International Buy Nothing Day

A Great International Organizing related 'DAY' is coming up on Sat 29th Nov called BUY NOTHING DAY to help people think about their usual, often excessive consumption of goods and 'stuff'. What a great idea!

There are lots of groups world wide getting together to promote it. To see what's going on in your area check out the official Website www.buynothingday.co.uk/

If you need to do some major organizing and de-cluttering at your house then you may like to read this Home Organizing Article below.


Six Good Reasons to Get on Top of Your Home Affairs

by Claire McFee Author of Organize Your Life

There are many reasons why it is a good idea to be better organized. Do not confuse being organized with being a perfectionist though, as most of us fit somewhere between perfectionism and total chaos!! The differences between us all have a lot to do with our personality types. This can be helpful when trying to understand our own behaviour, and the way we approach being organized. If you accept the fact that we are all very different, it helps to be more realistic with what we are capable of achieving and can help us not to be so hard on ourselves when we don't live up to our own expectations, or the expectations of others. Having said that, no matter what personality type we fit into, we are all vulnerable to problems if we let clutter get the better of us. It's good to be aware that there are some important life areas that can be negatively affected so that we can take control and do something about it. These include:

1. Health Problems

Living in chaos can be really stressful and all manner of medical problems can arise as a result. Whether it is annoying headaches or the beginnings of cancer, this reason alone is enough to stop making excuses!!

2. Weight Problems

Many of us fall into the trap of eating when things get on top of us. The concern is that if you never get around to controlling your clutter rather than it controlling you, then the overeating cycle may become a very serious issue.

3. Relationship Problems

When we are surrounded by stuff and can't sit down and look around even one room and see nice clear spaces with no junk, a feeling of unease can stay with us without even realising it. Our interactions with people can therefore be affected by this negative energy, within us and our homes. Get rid of the clutter and re-energise yourself and your home and get rid of all the draining forces within. You will be amazed by your attitude change and therefore the way you relate to others, particularly your partner and your children.

4. Wasting Time

Life is too short to constantly feel bogged down by clutter. If you live in chaos, then chances are you waste a lot of time searching for things (or the rest of your household does, even if you see it as organized chaos). Imagine how much more time you could have for yourself, or to spend on quality family time if you saved 5 mins here and 10 mins there on a regular basis. This really can equate to hours, believe me!

5. Poor Finances

If you are disorganized on the home-front, you are almost definitely disorganized when it comes to handling your money. Most of us put off working out our ins and outs every month or so, but having no system when it comes to a savings plan and debt repayment scheme means trouble with a capital T. Also, try to set a good example for your children by showing them how to look after their money wisely.

6. Depression

Depression can be caused by a number of different issues in your life, and not feeling in control is often one of them. The state of our household often directly relates to the state of our mind, so if your home is drowning in paperwork, half broken toys and clothes that no-one wears anymore, then your mind is more likely to feel overwhelmed as well. Depression can be debilitating, so be aware of it and do everything you can to prevent it, before it happens.

Claire McFee
Organize Your Life Author