Resolve to Be Organized in 2011

In Japan on the days leading up to the New Year a tradition and ritual called Osoji is done by people in homes, offices and shops. Osoji is the Japanese equivalent of our “spring cleaning.” The Japanese believe this purifies one’s environment and allows for a fresh start for the coming year.

Start your New Year by making a resolution to be organized in 2011. Simplify your surroundings and it will simplify your life. By limiting the number of “things” we keep in our homes we gain time.

The first step is decluttering. Chances are you ended up with an armload of Christmas gifts and you’re not sure where to put them. A good rule of thumb is for every one thing you got find two to donate. If you got a new sweater find two in the drawer that you haven’t worn this year. Chances are if you haven’t worn it yet this winter you’re not going to. Have the kids donate two toys that they have outgrown or no longer play with. Let them choose which ones to pass along and for the younger kids explain to them that some children weren’t as fortunate this Christmas. It may not sound like much but just by clearing out a few extra items you’ll end up with a more organized space and the new items you got will be easier to find. As you go through your belongings ask yourself a few questions. “When was the last time I used this item?” “Why do I have it?” And, “Is it taking up space without being useful?”

If you need assistance in decluttering and organizing think of it being like hiring a personal trainer; a professional organizer can help you in reaching your goals. If you’re not sure where to start with a project a professional organizer can help you build and realize a plan, keep you focused and design a maintenance system that will work in your home for your lifestyle. Give yourself the post-holiday gift of time. Time to spend with your family and doing things you enjoy. A fresh start for the coming year. I can’t think of a better resolution than that.

Suzanne Stenerson
Professional Organizer and Decorator
Harmonized Home
www.harmonized-home.com