Like to find some money? It pays to get organized.

A poll by the US based National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) found that an impressive 78% have found money or un-cashed checks during an organizing project and a fairly remarkable 26% of respondents have found $1000 or more. It proves it literally pays to get organized!

Here are a few tips:

1. Every time you start a new project, create a file folder for it. Get rid of those piles. Keep the file topics broad until you have too much info in it- then you can break it down.
2. Staple relevant materials together. Paperclips tend to catch on other papers within the file.
3. Colour code your files. Use colour to designate your priority tasks or client files, so that you can quickly search your files by scanning for a specific colour.
4. Keep files thin. Whenever you have to retrieve something, spend a few minutes tossing out paperwork that you no longer need.
5. When placing a file back in the cabinet always look in the folder before and after and do a quick purge.

Since you are spending more time inside you have probably noticed some areas of your home that need some improvement. Now’s a good time to make your kitchen a more efficient work space. Some tips:

1. Stacking- Stack pots and pans on top of each other according to size, biggest on the bottom. Stack baking sheets, muffin and cake pans, and bake ware together. Nest mixing bowls inside one another. Keep them at easy access for food preparation.

2. Storage- Arrange plastic containers inside one another. Keep lids on a rack next to containers. Store glasses in the cupboard by size.. Examine your kitchen to see if there is any storage space you have overlooked. Place holiday, special occasion dishes and small appliances in the back of the kitchen cupboards. Serving dishes should be stored by size. Always keep favoured dishes and utensils no more than one space deep or you will be frustrated each and every time you reach for them.

3. Cupboards and Drawers- Keep large knives, serving utensils and prep tools in a designated area. Organize your canned goods in cupboard labels facing out. Store all baking products such as flour, baking soda, powder and sugar on a shelf together. Keep muffin mixes, jell-o, pudding packs, and cake mixes together on one shelf. Keep all spices together. If you haven’t used them in a year, throw them out. Spices don’t have a long shelf life.

4. Cleaning- Keep cleaning products appropriately out of reach of children. Have a bin for sponges, clean rags and brushes to assist with cleaning. Do a monthly clean out of your refrigerator. Wipe down all shelves and organize bottles, jars and condiments. Remove those “mystery foods.”

5. Layout- Arrange cabinets for dishes and glassware near the dishwasher for easy unloading. Keep counter tops free of clutter. This will allow you more space to cook. If you are short space, consider purchasing a baker’s rack or trolley.

© 2010 Colette Robicheau
The Organizing Coach
Organize Anything
Phone: (902) 233-1577 Fax: (902) 455-0553
www.organizeanything.com
Permission to reuse or redistribute these materials is hereby granted provided they are reproduced or redistributed in their entirety with full attribution.