2009 to 2010

It's the last day of the year for 2009. I hope you've experienced all you desired to experience and have had more successes than successful failures. Don't spend too much time in reflection about those things you weren't able to accomplish, but spend time planning what you can do to make sure you don't have to repeat the same experiences in 2010. Have a great New Year's Eve and an even greater New Year!!

Dr. DClutter™

Give

In this season of giving, don't forget to give the gift of your time.

Dr. DClutter™

Succeed

In life we make many attempts. In life we suffer many failures. After time, we succeed. What a feeling!!

Dr. DClutter™

Mantra

I know, I know, you've been conditioned by the phrase, "A place for everything and everything in its place", but when trying to become more organized, let this become your mantra-"Purge, not keep" and repeat. Don't strive to find a place for everything. Discard broken or non-functioning items and only keep those things you'll actually use and need. It's such a freeing feeling-honestly, I wouldn't lie to you. Try it.

Dr. DClutter™

Merry Christmas!!

Here's hoping you're sharing this special time of the year with those you hold dear. Have the most joyous Christmas ever.

Merry Christmas!!

Dr. DClutter™

Family

Often times, due to distance and circumstances, we're not able to be with our family. Today is one of those instances for me. A part of my family lives in North Carolina and Virginia, so I don't get to see them that often, but today I was able to wish a Merry Christmas to the family as they gathered for an annual Christmas breakfast, turned lunch (don't eat or much or those Christmas clothes won't fit!!).

So as promised, here's my "shout out!!"

My sister, Sharon (the one in the gift buying/giving mood-keep it up)
My niece, Jessica (who got her driver's license in November and is still excited about Christmas)
My Aunt Lois (who is looking forward to a return trip to DC)
My Aunt Lillie and Uncle Mott (the snow in a box is on the way)
My cousins, Rhonda (my computer buddy), Devonta (thanks for the cell phone passing), Marion (who is excited) and Denise (with her radio voice).


If I missed anyone at the table, here's a Merry Christmas wish to you too!! Merry Christmas!! I love you all!!

Dr. DClutter™

Picture Perfect-Again

This post was so well received last year that I had to share it again. Hopefully, you've completed all or the shopping you're going to do (don't overspend)!! Take the time to enjoy Christmas Eve.

Picture Perfect
You've decorated your house just the way you want it. B. Smith and Martha Stewart would be proud. Why not make it easier for next year? Take pictures of your rooms and use them as a road map for decorating next year. You don't have to follow the same plan each year, but wouldn't it be less stressful to have a guideline for next season? You can also make great Christmas cards by adding the pictures and a personalized note.

Dr. DClutter™

What Do You Hear?

Words hurt, I just wrote about that the other day. So having said that, do you think we are quick to label people? Often times, it's not in the most positive way either. In previous posts, I've admitted that at times, I am the most Pollyanna person you could ever meet. I have my moments. So when someone assigns a label to me and intends for it to be a negative one, I do my best to make it a positive label. If someone calls me ardent, I hear that I am passionate; call me lazy and I hear that I'm good at conserving energy; say that I'm stubborn and I hear that I'm just loyal to my cause. What do you hear when someone assigns a label to you?

Dr. DClutter™

The Blizzard of 2009-The Morning After

Well, to be truthful, by the time you read this post, it will actually be a couple of mornings after, but you get my drift. Ah, the break of day and mounds of snow to be shoveled-18 inches as measured by my trusty rulers (I needed two). If you recall (or you can simply revisit the post)http://preciousonesllc.blogspot.com/2009/03/snow-pics.html, I always prepare before a snowstorm by covering our metal steps and walkway in plastic and rugs to make snow removal easier. Well, this time was no different. A quick roll of the plastic and the removal of the rugs, and voilà, "easier" snow removal. I still had to work, 2.5 hours actually, but that included shoveling the sidewalk, two cars, returning all tools and accessories to their proper places and the time it took to regain the feeling in my toes!! Not really true on the toe thing, but imagine how much longer and harder it could have been. Enjoy!!

Dr. DClutter™

The Blizzard of 2009

If you've even remotely followed me, you are aware of my love of snow. Well, I can say that I experienced snow euphoria during the weekend!! The Blizzard of 2009 is not my title, but what all of the major news stations here in DC were calling this record snowfall (12-24 inches, depending on location). Sounds exciting, doesn't it? Well, it was!! I have some nighttime snow pictures taken December 19, 2009, to show you and hopefully will have some more to share. The white spots in the pictures-snow!! I loved it. Enjoy!!

Dr. DClutter™




These are the captions for the pictures, in order:

The Holly Tree (first picture)

Where's the Fence?-It's a four foot fence, so you can do the math.

Branching Out

Almost to My Knees-I had on boots, but you can barely see them. That should give you some idea of the depth of this glorious snow!!

Just Snow-A view of the yard.

I often read a small town paper online called the Daily Herald. In the opinion section, there is something called Sound Off! The purpose is for readers to share comments about what matters to them, ranging from topics about life in the city, politics and personal pet peeves, to compliments and complaints. I thoroughly enjoy reading Sound Off! and decided to offer something similar to you, my faithful followers. I love it!! In Sound Off! readers are encouraged to stay on topic, be respectful and the use of foul or obscene language, personal attacks or uses of another's identity to post are not allowed. The rules for what I am calling "Let Go!! with Dr. DClutter™" are the same. Every Friday is our official Let Go!! w/Dr. DClutter™ day. I'll post your advice, ideas, stories and thoughts. It'll be a place for you to share your life management and organization issues as well as discuss life events that inspire, empower or bother you. You can "leave it all here", as long as you follow the rules I discussed above. All comments will be reviewed before posting. So get ready, get set and Let Go!! w/Dr. DClutter™.

Dr. DClutter™

Non-Productive Guilt

I consider myself a highly productive person, but I have to admit that there are just times when I don't want to do ANYTHING!! If you've read previous posts, you know that I am not a big fan of Mondays-the 2nd day of the week just isn't on my list of favs. I used to feel guilty for being just plain lazy on Mondays, feeling that I should be more productive. Well, I'm learning to get over it and I've decided that it works for me. What was I accomplishing by making myself feel badly for not doing more? Nothing positive, I can tell you. I'm generally highly productive (see I said so in the beginning of the post) the other days of the week, so I more than make up for a well-deserved-beginning-of-the-work-week-slow-down. Non-productive guilt, whatever it may be, doesn't do much to improve my life, so I'm choosing not to allow it. After all, there are too many other things in my life on which I could expend that energy. What about you?

Dr. DClutter™

Still Clutter

I know a man who has as many broken pieces of furniture and items as functional pieces. There's a knob missing from a drawer, a leg from a chair, or perhaps a handle from a mug or two. But if you ask him why he 's keeping all of that "stuff", he has what he considers a very rational answer, "I'm going to get it fixed." Here's my even more rational question, "When?" Maybe you have plans to get "stuff" fixed, throw it out or donate slightly used items and furniture, but until you do, it's still just clutter.
Dr. DClutter™

Past, Present, Future

The past is gone. The future isn't here and when it is, it's the present. So, all you really have is the present. In which time frame will you choose to live?

Dr. DClutter™

Self View

What is your self-view? When asked to describe yourself, what words first come to mind? Are they mostly positive or negative? We all want to be liked and admired, if not that, at least respected. But if you harbor self-loathing thoughts, you project that to others and you can almost guarantee that you don't represent your most confident self. Take the time to create the best self-view-it's the one that matters most.

Dr. DClutter™

I often read a small town paper online called the Daily Herald. In the opinion section, there is something called Sound Off! The purpose is for readers to share comments about what matters to them, ranging from topics about life in the city, politics and personal pet peeves, to compliments and complaints. I thoroughly enjoy reading Sound Off! and decided to offer something similar to you, my faithful followers. I love it!! In Sound Off! readers are encouraged to stay on topic, be respectful and the use of foul or obscene language, personal attacks or uses of another's identity to post are not allowed. The rules for what I am calling "Let Go!! with Dr. DClutter™" are the same. Every Friday is our official Let Go!! w/Dr. DClutter™ day. I'll post your advice, ideas, stories and thoughts. It'll be a place for you to share your life management and organization issues as well as discuss life events that inspire, empower or bother you. You can "leave it all here", as long as you follow the rules I discussed above. All comments will be reviewed before posting. So get ready, get set and Let Go!! w/Dr. DClutter™.

Dr. DClutter™

Round and Round

How would you describe someone who consistently exhibits the same behavior, but is surprised when they get the same response or outcome? Confused, misguided, uninformed or something else? Sadly, many of us live our lives based on this very premise (whether knowingly or not), and still expect a different outcome without a change in behavior. I liken it to riding on a merry-go-round and wondering why you're going in circles. For change to happen, behaviors must change.

Dr. DClutter™

Sticks and Stones

"Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." Do you remember the little ditty? How many of you sang this as someone hurled an insult at you while you were happily playing on the playground? It still amazes me that this phrase still lingers on today. It's an erroneous and delusional belief that words can't be used to ruin, destroy or harm someone. If not that injurious, words at least can affect how that person feels at any given moment. Oh, and this is just a little bonus for you adults out there-don't forget that children may listen and hear far more than you think they do. So be certain that the words you utter to, about and in front of those little (and not so little) impressionable ears are words you don't mind hearing repeated when you least expect it. Words are powerful, so make a conscious decision to use yours wisely.

Dr. DClutter™

Procrastination Buster-Time It!!

Have you ever timed yourself while performing a chore or task? It's a great motivator and a handy time management tool as well. For example, I folded a full load of clothes in less than two minutes, while microwaving lunch-two tasks for the price of one-SCORE!! I cleaned the bathroom in less than 30 minutes. And I mean a full cleaning, which included an on my hands and knees floor scrubbing, followed by mopping-hey, I like a clean floor, okay? Also included dusting (which I've shared with you that I despise with a passion), washing all bath linen, curtains and bath rugs (the actual washing/drying time was not included in the 30 minute frame, but the time to remove and take them to the laundry room was) and disinfecting all bath fixtures, tub/shower, walls, toilet and cleaning window and mirrors-I'm thorough, can't you tell? What's my point in telling you my laundry and bathroom stories? To let you see that there really is no need to procrastinate on completing tasks, especially if you are already aware of the time it'll take you to finish. If you only have an hour that day to accomplish chores or tasks, you'll know which ones you can reasonably expect to complete. That way you won't start, (but not finish) and become frustrated and totally avoid ever completing any task. Ready, set, time!!

Dr. DClutter™

Searching for Happiness

“What we see depends mainly on what we look for.”-John Lubbock. How profound!! Our outlook can cloud our perception of our happiness. Our view of our past, current or future circumstances influences how we live our lives and whether we strive for happiness or accept unhappiness. While our circumstances may sometimes seem bleak, negative or even grim, remember that there is always hope and the opportunity for change. It’s okay to see and acknowledge your circumstances as they really are, but always seek to find the positives and that will ultimately decide the type of attitude you have.

Dr. D. Clutter™

I often read a small town paper online called the Daily Herald. In the opinion section, there is something called Sound Off! The purpose is for readers to share comments about what matters to them, ranging from topics about life in the city, politics and personal pet peeves, to compliments and complaints. I thoroughly enjoy reading Sound Off! and decided to offer something similar to you, my faithful followers. I love it!! In Sound Off! readers are encouraged to stay on topic, be respectful and the use of foul or obscene language, personal attacks or uses of another's identity to post are not allowed. The rules for what I am calling "Let Go!! with Dr. DClutter™" are the same. Every Friday is our official Let Go!! w/Dr. DClutter™ day. I'll post your advice, ideas, stories and thoughts. It'll be a place for you to share your life management and organization issues as well as discuss life events that inspire, empower or bother you. You can "leave it all here", as long as you follow the rules I discussed above. All comments will be reviewed before posting. So get ready, get set and Let Go!! w/Dr. DClutter™.

Dr. DClutter™

System Failure?

I love routine. I value systems. But when something isn't working for me I want to improve it, alter it, redo it, rethink it, delete it, or simply put-change it. Those who stick with a system when even they know it is not effective, fascinates me. Here's an example: someone I've encountered (name omitted to protect the innocent) has a habit of putting trash/recycling into plastic bags and then hanging them on the doorknob of her front door. Her rationale is that if the bag is there, she'll remember to take it out and place it in the trash/recycle can. Great effort...few results. Many times, the bags simply multiply until she can no longer turn the knob of her door!! But she still thinks it's a working system. Look, I applaud effort, but when is the time that you decide that the system is just not working? This was a somewhat humorous example, but what if the faulty system you're using is impairing your function or endangering your life? Take the time to assess the systems in your life and decide which ones are working and which ones need to join those bags in the trash/recycle can. Dr. D. Clutter™

Complaints

Do you complain when you've received poor service? What about if you aren't satisfied with a product? If your cell phone company overcharges you, would you let it slide? Well, not me. Ask anyone who knows me-I can complain with the best of them. Now, I don't complain just for the fun of it; I have to have a valid reason. And if I must say, I'm quite good at it. Here a few tips to "proper" complaining:

• Always remain calm, professional and composed. Never yell or call the person on the other end anything but their given name-it goes a long way towards getting you what you want.


• Document, document, document. Always get the name and ID number of the person to whom you spoke.


• Note the time and date of your complaint.


• Note the proposed outcome the company has offered.


• Don't be afraid to ask for a supervisor if you're not satisfied with the first response.


• Follow up if you don't receive the proposed outcome.


• Only complain if the situation warrants. Don't do it just for fun. No one wins in that situation.

Dr. D. Clutter™

First to Last-Again

Can you believe it? One year ago, I posed this question to you: What things have you procrastinated about only to wake up and realize that the year is almost over? So, I thought it would be a hoot to revisit it and hear about all of the progress you've made since then. Did you notice how positive I phrased that last question? Of course, I could have asked if you were in the same place (or worse) than you were when we last visited this topic, but we're not going in that direction. Now, if you happen to be in that place, don't despair. You have multiple days for change in the last month of 2009-31 to be exact. So that you don't have to scroll or search for the original post, Here it is for your reading pleasure (and also to hopefully serve as motivation-if you need it!!). Go ahead, read and substitute 2009 for 2008 and blast full speed ahead into all that you need to accomplish.

Dr. DClutter™



First to Last-Originally posted December 1, 2008

It's the first day of the last month of 2008!! What things have you procrastinated about only to wake up and realize that the year is almost over? Go ahead, I'll wait because if you're like most, that list could get pretty long. No need to fret, however, because you can still accomplish some of those tasks. Prioritize and get that long "To Do" list down to a manageable size. Tackle the larger projects first and make sure you have a plan of attack. Write it down. More importantly, don't become discouraged and locked into a mind battle against time-you'll lose. Instead, take the position that there are only so many hours left that you have to work with and get started. Enjoy the journey.



Dr. DClutter™