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Do You Need Decluttering Tips?

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“For every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned.” Benjamin Franklin said that I believe it’s true.

Sometimes it may feel as if we are always trying to catch up and spending too much time on making lists and putting this and that away. But can you imagine what it would feel like if you didn’t dedicate any time to getting yourself organized?

From experience, (after working in this field for over 20 years) I can tell you that it would cost you a heck of a lot more than just time. Pure overwhelm and exhaustion usually sets in when you can’t locate your “things” or you “forget” an important meeting.  Not to mention the worry of excess physical and emotional clutter.
In my new book, Organically Yours, I dedicate an entire chapter called “Smart Living.”  I share with you a story about Cynthia and explain where clutter comes from. I also discuss the benefits of decluttering along with powerful tips.
So if you haven’t registered yet for my upcoming book party, register now so you can get some really great information on smart living and your free coaching session along with special bonus items.  You don’t want to miss out on this!

REGISTER HERE

 

Holiday Tips for Tipping

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Holiday Tips for Tipping

Regardless of our economic state of affairs, some things simply do not change.  There is this expectation of us to be generous during the holidays to the people who provide us service – and rightfully so.

The question then becomes, who are the folks we should be tipping and what is the appropriate amount? In addition, if we are facing financial challenges, what can we offer in lieu of this?

If you think about it, end-of-the-year gratuities are a way to say thank you to the people we appreciate because they make our lives better, happier or simpler in some fashion.

Etiquette authorities state that there are simple ground rules you follow to help determine how much you should give, such as:

  • Quality of service
  • Frequency of service
  • How long you have used the service
  • Regional custom
  • Your budget

Now let’s take a look at some of the service providers that may be applicable for you to tip:

  • Barber
  • Cleaning Person
  • Hairdresser
  • Mail Carrier
  • Manicurist
  • Pet Care Provider
  • Sanitation Worker

With respect to how much is appropriate to tip, according to a poll by Consumer Reports, the average starting tip was $15.00 going up to $50.00 based on your history with that person. Here again, if money is tight and you have to be selective, it may help to consider who really needs it the most.

There are other ways to let someone know how much you appreciate them and to say thank you.  Sometimes a handwritten note with heartfelt words speaks volumes.  Home baked goods are always a sweet treat that people love to receive.  Remember, it’s the quality of your acknowledgement that makes a lasting impression.

Tip:  When frequenting your favorite restaurant, tipping the wait staff, maitre d’ and bartender are all acceptable.  You never know, you just may find your service and table location improves.

Blissful Organization…

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Today, I have in my hands, the final proof of my next book, Blissful Organization – A Guide to Simple Living!  Proofreading and making sure everything is just right is somehow a lot of responsibility, yet at the same time, it’s like creating a masterpiece that you are so proud of and can’t wait to share.

I guess it’s what I have been teaching all along within the Keep It Simple Now principles – which is, everything is a process – it takes time to go through each phase and step – and through it, you learn something more about yourself – maybe sometimes, you might even find inner strength that you never thought possible.

Here is what I do know…the end result, the final product, well, that’s simply amazing.  Whether it’s writing a book, getting your house in order, developing your business, or conquering a project, it’s an accomplishment that started out as a thought – turned into a vision – and then into your very own creation.  How awesome is that!

Livin’ Can Be Easy – 10 Simple Steps to Live Simply

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Simple, Modern InteriorLike most of us these days, it seems to be more and more difficult to take time out to smell the roses along the way. The days are so full, it’s hard enough to manage the things we have to do, let alone find time for ourselves.

Here are a few tips that may help simplify things a bit for you:

1. Cease the clutter

Having too much stuff requires energy and time to maintain and can be a huge drain on your energy level. Consider letting go of the items either by donating, discarding or selling.

2. Say goodbye to catalogs

Do you really need all those catalogs coming in? Tear off your mailing label, attach to an index card and write, “please remove me from your list” and mail to catalog holders.

3. Eliminate junk mail

Request to be “removed” from any list by writing your name and address and sending to: Mail Preference Service, DMA, PO Box 9008, Farmingdale, NY 11735-9008

4. Stop credit card offers

Call Trans Union at (888) 567-8688. Opt out for two years, or permanently. Since they share information with Experian and Equifax, you do not have to duplicate your request.

5. Automatic billing

Notify your individual creditors or go directly to your banking institution to set up automatic withdrawals monthly.

6. Consolidate debt

Devise a plan to attach that debt! Consolidate all your credit cards to make one payment. Come up with a budget. Talk to a financial advisor. Take the steps necessary to face your debt head on – it’s a huge stress factor and emotional drain, but once addressed, you will start to feel better.

7. Prioritize projects

Make a list of what needs to be done first and the time frames for completion. Conquer the little ones first so you can begin to reap the rewards of satisfaction to keep you motivated. Remember, baby steps first!

8. Reduce information overload

What magazine and newspaper subscription can you cut back on? Give your brain a break. Consider cutting down and focusing on just what you need to find out – this pertains to Web surfing, as well.

9. Be spontaneous

Being spontaneous once in a while can be a good thing. Releasing a little control can energize you and raise your spirits. It’s a great way to break the everyday routine and add a little fun into your life again.

10. Find peace

Having a place to go to for your down time is important. Find a spot that you feel at peace and can relate to as your own private sanctuary., Mediate, have a cup of tea or simply do nothing. Just relax.