Phone Apps Galore!

I have a smartphone.

I'm sure at times it really is smarter than I am.

However, I know what's best for me and my phone (read: I still control this phone!).  I'm smart enough to know how to best organize my phone and keep it clutter free.

Let's talk apps.

There are just about a bazillion phone/tablet apps available.  Some are included on devices; some are free; some need to be bought.  What's important are a couple key points:

Take stock in what's already on the device.  Before new apps are downloaded, scroll through the menu on the phone or tablet to make sure there isn't already an app installed that will do the exact same functions.  If there is, ask yourself if you have used the already installed app before.  If the answer is yes, then decide if it warranted searching for a new app that does the same thing.  Perhaps, the old app didn't work well or was too cumbersome.  Maybe it didn't give the results you were looking for.  Then, uninstall this app to make room for the new app that will do the same task.  BUT, if the old app worked well and it was simply forgotten about, there's no need to download another.

Clear out apps that you have no interest in whatsoever.  Are there apps listed in your device's menu that you've never used, never heard of  and have no idea why it's there?  If it's possible to uninstall the app, do so.  If it's not removable, then you might consider disabling updates.  This will at least stop the unused app from downloading newer versions and taking up space on the device.

Organize your screens so that apps are categorized appropriately.  Most devices have multiple screens that can be swiped from side to side.  Organize the apps that are shown on these pages accordingly.  For example, the home screen that shows up when the device is turned on should showcase the apps you go to multiple times a day.  Email, calendars, contact lists, weather reports.  Whatever it is you are looking at everyday should appear here.  The other pages that swipe left or right can be categorized to show apps related to each other - that also get used daily or weekly.  There might be an "entertainment" page.  A "news" page.  A "social media" page.  A "tools" page (think calculator, clock, etc.).  A "transportation" page.  And so on.  Make sure it makes sense for you.

Only showcase apps on the home screens that are used often and regularly.  If there are apps on your device that you do in fact use, but only occasionally, then move those off the home screens.  Keeping those listed in the main menu is just fine.  No need to overcrowd the home screens and clutter them up.

No Time Like NOW

I've had a string of people contacting me lately that I haven't spoken or worked with in over a year.  As great as it is, it got me thinking.

I tend to follow up with my clients for quite some time.  Occasionally, it's because I know there are other projects they'd like to finish, and we're trying to gauge the best time to do so.  Other times, it's just to make sure everything is still functioning the way they'd like.  So, when a whole year or more has gone by of no communication, there are a few reasons:
1) Everything on their project list is complete and their systems are working well
2) They still aren't interested or ready or able to start organizing their space
3) They are so busy that responding to emails or phone calls is very low on the list

All valid reasons.  Hopefully, mostly the first reason!

But, turns out, those in category number two are coming around!  They've realized that the time to get organized and make sense of their space is now!  Sure, they're busy.  Sure, they're still a little cautious about having someone come to their home or office and look through all the things behind closed doors that no one else normally sees.  However, they realize that getting organized is more important than whatever uneasiness or embarrassment that might cause.

Getting organized - and staying organized - will save time in the long run.  No more searching for things.  No more late bills.  No more buying duplicates.  No more feeling cramped and uncomfortable in your own space.

So, when is the best time to get organized?  NOW!

Containing Creativity

I work with a lot of people who are creative in a variety of ways:  artists, writers, crafters, scrapbook makers, designers, DIYers...the list goes on and on.  I find that the more common tools for organizing their spaces are often too boring to satisfy their creative sides.

What's an organizer to do?

Well, certainly there are some great looking products out there that can add color and texture to a wonderful space.  Sometimes fancy, colorful bins will do the trick.  These are from Amazon and The Container Store, respectively. 
                                                                        



Other times, depending on the space, bulkier items need to be relatively accessible - possibly along side a multitude of other items.  This is great for those involved in larger projects like sewing, making toys, or working with found items.  Seventh Avenue has a colorful cart; Kmart, among other stores, offer the very popular storage rack that accomplish these storage concerns.


     

Maybe the containers need to be a little more fluid and interactive?  Try something modular for small items.  The Urbio Magnetic Modular System, also from The Container Store, might work well for you and all the little pieces lying around.

And, if it still feels too dull and rigid, try going all out to create the space you need to get your tasks done.  Better Homes and Gardens really out did themselves with a laundry room, if you're looking for inspiration.

For some, the act of creating your own containers and racks makes the battle of staying organized much easier to tackle.  Should you feel inclined to make some custom organizational tools, I've got some ideas to share!  (I will caution you, make sure you have the time to make these things first, before you add to your ever-growing to-do list!The Today Show offers up some fabulous, artsy ways to store jewelry and make-up.  The cheese-grater earring rack is my favorite!  Apartment Therapy also offers up some more lengthy handmade tools to create a peaceful space.  And, if you want to try something a little less advanced in skill, take a look at Design Sponge.  There, you'll find some new ideas for sprucing up old designs for storage - like these fabric bins, livened up with a bit of color. 

New Year, New Resolution

It's 2013!  A new year!

Just a quick note today to get everyone thinking about resolutions, should you be the type to make them.

A resolution is nothing more than a goal.  And, everyone has some kind of goal.  Even if it's just to get through the day.  That's still a goal!  There are a lot of obstacles to achieving our goals: getting the right help or information, having the motivation to keep at it, concentrating on the task at hand and figuring out all the steps to get you to the end.

But, there are so many wonderful things to keep in mind on this journey.  When you become more organized this year, I can guarantee you'll feel a sense of calm and freedom more than last year.  You'll have more time to enjoy the things you've missed out on in 2012.  You'll finally feel comfortable in your space.  And, most importantly, you'll be proud of yourself!  And, rightly so!

With the right tools in your belt and the correct frame of mind for the task at hand, you'll be unstoppable.  And, if you're  really ready to get - and stay - organized this year, chances are you'll never have to overhaul your systems like this again.

So, instead of making different resolutions this year, try making the same one you've been working on for who-knows-how-long, but make it smarter.  Make it better.  And, this year, make it stick!


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