were supposed to look. I was starting to feel numb.

On Wednesday the DJ called to tell me that he had just gotten out of emergency surgery and the doctors forbid him from doing anything for at least two weeks. The only thing that escaped my lips was "oh." However, the DJ said not to worry, his friend would step in and take over. He would give him his equipment and tell him all the music we wanted, plus the skit that we were going to do. Uh Huh.

On Thursday I kept feeling as though I needed to try on my outfit, so I finally decided to do so. Guess what? Yep. Didn't fit! I lost it. I just started raving and ranting about how could it possibly be. My daughter and husband said to just take it back to the shop and get something else. Something else? It's 2 days before the event!!! Are they crazy??? Anyway, my daughter and I get in the car and go to the shop. After trying on at least 20 tops that don't fit, the manager finally says that she will put in a rush with the seamstress and have her fix it. But, I had to be at the shop at 9 am on Saturday morning to get it. Our event was at 4 pm Saturday afternoon. Okie, dokie. I leave the top and off we go. I'm praying.

On Friday we are supposed to be at the Church at 10 am to meet the guys helping us decorate. My husband has gone to our friend's house 2 blocks away to pick up some special candlesticks. He calls me from her house to tell me that she has just fallen off her bike and has shattered her wrist and they were waiting for her husband to come home to get her to the hospital for X-rays. Her husband was to take the photos and video of our ceremony!!! I am now sweating. I truly feel bad for our friend, but I am truly anxious and feel like a little gremlin is following me around! I tell him to wait for her husband and to get to the church when he can. I leave with my daughter and off we go. I called my grade school friend and she asked her husband if he would take the photos and do the video. He obliged but had never really worked a videcam before.

On Saturday we go and pick up my outfit. Yeah! It fits. We run to the church to let in the caterers. Mary walks in and very carefully puts the cake on the kitchen counter and peeks in. The look on her face told me all was not well. I insisted on seeing the cake. One whole side of the beautiful ribbon effect had broken loose and was lying on the bottom of the box. Mary said, "Don't worry, I can fix this." I said, "You know what, at this point, it doesn't even matter!"

Our Re-Marriage skit started out great but then my husband's brother decided to get his two-cents into the frey and totally embarrassed us - in church, in front of everyone! I'm now ready for a total melt-down!

The Pastor did an exceptional job and then we went to light the candles and discovered that no one had lit the main candle. We had a comedy of errors. At least we kept everyone laughing. I want to sit down and cry.

Believe it or not, Mary worked her magic on the cake and it was gorgeous and tasted that way also. Everyone loved it. It was gone except for one small section that we got to take home. Everything else went very well. The chocolate fountain was a great hit also and really yummy.

So, if any of you need catering, or a DJ, just ask me. I know of two great ones! And if you need gremlins to entertain you I might even be able to send some of those, but I don't think you'll want them!!

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Trauma, Hoarding & Anxiety Disorders

2010-03-30T16:16:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I hope that your weekend was constructive and that you were away from your computer and all other things that connected you to the world of work, unless of course you were working!

A friend called yesterday and asked me if she had a hoarding problem. It seems that ever since she and her spouse lost most of their belongings in a house fire five years ago she has been saving everything and can't seem to let go of anything. She never did this before the fire and was wondering why she was doing it now.

Well, bells went off in my head. Over the 17 years of my practice I have worked with many hoarders. Many of their stories started out just like my friend's. The fire, one trauma. Then her brother died. Another trauma. Then her Mom died. Another trauma. Then she had to take on extra work when someone was let go at work due to the recession. Yes, a trauma.

Other people probably could have worked through these events, but for my friend, and for thousands like her, the emotionality of the events would not leave her. She needed to protect herself, and the only way she knew how to do that was by hanging on to everything that came into her home. She was afraid to let go.

I recommended that she seek a therapist's input before things really got out of control. She agreed to do that. Plus, I recommended that it would have to be a therapist that deals with hoarding, or OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), as a therapist that is not trained in that specific arena really isn't qualified to handle the emotional toll that is involved. It's like going to a doctor to treat a heart problem but the doctor you choose doesn't specialize in treating heart problems. Yes, he may be a good doctor, but he isn't a heart specialist.

If you see signs in someone like I described that my friend is having, gently suggest that they seek help before it gets out of hand. It isn't just hoarding that starts this way. There are many anxiety disorders that start this way also. Left untreated you could walk around with them forever, and possibly this could even escalate into something way beyond the initial fear.

Regarding fear, I just read Marco V's blog on fear, and recommend reading it: http://bit.ly/mryyl It is a two-parter and I will be on the look-out for his second so that I can send it on to you.

'Til next time . . . Coach Sheila of clutter STOP, clearing your mind, one clutter at a time!

Clutter and Spring Cleaning

2010-03-19T14:07:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Spring is right around the corner and the weather is warming up - for many of us. Some of you are still digging out of slush. Sorry. But your turn will come and then Spring Fever will get you too.

Spring cleaning takes on a whole life of its own. It is almost as bad as moving for some people. Slipcovers on couches and chairs get changed, entire bed sets are switched from Winter looks to Spring looks, and knick knacks are even removed to make way for Spring and the Easter Bunny decorations.

But, beyond the cosmetic approach, comes the deep cleaning approach. This takes on a life form that can cause great rifts in the best of families, and great concern in many a work space.

In trying to "freshen" everything, people start pulling out things from cupboards, closets and drawers and piling them onto counters, tables, chairs, and alas, the FLOOR! It doesn't matter if this is done in the home or in the office, the routine is the same. You drag it all out with the intention of discarding what you haven't used, thinking that it is going to take you just an hour or two, at the most, and now you find that you've been at it all day and you are no further ahead than you were when you started!

If you haven't started Spring cleaning yet, may I guide you? Start with one cabinet, one drawer, one part of the closet, one section of your desk, etc. When that is done, move on to the next, but take a break first. Do not try to do it all at once, and for Heaven' sake, do not put all the stuff out on another surface! This is especially horrible for those of us who have ADD. Once the surfaces are covered with whatever we just lose it. We have no idea how to start fixing it, let alone where to start.

So, everyone, be kind to yourselves this weekend and beyond and don't haul everything out of everywhere and put it everywhere. Trust me, you'll thank me for it. And don't forget - turn off your computers, your cell phones, your IPods, your Blackberrys and whatever other little gadgets you're carrying around with you. Save some time for YOU.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

ADHD - Genius Association Possibility

2010-03-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

In reading one of the newsletters that always float before my eyes, the one on ADHD and being a genius caught my eye (of course!). Who doesn't want to be associated with being a genius! Here is the link . . .

ADHD may be associated with creative genius.

http://tinyurl.com/yh9jdqo

Working with many clients who have ADHD, I am amazed at the constant self-deprecation that I hear. Now, I'm not above that myself, because I truly know that I have my clumsy moments and my spacey moments and my out-to-lunch moments. However, I also know that I'm not stupid, lazy, or crazy, as the title of a book goes.

As an ADHD Coach and Organizing Consultant, it is my mission to help you realize that you are truly GIFTED with something that the so-called normals in this life do not have. I'm not putting down the "normal" people, and I'm not saying that we're NOT normal. I'm saying that we are gifted above and beyond what other people have. We have the ability to think way, way outside the box. We have the ability to accomplish things that an ordinary person cannot even conceive of. Our brains are constantly firing and we are constantly looking, seeking, and searching. It is that which makes others look at us as though we are crazy: our frantic movements when we're working on something; our rushing here and there from project to project; our hyper-focusing for hours on end to accomplish one little thing (Einstein did!).

As children all this movement gives parents and teachers fits. As adults we can shine by finally figuring out what our gifts are and focusing on them only. If we are weak in an area, so be it. Let someone else do it. Work in your strength - that is where your power is, and don't let anyone dissuade you. If it were possible to let children do this I think everyone would be a whole lot happier!

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Hoarding and Secrets

2010-03-01T08:23:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I was greeted this morning by the following article. I've included the link for you. If you can't directly click it, then copy and paste it into your browser. It's a great article on how hoarding gets started and what can be done about it.

SHAMEFUL SECRET
Monterey County Herald
What was once a cluttered nest has hatched into an overwhelming albatross. ... "I decided to stop trying to control the things I can't control, ...
http://www.montereyherald.com/living/ci_14483300

When I was in CA I worked with many hoarders. Contrary to what people usually think of them (lazy, sloppy, dirty), I found them to be, for the most part, very intelligent with a very giving nature. However, somewhere along the line, their lives took a sharp turn into the black abyss of hoarding. One of my earliest clients started her decline when her husband died. When I met her, 18 years later, she was finally ready to get on with her life. Her son was getting ready to go to College and she wanted to start having friends in.

Another client had been abused as a child and never received therapy for the emotional toll it took on her. When she became an adult she gained weight to keep men from looking at her and she also cluttered up her home with walls of stuff as barricades of "protection." When we started working she was seeing a therapist and was on medication.

These are just two examples of many clients over 17 years. Their stories all center around traumas of one sort or another, and sometimes mild brain injuries. In the group that I belong to, the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD), (yes, a tongue twister), we study all the issues that affect people with hoarding disorders, ADHD, mild traumatic brain disorders, and a host of learning disabilities. The NSGCD came about as an outgrowth sub-group of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO), which I am also a member of.

Because of the study courses that the NSGCD has offered and the courses that I've taken to get my four Coaching certificates, I have decided that since clutter begins in the mind that I now want to concentrate on coaching (also because I'm getting a little old to be crawling around on floors). The people that have these issues lead lives filled with heavy burdens. All of us within NAPO & NSGCD are dedicated to helping them. Typically, the Organizers within NSGCD are the ones who will have more experience working with extreme cluttering and hoarding than the Organizers within NAPO. The best way to find out is to go to their websites and check everyone out before deciding who you want to work with (www.napo.net and www.nsgcd.org.) We are not therapists even though our clients may call us that. The only reason they do so is because when their clutter is gone, they feel a freedom they haven't felt for years. Then they are ready to reach other goals and dreams, which is where coaching comes in.

Sometimes coaching is even used to help clear the clutter. I know that sounds a little strange, but it can be done and is known as Virtual Organizing. For this to work, however, the person really needs to be motivated as they are working on their own, or possibly with a friend helping. The Coach and client decide on the goal, the client aims for the goal, and then the client reports back to the coach with the results. This is the same scenario for all coaching, except this one involves de-cluttering.

For today, pick up everything you left lying on the floor and put it where it belongs.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter Stop

Valentine's Day Weekend

2010-02-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

Hi Eveyone!

Yes, you saw the title right. It was a Valentine's Day Weekend. Since we're still in recovery mode we decided to nurture ourselves and play hookey from what would be our "normal" stuff to do and instead try fun stuff.

On Saturday we went with our daughter and son-in-law to see and hear Diane Schuur with the Jeff Daniel Band at The Valentines Homecoming Concert, which was held at the Westin LaPaloma Resort and Spa, held in the Arizona Ballroom. My son-in-law loves jazz and I've always admired Diane Schuur. She has an amazing voice that can go from the highest soprano to the lowest alto without the slightest hint of a crack, squeek, screech or squawk. The evening was absolutely delightful and I'm glad that we went.

On Sunday we skipped church (but said our prayers!) and left early to take in the last day of the gem show. Since we're new to Tucson we've not had the pleasure of seeing this delight up close and personal. We went to the Tucson Convention Center as that was still showing and I even managed to buy a small statue of two giraffes made of a special stone from Zimbabwe. I love giraffes and now have a very small collection of cute ones, which will come to a fast halt before it becomes a hoarding issue! We also saw some outstanding gems and minerals that I've never seen before from all over the world. Next year we decided that we will definitely plan to get to the show before the last day!

Going back to the last post on procrastination - have any of you been able to put into practice what Stephanie suggested? Please comment and let me know so that I can let her know! And - I still would like to know how many of you are shutting down your computers and other toys over the weekend? Or, if the weekend is not the time you have off work, then on the days you have off work, do you shut the computer off then? Baby steps slowly become bigger steps. You have to start small in order to achieve the big ideal of getting to the goal.

'Til Next Time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

I'll Wait 'Till Later!

2010-02-12T14:27:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Since I am still trying to get through the fog of grief, I am taking advantage of my friend Stephanie Callahan and her offer of being a guest blogger. Here is her blog on procrastination. She must have been reading some of my material when she wrote it because her words sounds so much like mine! Here you go . . .

"I can’t help it! I was born to procrastinate." That was the statement I heard when talking with a new client about a week ago.

So I asked her, "Are you happy with your procrastination? Does it serve you well?"

“No!” she exclaimed. “That is why I called you. I’m missing important deadlines and my co-workers and family are fed up with me."

Do these statements resonate with you? If so, then keep reading. You can overcome procrastination if you learn a few simple secrets. Sometimes procrastination (putting an activity off until a later date) is necessary — like when a higher priority item comes up that you have to work on. However, if procrastination becomes a habit, trouble often follows. Start by understanding that there is nothing genetically or inherently wrong with you. So far, scientists have not found a procrastination gene! That is good news because it means it is a habit you can kick.

Why do we procrastinate?

There are a number of reasons we procrastinate. Let’s go over a few and how you can overcome them.

1. Not understanding your priorities will have you spinning in circles

Do you know if you are working on the right things? Do you find yourself jumping from one project to another? Often we procrastinate because we waiver on what we should be focusing on. One day it is one project and then the next day a different “bright shiny object” comes into view and we switch off to that. We are so busy jumping from project to project that we never really complete any of them.

Try This Instead: Earlier this year, I did a Twitter poll and asked my followers what their biggest challenges were with productivity. Setting priorities and working on the right things came up #1. So, I reached out to over 40 colleagues and asked them to give me their favorite priority setting tips. You can get the special report at no cost here: Get Your Special Report: Priority Setting – Working on the Right Things. Check it out and gain a solid understanding of where you should be spending your time.

2. Perfection is the enemy of progress

No one is perfect and the desire to be perfect will derail your progress – you lose the focus to be successful. Don’t get me wrong. Having a detailed focus and an attitude for a “job well done” is excellent. However, there is a line we should draw when things are “good enough” to be tried. When you spend too much time on a particular task, it never gets completed and other activities suffer too. Taking action is better than not taking action. If you take action you get feedback and know where you can alter for improvements. For example, if you wait until you have a perfect plan for working out and eating right, you will never lose the weight you want to lose. If you don’t lose the weight, you may experience greater health issues.

Try This Instead: Use the 80/20 rule. Be “good” for 80 percent of the time. The logic: If you follow the new exercising/eating plan 80 percent of the time, then you’re 80 percent closer to your goal than the previous day! (The glass half-full focus.)

Remember – life is full of imperfection. Yes, it is important to give your best to achieve the possible best. But, not everything has to be perfect to produce the best outcome. Imperfection is better than perfection if something is actually getting accomplished!

3. Fear of failure only frustrates

This one ties closely to the item above. Taking action means making a change and possibly failing. Most of us don’t like change. In fact, most of us are terrified of change either consciously or unconsciously. “Failure is not an option” is a phrase we have heard all too often. But then, if we never tried, how would we know whether our effort has paid off or not, right? Exactly! Fear can be good when it helps us think though alternatives to a difficult problem. However, frequently we take it too far and this is where procrastination comes in.

Try This Instead: “Its Not Change it is an Experiment” – I love this concept. By thinking of your project as an experiment, you can get past your analysis paralysis and get your projects live. Then, as you learn things, you can make modifications. Now, go take action and let me know how it goes!

4. Understand the real time it takes to do tasks

We often put things off because we think something will take longer than it really will. “I just don’t have time!”

Try These Instead:

Play Procrastination Attack! Beat the Clock.Pick a time frame – let’s say 15 minutes – where you know you can focus on a task and get as much done as you can in that time frame. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish!

Sit in a chair and do nothing. Sit still —- very still! Do not read. Do not listen to music. Do not watch T.V. Do not talk to anyone. Do not do anything! Just sit very still and do nothing. After about 10 or 15 minutes, you will get very uneasy. You will start to be aware of each precious minute passing you by while your goals are not being accomplished. Before you know it, your motivation will be reactivated and you’ll be off and running!

5. Eliminate the excuses that are holding you back

A few days ago I wrote a post on re-writing your own story. Many of us go through life with set beliefs about ourselves that are just not true. We so strongly believe in those stories that we make excuses for not getting things done.

Try This Instead: Take a long, hard, realistic look at the reasons that you are telling yourself and make sure that they "hold water." If someone else told you the same reason, would you think the reason was sound? If you have stories that you tell yourself that are not really valid, rewrite them!

The Final Word

When dealing with procrastination it’s important to realize the difference between a rational decision to postpone a task and an irrational one with no rhyme or reason. Most people get confused between these two and then they procrastinate. You can easily end procrastination when you see that in most cases your decision to postpone an important task carries no logic at all.

Whether it is writing a chapter in a ‘how to’ book, cleaning your kitchen, or doing a blog post, you should try to do something each day. This is action. These small actions will bring big results overtime. Acknowledge your feelings. Even if you’re afraid of putting yourself out there, it doesn’t mean you have to allow these feelings to take over. Just allow them to be there and focus on what you have to do. This is powerful if you learn to use it.

What do you do to beat procrastination? Where do you struggle? I’d love to hear your thoughts and tips! Share them in the comment section below. Like what you have read? Please share it with others!"

I thank Stephanie for stepping in at this time in my life and I hope that you are enjoying her input also.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Vindicated!

2010-02-02T16:10:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

Below is a guest blog from Stephanie Callahan which proves my point about resting over the weekend and putting away your electronic toys. So, stop screaming at me and pay attention!

Would you like to see these things happen in your business?

.Better communication between team members
.Closer relationships and more shared personal information between team members
.Better planning
.More streamlined planning
.Improved client service

Then you should consider encouraging (even better forcing) your staff to take time off in predictable patterns. You will gain productivity benefits. This according to the October issue of the Harvard Business Review who published a 4 year study on this very topic.

Professor Leslie Perlow followed 12 consulting teams at Boston Consulting Group. Note, BCG is known for hard-driving work ethic so they were an excellent company to study. They were asked to modify how they approached the work schedules of their employees.

The results of the study were so positive that the company is now rolling out the team strategy to many of its other groups this year and in 2010.

In addition to the benefits listed at the beginning of this post, perhaps the most important benefit Boston Consulting experienced was that clients also reported improved client service. This is presumably a result of the better team focus, planning, and communication.

Turning OFF is Important! Here is what they did -

The participants in the study were guaranteed one night a week off. The night off meant, no work after 6:00 pm with no contact to work either (including Blackberries, iPhones and computers.) To many, this might seem like a small change, however, the consultants initially found it very difficult to set the time aside for themselves. They were afraid that it would impact other days and even the weekend. By the end of the experiment, however, the consultants reported that they could "turn off" for a while and still produce high intensity, high quality work.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the company benefited in many ways too. After five months, Boston Consulting found that employees participating in the study were
more likely to stay with the firm compared to consultants not in the study and were
more satisfied with their jobs, and happier with their work-life balance.
The final word -

Shut down time is important. It allows your mind to recharge and refocus. This study found major improvements with one night of not working. Imagine the gains that could happen if you took time off to do other things? Now you have an excuse to plan vacations! It is good for your business.

Brought to you by Stephanie Callahan at www.NetworkWithSteph.com. and www.AskTheExpertOrganizers.com, for Great Organizing Give Aways!

'Til Next Time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Great Organizing Giveaway

2010-01-30T15:20:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

Yes, I am writing this blog on Saturday, but I have a reason. The first is to let you know about the Great Organizing Giveaway. Go to Facebook and check it out. There are all sorts of organizing giveaways, including mine. But don't delay as this started on the 25th and today is the 30th. Go to www.AskTheExpertOrganizers.com There is good reason why I'm late with the news of this.

On the 20th my eldest daughter called us to say that her husband had been rushed to the hospital. He had been found unconscious by his boss at work. He never came to and on Friday, the 22nd, my daughter took him off life support. There was really no reason to keep him on. He was a young man of 49 but he had diabetes since he was a child and had been suffering with congestive heart failure. He did everything he could to take care of himself but his heart just gave out. We are terribly sad, we will really miss him, but we know that he is no longer in pain and is with God, dancing on the streets that are Golden! God is Awesome and will comfort us through this transition in our lives. We stayed with our daughter for a week and just returned from CA yesterday.

I hope that all of you are taking care of yourselves and that you have taken the weekend off to relax and enjoy your families and friends.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Let's Start Anew!

2010-01-18T14:43:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

It's Monday, the start of the week. Time to start fresh. Were you able to make it through the weekend without all the distractions? For your sake, I hope so.

According to an article I read from San Francisco on Sunday, "Distracted walking a growing problem." Here I am, trying to get people weaned off their computers and cell phones and texting and tweeting, and up pops this article about people literally walking into poles, holes, and cars because of their use of cells and texting. Good grief, someone could get killed just for the sake of texting. Is it really worth it?

What are your goals for this week? Do you know how to prioritize them? Take two, look at them and decide which one is more urgent. Set the less urgent one aside. Then look at another one and compare it to the most urgent one. Now of these two, which one is more urgent. Keep doing this until you get to your lst urgent, 2nd urgent, 3rd and so on. Yes, this takes a bit of time, but it also saves you time in the long run trying to figure out which goal to tackle and then just sitting there staring at that piece of paper! By the way, when you are asking yourself which goal is more urgent you can always keep in mind what your primary goal is to help you decide which goal is more urgent. So, if you have a project due at the end of the month (a goal), then you have smaller goals that you have to accomplish daily and weekly to meet that goal. Would calling customer A help you reach that goal today, or would calling customer B help you reach that goal today?

Many people tackle their jobs in a "putting out fires" mode. Being prepared is a much better way to handle tasks. There are always emergencies that arise, but if you are handling everyday projects proactively, then you will be able to handle the emergencies that also crop up without having any real damage occur to your desired goals.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Into the Countdown

2010-01-15T15:42:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

We are now into the countdown towards the weekend. Do you know what to do? Are you prepared? Let me help you:

1. Open your calendar (electronic or paper), and put in your appts. for next week;
2. Go through your To Do's and decide on what day you will do them - add it to your calendar;
3. Decide which of your To Do's you will do first thing Monday morning and place them in the middle of your desk (or table) in a red folder or some other bright colored folder;
4. Check for any EMERGENCY emails;
5. Check for last minute blogs;
6. Check for last minute tweets - then turn computer OFF.

This works whether you are in an office or in a home office. It is now time to enjoy your weekend and spend time with family and friends. Time to regain what we have all lost in this world of technocraze.

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Why The Floor is Not an Option!

2010-01-13T11:32:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I was asked the other day, because the title of my book is, The Floor is Not an Option! why the floor isn't an option? That's a good question, so let me explain so that you will easily understand and agree.

The title of the book refers to organizing one's living spaces, or working spaces. If you are consistently coming home and kicking off your shoes as you enter the door, then shoes soon pile up near that entry. And if you add to that pile a jacket, or more, some newspapers, mail you don't have time to read, backpacks because it's Friday and the kids won't need them until Monday, then you have created a big pile of clutter at that entry. Now what happens when you need to leave the house or come back into the house? That's right. You're tripping over all the stuff. Now let's say that in addition to all that stuff you have gone into the kitchen and started looking for snacks that you know your roommate or spouse has stashed away somewhere. You start pulling out boxes and cans so that you can hopefully find what is lurking at the back of the cabinet, and yeah! you've found the bag of chips. Off you go to watch TV - without giving one thought to the stuff you pulled out of the cabinet, which has now fallen to the floor.

Do you get the picture? Now when you walk back into the kitchen you either have to walk on, over or around the mess you created. It would have taken less than one minute to put that all back. But no, you'd rather create a safety hazaard because you didn't stop to think about what you are doing. Play it safe and ALWAYS put things back that you take out, and pick up what you've put down. It will save you a bunch of time in the long run and tripping hazards will be avoided!

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Refreshing Start

2010-01-11T14:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Well, how many of you made it through the weekend without your computer or access to your Blackberry? I've already heard that some of you "failed." Let me remind you that you have not failed. You "almost made it!" Changing is difficult. Sometimes we can do it by sheer will overnight, but usually it takes a number of tries before we can actually master the change. Afterall, quitting MESSAGING is like quitting smoking. You have become so addicted that you just quite don't know what to do with your hands, nor your time. And I'll venture to say that many of you don't even know how to contact anyone without Tweeting them. Or Texting them. Are you sweating yet? Just exactly how ARE you going to get in touch with someone without the use of your computer or Blackberry or cellphone?

If anyone can tell me the answer to this quiz, please post it, but only during the M-F time that I work. Now, get on with your week. If you did manage to go without your computer, etc., this weekend, good for you! You should be well-rested and able to take on your week!

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Clutter-free Mind Weekend!

2010-01-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Starting today in this New Year, I, Coach Sheila, challenge all of you to check in with yourselves this weekend. That means, no blogging, no emails, no twitter, no pinging, nothing! No cells either! How many of you can take the challenge? How many of you can actually break away from all the habitual urges that grab you every day?

Try reading a newspaper or a book. Watch a movie on T.V. - a movie, not a sitcom. Go for a walk in a park. Take a bicycle ride. Visit a museum. Stroll through a mall WITHOUT buying one darn thing except maybe lunch or a soda. Try these things with a friend, or not. Let's try getting back to a more gentler, quieter time when we could actually do these things without worrying about how many emails or tweets we've missed.

Let me know how you did on Monday, because once I'm through with my blogging and tweeting for the day, I'm done. My quiet weekend is ahead of me! Have fun everyone!

'Til next time . . .Coach Sheila of clutter STOP

Day of Epiphany - All Mine!

2010-01-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Well, I am back from Vacation and Holidays. Today is my birthday, on the day of Epiphany. I think it's fitting. Another year older, wiser, smarter, cuter! A day in which to look back on accomplishments and smile. A day to remember the mistakes and learn from them. Yep, it's a great day!

I sit here and wonder what 2010 will bring to all of us. 2009 left many people in the dark, literally. But that is man's doing. No man should be in charge of how we feel or what we do. We need to have faith in our God-given talents and abilities to forge ahead and make good. We are in charge of our destinies, our moods and our way of life. So, march on! We have treasures yet to uncover!

'Til next time . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

Surprising Show of Children

2009-12-16T16:29:00.000-08:00

Hi Followers!

Sorry for being absent, but was a little under the weather for a while. Better now!

On Sunday I had a truly delightful treat when I visited with my daughter on her birthday and went to her church, which was celebrating their children's Christmas program. I have been to several children's programs over the years and I surmised that this would be the same-old same-old that most churches put on. Was I wrong! The Northwest Bible Church in Tucson, AZ gave the best children's program I have ever seen. The kids sang, danced and spoke clear lines for a full hour without one misstep in the whole production. And it was quite a production - not the usual 3 wise men came to see the baby stuff, but a jazz number complete with a snotty actress type who wanted to play Mary and kids doing a razzle dazzle routine that totally amazed me. The adults who taught them must have spent untold hours working with them because they truly pulled off one magnificent performance - and did it 3 times!

Finally struggled and got the Christmas decorations out. That took what little energy I had and wiped it out. And I also got my Christmas cards in the mail. Normally that would have been done right after Thanksgiving, but somehow this major move to Tucson has thrown my whole schedule off. At least I have all of my Christmas shopping done. Now all I have to do is get it all wrapped!

Have been to two Christmas parties this week and have two more to go. I love going to parties and look forward to seeing everyone, but when I get home I just collapse into exhaustion. I don't feel tired when I'm there . . . it's like I'm a balloon and someone slowly lets the air out of me! I'm going to have to find out who's doing that! : )

'Til next time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

Simcha = Joy in the Land of Tucson! Part Four

2009-12-07T11:59:00.000-08:00

A storm is hovering over Tucson, which means our skies are grey, with undulating clouds, heavy with threatening rain. That means I am feeling a little depressed. I think I have that SAD syndrome - Seasonal Affective Disorder. Everytime the sky is grey I get gloomy. I don't like to be gloomy, I like to be happy! :\

However, there is still joy in the land of Tucson, because wherever you are the people are happy. Even the people out of work in this awful economy smile when they make eye contact with you. It's truly fascinating and nothing like I have ever encountered anywhere else I have ever lived. And I have lived in Chicago, Illinois; College Station, Texas; Homestead, Florida; Upland, California; and Scottsdale, AZ. Some of those places are small towns, and others are suburbs aligned with big cities. Not one of them come close to the wonderful feelings I get from Tucson. If I could bottle this feeling and send it out worldwide I am sure the discord among the human race would dissipate quickly.

So, even in my gloomy state because of the weather, I am still filled with joy to be here in this wonderful land and I welcome all who would like to find the same peace and warmth that I have. I should send this off to the Chamber of Commerce, they could probably use it in their advertising!

'Til next time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

Simcha = Joy in the Land of Tucson! Part Three

2009-12-02T13:13:00.000-08:00

Sorry gang, I've been away doing holiday stuff with family and food and have neglected my continuing tale of joy!

Today I am off to Tucson's Business Connection's Chocolate Country Business Networking Showcase. Now tell me, where else can you go to network, conduct business, and get chocolate! I'm telling you, Tucson is filled with so many wonderful things that I am continually amazed. Having ADD, it is right up my alley! I am constantly given new sights and sounds to keep my brain activated and I am never bored. What a life!

Yesterday I spent a few hours at lunchtime getting to know a group of women from the Tucson Networking Association. Joy, who is heading up the group (seriously, that's her name), with the help of Andrew who started TNA, decided that we needed a group for the women and so far we have about 40 women who are interested. We don't have a name yet, but we're working on it. And no dues! What a joy!

Before I run off - My book, The Floor is Not an Option! has won yet another award! This time it is the recipient of the prestigious Mom's Choice Award. It's hard to win an award from them and I am thrilled to be among the best in their family-friendly media, products and services. More joy!!

'Til Next Time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

Simcha = Joy in the Land of Tucson! Part Two

2009-11-24T12:51:00.000-08:00

Hello again!

It's Tuesday and Thanksgiving is almost here. Many of you are probably frantically running around preparing for it - out shopping for the stuff, or cooking stuff ahead of time. I'm doing both. My daughter decided she needed more stuff, so elected me to go out again and get it, which is quite alright, but I still have to cook ahead the stuff that I'm bringing. Timing - it's very important to this whole Thanksgiving event. What goes in first, what can wait until the last minute, and what is safe to sit out all day.

Anyway, the Part Two of my joy is the fun I'm having in being in the Tucson Networking Association. What a great group! And from this group I went to a workshop the other day on Social Media and how to use it. My brain exploded at the end of the day, but I DO know more now than I did before I walked in. I'm an old bird. Getting something crammed into my brain is a major undertaking! But best of all is the warmth and comraderie that this group shows for one another. Never did I feel this in the state I came from. I really dreaded networking, but here I look forward to it. And next month we are having a Christmas party with this group. Such fun! Not only do we find out about each other's business and how to help each other find clients and customers, but we get to enjoy ourselves doing it. Now tell me, isn't that "JOY!"

'Til next time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

Simcha = Joy in the Land of Tucson! Part One

2009-11-23T09:36:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I have been terribly remiss in keeping up my blog! I do apologize. But I have been excitedly busy since last I came before you. Since my last posting in August we moved to Tucson. Within two weeks of being here I was going to Networking meetings, joining a woman's business group and a professional group. I have been gone EVERY day doing something.

Tucson must have the largest NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners)group in the nation. They have well over 200 members. Every month they have breakfast, lunch and mixer activities. They also have other fun events that the members themselves put on. There is absolutely no time to be bored.

It is Monday, the week of Thanksgiving, and I am excited to have the whole family together. Preparations are under way!

And now I will explain the header on this post. Simcha is my Jewish given name and it means Joy. Coming to Tucson has filled me with incredible joy in many ways. I will share more in future posts.

'Til next time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

Anticipation, Anxieties and Angst

2009-08-03T18:33:00.000-07:00

Oh golly, where to begin. If you're following my blog you know that we're moving to Tucson. I had no idea that moving was so involved! I mean, REALLY involved. As an organizer I have helped many people move, and I have moved many times myself, before. However, there is something really trying about this move. I think because it involves a buyer for our home here, and a seller for our new home there.

We have signed dozens of pieces of realty papers. And we have faxed same to our Realtor in Tucson. We have received several Addendums from the Seller in Tucson, which we then had to sign and fax back. In the meantime, our Buyer had to come through with the Termite inspector and the Housing inspector and give them a report on our home. Then we got a report on the things that needed to be fixed prior to their moving in.

So we have had to call in an electrician and a handyman to fix certain items that we cannot do ourselves. Our Seller got off easy on her inspection as the home is just 6 years old and the items needing fixing were just minor things that she can do herself, whereas our home is 25 years old and more things needed repairing. Luckily we have upgraded our home over the years so even the repairs are basically minor for a home of 25 years.

The angst is over our poor kitty. He has been with us for 15 years and we just don't know what to do with him. He is an outdoor cat because I am allergic and can't have him indoors. But I am afraid that the move will be traumatic on him. He has only known this home and he is comfortable just hanging around in our bushes all day. He has a great place to hide when there are strangers about or loud noises. Since coyotes frequent our hills he has managed to run and hide over these many years. I am just really torn about what to do with him. Guess I'll call the Vet and see what he says. I would really like to take him with, but I do wonder if he'll make it and how he'll react to the trip and the new home!

I just can't wait to get to Tucson! We'll be moved in on September 19th and I'm guessing I should be up and ready for business by October lst. I'm banking on that anyway!

'Til next time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

The Future

2009-07-17T15:02:00.000-07:00

The future is approaching - it is a vision of being on a very fast train and seeing the countryside flash speedily by yet you can see the mountains ahead get bigger and bigger minute by minute. What future? Mine. My husband and I have decided to take a leap of faith and move out of California and return to our beloved Arizona. But this time we will not be returning to Scottsdale where we had lived for 22 years, but to Tucson, where our daughter and her husband live, and the grandkids, and the great-grandkids. We are sadly leaving behind our eldest daugher, who weeps every time we see each other. One of her customer's told her that she was old enough to cut the apron strings. She knows that. It's just that we have a very good relationship with our children and it is hard to leave them behind (she and her husband, whom we also adore).

California has been hard on my lungs (where we have lived for 22 years), and I am hoping that when we get back to Arizona that I will again be able to breath without the aid of so many asthma medications that I am non on. I never needed them when we lived in Scottsdale and I have hopes that I won't need them in Tucson.

Now my challenge is to change all of my website addresses to Tucson and mailing addresses and all my advertising area to Tucson. Luckily I have until mid September to get this done, except that I am being dragged away on an Alaskan cruise in a few weeks, which will curtail some of this progress. Yes, I did say dragged away. I do not wish to go anywhere that it is cold but my husband has been wanting to go to Alaska for a long time, so off we go. Didn't know we were moving when we made the plans!

'Til next time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

Yeah! Sunshine is Back!

2009-06-26T16:02:00.000-07:00

Hi All!

Someone left me a comment, which I read, and alas, it disappeared. I don't know what happened to it, but it is gone. It was from a gal who wanted to talk with me about my book and I believe about my blog. At any rate, I did read it and I would love to speak with you. Sending me an email to sheila@clutterstop.com would be the quickest way to reach me. As you know, I am not always on my blog!

The sunshine truly has inspired me and my office is shaping up, finally. I have thrown away tons of paper and books that I have absolutely no need of. And since I will be visiting my organizing daughter next week, she will be inheriting some organizing products that I am no longer in need of that I believe she can use, or pass on! It feels so good to get rid of all this stuff! Also let go of all those old computer discs. You know, those square hard things that computers don't even come equipped with a slot for anymore. Now I can truly feel the excitement that my clients feel when they unburden themselves from their cloud of clutter hanging overhead.

Yesterday as I sat in the Hair Salon reading Woman's Day Magazine, I ran across an organizing article, and lo and behold, there's my name! I had totally forgotten that they had interviewed me because they never did send me the article, nor the magazine as they had promised. So I begged and pleaded and my Salon let me keep the magazine since I'm a "famous" writer and they didn't want to offend me. : ) It was a nice surprise.

By the way, if any of you are interested, the spider/bug bite that I got has healed but has left my finger with some soft tissue damage. So now I get to ice it to keep the swelling down and I'm hoping that it will soon become a thing of the past. Next time I go to a picnic I will wear leather work gloves!!!

'Til next time . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

What Happened to the Sun???

2009-06-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

Ugh! We're in the second week of June and it's still dark and gloomy outside. It spits just enough to make my car look like I've driven through the desert every day at high speeds, kicked up a bunch of dust and then just sat waiting for this weather to make a mess on the car! I don't dare take it to the car wash because it won't do any good; tomorrow the car will look exactly the same as it does today.

I want the sun! I thrive on the sun! I'm inspired by the sun! It isn't even raining, so no one can say that we really need the rain. It's been weeks of just gloom, and spit from above. Boring! Everyone just hides inside. No frolicking outside. No kids scampering about. No mental juices flowing. Okay. I guess I've beat that dead dog long enough.

Have really been trying to clear out my office, but like every client I've come across, I run into things that just stop me dead in my tracks. It takes me forever to decide what to do with something and then I wish that I had someone here to help me make those decisions. It is really hard to organize by yourself. You do need the inspiration of another person. You need to be able to bounce ideas off another person to inspire your own ideas. So my office is only l/8 of the way to being overhauled. I sit and stare at things and wonder what to do with them and come up blank. Which I find very strange as I am quite creative with clients! I better hire myself an organizer before this gets out of hand!

Hoping for sunshine and inspiration for us all, I wish everyone a really great summer!

'Til next time . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

June Gloom and What to Do

2009-05-29T13:27:00.000-07:00

The skies have been grey overhead for the past week. It's what Californians call June Gloom even though we're not yet in June. It doesn't really matter because it just puts a gloom over everything. The sun barely gets through until about 4:00 pm and by then you've spent all your energy trying to figure out what to do to rev yourself up to do something!

Well I just have not been particularly inspired recently - I'll blame it on June Gloom. So I have been rummaging through my office and trashing a lot of paper that at one time I thought was important, but now I find that it is useless. In other words, I have become my own client. I have also been checking on my Accounting records and have discovered that I have overlooked some bookkeeping records that I neglected to record last October, November and December. It's a good thing I found them as it relates to the sale of my books. As I have to pay taxes on them in July I am glad that I was going through those records. My illness at that time certainly kept me from being on top of my game! But, thanks to modern medicine, I am back in the league!

When all else fails and you have nothing better to do, clearing out your office, your desk, the kitchen cupboards or even the bathroom cupboards is always beneficial. Even tearing apart the garage brings a whole new perspective on what it means to have empty spaces! Go forth and conquer!

'Til next time . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

Book Awards, Talks & Friends

2009-05-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

It's been a week since I've logged in and I've discovered that The Floor is Not an Option! has won another award, yeah! It's always fun to realize that your book gets to travel all those literary halls. This one was from the Eric Hoffer Awards. So far the book has logged in five awards. It is really gratifying to know that the basic message of the book is being realized by the reviewers.

This past Saturday I gave a talk at the Upland Public Library. It was such a beautiful day outside that I really didn't think anyone would be there, or at the very least, very few. But, to my surprise, the room was already half-full when I walked in. And warm! By the time it was 1:00 pm and I was to speak it was very warm and we had three fans blowing at full force. The room filled up quickly though and we had a good time with some good natured joking going on. I sold some books, so it was a good talk!

After the talk a few women hung around to talk and ask questions, and two in particular stayed quite a while, so long that we actually went out and had iced tea at the local Coco's. One was interested in becoming an Organizer and so I told her all about NAPO at www.napo.net, and about our local chapter at www.napola.org, and the other gal was discussing her ADD and brain trauma. As it turned out she and I had quite a bit in common and I do believe that she and I will be life-long friends. It is amazing to me where you can meet someone that you can connect with so completely and quickly. I don't usually connect that quickly. I'm one of those "jaded Chicagoans" who view gangsters around every corner and trust very few people. But this gal and I just gravitated to each other and the similarities in our backgrounds are stricking. We could be sisters.

So, all in all, I had a fantastic week and I do hope that all of you did also!

'Till next time . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

Twitter, Linkedin, Facebook

2009-05-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

I received yet another email asking me to join Twitter. I already belong to Linkedin and Facebook and haven't found much value to it, probably because you have to be on it all the time and I really do have other things to do all the time. And now everyone wants me on Twitter. Honestly. Twitter is for young birds with light little warbles. I have a strong full voice and am in the Twilight years, not the Twitter years. We really do have to be reasonable here!

The book is selling well and I just deposited another check in the bank. Yeah! The Floor is Not an Option! is moving along even if I'm just sitting here tapping at my keys in a desperate attempt to keep up with all the young warblers in the crowd.

Today is Cinco de Mayo - did I spell that right? Not knowing Spanish I have no idea. Anyway, it is already May and I wonder how many of you have cleared out any of the stuff you have accumulated since last year? All that clutter is also filling your head and making it difficult for you to think clearly, not just at home, but also at work. Don't just look at it - spend ten minutes a day doing something about it! And send me a message telling me what you did. Accountability makes it work better - and it's free!

'Till next time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

Desserts!

2009-04-23T18:40:00.000-07:00

I see that I have been tardy at getting something written again, but only because I have been busy writing, writing, writing! And working, working, working!

Friday the 17th was my Anniversary. My husband and I have shared 49 well traveled and loving years together. We topped our evening off at Mimi's with their marvelous bread pudding dessert, which my husband loves and which I have grown to love also since I was introduced to it at Mimi's. I am pretty particular about dessert, so I will vote for Mimi's having the best bread pudding in the land.

For instance, if you want really fabulous carrot cake, all you need do is go to any DoubleTree Hotel and I guarantee that no matter what State you are in you will find the very best carrot cake in the world, even homemade.

I am still on a quest for the very best New York style Cheesecake. I am talking about the heavy thick cheesecake from New York or Chicago that California and elsewhere tries to imitate and are colossal failures at. So, if you happen to find one, please let me know. Oh yes, please don't tell me the Cheesecake Factory because I might have to hurt you. I don't even think they understand what the term dessert stands for. I even wonder where their pastry chef went to school!

Marie Callender's used to have top notch pies but I would say that in the last roughly ten years the quality has shifted downward. The pie crust is doughy, the apples are tough in the apple pie, the custard in the coconut cream pie gags me and just everything seems lackluster.

Coco's pies seem better that MC's lately and I just had their coconut cream pie and it was great, so I guess I'll shift pie eating to Coco's. My husband loves rhubarb pie, so he'll have to go to MC's by himself and I'll go to Coco's!

'Til next . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

Easter and Friendship

2009-04-13T17:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Easter. I am glad that God came to save the world, and me. Had a marvelous day with my family. We all went to Church, then out for brunch and on to a movie where we munched on popcorn. Afterwards we went to Marie Callender's for pie. Not only was it a full day, but it was a very filling day!

When I got home I received a call from a very dear friend who had moved to Texas a while ago. She has a business and the business climate is friendlier there than here in California. Her business is going great. Besides the fact that I am white and she is black, I am very conservative, and she is liberal, she makes big bucks in her business and I make little bucks in mine, we are great friends. We care for each other on a personal level rather than on a material level. How many friends do you have like that? We care about each other and watch out for each other. Time passes between phone calls but when we speak to one another it's as though we had just seen each other. She was concerned about my health. I told her not to worry, that God has me in the palms of his hands. She told me about some health concerns that she had, so I made her promise me that she would see her doctor. Concern works both ways.

In case you're wondering what I decided to do about the subsidy publisher - I decided to wait until I write my next book to use them. I didn't feel like going through the pangs of re-doing this just released book. It will be as successful as it needs to be because all of you out there are sharing how wonderful it is! : )

'Til next time . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

Still Undecided

2009-04-10T15:48:00.000-07:00

Usually I can quickly make up my mind about things, but lately, possibly because of my illness, that has not been the case. To what am I referring?

The subsidy publisher, who has now called and also left two emails for me. I really do not know what to do. I am tired just thinking about the hassle of going through another book cover and title (instead of The Floor is not an Option!), more inside photos, etc., etc. And will any of that get me (the book) what it deserves - high praise from around the world? I am skeptical. It's a really great book, not just because I wrote it, but because it has the information in it that people with ADHD need. And people with OCD need. And for those who clutter and hoard and who are messy and for those who just like to trash their homes just because they can. It is written from my heart directly to you, the reader, the one I'm trying to help.

So, you see, I don't really care if it has a fancy new cover or a great new title. The problem is - those things may actually get the book sold more to all those people I want it sold to! Aaaaaaargh! Someone help me! Where is that genie in the bottle to make all my wishes come true?

If you have any great ideas for me, please let me know! Otherwise, I'm stuck in this quagmire. Gee, I wonder if Chicken Soup for the Soul had to go through this? Probably not, they probably threw money at him and begged him to publish his book. Aaaaaaarg.

'Til next time . . .Sheila McCurdy of clutter STOP

Learning lessons the hard way

2009-04-07T16:16:00.000-07:00

Since my last post in early February, I noticed today that I had a comment about my book from April 6th. I am happy that SOMEBODY out there is reading and enjoying - and hopefully - getting something out of the book.

I am hoping to keep blogging a little more often. Since my doctor gave me a nasty diagnosis last month my children have suggested that I write my life story for them, which I have started. I have also started journeling, which I detested doing all of my life until now. Now it seems very important that I fill the pages with how I am feeling and what I am doing, since I don't know how long I will be able to.

A few days ago I received an offer from a subsidy publisher to re-do my book with a new cover and title. It would involve me spending more money. Since I just got through re-doing the book and have a new cover, I'm not sure if I want to go through this again. And I still have about 150 books left from a book signing campaign sitting here in my office that I don't want to just dump out the window. Decisions, decisions!

Hopefully, I will think of this blogging as a good outlet instead of a chore and so . . .

'Til we meet again . . .Sheila of clutter STOP

Near The Top, but NOT the Summit!

2009-02-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Well, it's not a quarterly post but I thought I better let you know about the big LA bash at the Luxe Hotel in Bel Aire. Nope, didn't win the BIG prize, but hey, someone has to be the foundation of the building! If we are all the lighthouse, what would the lighthouse sit on???

Since the book was still among 3 finalists, I was honored to be there. The book also won another award at the New England Book Festival, as a finalist. This makes 4 book awards since September. As I said, it's good to know that I am a good foundation. It is a sign of good leadership and sound judgement. ; )

Hope this economy isn't taking you down like the Govt. would like us to be. We've been here before and will be again. We're Americans - we endure! So we have soup 3 times a day, so what. Didn't you say you wanted to lose a few pounds?

'Til next time . . . Sheila McCurdy of clutter STOP

New Year, New Life

2009-01-18T16:12:00.000-08:00

It looks like I shall have to be content with quarterly blogging and not beat myself up because all the do-gooders out there are typing up a storm every day with nothing else to do but sit in front of their little keyboards gossiping out their lives for all the world to swoon over. My life is not that exciting.

Since the publishing of my book in September 2008, The Floor is Not an Option!, it has won two awards - the National Best Books Awards and the DIY Awards. It's still in the running for others. In two weeks I go to the Los Angeles Association of Professional Organizers 4th Award Banquet held at the Luxe Hotel on Sunset Blvd. in Bel Air. It's a ritzy hotel and it's a black-tie affair. I am also going because my book is among three that has placed top honors to receive the "Best Organizing Book for 2008" as voted on by peers and the public everywhere. I am thrilled to be nominated and hope that the book wins so that it can move forward everywhere and help the people it was written for - the clutterers, of course - and those with ADD, and those who hoard.

This year starts a new chapter in my life also, but more on that later. Too much is boring.

'Til next time, Sheila G. McCurdy

The Book is Finally Done!

2008-09-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

As you can tell from my last post, I'm not a consistent blogger. The summer overtook me with volleys of calls to and from my editor, my graghic designer and my print-on-demand company. Blogging was the last thing on my mind but I will attempt to keep it up once again.

Print-on-demand sounds great at first blush. You turn your file over to them and they print however many copies you would like for yourself and then your customers. It's all the in-between steps from point A to point Z that has driven me to near madness. I don't know if all companies are like this, but the one I am dealing with definitely is. It seems that because they know all the ins and outs of their business they just assume that you do also. Like, the length of time it takes for them to look at your file and the length of time it takes to get it onto the printing press and so forth. What I was told initially would take 2 weeks from my upload to a printed copy actually is 4 weeks (probably more but I did a lot of insisting on the promised 2 weeks!). It's too bad that when you start something new that you can't be a seasoned pro at it immediately. When I do this again I will certainly know the right questions to ask!

So now I should be receiving the books sometime next week. I had asked for them to be delivered to St. Louis where I will be attending the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization Conference and will also be doing a book signing at Borders. However, the POD people said they couldn't do that as their system is "automatic" and since my address was already in their system it was just impossible to send the books elsewhere!

Oh yes, I forgot one other fly in the ointment. I am having 100 books printed with an incorrect cover. Most people won't notice the difference, but someone judging the book for a contest will. It seems that when my graphic artist uploaded the latest edition, the POD person grabbed the wrong version and printed that one instead. Ooops, sorry. Can't find the 2nd upload. Duh! Do you see the steam coming from my ears? It's been a hard week.

So now I am sitting here waiting for my books to arrive so that I can turn around and send them FedEx to St. Louis so that they'll get there in time for conference. That should cost me a nice bundle - in addition to the price I already paid for them to be shipped to my home! Aaaah. The life of a writer. More to come ...

'Til next time . . .

Catch up time!

2008-06-04T15:16:00.000-07:00

I've been gone from blogging since my last blog of 4/29! Sorry for the delay. I have been very, very busy, so I will catch you up on what I have been doing - some fun, some not, some interesting, some yuck!

First, I helped out with other organizers for 5 days on a big re-organizing job. The days weren't consistently in a row so we did have a breather in between some of them. But, we were picked up by limo and brought back by limo at a central meeting place. And we were fed lunch every day. This is not a typical job that organizers get every day, but they do come once in a blue moon. We worked hard, we got to know each other quite well and how we worked and we also made money - which is always the best part!

Now you're probably wondering why an author is out there being an organizer. Because, if you read my blurb at the top you will see that I am a multi-faceted person who does many things. Luckily I love all the things I do.

After the 5 day job I had my own big job where I had hired a crew of my own organizers for a garage job in my neck of the woods. No limo to take us to the job site, nor food waiting for us. It was a dirty job but the crew was really great and the man that hired me was a gem and even wrote about us in HIS blog: http://successbeginstoday.org/wordpress. He is a personal development blogger and gives great tips on his blog. His name is John Richardson. Go visit. It's worth the time.

After that job came a big unpacking job with another crew of organizers that I hired. But this job was really special. You see, I went to survey the territory, so to speak, the day before the job. I had gone to look at an upstairs game room which was located in an outbuilding from the main house and while coming down the flight of cement stairs a gust of wind blew the papers I was holding out of my hand. Having very quick reflexes (unfortunately), I reached out for the papers and quickly found myself flying down the stairs without aid of airplane! My left foot completely went under me and I basically sat down on it with my knee bent under me. I left the client's house bruised and bloody, and of course the client was mortified and I was in numbing pain.

When I got home (don't ask me how I got there), my husband took one look at my foot and insisted on the ER. My husband NEVER insists on the ER. He is the last person who says, "let's go to the hospital." So, off we go. After 4 hours of waiting and X-rays, the Dr. says, "Well, I've checked with the Radiologist twice, but there is nothing broken in your foot or toes. You must have really strong bones and you must be very flexible, because from the way your foot looks (it was really bruised and scraped), I would swear it was broken and I've seen lots of broken feet!" She cleaned my foot, wrapped it, put it in a "boot," and told me I'd be in it for at least ten days. She sent me home with instructions to put ice on it and elevate it. That was Tuesday night.

On Wednesday I was at the job site with my crew unpacking the 10,000 SF home! I was in hobbling around in the boot and more or less giving instructions than working. I just sort of stood and unwrapped and everyone else ran. Not a bad way to run a job!

The next day was rather easy as I just had to consult with a client about ways to organize a kitchen move to make remodeling her kitchen easier and to give her access to food items she would need during the remodeling.

Next came Friday. My day off! My day to be with my hubby and see a movie and have dinner together. I think that's the night that we saw "Made of Honor." Great movie. He even liked it. There really are some chick flicks that guys can like!

The next day I was on the kitchen "packing" job with another organizer. Not a literal one as organizers don't have insurance for packing. This one was packing up a kitchen and moving it in an organized fashion to a garage for semi-storage as the woman was having her kitchen remodeled. More hobbling. More directing.

And guess what I did Saturday night? With a boot on my foot? This little old lady who's been busting her butt working all week on heavy duty jobs? My hubby and I went dancing!!! How? Carefully! We did the slower dances. I wanted to try the faster ones but he didn't think I could do it. He just doesn't yet know who he's dealing with. : )

Now, just because I've had this organizing load doesn't mean that I've neglected my book project. I want you to know that I probably spent a good 40 plus hours coming up with an index for the book. It is now with the graphic's editor who will put it all together. We will get together some time next week to look for errors and such and then she will be able to finalize everything and get it off to the printer. So, prayerfully, this book will be out in July. Then I can concentrate on the next one!

On the 19th my Granddaughter comes to visit. It's her 16th birthday present and we're taking her different places - which I cannot talk about because if she reads this she'll know and it's supposed to be a surprise!

Well, I think I'm caught up on everything that's happened. Oh yes, my husband did drag me to the polls yesterday. I did not want to go as I am disgusted that everytime I vote my vote gets overturned. Sorry all you liberals out there, yes, I am a conversative and I expect when I vote that my vote counts and is not laughed at and mocked and ignored. I've decided that I'm now to old to care who likes what I say or how I feel. I have as much right to say what I want to say as everyone else. My father came into this country as a legal immigrant - I expect others to do the same thing. My father was told to speak English and he did, and we did. I expect others to do the same thing. God was always part of our culture and even though Christmas songs were sung in school I was allowed to do so as long as I didn't say Jesus' name. We didn't think about shutting the school down or demanding that Christmas be thrown out. It was a beautiful and happy holiday and I always looked forward to seeing the Christmas trees. That's tolerance. Not the tolerance we have today where we can't have God in schools and Muslims are the only ones who have rights and their God is the only one who can be taught in schools or discussed in schools. How is this tolerance? Why has everyone become so mamby, pamby? Why can't we say what we believe without insulting or hurting the individual person? What happens when I tell my gay friends that I don't believe in gay marriage? I don't believe in their gay lifestyle - I believe in them, as a person. Are they a good person? That's all I care about. Will they now turn their back on me? Oh well . . .

'Til next time! Sheila of clutter STOP

More on the book journey

2008-04-29T17:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday winds whipped around as my Editor and I wound our way from Upland into the Santa Clarita area. Once there we found our way to the beautiful home and studio of the photographer, Wendy Wenquist Photography, who is doing the layout for my cover of the book. Of course, once we arrived I had to take about 15 minutes to untangle the mess the winds made of my perfectly coiffed hair. Why did I even bother combing it before I left home?

Wendy is a great photographer! How did she know to play just the right music to get me into just the right mood to feel sassy and kicky for the photo shoot? I thought it was going to be torture but it was great. I can't wait to see the results. She took quite a few shots.

On a personal note. Next year I am planning on going to Isreal. It isn't something I really want to do, I just feel that I have to do it. So today a friend and I went walking. Because of my asthma I don't do much walking but figure I better do some and get in shape if I plan on taking this trip where there are hills to climb!

My health is better this year than it ever has been. Although I am definitely older than I ever have been I am feeling younger than ever! Why this is happening is probably because I have been working with a Wellness Coach. She has shown me that much of my illness has centered out of escape from bad home situations more than from actual illness. I really do have asthma, but I now feel that it will not longer slow me down. I am now on a new journey in my life - new book, new travel, new health!

'Til next time . . . Sheila of clutter STOP

Waiting on a book

2008-04-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

This has been a busy week and so I haven't written much. Yesterday I spent a few hours with my editor and graphic designer going over the layout of my book (the 2nd edition of the Floor is not an Option!), and the cover for the book.

So many options! My head was spinning. "Look!" The grahpic designer was saying, "here are all the designs you can have for your cover, and here are some more ideas that I came up with!" Aaaaargh! How am I supposed to decide. I'm ADD. Too much info!

Anyway, I was really delighted with many of the choices and after looking at several we actually decided that maybe we were going about it all wrong and maybe a photograph is what we really wanted and so on Saturday I'm driving 50 miles to a photographer to do that little chore.

See. These are all the things you get to do when you write a book that you are self-publishing!

Since this week is really busy I'll have to catch up to you later.

'Til next time . . . Sheila with clutter STOP

Sheila of clutter STOP

2008-04-17T16:50:00.000-07:00

Hi again, all you book fans. Ever wonder what we authors do when we're not writing books? We're sitting here writing blogs!

Someone asked why I was re-writing, The Floor is not an Option! Well, since I wrote that book in 2000 and it was published in 2002, I decided it needed some updating. And I wanted to totally re-vamp the Paper chapter and streamline it. The more I worked with my ADD clients, and in my own files, it became apparent that the system I had toted was still a bit too clumsy. So, I also got a new editor and a new graphics person. Now I am waiting on new reviews. As soon as those come in and the new photo shoot is done the graphic artist can complete the text and layout. Then off to the printers!

This time I will be using Print On Demand (POD). No more books in my garage! Anytime someone wants a book, I call BookSurge, and off it goes through Amazon. I just gave them free publicity in case anyone is interested!

My next book is sitting on the shelf, quivering, where I have left it with only three chapters written when I decided to re-do this book. It's a big guess when that one will come to fruition. It will be about a different type of clutter. And behind that one will be yet another one of a very different sort. I should be busy for awhile.

Since most people don't like to organize or be coached over the summer I usually try to get in a lot of writing during that time. That is, if my dog and my husband would stop interrupting me. I need a cabin, a creek, and a maid to take care of all my needs while I just sit and pour out what flows from my ever expanding images in my brain.

To those of you aspiring to write - just do it. Sit down and spit it out. You don't need perfect words or phrases. You need the ideas and thoughts. The perfection can come later.

Until next time . . . Sheila at clutter STOP

Sheila of clutter STOP

2008-04-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a week. My head is still spinning from NAPO, my organizing conference. So much information, so little brain power to assimiliate it all. Not all organizing stuff, but all the technical web stuff and future stuff too. My ADD brain can only handle so much!This is my first blog. Will I be able to keep it up? Who knows. I'm trying. I must - it's part of the future and I must not fall behind. Besides, I must tell you about my exciting news!This summer, the 2ND Edition of my book, The Floor is not an Option! is due out! It will be available from Amazon so far. I will let you know from where else as time goes on. Just keep checking this blog! Everything you wanted to know about clearing clutter from your home is in this book. Everything you wanted to know about handling your mail and how to file your papers is in this book. You must have this book!Spring is coming. Now is the time to get rid of the winter doldrums. Get into those closets, cupboards and your garage and rid yourself of items that are of no value to you any longer.

'Till next time . . .Sheila of clutter STOP