Get Your Mind Out of the Clutter
News and Tips to Organize Your Life
from Get Organized DC
WELCOME
Each month in this newsletter I share organizing tips to use in your home and office. Try some projects by yourself or ask for help from my friendly professional team.

We have great ideas for improving the use of all sizes of spaces and helping you become more productive.

Happy Organizing,
Pierrette Ashcroft
In This Issue
An Uncluttered Desk
Ask Pierrette Tips Column
TV-Free Week
Organizing Solutions Column
Facebook Fan Page
Links to Our Website

Pierrette Ashcroft, founder of getOrganizedDC, has more than 20 years of business experience organizing events and providing innovative solutions in homes and offices. She is committed to continuing her education and training to best serve her client's organizing and productivity needs.

As one of the inaugural class to receive credentials as a Certified Professional Organizer, CPOÆ, Pierrette earned a top distinction in the organizing industry.
 
In 2010 she completed her training to become a Certified Productivity Coach. Through her Productivity Boot Camp she is able to increase the productivity of busy professionals. Pierrette will clear your piles of paper, overloaded inbox and cluttered life so you can be more effective in your business and career
.
 
To learn more, call or write for a free telephone consultation at: 202.537.9705 or Pierrette@getorganizeddc.com. Or visit our Web site.
 
The hardest part of organizing is developing an attractive plan. We are happy to help you with any challenges, large or small. Expect efficient and reliable service from our team, who promise to keep your personal information confidential. Read what our clients are saying about us.


pierrette w/ sig 2010

April 2010
A TIDY DESK HAS MANY BENEFITS
Others Will Perceive You as Getting Work Done

deskWhat does your desk look like right now? Are there stacks of paper, incomplete projects and general disorder?

An uncluttered desk will allow you to focus on your work, offer fewer distractions and make it less likely that something will be lost in a pile of papers. Wouldn't you feel great if you didn't feel a need to apologize for your workspace?

Here are a few steps to get you started on creating a more productive work environment.

File anything that needs to be filed. If you need it on a regular basis, make sure the file drawer is within arm's reach.
 
Items that need action should be placed in your 'action needed' folder and scheduled on your calendar.

Put away things that don't need to be on your desktop. This might include extra supplies, electronic equipment, dirty coffee cups, etc.

Store reading material on a bookshelf. If there is an article in a magazine or journal, tear it out and place in your 'to read' folder. Carry this with you so when you are kept waiting you can catch up.

Keep personal items to a minimum. Not only do they add to the clutter but they also give others the wrong impression about the seriousness of your work ethic.

Desk organization does require some effort. However, a clean and tidy desk will increase your peace of mind and your focus.
Share this newsletter with friends and family who will find it useful.

Forward to a Friend

ASK PIERRETTE:
Properly Disposing of E-Waste

Question:
recycled computerI bought a new computer. What should I do with the old one?

Pierrette:
Depending on the age of the computer you may be able to donate it to a school or charity. Generally they will only accept computers that are less than 3 years old, otherwise they get stuck disposing of it.

Many of the stores where you buy new computers, such as Apple and Best Buy will recycle your old computer for free or a nominal fee.

Many local governments have recycling programs for e-waste as it is often referred. Check your area for drop off sites.

Another options is to offer it for free on Craigslist or Freecycle. There are always techies looking for spare parts.

Which ever way you choose to dispose of your computer do it in a way that is safe for the environment (this does not include the landfill) and remember to erase your hard drive to keep your personal information safe.

NATIONAL TV-FREE WEEK

Alternative Activities For Your Time

The forth week of April is 2010 goalsNational TV-Free Week. If you watch only two hours each evening, suddenly you will have 14 hours to spend time with your family, tackle your organizing project and enhance your productivity skills.

Here are some projects to try.

Sort and file the papers on your desk.
Tame the cords behind your entertainment center or computer.
… Create a binder for all your manuals and warranties.
… Organize your digital photos.
Arrange the clothes in your closet by style, season and color.
Go through your email with a goal of having an empty inbox.

An added bonus to no tv is no ads which will tempt you to buy things that all too often add to your clutter problem.
ORGANIZING SOLUTION
Stowing Your Bottles and Cans Until Recycle Day

Challenge:
recycle centerYou have bottles and cans stacked on your counter top and overflowing bags and bins creating an eyesore waiting to go to the recycle bin on trash day.

Solution:
Use a compartmentalized all-in-one recycle center from Simple Human or Mode Products.

Separate compartments allow you to sort and store your recyclables.  

The stylish containers have a space-efficient shape that fit close to the wall and don't take up a lot of space.

Never forget - some models have a programmable clock and alarm to remind you to put your recyclables out for pick up.

Carbon filters to help eliminate odors.

Result:
Recycling is now neater, easier and it's more efficient to be green. This works for your home or office.
ARE YOU A FAN?


Facebook



Get Organized DC is on Facebook - visit and become a FAN! Check the page every week for new organizing tips, photos, information about organizing products and up coming events. Plus you will also be able to ask questions and make comments.
Subscribe to our FREE Newsletter
Join Our
 Mailing List