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Feel free to use this tip sheet / checklist as you tackle your own ""do-it-yourself"" organizing projects. If you would like to REPRINT or DISTRIBUTE this information, please click here for reprinting instructions.
 | CHANGE YOUR WAYS |  |
- make a habit of getting organized
- spend a few minutes every day to "create order from chaos"
- even 5 minutes will make a difference
- 15 minutes could transform your life
| CLEAR CLUTTER | |
- make some room on your desk
- remove all supplies and gadgets that you don't use every day
- toss out ancient history on your bulletin board
- clean out old Post-its on your computer
- uncover your horizontal surfaces
- clear off credenzas, tables, the tops of bookshelves
| GET GREAT GEAR | |
- from your letter opener to your computer, get the right equipment
- don’t tolerate products and tools that aren’t perfect, however you define it
- your briefcase or bag is like a portable office
- make sure you love yours and that it works for you
| MAKE THE MOST OF MEETINGS | |
- have a written agenda, with timeframes for each item
- be vigilant about starting and ending on time
- keep information for different meetings in separate folders
- write the date of the meeting and any deadlines on your notes
- keep track of any actions you promised to take in your calendar
| MANAGE YOUR TIME | |
- use only one calendar (or electronic device) to track your appointments
- otherwise it's too easy to overlook something or to double-book your time
- look at your calendar every day so nothing falls in the cracks
| MINIMIZE INTERRUPTIONS | |
- when you really need to get something done, make yourself unavailable
- no phone calls, no e-mail, no visitors
- it’s okay to not answer a ringing phone -- even a cellphone -- really
| ORGANIZE YOUR INFORMATION | |
- create a filing system that works for you
- use hanging folders with plastic tabs (e.g., Pendaflex) for papers
- create a system for electronic documents that mirrors your paper filing
| PREVAIL OVER EMAIL | |
- check and respond to e-mail at designated times
- avoid checking email continuously throughout the day
- mute the incoming mail chime so you can ignore each new message
| TRAVEL TROUBLE-FREE | |
- start a list of the information and materials you must bring with you
- begin compiling your list as soon as you plan a trip
- keep a master list of personal and business items you always need
- make an extra copy of your itinerary with contact numbers
- give copy to someone who is not traveling with you
| USE YOUR SPACE EFFECTIVELY | |
- keep critical and frequently-used items and information within arms' reach
- use a vertical step rack or a file box for “hot” files
- move furniture and equipment so you can easily access things you need
Lisa Zaslow helps individuals and businesses to be more organized and productive. You may visit her website at www.GothamOrganizers.com or e-mail her at GetOrganized@earthlink.net.
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