Getting Organized as a New Year's Resolution

Tips for Tuesday

It's the beginning of a new year. We start making resolutions, most of which we probably won't keep. They may be to stop smoking, lose weight or find a new job. Perhaps one of the most popular these days is getting organized. But how do you keep that resolution?

Smoking cessation and losing weight are easily defined. But what does "Get Organized" really mean?

Being organized isn't about perfection. It doesn't mean that everything has to be put away, and all your surfaces are pristine bordering on sterile.

What it does mean is that you are able to find things when you need them because they have been put away where they belong. This mean you have a system in place for handling items as they come into your home. It may be in a holding spot for a while (like bills), or it may get put away immediately, like groceries.

It also means that there are times you may fall behind a bit because of life's intrusions. And that's okay. As long as there is a place for something to be put away, and you make the time to take care of it when you can, then you are on your way to being organized.

Finally, don't stress yourself out if you can't get it all done in a day or weekend. It probably took years to get you there. So reward yourself when a room or area gets done. You deserve it.