Seven Successful Strategies for Working from Home

Working from home, or ready to join the thousands of Canadians who already do? Home-based businesses offer considerable advantages, but many challenges. Here are seven strategies that will make your home office experience more productive and rewarding.

1) Select a dedicated workspace. If possible, select a room with a door to block out distractions. Also, choose your space based on how you will use it. For example, locate it near the main entrance to your home if clients and suppliers will be visiting frequently.

2) Choose your office furniture carefully. You want to create a space that is comfortable, productive and efficient. Ensure your space is well lit and provides proper storage space.

3) Purchase office equipment based on your needs. Consider all-in-one equipment with fax, printer, copier, and scanner functions to save money and space. Invest in a business phone line with voicemail so you won’t miss any messages.

4) Set a schedule and stick to it. Early or late riser? Business or casual? Find the routine that works for you and keep it. Remember to set daily goals to avoid doing household chores when you should be working. Regularly scheduled breaks are also important, allowing you to stay fresh through the working day.

5) Outsource and delegate. It’s easier to stay efficient and focused on your work when you make use of support service providers, such as accountants and couriers.

6) Plan your outings. You’ll save time by picking one day during the week to run errands.

7) Take time to network. It’s important to interact with friends and associates on a regular basis. Plan weekly lunches or join a networking group to make new contacts and learn new business techniques.

If you enjoyed this article, please pass it along to others who would find it useful and sign up for our Organize Anything newsletter on our homepage at www.organizeanything.com

© 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.

‘No’ Hesitation – Simple Techniques to Help You Say No

How often have you found yourself unable to say ‘no’ to someone? It isn’t easy turning down an invite or request. After all, it may mean a lost opportunity or bad feelings, personally or professionally. But if you say yes too often, you may wind up with too much on your plate to complete everything successfully. This can result in greater damage to friendships and business relationships when you fail to come through as promised. It can also have a negative impact on your peace of mind. Knowing when and how to say no takes practice and preparation, so before you make any decision:

- Ask yourself if the request is something you want to do. Agreeing to do something you don’t like or want to do can lead to stress, even poor performance that jeopardizes your bottom line or a valuable relationship.
- Resist the urge to answer immediately. Tell the person you need time to decide. This way, you can think about your reasons for saying no. And be sure to give the person your decision as promised; this will reduce the risk of additional disappointment or ill will.
- Know your goals. Anything you agree to do should complement or move you closer to achieving your personal and professional goals.
- Weigh the request against your schedule. Knowing that the time and effort required are beyond your ability will make it easier to say no.
- Visualize the word no. Picturing yourself saying no will make it easier to say it when necessary.

Remember, when you say no, you are saying no to a request; it’s not personal. Keep it that way by sticking to the facts. You don’t need to offer a long explanation, just state your reason simply and clearly. For example:

- “Thanks for thinking of me, but I’m pressed for time and I’ll have to pass.”
- “Thanks for the invitation, but I’m unable to attend.”
- “My schedule is fully booked and I am unable to take on any new volunteer activities this month/year.”
- “I’m unable to take on this project because I don’t have the time to give it my full attention.”
- “Thanks for asking, but my weekends are set aside for family time.”

Even using these techniques, you may find yourself in situations where an employer, client or friend just won’t accept no for an answer. But before you say yes:

- Ask about alternatives. There may be other ways in which you can help someone – ways that require less effort for you, but are equally valuable and appreciated.
- Change your priorities if necessary. There may be a work-related project where you can’t say no. If so, ask about or look at postponing or delegating other responsibilities. This will give you the time you need to get it done right.

How to Organize Video Game Systems and Accessories

Depending on the console you own and the entertainment unit or TV stand you have, there are different ways you could store the console. You could use an under-shelf wire basket which attaches by just slipping on to the shelf above it to create more space in a cabinet. If you currently have more than one system set up, they can be stacked using wire racks to separate the consoles, so they do not get over heated. These are sold to be used in kitchen cupboards.

Games in cases can be stored in DVD racks, or you can take them out of the cases and along with their instruction books, put them in a CD book/binder. Larger accessories such as Dance Dance Revolution mats or Guitar Hero guitars can be stored under the couch (if there is enough room) in plastic containers designer for under-bed storage.

Controllers can be coiled up and placed in a drawer or bin when not being used. This prevents people from tripping on them and dust collecting on and around them. Wireless controllers are a good option, if you think it will be difficult to get your family to wrap up the cords after use.

Cords can be controlled with zip cords, twist ties, or Velcro tie backs. Mad Catz makes a hub so that up to four systems can be hooked up to the TV at the same time. Also, each video game system company creates special carrying bags for their consoles that also have room for games and controllers. The consoles can’t stay in these bags while in use, but the accessories can. Take a look for these bags and other solutions at video game departments, in discount department stores, or at video game stores.

© 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.

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.

Never Worry About Losing Your Keys Again

It seem like the items we spend most of our time searching for are the ones we need and use daily. The best example is our keys. How many of us spend 20 extra minutes every morning before leaving the house searching for our keys, or five minutes waiting outside the front door before we can dig them out of our purse or pockets to let ourselves in? We just toss our keys somewhere different everyday, and then forget where we put them. To always ensure a speedy dash out the front door, follow these practical steps to end the frustration of misplaced keys.

1) Be consistent by always keeping your keys in the same place--hang them on a hook or put them in a designated basket near the door. Regardless of how tired or distracted you may be when you get in the door, take the time to go directly to the spot when you come in to aid in starting this routine.

2) Whether you choose a hook, bowl or basket by the door, make it fun. Buy an inexpensive funky colored hook or pretty bowl that catches your attention. If you immediately hit the fridge when you walk in, keep your keys on top of the fridge. Try to choose somewhere out in the open where you can easily see them.

3) In your bag, briefcase or purse, find a regular home for keys and get them back to this spot just as you would in you home. If you keep your keys in your jacket pocket, stick to one pocket so you always know: your keys are in your right pocket

4) Make sure the keychain you purchase is sturdy. Your key ring holds important items to you - your home, car, office and mailbox. Spend a little more money on your keychain to ensure their safety. Slim down your key ring. Only put frequently used keys, such as your house, car and office, on your daily key chain so you can grab it quickly.

5) Do a key audit. Make sure you know what each key is for and that they work. For easy identification, you can purchase keys cut with designs and patterns. Or for a simple trick, paint the body of the key with a colorful nail polish. Mount a hook rack on the wall and label them for quick and easy access when needed. Keep these keys on rings so you can use a carabineer to quickly group these occasional keys with your every day ones when needed. This also makes it easy for when you need to give someone a key from your set.

6) A good memory is often related to developing good daily habits. The key is to follow the routine of always using the same location. Once the habit kicks in, you will do it without even realizing you did.

7) Mistakes can happen, so keep an extra key at a nearby friend’s home, and keep another set in your desk drawer at work. Keep a backup car key in your wallet to avoid those expensive key retrieving costs.
Knowing where your keys are will make leaving your house hassle-free and can be the start to a stress-free routine. With these helpful tips, you’ll never have to worry about misplaced keys again.

If you enjoyed this article, please pass it along to others who would find it useful and sign up for our Organize Anything newsletter on our homepage at www.organizeanything.com © 2010 Colette Robicheau

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.