30 Day Organize Athon 1

Interactive Workbook

30-Day

Organize-athon 30 Days of 5-Minute Tasks To Organize & Declutter Your Home & Your Life

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/?utm_source=30DO&utm_medium=PDF&utm_campaign=Download


30-Day Organize-athon | Workbook

2 © 2011 Happiness Strategies 2




Please Read This Important Information

Your use of this Product is intended for individual

personal use only. Any copying, renting,

adaptation, distribution, transmission or

reproduction in any form or by any means,

including by email, without the prior express

consent of the copyright owner, is prohibited.

© 2011 Happiness Strategies Pty Ltd

PO Box 527 Chatswood NSW 2057 Australia

For more on getting organized and being your best visit:

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Contents

What Is The 30-Day Organize-athon? .............................. 8

Day 1: Declutter Your Living Area .................................. 10

Day 2: Clear Out Your Hanging Closet ............................ 14

Day 3: Organize Your Kitchen Utensils ........................... 18

Day 4: Declutter Your Bathroom Cabinets ...................... 21

Day 5: Organize Your Household Information Center ...... 25

Day 6: Freshen Up Your Crockery & Glassware ................ 28

Day 7: Organize Your Books, DVDs, and/or CDs .............. 32

Day 8: Organize Your Linen Closet ................................. 36

Day 9: Organize Your Laundry....................................... 39

Day 10: Organize Your Garage ...................................... 43

Day 11: Organize Your Shoes ........................................ 46

Day 12: Declutter Your Car’s Glove Box .......................... 50

Day 13: Organize Your Pots, Pans and Cookware ............ 53




Day 14: Organize Your Paperwork ................................. 56

Day 15: Declutter Your Home Office .............................. 59

Day 16: Organize Your Underwear ................................. 63

Day 17: Declutter The Kids’ Toys ................................... 66

Day 18: Organize Your Storage Containers ..................... 70

Day 19: Organize Your Outgoing Space ......................... 73

Day 20: Organize Your Fridge ........................................ 77

Day 21: Organize Your Pantry ....................................... 80

Day 22: Declutter Your Bag ........................................... 83

Day 23: Organize Your Goals ......................................... 87

Day 24: Organize Your Bedside Area .............................. 91

Day 25: Declutter Your Surfaces .................................... 95

Day 26: Declutter Your Exercise and Sports Equipment ... 98

Day 27: Declutter By Donating A Dozen ....................... 102

Day 28: Organize Your Grooming Supplies (And Save Time

And Money Too) ........................................................ 108




Day 29: Get Organized Mindset Shift #1: Adopt OCI-OGO112

Day 30: Get Organized Mindset Shift #2: Make It A Habit

To Avoid Clutter ......................................................... 117

Congratulations And A Bonus Task .............................. 121

30-Day Organize-athon Checklist ................................ 124

About The Author ...................................................... 126




What Is The 30-Day Organize-athon?

Make a fresh start and get better organized in just 30 days with the easy and motivating 30-Day Organize-athon.

Over 30 days I’ll give you a daily 5-minute organizing or decluttering assignment.

Each assignment will be a very simple, step-by-step task to organize a small aspect of your home, time or life.

That’s just 30 days of 5-minute tasks – totally achievable!

How Can You Get The Most From The 30-Day

Organize-athon?

To maximize your motivation and get the most from yourself over the next 30 days, make a commitment!

If you don’t make a commitment then life will intervene, and you’ll miss the opportunity to be part of a motivating community of fellow organizers. Don’t procrastinate, take action!

To start, simply leave a comment on this post to say you’re going to complete all 30 x 5-minute organizing tasks in the 30-Day Organize-athon. Your commitment is very powerful!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/03/get-organized-for-spring-join-the-30-day-organize-athon/



Once you’re committed, get your daily challenge each day by either:

Making it a habit to come here to your workbook each

day to read the current day’s task

Getting your tasks automatically delivered to your inbox

each day (use the link provided in your download page).

As you complete each day’s task, leave a comment on the link provided at the end of the task.

If you think of decluttering or organizing projects you’d like to tackle outside of your 5-minute task, use the interactive to-do-list following each task to log your ideas.

If you enjoy checking things off a list, use the checklist at the back of your workbook to check off each task as you complete it. You’ll feel wonderful as you work your way down the list.

At the end of the 30 days, your home and life will be transformed - and it will only have taken you 5 minutes a day! Very cool.

So welcome to the 30-Day Organize-athon. Easy, motivating, and achievable!




Day 1: Declutter Your Living Area

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-declutter your living area.

Take a deep breath, and imagine inhaling a sense of clarity, freedom and order. Then get started!

Day 1: Declutter Your Living and/or

Entertainment Area

Step 1: Grab a large garbage bag.

Step 2: Quickly make your way around your living and/or entertainment area, tossing these items into the bag as you go:

Magazines other than the current month’s

Newspapers other than today’s

Knick-knacks – unless you really love them

Tatty coasters

DVDs no-one watches any more

CDs no-one listens to any more

Games no-one plays any more

Remotes and technology no-one uses any more

(including old game consoles)

Food

Books you’ve read and won’t re-read, or will never read


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-1-declutter-your-living-area/



Videos, cassettes, computer floppies, camera film – any

storage device for which you no longer have hardware

Framed photos – unless they’re genuinely special to you

Tatty cardigans, socks and other apparel strewn around

the furniture

‘Displayed’ items on shelves that collect dust but hold no

meaning for you

Dead potted plants

Threadbare or stained cushions, throws, rugs, etc

Anything else that isn’t loved and/or used regularly.

Step 3: Put your bag by the door or take it straight out to the car. (Take it to the tip as soon as you can.)

Step 4: If there’s something genuinely valuable in there, and you’d lose sleep over tossing it, then you can put it into a separate charity store bag. But if it’s junk, just let it go.

If it doubt, don’t over-analyze – toss it.

And you’re done!

Got an Extra 5 Minutes?

1. Return items that don’t belong in the living area to the

proper place – the kids’ bedrooms, the office, the kitchen,

etc.

2. Straighten the coffee table and wipe it down.

3. Neaten remotes, DVDs, and anything else that lives in the

living room.




4. Fluff up the cushions.

Now doesn’t that feel more like a ‘living’ room?

The 30-Day Organize-athon Mantra

Move fast. Don’t overthink. Let it go!

Start the 5-minute timer now.

Before You Go…

Remember to leave a comment to say you’ve done today’s task.

And I’ll see you back here tomorrow!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2010/12/but-i-might-need-it-one-day-how-to-stop-making-excuses-get-organized-declutter-simplify/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/5-minute-timer/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-1-declutter-your-living-area/#comments



To Do List For This Task

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Day 2: Clear Out Your Hanging Closet

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-clear the hanging part of your closet.

Take a deep breath as you imagine inhaling a sense of clarity, freedom and order, and off we go!

Day 2: Clear Out Your Hanging Closet


Step 2: Open up the hanging part of your closet and, quickly scanning your clothes from left to right, toss into the bag anything that:

Doesn’t fit

Feels scratchy or unpleasant against your skin

Is in a shape that doesn’t suit you

Is in a color that doesn’t suit you

Has a neckline or hem length that doesn’t suit you

Has negative memories or associations

Is tatty

Has been worn too many times

Is tragically out of fashion

Is not your style any more

Makes you feel uncomfortable or unhappy

Hasn’t been worn in the past 12 months.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-2-clear-out-your-hanging-closet/



Step 3: Do a second scan, left to right, for anything that needs repair, alteration or laundering. If you know you’ll never get around to the repair, alteration or dry cleaning, then pop these items straight into your first bag. Otherwise, put them aside for later attention.

Step 4: Put your bag by the door or take it straight out to the car. (Take it to the charity store or tip as soon as you can. Really good stuff should go to charity, but let junk go.)

And you’re done!


1. Notice what’s still in your closet – the styles, colors and shapes that suit you – and make a note to buy more if you need them.

2. Notice what you’ve decided to ditch – the styles, colors and shapes that don’t work for you – and make a What Not To Wear list to avoid future fashion faux pas.

3. Tidy your clothes and straighten your hangers.

Now aren’t you looking forward to getting dressed?





http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2010/10/simplify-your-life-what-not-to-wear/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2010/10/simplify-your-life-what-not-to-wear/





Before You Go…


See you back here tomorrow!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-2-clear-out-your-hanging-closet/#comments




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Day 3: Organize Your Kitchen Utensils

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your kitchen utensils.

As usual, breathe in a sense of clarity, freedom and order – and let’s get started!

Day 3: Organize Your Kitchen Utensils

Step 1: Empty your utensil drawer on the table or counter. (Use a towel if you’re concerned about scratching the surface.)

Step 2: Add any stray spatulas, wooden spoons, can openers, or other items that belong here but have migrated to other kitchen hide-outs.

Step 3: Quickly select the utensils you use regularly. If you have doubles, choose the one that’s in better condition.

Step 4: Throw your rarely-if-ever-used utensils and doubles into the trash. If they’re really fabulous, put them aside for the charity store.

Step 5: Put the utensils you’re keeping back into their drawer. Make the drawer tidy by having all the utensils face the same way, with handles toward you.

Step 6: If any of your utensils need replacement, make a note on your shopping list.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-3-organize-your-kitchen-utensils/



And you’re done!


1. Before returning your utensils to their drawer, wipe it

down so it’s nice and clean.

2. Notice if your utensil collection is missing something that

would make your kitchen life easier – eg metric measuring

spoons or a rubber (rather than plastic) spatula. Add this to

your shopping list.

3. Sharpen your knives.

Now won’t cooking be a little more pleasant?




Before You Go…


And I’ll see you back here tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-3-organize-your-kitchen-utensils/#comments




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Day 4: Declutter Your Bathroom Cabinets

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-declutter the cabinets in your bathroom.

As usual, inhale a sense of clarity, freedom and order, then let’s get to it!

Day 4: Declutter Your Bathroom Cabinets


Step 2: Open up your bathroom cabinets and, quickly scanning from top left to bottom right, toss into the bag:

Medicines past their expiration date*

Medicines for conditions that no longer apply*

Old, expired or yucky toiletries

Old, expired or yucky make-up

Old, expired or yucky bath/shower products

Ancient or dirty hairbrushes and combs

Old perfumes and lotions

Empty or mildewed bottles

Anything gross or unpleasant to use

Anything that hasn’t been used in the past 12 months.

Step 3: Throw your bag straight into the trash. Euw!

And you’re done!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-4-declutter-your-bathroom-cabinets/




1. Refresh your first-aid supplies:

Make a list of items you need for a first-aid kit –

including bandages, medicines, antiseptics and other

emergency supplies appropriate for your family’s

needs

Check your bathroom cabinet for missing items and

add these to your shopping list.

2. Take everything out of your cabinets, wipe down the

shelves, and return everything neatly.

3. Rearrange your cabinets so that:

Similar things are together (eg all oral care items are

together), and

Most commonly used items are most easily

accessible.

Now don’t you just want to admire those cabinets?




Before You Go…





http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-4-declutter-your-bathroom-cabinets/#comments



See you back here tomorrow!

* Note: Most drugs can be thrown in the household trash, but consumers should take certain precautions before tossing them out, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).


http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm101653.htm

http://www.fda.gov/default.htm




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Day 5: Organize Your Household

Information Center

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to organize your noticeboard or household information area.

Inhale: clarity, freedom, order; exhale: chaos! Now let’s start.

Day 5: Organize Your Noticeboard

Step 1: Remove all the invitations, photos, kids’ artwork, bills, school notices, paperwork and random stuff from your noticeboard, fridge door or towering pile on the kitchen counter.

Step 2: Quickly pick out only the most current, inspiring or useful items.

Step 3: Place these items neatly and in chronological order on the noticeboard or fridge (avoid piles – out of sight and into oblivion). Keep things in chronological order so it’s easy to see what’s coming up, and to discard what’s out of date.

Step 4: From the remaining items, put anything you really want to keep (really?) in a memory box (see below).

Step 5: As for everything else – shred, toss or recycle.

And you’re done!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-5-organize-your-household-information-centre/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-5-organize-your-household-information-centre/




Create some memory boxes:

1. Find (or buy later) some attractive boxes – one for each

family member.

2. Label each box with the person’s name.

3. Place the boxes in each person’s room, or on a shelf in the

family room or study – wherever is most tidy, practical

and appealing.

4. Use these boxes as a neat holding place for kids’ artwork,

photos, keepsakes and other items you can’t yet (yet!)

bring yourself to throw away. As a box gets full, you’ll be

automatically prompted to throw out older items.

Now don’t you feel a lot more organized?




Before You Go…


Till tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-5-organize-your-household-information-centre/#comments




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Day 6: Freshen Up Your Crockery &

Glassware

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to freshen up your crockery and glassware.

Remember: take a deep breath and think clarity, freedom and order, as you go.

Day 6: Freshen Up Your Crockery & Glassware

Step 1: Get a garbage bag and line it with some newspaper.

Step 2: Quickly scan your crockery and glassware. Put into your bag any bowls, plates, cups, saucers, mugs or glasses that are:

Chipped

Stained

Mismatched

In poor condition

Ugly promotional items.

Step 3: Place your bag in the trash or empty it into the recycle bin as appropriate.

Step 4: If you need to replace any items, make a note on your shopping list.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-6-freshen-up-your-crockery-glassware/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-6-freshen-up-your-crockery-glassware/



Step 5: Do a quick tidy of your remaining crockery and glassware so that:

Similar things are together, and

Most commonly used items are most easily accessible.

And you’re done!


Decide to abandon your ‘special occasion’ stash.

1. If you have glasses, crockery or other items you only use

for special occasions, consider abandoning this idea.

2. If the items are too delicate or not your taste, perhaps

you could donate them?

3. If they’re nice and usable, perhaps you could integrate

them with your everyday stuff and get pleasure out of

them more regularly? You’ll also save yourself the trouble

of packing them away after every use.

Now won’t meals be more pleasurable?









Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-6-freshen-up-your-crockery-glassware/#comments




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Day 7: Organize Your Books, DVDs,

and/or CDs

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your library of books, DVDs and/or CDs.

Before you start, inhale a sense of clarity, freedom and order; now let’s get going.

Day 7: Organize Your Books, DVDs, and/or CDs

Decide if you want to tackle books, DVDs, CDs, or a combination. What you can achieve in 5 minutes will depend on the size of your various collections.

Step 1: Take a large box (or bag) to your bookshelves, or wherever you store your library. Moving quickly from top left to bottom right, put into the box:

Books you’ve read and won’t re-read

Unread books you’re never likely to read

Books that contain out-of-date information (that means

most reference books, encyclopedias, etc)

Old textbooks – unless you graduated, like, this decade

Binders of seminar/course info (unless you really believe

you’ll refer to them)

Archived magazines (do you ever look back at them?)

Manuals for software or computers you no longer use


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-7-organize-your-books-dvds-andor-cds/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-7-organize-your-books-dvds-andor-cds/



Software CDs for programs you no longer use

Computer games the kids (or you) have outgrown

CDs you no longer listen to

CDs ripped to your iPod and backed up on your computer

(if you only want the CD booklet, just keep that)

DVDs you’ve seen and won’t re-watch

DVDs the kids have outgrown

Unseen DVDs you’re never likely to watch

Photo albums you never look at

Photo albums that have negative memories

Video or audio cassettes if you no longer have players for

them.

Step 2: Take your box(es) to the door or straight to the car. You can usually donate novels, non-fiction books, CDs and DVDs to libraries; the rest can probably be recycled. Take care with data and photos.

Step 3: Do a quick re-order to make better use of the newly liberated space on your shelves. Dewey Decimal, anyone?

And you’re done!


1. If you only did books, do DVDs and/or CDs – or vice-versa.

2. Get a damp cloth and wipe down your shelves and your

collection.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification



3. If you haven’t already, investigate your local library. It’s a

fabulous way to enjoy books, DVDs and CDs without

cluttering up your home.

Now don’t you just want to make a cup of coffee and settle down with a good book?




Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-7-organize-your-books-dvds-andor-cds/#comments




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Day 8: Organize Your Linen Closet

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your bed linen, towels, and table linen.

Think: clarity, freedom, and order. Let’s start.

Day 8: Organize Your Bed Linen, Towels, &

Table Linen

Step 1: Get a large bag (you may need to buy more bags soon!) and open up your linen shelves. Moving quickly from top left to bottom right, toss out any:

Sheets and pillowcases that are old, stained or tatty

Towels that are old, stained or tatty

Tablecloths that are old, stained or tatty

Napery that is old, stained or tatty

Blankets that are old, stained or tatty

Quilts that are old, stained or tatty

Bed linen, table linen and towels that are surplus to your

general needs (allow for guests and keep a couple of old

towels for spills and leaks).

Step 2: If something is really lovely, and can be rejuvenated by laundering or dry cleaning, and you’re certain you’re happy to make the effort, then put it into a separate bag. It’s unlikely anything else will be donation-worthy, except perhaps excess table linen that’s in good condition.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-8-organize-your-linen-closet/



Step 3: Pop your bag(s) into the trash and/or take to the car for dry cleaning/donation.

Step 4: Do a quick re-order of your linen closet to make better use of the newly liberated space.

And you’re done!


1. Check your pillows – do you need to update them? If so,

add pillows to your shopping list.

2. Organize your linens with the main fold facing out,

toward you. It looks much nicer this way.

3. If you have an attractive table, consider dispensing with

tablecloths altogether in favor of placemats. You’ll save

on storage space and laundry.

Now don’t you just want to admire your beautiful linen closet?




Before You Go…

Remember to leave a comment to say you’ve done today’s task. See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-8-organize-your-linen-closet/#comments





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Day 9: Organize Your Laundry

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your laundry.

Our focus is clarity, freedom, order. Now let’s do it!

Day 9: Organize Your Laundry

Step 1: Get a large bag. Quickly scanning your laundry shelves and benches, throw into the bag:

Old paint cans, tiles, etc

Decrepit brooms, dustpans, cleaning equipment

Cleaning supplies you don’t use

Empty bottles of laundry detergent, fabric softener, etc

Tatty baskets and hampers

Broken irons, ironing boards, etc

Anything moldy, mildewed, or yucky.

Step 2: Pop your bag into the trash.

Step 3: Remove anything from the laundry that should be stored elsewhere – eg:

Car-related stuff –> in the garage

Random clothes –> in the closet

Spare paper towels –> in the pantry

Spare bulbs –> in the hall closet


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-9-organize-your-laundry/



Towels –> in the linen closet; etc.

Step 4: Do a quick tidy of your laundry shelves.

And you’re done!


Review your laundry equipment and supplies. Make a note of anything you need to replace, update, or purchase so that doing laundry takes as little time and effort as possible. Check that you have:

A washer and dryer that work well, and are of the right

size for your family’s needs

Laundry detergent, fabric softener, dryer softener sheets,

stain remover, etc – in sufficient quantities for your

household routine, and appropriate for your needs (eg for

cold water, front loader, etc)

Laundry hampers – one in the laundry (or several, if you

sort whites, colors, etc); or one in each bathroom; or one in

each bedroom (this can be more effective with kids)

A laundry basket for transporting clothes

An iron and ironing board.

Now doesn’t that take some of the pain out of doing laundry?







Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-9-organize-your-laundry/#comments




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Day 10: Organize Your Garage

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your garage (yes, I’m serious!).

Remember: clarity, freedom, and order. Let’s begin.

Day 10: Organize Your Garage

Step 1: Get a large box or bag (you may need several). Quickly scan your garage and toss into your box/bag any:

Junk

Outgrown toys and clothes (if sorting through boxes for

donate-able items is an obstacle to getting it done, then

simply toss it all)

Ancient seasonal items, holiday decorations, etc

Rusty or broken tools

Rusty or broken gardening implements

Rusty or broken garden furniture

Prehistoric gardening supplies

Memorabilia (unless it’s genuinely meaningful to you –

and if it’s been gathering dust out here for decades, then

let’s be honest, it probably isn’t)

Stuff from when you last moved that’s never been

unpacked (if you haven’t opened it you don’t need it)

Notes and books from school, college, etc


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-10-organize-your-garage/



Accoutrement for abandoned hobbies, sports and

interests (if you take it up again, buy what you need

afresh; it will cost you less overall when you take stress,

clutter and mental clarity into account)

Anything you haven’t used in the past 12 months.

Step 2: Pop your boxes/bags into the trash or take them the car for a trip to the tip.

And you’re done!


1. Consider whether you want to install shelving, hooks, etc,

to better organize your garage space.

2. Make a note to buy shelves, hooks, and supplies, and/or or

to contact a handyman.

Now isn’t that a beautiful thing?




Before You Go…





http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-10-organize-your-garage/#comments




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Day 11: Organize Your Shoes

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your shoes.

We want clarity, freedom, and order. Now let’s create them!

Day 11: Organize Your Shoes

Step 1: Get a large bag. Quickly scanning your footwear, throw into the bag any shoes or boots that:

Are tatty, broken, or in poor condition

Are tragically out of style

Are ill-fitting or uncomfortable

Don’t go with your clothes, taste, or lifestyle.

Step 2: Do a second scan for anything that needs repair. If you know you’ll never get around to the repair, then pop these items straight into your bag. Otherwise, put them aside for later attention.

Step 3: Put your bag by the door or take it straight out to the car. (Really good stuff should go to charity, but let the rest go into the trash.)

Step 4: Do a quick tidy of your remaining shoes and boots.

And you’re done!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-11-organize-your-shoes/




1. Look over the outfits in your closet. Would particular

items of footwear help you get more out of your

wardrobe?

For example, for girls:

Do you have several evening outfits but no good

evening shoes?

Could you get more looks from your jeans if had

boots to tuck your jeans into?

Would platform heels allow you to dress up

existing outfits?

Would ballet flats allow you to dress down existing

outfits?

For guys:

Would some black or brown lace-up shoes look

better for work?

Sorry guys – I’m out.

2. Add the shoes you need to your clothes shopping list.

As if you needed an excuse to go shoe shopping!










Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-11-organize-your-shoes/#comments




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Day 12: Declutter Your Car’s Glove Box

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to declutter your glove box.

Clarity, freedom and order – here we come!

Day 12: Declutter Your Car’s Glove Box

Step 1: Grab a bag and get into your car. Empty your glove box onto the seat beside you.

Step 2: Only return to your glove box items you need and use, for example:

Car log book

Pen and notebook

Sunscreen

Sunglasses

Current street directories

Relevant maps

Wet wipes

First aid items.

Step 3: Toss into the bag:

Yucky tissues

Random receipts and post-its

Ancient maps and street directories

Food remnants


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-12-declutter-your-cars-glove-box/



Anything you don’t need or use.

Step 4: Throw your bag into the trash.

And you’re done!


1. Check your trunk:

Remove any trash

Return to the proper place any items that don’t

belong in the trunk.

2. Check the interior of your car:

Remove any trash

Return to the proper place any items that don’t

belong in the car.

Road trip, anyone?




Before You Go…





http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-12-declutter-your-cars-glove-box/#comments




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Day 13: Organize Your Pots, Pans and

Cookware

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to organize your pots and pans.

Let’s get to it.

Day 13: Organize Your Pots, Pans, and

Cookware

Step 1: Empty your pots and pans cupboard onto the floor.

Step 2: Add any stray cookware that belongs here but has migrated to other kitchen locations.

Step 3: Quickly select the items you use regularly. If you have doubles, choose the one that’s in better condition.

Step 4: Throw decrepit cookware into the trash. Any doubles, or items you’ve rarely-if-ever used (do I see a Flavorwave?) can be put aside for the charity store.

Step 5: Put the pots, pans and cookware you’re keeping back into the cupboard. Make the area tidy by keeping similar items together.

Step 6: If any of your pots, pans or cookware needs replacement, make a note on your shopping list.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-13-organize-your-pots-pans-and-cookware/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-13-organize-your-pots-pans-and-cookware/



And you’re done!


Let’s simplify your recipe collection.

1. Scan your collection of cookbooks and recipes.

2. Books you don’t love or use? Put them aside to donate to

a friend or the library.

3. Books with only a few recipes you use? Consider ripping

out the pages you use to simplify your recipe library.

4. Make a note to buy a binder or display folder for your

loose recipes.

Now don’t you feel more inclined to cook here?




Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-13-organize-your-pots-pans-and-cookware/#comments




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Day 14: Organize Your Paperwork

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your paperwork.

Ready, set, organize!

Day 14: Organize Your Paperwork

Step 1: Gather all the paperwork from around your home – whether strewn throughout the house, covering every surface of your home office, or assembled in a towering pile. (If this alone takes more than 5 minutes it doesn’t count!)

Step 2: Quickly flick through the papers and create 3 piles:

1. Action Pile: Papers that need your attention – look for

bills, school notices, invitations, etc.

2. File Pile: Papers that need to be filed – look for

warranties, tax info, insurance notices, important receipts,

etc.

3. Discard Pile: Papers that you don’t need – look for junk

mail, notices for past events, random scraps of paper, etc.

Keep it moving and don’t overthink. If you’re really in doubt about something, put it on your Action Pile to consider when you have more time.

Step 3: Schedule a time during the week to action the Action Pile and file the File Pile.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-14-organize-your-paperwork/



Step 4: Discard the Discard pile. Be sure to shred sensitive information.

And you’re done!

NOTE: We’ll tackle the rest of your desk, den, study, or home office area tomorrow.


1. Start dealing with your Action Pile now. It’ll be easier to

continue later if you start now; and/or

2. File your File Pile; and/or

3. Shred your sensitive Discard Pile.

Now don’t you feel liberated?




Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-14-organize-your-paperwork/#comments




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Day 15: Declutter Your Home Office

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-declutter your desk, den, study, or home office area.

Let’s start.

Day 15: Declutter Your Home Office


Step 2: Quickly making your way around your desk, den, study, or home office area, toss these items into the bag as you go:

School or college notes and texts – unless you just

graduated they’re likely to be out of date

Equipment you don’t use – such as a 2-hole punch if you

use 3-ring binders

Excess stationery you won’t use this decade

Knickknacks that provide no meaning, beauty or

inspiration

Reading piles you’ll never get to – which, let’s face it,

means most reading piles

Books you’ll never read

Old computer or software manuals

Birthday, Christmas and greeting cards – unless they’re

genuinely special to you

Outdated printers, scanners, fax machines (check for

disposal info with your local council)


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-15-declutter-your-home-office/



Defunct phones, computers, cells, PDAs etc. (ditto)

Abandoned projects and hobbies and the various

accompanying supplies, storage containers, etc.

Old notebooks not needed for reference

Old lamps, chairs and other equipment in poor condition

Doubles of staplers, hole punches, scissors, rulers, etc.

Any item you haven’t used in the past 12 months

Anything broken, yucky, tatty, or inconsistent with your

standards of professionalism, especially if you work from

home.

Step 3: Put your bag by the door or take it straight out to the car. (Take it to the tip as soon as you can.)

Step 4: If there’s something genuinely valuable in there, put it into a separate charity store bag. If it doubt, don’t over-analyze – toss it.

And you’re done!


1. Return items that don’t belong in the home office area to

the proper place – the kids’ bedrooms, the living room, the

kitchen, etc.

2. Neaten anything else that lives in the home office area.

3. Straighten the desk and wipe it down.

4. Pop a cushion on the chair to make it more comfortable.

Now don’t you feel like doing some work here?







Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-15-declutter-your-home-office/#comments




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Day 16: Organize Your Underwear

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to organize your um, delicates.

OK go!

Day 16: Organize Your Underwear

Step 1: Empty your underwear drawer.

Step 2: Collect only those items that:

1. You wear; and

2. Are in good condition; and

3. Make you feel good.

Step 3: Arrange these items in your underwear drawer, keeping:

Similar items together – eg sports bras in one pile

Most frequently used items in the most accessible

locations – eg special-occasion lingerie can go toward the

back of the drawer.

Step 4: Throw into the trash all discarded underwear – decrepit, discolored and demoralizing alike.

And you’re done!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-16-organize-your-underwear/




Let’s take stock of your underwear requirements. (Boys, you get a

pass on this one. ) Check your closet and determine whether you need any additional underwear in order to make the most of your clothes, eg:

Strapless bra

Racer back bra

T-shirt bra

Nude bra

Shapewear

Thong or boy-leg brief (to avoid visible panty line).

Now isn’t that refreshing?




Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shapewear



http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-16-organize-your-underwear/#comments





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Day 17: Declutter The Kids’ Toys

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-declutter the kids’ toys.

Inhale: clarity, freedom, order. We’re gonna need it!

Day 17: Declutter The Kids’ Toys

Note: Decide on the extent to which you need to consult/involve the kids. This will depend on their ages and your family style.

Step 1: Grab a large bag or box. Depending on which option you choose in Step 3, you may need additional boxes/bags.

Step 2: Gather all the kids’ toys into one location. (If this alone takes more than 5 minutes it doesn’t count!)

Choose one of the following options:

Option A

Step 3: Quickly going through the collection, toss into the bag/box any toys that:

Your kids have outgrown

Are broken or dangerous

Have been divested of batteries because they’re so

annoying

Are in poor condition


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-17-declutter-the-kids-toys/



Are doubles.

Step 4: Extract any toys that are safe and in good condition for a charity bag. Toss the rest.

Option B

Step 3: Give each child a large bag/box and ask them to fill it up with their favorite toys - the ones they want to keep. Explain that the rest can be given to kids who don’t have so many toys and would really love some more.

(This may take more than 5 minutes, but perhaps you can go do something else while the kids ponder their collections?)

Step 4: Of the remaining toys, extract any that are safe and in good condition for a charity bag. Toss the rest.

And you’re done!


Check your own toy collection (um, please keep comments G-

rated for this blog ) for:

Ancient, out-of-date or falling-apart board games

Surplus packs of playing cards

Previous versions of games consoles

Computer/video games no one plays anymore.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-17-declutter-the-kids-toys/#comments




Now won’t everyone have more fun with the good stuff that’s left?




Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-17-declutter-the-kids-toys/#comments




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Day 18: Organize Your Storage

Containers

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your storage containers.

Let’s get to it.

Day 18: Organize Your Tupperware and

Storage Containers

Step 1: Empty out your stash of Tupperware and containers onto the floor

Step 2: Add any stray items that belong here but have migrated to other random household destinations.

Step 3: Quickly select the items that:

You use regularly; and

Have lids (if needed); and

Are in good condition.

Step 4: Store these neatly in the cupboard or drawer. Put smaller items into larger ones to save space, and put each little pile on top of its own collection of lids (that way your lids are always close to their respective containers).


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-18-organize-your-storage-containers/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-18-organize-your-storage-containers/



Step 5: Throw out everything else – anything gross, ancient, or surplus to your needs. You can put it aside for donation only if it’s really good.

And you’re done!


Let’s simplify your kids’ lunchboxes and drink bottles.

1. Discard anything they’ve outgrown.

2. Discard anything that’s stained or smells funky.

3. Discard anything that’s surplus to your needs – if you only

need one set per child, let the rest go.

4. Make a note to buy anything that you’re missing.

Now don’t buy more if you don’t need it!




Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-18-organize-your-storage-containers/#comments




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Day 19: Organize Your Outgoing Space

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to organize the things that need to leave your house.

Right, let’s get to it.

Day 19: Organize Your Outgoing Space

Step 1: Gather together any items that need to be taken out of your home, such as:

DVDs to return to the video store

Library books

Items you’ve borrowed from friends

Things that need to be taken somewhere for repair

Clothes or linens that need to be dry cleaned

A gift for an upcoming party, wedding or housewarming

An umbrella to leave in the car

Items for errands; etc.

Step 2: Choose a convenient spot near the door for these items. If there’s nothing already available, you could:

Move a small table to an appropriate position near the

door

Clear a shelf in a hallway closet

Liberate a deep drawer in a hall table.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-19-organize-your-outgoing-space/



Step 3: Place your outgoing items in their new position, so you can check one convenient place whenever you’re heading out. Make it a habit to check this spot as you leave – you’ll ‘remember’ things more often and feel much more organized.

And you’re done!


Consider what else you could do to make your outgoing space an organized zone:

1. Install hooks for keys?

2. Add a pen and post-it pad so you can write due dates on

library books and borrowed DVDs?

3. Put up a checklist of things to remember when you leave –

perhaps:

- Purse, phone, keys – for you?

- Schoolbag, lunch, homework – for the kids?

Now how organized is that!









Got a Question?

If you have questions about any of the 30-Day Organize-athon tasks, or the 30-Day Organize-athon program in general, please ask your question on this Q&A post or on this Facebook post.

Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-questions/

http://www.facebook.com/GetOrganizedWizard/posts/124376410973061

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-19-organize-your-outgoing-space/#comments




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Day 20: Organize Your Fridge

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your fridge.

Let’s go!

Day 20: Organize Your Fridge

Step 1: Grab a bag and open your fridge. Quickly scanning your shelves from top to bottom, toss into the bag anything that:

Has passed its use-by date

Has wilted, sprouted, or smells funky

No-one eats.

Step 2: Quickly wipe down the shelves (work around the remaining items).

Step 3: Do a quick tidy of the remaining items in your fridge.

And you’re done!


Let’s freshen up the freezer:

1. Scan your freezer and discard anything ancient, expired

or of unknown provenance.

2. Quickly wipe down the shelves or drawers.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-20-organize-your-fridge/



3. Do a quick tidy of the remaining items in your freezer.

Tomorrow we’ll declutter your pantry.




Got a Question?


Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!






http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-20-organize-your-fridge/#comments




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Day 21: Organize Your Pantry

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your pantry.

Let’s start.

Day 21: Organize Your Pantry

Step 1: Grab a bag and open your pantry. Quickly scanning your shelves from top to bottom, toss into the bag anything that:

Has passed its use-by date

Is stale or unappetizing

No-one eats.

Step 2: Do a quick tidy of the remaining items in your pantry.

And you’re done!


1. Wipe down your pantry shelves.

2. Check your stores of pantry staples. Add anything you

need to your shopping list.

3. Notice anything you have in excess supply. Make a mental

note to stop buying these items.

Now doesn’t that feel fresher!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-21-organize-your-pantry/






Got a Question?


Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!






http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-21-organize-your-pantry/#comments




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Day 22: Declutter Your Bag

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to organize your purse, tote, man-bag, briefcase, satchel, book-bag, or whatever generally accompanies you when you’re out and about. I’m just gonna call it

a bag for now.

Think clarity, freedom and order…

Day 22: Organize Your Bag

Step 1: Empty everything out of your bag.

Step 2: Neatly put back into your bag only those items you need, such as your:

Wallet

Keys

Cell phone

Small make-up purse (ideally you’ll just have some basics –

a neutral lipstick or lip balm, mascara, mirror, small bottle

of fragrance)

Small tissue pack

Small, light umbrella (I walk a lot so I always keep one in

my bag)

Sunglasses

Tampons

Hand cream


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-22-declutter-your-bag/




Mints

Pen and notebook.

Step 3: Be sure to toss out all the handbag clutter, including:

Floating tissues

Unneeded receipts

Ancient mints and gum

Loose coins

Random pens

Paper scraps

Accumulated hair accessories

Indecipherable notes

Icky make-up.

And you’re done!


Declutter one of these:

1. Declutter your wallet of old receipts, decrepit photos,

loyalty cards for places you rarely visit (your wallet real

estate is precious!), business cards, random papers, credit

or store cards you don’t need (destroy with care), and any

other random crap.

2. Declutter your keyring of keys you don’t need. If you’ve

forgotten what keys are for, put them on a separate

‘mystery’ keyring for later investigation. If you’re always




fumbling for keys, arrange them in order of use – eg, car,

garage, mailbox, top lock, bottom lock.

3. Declutter your make-up purse of excess cosmetics, as

well anything prehistoric, old-fashioned or funky smelling.

How liberating does that feel!




Got a Question?


Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!






http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-22-declutter-your-bag/#comments




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Day 23: Organize Your Goals

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize the things you would like to achieve for yourself.

Not what you were expecting? Let’s give it a go anyway…

Day 23: Organize Your Goals

Step 1: Get a pen and paper or open a new document on your computer.

Step 2: Without over-thinking, quickly list 5 to 10 things you’d like to achieve in the next 6 months. Aim for a range of goals across personal/spiritual, home/family and career/business/financial areas.

For example:

Lose 10 pounds

Organize the spare room

Get a promotion

Spend regular one-on-one time with each of the kids

Save money for a vacation

Read inspirational books; etc.

Step 3: Choose your top goal. Now choose one action you will take this week to move closer to that goal.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-23-organize-your-goals/



For example:

Lose 12 pounds –> Go for a walk after dinner three times

this week

Organize the spare room –> Call a charity to collect the

boxes of old clothes in the spare room

Get a promotion –> Talk to my boss about what I need to

work on to earn a promotion.

Step 4: Choose a time this week when you will do this action, and put it into your diary for the assigned day and time. Good – now you’re committed!

And you’re done!


1. Choose additional actions you will take toward your top

goal, and diarize these actions.

2. Choose more goals, and diarize actions you will take

toward these goals.

Doesn’t that feel motivating!









Got a Question?


Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-23-organize-your-goals/#comments




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Day 24: Organize Your Bedside Area

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to organize your bedside table or nightstand.

Cool – let’s do it.

Day 24: Organize Your Bedside Area

Step 1: Remove anything from your bedside area that detracts from a sense of calm and tranquillity, such as:

Computers, printers, laptops

TV

Paperwork

Kids’ toys

Exercise equipment

Work projects

Mobile phone

Laundry

Too many books

Too many magazines

Excess furniture

Random clothes

Unpleasant alarm.

Step 2: Toss or donate anything you don’t need or love.

Step 3: Relocate anything that belongs elsewhere.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-24-organize-your-bedside-area/



And you’re done!


Create a sanctuary around your bed. Add any of these to help create a relaxing, sleep-inviting space:

Lovely bed linen

Fluffy pillows

Cozy blankets and comforters

Soft lamps

Pleasant bedtime reading

Relaxing music and iPod dock

Water glass and bottle

A gentle alarm

Sleeping mask – if the sun disturbs you in the early

morning

Ear plugs – if you need them

Scented candles or oil burner.

*yawns* Nap time anyone?









Got a Question?


Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-24-organize-your-bedside-area/#comments




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Day 25: Declutter Your Surfaces

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your surfaces.

Ready? Let’s start.

Day 25: Declutter Your Surfaces

Step 1: Decide which surfaces you want to tackle in today’s 5 minutes. Depending on the state of your surfaces, you could choose to declutter one or more of the following:

Kitchen counters

Dining table

Coffee table and side tables

Bookshelves/display cabinets

Sofas and armchairs

Home office desk and filing cabinet

Bathroom vanities

Beds

Floors

Entry hall table/consoles.

Step 2: Quickly clear your selected surface(s) by:

Discarding anything you don’t use or love (a little

ruthlessness will earn you lovely, uncluttered surfaces that

look great and make you feel wonderful)


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-25-declutter-your-surfaces/



Putting away things that have a home

Finding a home for things that don’t (if you’re struggling

to find a home for something, consider tossing it instead).

And you’re done!


1. Repeat step 2 for another surface – or several!

2. Wipe down your freshly decluttered surface so it gleams.

Now doesn’t that look and feel fabulous!




Got a Question?


Before You Go…







http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-25-declutter-your-surfaces/#comments

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-26-declutter-your-exercise-and-sports-equipment/




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Day 26: Declutter Your Exercise and

Sports Equipment

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to declutter your exercise and sporting stuff.

OK, go! (PS That’s a witty little treadmill reference. )

Day 26: Declutter Your Exercise and Sports

Equipment

Step 1: Quickly walk around your house collecting any exercise or sports paraphernalia you’ve not used in the past 12 months. If it’s too large to move easily, make a note of it.

Check your:

Living room (under laundry?)

Garage

Bedroom

Under the bed

At the back of your closet

Spare room

High-up cupboards

Home office

Forgotten corners

Attic

Basement.




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTAAsCNK7RA




Be alert for:

Treadmills, stationary bikes, elliptical machines, rowers,

Stairmasters, home gyms, etc.,

Outdoor bikes

Infomercial purchases, including anything in the Thigh

Master or Ab Roller family

Skipping ropes

Boxing gloves

Racquets

Assorted balls

Sport-specific shoes or outfits

Supplies for kids’ abandoned activities

Climbing equipment; etc.

Step 2: Depending on the size, quality and quantity of your stash, decide how you’ll dispose of it. Consider:

Selling – if the number and quality of your items justifies

the time and hassle required (unlikely)

Donating – if the quality is good (possible)

Discarding – if it’s really just junk (most likely – the vast

majority of items will fall into this category).

If in doubt, let it go.

Step 3: Unless you have genuinely sale-worthy items, take your stash out to the trash, or out to the car for delivery to the tip or charity store. If you’re selling, make a note in your diary to organize it.





And you’re done!


Tidy the freshly liberated areas.

Go for a walk around the block to make yourself feel good

about getting rid of clutter and also getting some

exercise.

Now isn’t that a good way to increase your heart rate?




Got a Question?


Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!






http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-26-declutter-your-exercise-and-sports-equipment/#comments




To-Do Item Priority

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Day 27: Declutter By Donating A Dozen

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to declutter by finding at least 12 things to give away.

Don’t worry – it’ll be easier than you think!

Day 27: Declutter By Donating A Dozen

Step 1: Grab a bag. Quickly fill the bag as you move through your home – and don’t stop until you have at least 12 items.

Throw into the bag anything that:

You don’t use

You don’t like

Has negative associations

Is no longer your style

Keeps you stuck in the past

Is more than you need to feel good about your space.

Ideas for Items To Donate

Living Room

Unloved rugs, throws and cushions

Unloved ornaments, gifts, vases, etc

Knickknacks that don’t enhance your space

Extra pieces of furniture


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-27-declutter-by-donating-a-dozen/



Unloved lamps

No-longer used entertainment devices – TVs, DVD players,

stereos, etc

No-longer-played DVDs and CDs

Study

Excess stationery, notebooks, pens, etc

Knickknacks that provide no meaning, beauty or

inspiration

Functioning phones, computers, cells, PDAs, etc that you

don’t need

Supplies, storage containers and accoutrements relating

to abandoned craft, knitting, scrapbooking, and other

projects

Old lamps and equipment in good condition

Closet

Anything (clothes, footwear, coats, purses, accessories,

etc) you’ve not worn in a year

Anything that doesn’t fit

Anything that’s not your style

Anything that’s unflattering on you

Anything that’s uncomfortable, scratchy or ill-fitting (it

may be perfect on someone else)

Anything you bought ages ago that still has the label on it

Anything with negative memories or associations




Kitchen/Dining

Mismatched or unloved crockery

Mismatched or unloved cutlery

Cookware, plungers, teapots, gadgets, and sundry

infomercial purchases not used in the past 12 months

Cookbooks not used in the past 12 months

Knickknacks you don’t love

Fancy appliances you never use

Doubles of utensils, cookware, etc

Bathroom

Excess, unused towels, bathmats, etc

Excess, unopened perfumes, lotions, etc

Unloved bathroom ornaments

Storage gizmos that encourage clutter

Kids’ Stuff

No-longer-used toys

No-longer-used games consoles

Outgrown clothes

Outgrown CDs, DVDs, etc

Outgrown back-packs

Garden

Unloved garden ornaments




Step 2: Take your bag straight out to the car for charity-store drop-off.

And you’re done!


1. Find another 12 or more items for donation.

2. Set up a donation box or basket: Place it in a hall closet or

the laundry (somewhere tidy that will still be a visual

prompt), and use it any time you notice something

unused or unloved in your home, wardrobe, car or office.

Now you’re a power donator!




Got a Question?









Before You Go…


See you tomorrow!


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-27-declutter-by-donating-a-dozen/#comments




To-Do Item Priority

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Day 28: Organize Your Grooming Supplies

(And Save Time And Money Too)

In today’s 5 minutes we’re going to express-organize your grooming products and gadgets.

And today’s bonus task will save you time, space and money!


Step 1: Grab a large bag and take it to your bathroom cabinets, tallboy drawers, dressing table, or wherever you keep your grooming supplies.

Step 2: Quickly empty everything out – make-up, cosmetics, hair products, dryers, straighteners/rollers, hair accessories, nail polish, the works! For guys, we’re talking shaving stuff, hair products, and sundry after-shave lotions/colognes.

Step 3: Now replace only those items that:

You actually use

You enjoy using

Make you look good

Make you feel good

Are in good condition

Don’t take forever to use.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-28-organize-your-grooming-supplies-and-save-time-and-money-too/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-28-organize-your-grooming-supplies-and-save-time-and-money-too/



Step 4: Toss everything else into your bag and put it straight into the trash.

And you’re done!


Let’s streamline your personal grooming routine and save space, time and money. Simply decide to stop using time-consuming or excess grooming products and tools – and discard them.

Look for:

Straighteners or gadgets that take too much time and

effort

Messy make-up that leaves a trail of powder or residue

Difficult-to-use cosmetics that often need a do-over

Multiple steps and products invented by cosmetic

companies

Anything that requires constant touch-ups.

A simple routine will make you feel lighter, fresher, and more relaxed, too.

Now how beautiful is that!








Organize-athon FAQs

I’ve put together a special 30-Day Organize-athon | Getting And Staying Organized Q & A post.

Before You Go…


See you tomorrow for your Get Organized Mindset Shift #1!



http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-getting-and-staying-organized-q-a/


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-28-organize-your-grooming-supplies-and-save-time-and-money-too/#comments




To-Do Item Priority

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Day 29: Get Organized Mindset Shift #1:

Adopt OCI-OGO

Today and tomorrow we’re going to prepare for the end of the 30-Day Organize-athon by making two incredibly important organizing mindset shifts.

They will help you to preserve the organizing gains you’ve made over the past month – for life!

Day 29: Get Organized Mindset Shift #1: Adopt

OCI-OGO

Step 1: Decide to adopt OCI-OGO (pronounced oh-see oh-go) in your life. This stands for One Comes In – One Goes Out: every time something new comes into your home, car, handbag, briefcase, closet or life – something old goes out.

Here are some examples:

When you buy a new item of clothing, you donate or

discard an old one from your closet.

HINT: Only have enough hangers for your existing clothes

– that way you’ll have to get rid of old things to make room

for new ones.

When you buy new shoes, you donate or discard an old

pair.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-29-get-organized-mindset-shift-1-adopt-oci-ogo/


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/category/organize-athon/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2009/09/simplify-your-life-quick-fix-limit-your-hangers/



When the kids receive a new toy, they give an old one to a

child who doesn’t have as much as they do.

HINT: Have a donation basket for kids’ clothes and toys

and encourage the kids to make contributions.

When you receive the latest magazine in your

subscription, you automatically put the previous one in the

recycle bin. (‘But I haven’t read it yet!’ you say. Do you

want to feel pressured to read everything, or to be happy

and calm? Let it go.)

When you buy a new book, DVD or CD, you donate an old

one to the library.

HINT: If you buy a lot of books, DVDs or CDs, have a

dedicated library donation box.

When you file your latest statements or papers, you

discard, archive or shred out-of-date papers from your

files.

HINT: File papers in reverse chronological order so you

can easily remove the oldest ones from the back.

When you buy a new cosmetic, you toss out an old one.

HINT: Make-up has a shelf life. Use it, and then be happy

to lose it.

When you receive a gift, you find something you no longer

use or love and give that away.

When you buy a kitchen gadget or utensil, you donate or

discard at least one old one.

HINT: Having fewer, but more useful, utensils will make it

easier to find what you need and use what you have.

When the kids get a new backpack, drink bottle, game, or

whatever, they discard or donate an old one.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2009/09/simplify-your-life-quick-tip-have-a-ready-for-donation-basket/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2009/07/get-organized-mission-9-filing-system-nirvana/



You get the idea.

Step 2: Read over the examples again to check that your mindset has shifted!

And you’re done!


This is such a radically powerful idea that you might want to create some reminders for yourself.

Write ‘OCI-OGO’ on several cards or post-its and place them wherever you need reminders, eg:

Inside your closet

On your shoe-box tower

On your kitchen drawers

On the kids’ toy boxes

On your credit card; etc.

Now you’ll get to enjoy new things without any increase in disorganization or clutter in your home. Stuff will flow through your life rather than accumulating into a quagmire of clutter. How cool is that!

Note: This post is adapted from my article: My Magic Formula For Staying Clutter-Free For Life (Or: How To Avoid Organizing Entropy)


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/articles/my-magic-formula-for-staying-clutter-free-for-life-or-how-to-avoid-organizing-entropy/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/articles/my-magic-formula-for-staying-clutter-free-for-life-or-how-to-avoid-organizing-entropy/



Organize-athon FAQs


Before You Go…


See you tomorrow for your final 30-Day Organize-athon task: Get Organized Mindset Shift #2!




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-29-get-organized-mindset-shift-1-adopt-oci-ogo/#comments

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/category/organize-athon/




To-Do Item Priority

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Day 30: Get Organized Mindset Shift #2:

Make It A Habit To Avoid Clutter

In our final 5 minutes we’re going to make our second organizing mindset shift.

Inhale clarity, freedom and order…

Day 30: Get Organized Mindset Shift #2: Make

It A Habit To Avoid Clutter

Step 1: Decide to adopt this new habit: Include cleaning up as part of every single task.

Whatever you use, take out, or work on, you put away as part of that activity. Completing a task includes whatever is needed to restore order to the space. As a result, you leave everything at least as tidy as you found it.

Here are some examples:

Having dinner? That includes stacking the dishwasher

when you’re done.

Working on a craft? Returning your craft supplies to their

home is part of the project.

Watching a DVD? Put all remotes, DVDs and cases back

where they belong before you move on.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-30-get-organized-mindset-shift-2-make-it-a-habit-to-avoid-clutter/




Getting home from work? Include as ‘getting home’ the

acts of hanging up your coat, placing keys on the hall table

and putting your purse or briefcase in the study (or

wherever they live).

Wrapping a gift? Replace the sticky tape and gift wrap,

and put the gift in a spot that will prompt you to take it to

the party.

Getting ready to go out? Return discarded outfits to the

closet and put away make-up, hair products and the

hairdryer.

Waking up? Open blinds and windows, make the bed, and

leave the bedroom looking tranquil.

You get the idea.

Step 2: Read over the examples again to check that your mindset has shifted!

And you’re done!


This works for the kids, too. Explain to them the idea that they need to include cleaning up as part of every single task.

Playing with toys? Playing includes returning every toy to

the toy box, bin or drawer where it belongs.

Changing out of school clothes? That means putting new

clothes on and placing old clothes in the hamper or

wherever they need to go.




Doing homework? Return books, pencil cases and school

stuff to the backpack as part of the homework. (Bonus:

This also avoids the homework-left-at-home drama.)

They’ll likely need several gentle and encouraging reminders, but with your patience and help they’ll soon incorporate this habit into their behavior.

Note: This post is adapted from my article: Home Organization: My Very Best Life-Changing Tip For A Clutter-Free Home.

Wow – 30 days of decluttering, organizing and mindset shifting. How awesome are you!

Organize-athon FAQs


Before You Go…


And guess what? I’ll see you tomorrow for a surprise bonus task!

Don’t worry – it’s not hard and it will make you feel so good.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2009/08/home-organization-my-very-best-life-changing-tip-for-a-clutter-free-home/

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2009/08/home-organization-my-very-best-life-changing-tip-for-a-clutter-free-home/



http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-30-get-organized-mindset-shift-2-make-it-a-habit-to-avoid-clutter/#comments





To-Do Item Priority

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Congratulations And A Bonus Task

Wow – we’ve done it!

We’ve completed 30 days of power decluttering, organizing, and mindset-shifting! Woo-freakin-hoo!

I have one final, bonus 5-minute task I’d like to ask of you.

Bonus Task: Acknowledge Your

Accomplishments

Step 1: Get a pen and notebook, or open a new document on your computer.

Step 2: Write for 5 minutes about the gains you’ve made in your home over the past month. Include:

The ways things look

The time you save when looking for things

Your feelings – perhaps clarity or freshness

The influence on the kids

The impression on your spouse

Anything you’ve learned about yourself

Any new habits you’re committing to.

Step 3: Make a note in your diary to re-read what you’ve written in a month’s time. It will remind you of your achievements and motivate you to maintain the benefits.


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/05/30-day-organize-athon-congratulations-and-a-bonus-task/



And you’re done!


1. Get your camera or phone and take some snaps of the

areas you’re most pleased with.

2. If you have a blog, consider uploading your photos and

sharing your accomplishment.

3. Share your photos and/or story with other Organize-

athon participants on my Facebook page. I bet they’d love

to read about your success and discoveries – I sure would

4. Leave a comment here to tell me how you feel!

Now how wonderful does that feel!

Organize-athon FAQs


Thank You!

Thank you so much for participating in the 30-Day Organize-athon with me! It’s been a joy to read your comments and share your journey. Perhaps we’ll do it again next year!

Meanwhile, be happy & organized,


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/about/

http://www.facebook.com/GetOrganizedWizard

http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/05/30-day-organize-athon-congratulations-and-a-bonus-task/#comments




http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/about/



Acknowledge Your Accomplishments

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30-Day Organize-athon Checklist

Task

Day 1: Declutter Your Living Area .

Day 2: Clear Out Your Hanging Closet .

Day 3: Organize Your Kitchen Utensils .

Day 4: Declutter Your Bathroom Cabinets .

Day 5: Organize Your Household Information Center .

Day 6: Freshen Up Your Crockery & Glassware .

Day 7: Organize Your Books, DVDs, and/or CDs .

Day 8: Organize Your Linen Closet .

Day 9: Organize Your Laundry .

Day 10: Organize Your Garage .

Day 11: Organize Your Shoes .

Day 12: Declutter Your Car’s Glove Box .

Day 13: Organize Your Pots, Pans and Cookware .

Day 14: Organize Your Paperwork .

Day 15: Declutter Your Home Office .

Day 16: Organize Your Underwear .


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-4-declutter-your-bathroom-cabinets/



30-Day Organize-athon Checklist (cont)

Task

Day 17: Declutter The Kids’ Toys .

Day 18: Organize Your Storage Containers .

Day 19: Organize Your Outgoing Space .

Day 20: Organize Your Fridge .

Day 21: Organize Your Pantry .

Day 22: Declutter Your Bag .

Day 23: Organize Your Goals .

Day 24: Organize Your Bedside Area .

Day 25: Declutter Your Surfaces .

Day 26: Declutter Your Exercise and Sports Equipment .

Day 27: Declutter By Donating A Dozen .


(And Save Time And Money Too)

.

Day 29: Get Organized Mindset Shift #1: Adopt OCI-OGO .

Day 30: Get Organized Mindset Shift #2: To Avoid Clutter

.

Bonus Task: Acknowledge Your Accomplishments .


http://www.getorganizedwizard.com/blog/2011/04/30-day-organize-athon-day-23-organize-your-goals/





About The Author

Michele Connolly is the founder of Get

Organized Wizard and creator of

programs for business, personal and

home organization.

She is a qualified life coach with degrees

in business and psychology, and post-

graduate qualifications in business and

professional writing.

Michele’s background includes managing busy marketing

departments for large financial institutions and running her own

successful small businesses.

Michele’s company is called Happiness Strategies, reflecting her

philosophy that people can choose strategies to increase the

happiness in their lives and the lives of those around them. She

believes it’s easier to be happy if you set goals to work on and take

steps to be more organized.

Michele is a member of the National Association of Professional

Organizers (NAPO) and the International Positive Psychology

Association (IPPA).

She has been interviewed on Sydney radio, spoken at

conferences, and won several awards for her psychology studies,

which included original research and a thesis on happiness.





© 2011 Happiness Strategies Pty Ltd

PO Box 527 Chatswood NSW 2057 Australia

For more on getting organized and being your best visit:

http://www.GetOrganizedWizard.com

[email protected]






mailto:[email protected]



30 Day Organize Athon 1

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Transcript of 30 Day Organize Athon 1