52: Thrift Stores: Donations, Bargains, and Community with Maggie Scivicque

In this episode, we dive into the world of thrift stores, specifically arc Thrift Stores in Colorado.  We debunk misconceptions and uncover the true essence of thrifting. Our guest, Maggie, shares insights that shed light on the power and significance of thrift stores in our communities.

As we discuss the multifaceted options in the organizing journey, we emphasize the significance of thrift stores as a sustainable choice. Thrifting isn't just about finding treasures; it's about contributing to a circular system where goods find new homes and purpose.

Join us as we explore the invaluable role thrift stores play in sustainability, community engagement, and the joy of finding unexpected treasures. Let this conversation open your eyes to the possibilities and significance of thrift stores in our lives.

In this episode we talk about:

  • Discovering the misconceptions and misunderstandings that often surround thrift stores
  • The experience from the buyer's and donations standpoint

Where to find Maggie online:

ABOUT MAGGIE SCIVICQUE: Maggie Scivicque is Vice President of Marketing for Arc Thrift Store, she is responsible for the marketing efforts that help drive the success of the nonprofit in Colorado.  Maggie is also the host of Get Thrifty, a fun and informative podcast that was named in the Top 20 of thrift podcasts in the U.S. She is dedicated to the arc mission and brings infectious energy and enthusiasm to the work she does.

ABOUT ARC THRIFT STORES: arc Thrift Stores operates 34 thrift stores and 15 donation stations throughout Colorado. Store operations provide funding to arc Chapters, which in turn provide advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Arc Thrift Stores is one of the largest employers of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the state of Colorado. 

Web: http://www.arcthrift.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/PodcastWithMaggie

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Review the Transcript:

Stephanie
Hey friends, and welcome to our next episode here at organized and productive. I'm Stephanie, your host. For today's episode, we have a very special guest, it is Maggie svic. From our thrift stores here in Colorado. She is the Vice President of Marketing for a thrift store for our thrift store. And she's responsible for the marketing efforts that help the success of the nonprofit. She and her team manage social media, they coordinate the television buys all the creative stuff that you see online. That's all her in her team, which I didn't know there were 34 thrift stores around Colorado, the Front Range and the western slopes. And there's 15 donation centers and she talks about how there's a few others I think some new stores coming in and maybe outside of Colorado too, which is really exciting. And I met Maggie through her podcast. So through the podcasting world, her and Ark, they have a thrift store called Get thrifty, which is a really wonderful podcast, if you are interested in that she interviews people all around the world that find value in thrifting. And it's really eye opening you get to meet very interesting people here. They're very interesting stories. So if you like that type of thing in your into the hidden treasures of thrifty and then head on over to get thrifty their podcast. So that's how I met her because I was listening in on these conversations about thrifting. And I've become a lot more aware about thrifting. And the, and how it can help our clients and our community in their decluttering journey. Because yes, you can find that rarity. And that one priceless item that you got for $1 or something like that. Sure. But it also helps the the community to get items that are pre loved and sometimes honestly quite brand new. Because that's, you know, a lot of people donate brand new things, but pre loved and they get it for a fraction of the cost really helping the community thrive and helping other people get things that they need at a much more reasonable price. And also somewhere nearby that is very community oriented. So when I went down the rabbit hole of finding thrift stores and consignment stores that I think have good values, I think could be a benefit to our community. There thrift stores came to mind. And then I started listening to their podcast and realized oh, my gosh, you know, they're a wealth of knowledge. And one thing led to another. And that's how Maggie and I met, I asked her if she would be part of the conversation. And the rest is history. So I'm excited for you to listen in on the conversation and get to know her, but also get to know the power of thrift thrifting. And also the misconceptions that people have and what the reality is about a thrift store as a donator. But also if you're donating things, but also as a buyer. So we dive into those misconceptions, misunderstandings, and clear those up. And hopefully you will find as much value as I did out of the conversation. And remember, you have many options in your organizing journey. thrifting is one of them, donating is one of them. But also know that when you are ready to let go of your stuff, you also have a place where you can go and buy things back. If that makes sense. It doesn't always just have to disappear forever, and you will never see it again. Sometimes it will just come right back because it's all part of the community ecosystem. So all right, without any more delays. Here we go with Maggie. Welcome to the organized and productive podcast with the organized Flamingo. I am your host Stephanie, a professional organizer and productivity expert, ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solutions for you. Yeah, well then let's go. Hey, Maggie, welcome to organizer productive, I'm so happy you're here. Because everyone knows we get straight into the conversation. So welcome.

Maggie Scivicque
Thanks so much for having me. We're really excited to be here. Yay. So okay,

Stephanie
we want to get right into the nitty gritty. And really, the overview here is more about the misconceptions that people have about thrifting or secondhand. And let's dive right into that. What what are some of the misconceptions or misunderstandings that people have that you have come across working in this field? Now?

Maggie Scivicque
You know, it's so interesting, and it really is a great question, because, you know, I think one of the biggest things that people deal with when it comes to thrift shopping is being overwhelmed by it, you know, especially with our stores, we have very large stores, we you know, have almost every category available to the consumer, and it can be a little overwhelming. So we have all sorts of you know, over the years have learned tips and tricks for people. You know, some people are not overwhelmed. They're like, this is my jam. This is you know, I'm there for the treasure hunt. Get out of my way. I love it and then some people are overwhelmed. So I think if you can kind of go in with an open mind if you're new to thrifting that's a great place to start when approaching a thrift store. What is

Stephanie
a thrift store? Exactly? And how did you guys you are defined? And I mean, I think for the most the most part, most people kind of understand. But if someone's just getting into this and wanting to shop some more

Maggie Scivicque
also a great question because you know, that's so true, people don't always understand what it really means. It's all about shopping secondhand. For most thrift stores, especially here in Colorado, most of our thrift stores here are affiliated with a nonprofit arc is no different than that. We run 34 thrift stores that are, you know, our main purpose is to sell gently loved items to the public. Now a big part of our business is also gathering donations, you know, a thrift store is only as strong as their donation stream. And when you reached out, I was so excited, because, you know, I feel like a lot of your listeners, your audience, they really have this like heart for donation. And I'm excited to be able to speak to them. And really, you know, not only share with them how easy it is to donate, but oh my gosh, donate and then come around to the front door and walk inside and buy as well, for great deals for the treasure hunt for something special.

Stephanie
Yeah. And well, I mean, exactly, that's how I found you on the podcast, because the love that our listeners do have, it's the love of the stuff, but they just can't hold it all for whatever reason, they may be downsizing, just wanting to try something different sometimes. And sometimes you have to, or your health and what other reasons, and when someone gives it to someone that or an organization that means something or they understand that it's going to a greater cause and or it's part of the ecosystem, because they can go find something else that they aren't going to use. So it's this, you know, beautiful marriage if if you want it to be. So I love that you said that. This is a place where it's pre loved. It's a misconception that it can be messy, if you know what you're looking for. It doesn't have to be that way.

Maggie Scivicque
Yeah, absolutely. And if you're open to that thrill of the hunt, it can be really a treasure hunt. And if you are overwhelmed by it, you know, take it in baby steps, you know, one category at a time is always a great way to approach a thrift store. But I love that your your audience really does have a heart for this. And it's so interesting to me, you know, organizing, I love that there's these piles, you know, the keep pile, the the trash pile, but the donate pile, and I want Ark to be the first place that people think of when they are creating that donate pile. And it's easy to feel that way. I mean, our mission, as you know, is really to help people right here in Colorado with intellectual and developmental disabilities. So we fund 15 arc chapters across the state, we're looking to expand and 2024 We're very excited about that we may be moving to other states. And really, you know, spreading this joy to other states. We're very excited about that. The quiet, underlining rumor is that maybe it's New Mexico, so fingers crossed, which would be great, you know, really to spread what we're doing here we run thrift stores in a very particular way. Yes, we're a nonprofit. Yes, we have those deep feels, you know, we care about the environment, all this. But really, we run it like a business. You know, my CEO is a visionary. He is very much a type a hardcore businessman, and finance. And you know, running this, like a business has been really important to us and has been a really tremendous part of our success. So yes, we give back to the community. We care about that tremendously. But the reason we've been successful is because we treat it like average retail. And I think our customers really appreciate that as well.

Stephanie
Well, that's a great segue for us to talk about, how do you pick the items that you sell? And now that you mentioned, is a business? So how do you figure out what people are going to want or buy? How do you do

Maggie Scivicque
that? You know, for us, when it comes to making it like traditional retail, it's about seasonality, right? The customer when they walk into a retail store, they want things that are seasonal, when you walk into our thrift stores, unlike many Mom and Pop thrift stores and no dis to them, but we just don't do it this way. We don't put Christmas out in July, it just doesn't happen we save for seasons, it really sets us apart, because our consumers can count on us for seasonality. So when they need that coat, they know that they can find those, you know, lightweight knits, long sleeve knits, winter coats, sweaters, it based on the season. That's very important to us. And again, it sets us apart. So this is another misconception we'll back up a little bit is that we take donations from the consumer and store them somewhere and then push them out to the stores. That would be a terrible carbon footprint. We don't do that. If you donate at a specific store, it stays at that store. Now we do store it for seasonality. So if it's a Halloween costume that we got in May, you're not going to see that out on the floor till October. But you can count on the reflection of the thrift store as a reflection of the neighborhood. It really is. It's also a nice little insider tip for shopping our stores. If You really like the neighborhood's a little eclectic and weird, great thrift store, right? It depends on the neighborhood, because those are the donors because people donate I wish for our mission, but mainly for convenience and ease of ease of access, right? So that's, that's always a fun part. But again, another misconception is that, for some reason, people really think, oh, you know, thrift stores are hiding the good stuff. We don't even have an E commerce site. We don't do that. We really want what is delivered to the store to be sold at that store. It's an important, you know, gift to our community.

Stephanie
Yeah, I found that I was I was doing my research, I had no idea because I think that's another one of those misconceptions, and why people like poor customers that we have inclined, they won't donate to some of these vape box because they feel like it's just going to be worse for the environment, they will be shaped they will take the good stuff and try to you know, sell it to just an unfair amount anyway, in all these other misconceptions. Oh, true. That was looking at you guys. I was like, Well, I had no idea that you do keep it within the neighborhood, which I think is great. Yes. And

Maggie Scivicque
we really try and be good stewards of these items. You know, it's true that a lot of stuff can't be sold, people do donate their trash to us. It's true. So we do have a bit of, you know, waste that goes out there, we hate that we try and responsibly recycle. I like to be very transparent. Let people know, we do you know, if something can't be sold on our floors, and can be sold overseas to a thriving third world country that really thrives off their second hand market, we try and do very strong research. So we're only working with brokers who work with countries who care and make sure that those items aren't ending up in, you know, landfill in South America, that would break us we don't want that kind of reputation. So we have an entire department devoted just to our recycling efforts to make sure that we are you know, lessening our carbon footprint, even our warehouse is located on a rail line, so that if we are putting stuff on the cargo ships, it's going to countries who are responsible for it and do the right things. That's really important part of our mission to Yes, it's the people with disabilities. But if we're going to do this, we got to do it. Right. We have been named one of Colorado's largest recyclers. It's an important status. And the only way to keep that is to do the right thing and to be good stewards of the things we cannot sell. That's

Stephanie
wonderful. That's great to hear. Okay, so then going back to the misconception, but a little bit about your stores as well. So do you have a cap? Like what are some tips that you would give listeners of, you know, don't break, I know you have a whole like, on your website, you have a, you know, a helpful sheet for the donators, but in general, do you have some advice for our listeners, when they're going to the donation center about, hey, you know, don't donate too much or try to stay within the seasons? That's a great point. I mean, it sounds like you you store it, but you try to really put it put it out by season. So are there tips like that, that people can be aware of so that their carbon footprint is less so that it's more impactful? But they do you

Maggie Scivicque
know, the biggest piece of advice I can give people and you know not to worry about seasons, because like I said, we do have a robust storage system, it's all bar coded, we can find it in an instant. It's, that's not a problem at all, the biggest thing for us is like bring it in boxes and bags and separate it by hard goods and soft goods. That's the biggest piece of advice I can give you. You know, yes, like you said, the website is a great tool for what we can't accept. And that's mostly like mattresses, televisions, paint, live animals, you know, that kind of thing, right. But if you can separate it by hard goods and soft goods, that's the easiest way for our production team to take it from your vehicle. And you don't even have to get out of your car, pop the trunk say empty my trunk, we'll take it out for you. We'll put it through our line and hard goods versus soft goods is always best in a bag for the soft in a box for the hard. That's the easiest way to do it. And again, you don't even have to leave your vehicle we really will help you out empty your vehicle for you and give you a tax receipt when you're out the door. So it's a really easy process.

Stephanie
Oh, I love it. Okay, so let's talk about stories and of people bringing stuff in or maybe the ones that find the style so you I've listened to your podcast and we will give details on that in just a bit also in the show notes if you're listening right now but the those stories you have on your on your podcasts are credible, and they're really cool. So are there stories that have left some kind of, you know, warmth in your heart or Sure, a moment for you now having worked with art for a little bit?

Maggie Scivicque
Absolutely. You know, we have wonderful stories. I love the stories that come directly from the store. But yes, you're absolutely right. The get thrifty podcast brings us people from all over the world literally with stories but one of my favorites is mid mod Marian she's actually from Colorado Springs, so she's a native girly, and she found a steamer trunk louisv Aton steamer trunk and one of our stores one of three incredible I can't remember exactly how much she paid for it but it was very low. It actually now is part of her Wills and Trusts because it you know, once she had it authenticated as an original, you know, 1900s Louie Vuitton trunk that had, you know traveled on steamer lines all over the world had all the Insignia I mean straight off the Titanic type trunk, from Louis Vuitton in mint condition. And somebody out there got the other two because mid mod Marian Marian down in Colorado Springs only got one and this thing is worth just you know, honey, it's very expensive. So that I love that story because it was local. And it's just this idea that, you know, we're a thrift store, we're not always going to know what we have. So it's such a treasure hunt. And I think you said it best with the whole not doing the E commerce thing. We are not cannibalizing our stores to sell things online, we take that very seriously. Not to say that we'll never sell online, you know, things change, the economy changes. I don't know if another COVID is set to come or whatnot. Who knows, we may be forced to try selling online someday. But right now, our stores are brick and mortar, you can come in touch, feel really have the experience of shopping secondhand, and know that you're helping out a great organization in the process. And we're not going to take the good stuff from the stores. Now. That doesn't mean that someone's not going to get there at eight o'clock in the morning and wait in line on a Saturday. As you know, our stores are very busy. 50% off Saturday. And you know, unless you're on top of it, you're not going to get that half price deal, because we got a lot of people, I think we did 4 million customer transactions last year. Incredible number, right. And I always like to joke we make millions off selling dirty T shirts. Because you know, that's always my favorite my favorite line. People that's my favorite customer complaint to you change the laundry detergent. Sorry, hon, we don't wash.

Stephanie
No, no, that's, that's a different department that has a different price for that. So

Maggie Scivicque
people really have, you know, they think we wash every item, I'm like, Oh my gosh, that would cost us so much in water. And then we would be killing what we would we're doing to be for the environment by taking these off people's hands. You know, I always suggest when you buy clothing in a thrift store, take it home and wash it. But you know, and many people are so great about washing, I can't tell you how many items come either tag on or in a dry cleaner bag. You know, and most dry cleaners, especially in Colorado are so generous if they have to get rid of it because they don't have room. They donate it to our care stores. So I love the stuff that comes in a dry cleaner bag. You know, it's been well loved. Someone might have forgotten it. Don't forget your dry cleaning folks. It ends up at our stores. If

Stephanie
you do and it's been a while check in our store, probably.

Maggie Scivicque
Yes, it might have you know, the dry cleaner tag on the actual tag hanging on our on our aisles is the other part

Stephanie
is I hope listeners are picking up on this as well that yes, you know, we talked about these really fun stories of collectors or lucky ones that ended up stumbling upon that one Rarity or whatever. But these are pre loved items that are also going to the community that needs them and can get a good a good deal out of things that they need coats, especially here in Colorado for the winter. So I love you know, everything that you are all doing. And that's you know,

Maggie Scivicque
that's that's such a good point, too. I mean, really, people don't understand, you know, yes, I love our young influencers who come in and like make tic tock videos. For me. I'm like obsessed with how exciting and hip thrifted has become. But you're absolutely right. Our core demographic is always going to be you know, that single mom who is trying to clothe their children. And we take that relief effort really seriously too. We do a voucher program, where we actually work with most nonprofits in the state of Colorado where we give vouchers so that if people are truly in need, they can get vouchers to shop our stores. You're absolutely right, that that lower income mom is our core customer, and we will do anything to make sure she's getting a good deal.

Stephanie
Yeah. And so for our listeners who are downsizing and letting things go, yes, you know, don't, don't overthink it. Because sometimes yes, you might have something that is a value and you you gave it away, but honestly, when you're giving these things away to an ark or something like that, whatever you'd like that. It's also helping people who actually really need it, and they've been in your closet this entire time. And so it's a win win for everybody.

Maggie Scivicque
So urge that stuff. Bring it to us. Yes. Okay,

Stephanie
so is there any other fun facts about either your store or things that you've seen that you think people would really enjoy? You know, decluttering like to keep in mind?

Maggie Scivicque
Yeah, I mean, it really is a treasure hunt. And you know, I always like to tell people, you know, get out there and really get to see some of our customers you meet the most interesting people, people who are absolutely obsessed with like vintage Pyrex. I've got ladies who are obsessed with the dolls. We've got people who upcycle and they take some of these things just met a guy. He takes like grandma's quilt So we get donated and he buys all of them. And he makes really awesome Blazers for men out of them. I mean, there's women too. There's a gal out in Greenwood Village, she She's no older than 19 years old Emily. And she actually takes men's oversized blazers, and she cuts them and make re fashions them for herself into miniskirts and blazers like a set. So adorable. She's putting herself through college with this. So the stories that come out, it's never ending, like you said, the good thrifty podcast, we get to talk to people who just are doing incredible things in our community with these items. And they these young people care about the environment in a whole different way than we do. And it's just a parent, they want to come in, they don't want to be dressed like everyone else, they would sooner you know, they would not be caught dead and fast fashion. They are proud to say thanks, it's thrifted. And they want to tell you how much they didn't pay for it. You know, that's always a fun thing. It's uh, I'm amazed that I get paid to do this job because I get to meet the most incredible people that are doing just amazing things, whether they're making money off of us, or, you know, donating that it's all this beautiful cyclical synergy that helps everyone and everyone wins. Yeah.

Stephanie
Okay, before we get to our core questions that we ask everyone and everyone's familiar with, I'd love to hear what is a tip that you would give the donors to somebody who's coming in to donate and then a buyer who is visiting your store? Like, is there something like a tool, it's something that you would say, don't forget this when you come in, or hey, when you're donating? This is really helpful.

Maggie Scivicque
Okay, shopping first. So definitely come in with an open mind. But hit every aisle is my biggest tip. hit every single aisle don't miss the bottom shelf. Don't miss domestics. People often overlook the domestics department cuz they're like a bedsheets gross. They don't want to deal with that. There's so much else in there. There's linens, there's fabric, there's crafts, that's where we keep all of our crafting stuff. And we do bags of crafts. If you're a crafter, and you're not hitting a thrift store before before you hit regular big box retail craft items, you're missing out. If you like hot glue, and yarn and needlepoint and all of those things. Check us out even you know those big spools of those expensive yarn. We have men bulk girl, people miss out on the crafts section by skipping domestics never skipped domestics, and always look on the bottom

Stephanie
shelf. What about for those that are coming in to donate donors?

Maggie Scivicque
You know, the biggest thing is, we're so busy with donations, especially this time of year, come with little patience, you know, give us a chance. Here's another fun piece of information. We hire a lot of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities 20% of our workforce, whether they identify or not, has a disability of some sort, a little patience, a little kindness for that person who might be unloading your car, that would be my biggest piece of advice. They're very sweet. They're trying their hardest. And sometimes they get backed up with a lot of cars, it can get overwhelming, especially if you're dealing with someone who may have autism. There's lots of different things just to keep in mind a little kindness to our people at the back door, they really are trying their best and they want to impress you and they want to take care of your donation. So that's probably my biggest piece of advice. Oh, that's beautiful.

Stephanie
And it's part of the journey, right? Like, it's part of the whole experience for the moment that you are driving to donate. And that's the story. And it's the how you got there. I mean, so make it part of that journey and meet those awesome people that are working there. Absolutely.

Maggie Scivicque
And it will make you smile, you'll leave with a smile, if you can be a little patient to give them a smile, and they're so excited to be there. You know, we really are the people that we hire. That's one of my favorite parts of the job is that, you know, these are some people who are not going to have the college experience. This is their first job in many cases. first paycheck, it turns them like their first boyfriend or girlfriend oh my gosh, their first like social we do proms. We do parties. We just did our Christmas party yesterday. I mean, it's an incredible experience to you know, really be a part of their lives and they're the reason I show up everyday definitely. Oh,

Stephanie
fun. Oh, awesome. Okay. All right. So all our guests to get three questions and the first one is what is the one thing you would want people to take away from the conversation? Oh,

Maggie Scivicque
gosh, I mean, I have to you know, not so shameless plug it's got to be you know, podcast listeners. If you're listening to this podcast organized Flamingo, then you want 100% or a podcast listener? And I would ask please, add to get thrifty podcast, your lineup of listen to podcasts. We do it every week. Like I said, we speak to people literally all over the world. Last year we talked to someone in France or no she was in Ireland. She runs a thrift shop there. We just have stories from all over the country all over the world of heat. Well who are thrift errs pickers antique errs DIY errs up cyclers you name it, listen to our podcast we'd love to have you check us out

Stephanie
100% That's how I found us. Yes, please go listen. Okay favorite magazine and or business that you read for business or for pleasure. It could be

Maggie Scivicque
okay. And I was thinking of this I'm like are still we have two magazines that come to my house one for yoga for me and then the other for lacrosse for my son who's a big sports fanatic, but the more relevant to this is definitely a blog I've been reading lately and I'm super obsessed with it. It's called blue collar, red lipstick. First of all, such a cute name. And you know, Adina okay, I love that. So Dina is fantastic. First of all, she looks like a Ralph Lauren supermodel. She is so adorable. She has great fashion sense. She's all about sustainability. She's very organized. She'd be a great guest for you. And just a fantastic gal. She really is inspirational. I really enjoy her and her blog is always fun. Plus, her stuff looks couture, but she shops thrift. It's incredible. Some of the ideas she has with blazers and sweaters are just absolutely undeniable. She she's a force. So blue collar red lipstick would definitely be who I would suggest you go read more about.

Stephanie
Oh, thank you. This gave me a great idea. I'm going to ask I'm going to add blogs to the question. So it doesn't just Oh, yeah. Because nowadays second theme, there was absolutely yeah, it was such a good episode. Your questions were so fun and yeah, definitely go listen. Okay. Oh,

Maggie Scivicque
and Canadians I love the Canadians are so much fun. We don't have accents in Colorado. So I'm like, I'm anyone with an accent. I'm like, come on the show. Tell me your story.

Stephanie
Okay, so where can people find you? Oh, best place

Maggie Scivicque
to find me. You know definitely our thrift stores on facebook, instagram at our thrift podcast with Maggie on Instagram specifically to you know, follow the podcast. And then you can find us on our website www our thrift.com awesome,

Stephanie
wonderful. Well, thank you again, Maggie. And until next time, thank you. Thank you for listening to the organized and productive podcast with the organized Flamingo. If you enjoyed today's episode, I would love it if you'd leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. It helps with letting people know that we're here. For full show notes and resources head on over to the organized flamingo.com/podcast Happy organizing

51: Tips for Keeping Your Entryway Space Tidy and Serene

This week, we are diving into the world of entryways and how keeping them tidy and organized can make a big impact on your daily life. We share 7 tips on maintaining clutter-free entryways, from understanding how you use the space to personalizing it to fit your needs. These tips will help you transform your entryway into a tranquil and organized space. Stay tuned and get ready to make your entryway a welcoming and clutter-free space.

In this episode we talk about:

  • The significance of maintaining a tidy entryway
  • How to identify your pain points
  • Storage solutions for entryways

Mentioned in this Episode:

Cherish & Declutter 2024 Workshops, Tackling Family Heirloom Clutter

12 practical workshops designed to help you 

  • Manage your heirloom & collectible items
  • Prevent them from cluttering your life
  • Get the most value out of your items
  • Make informed decisions

https://organizedandproductive.com/2024workshops

Episode 001: 7 Steps to Organizing (almost) Anything

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/7-steps-to-organizing/

Download your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

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Review the Transcript:

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:00:00]:
Welcome, friends, to The Organized and Productive podcast. And in fitting nature with the welcoming, We are talking all about entryways today and or the entry to any space, any room, and or a house, and how to keep it tidy, some tips on that space, and why it's so important to keep it organized. So let's get to it. Welcome to the Organized and productive podcast with the organized flamingo. I'm your host, Stephanie, a professional organizer and productivity expert. Ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solutions for you? Yeah? Well, then let's go. Well, I'm So glad that you're here. I will try to keep the punny entryway jokes to a minimum.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:00:48]:
Okay? I promise. I might have 1 or 2 more up my sleeve, but it's just so fitting to be saying welcoming and as we're talking about this topic. And it's also very fitting that this podcast, this episode, is airing at the beginning of January, which is also, you know, it and of is like the entryway of the year. January is the beginning of new things. So I think it all just relates. So if you're listening to it live, It's probably the beginning of the year, or when it aired. And if you're not, that is okay. Just know that we are talking about entryways, And this is a very fitting conversation and tips that can be related to your entryway.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:01:30]:
Yes. But also kind of like the the entry to any space. So it could be your home. It could be the room. It could be any of those types of spaces where you naturally come in and out of. So that's what we're talking about today. Okay. So in typical fashion, I give you a little bit of a table of contents feel so that you know what's coming in the episode.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:01:49]:
Today, I'm gonna give you some tips on how to sustain that area so that it's clutter free, so that it doesn't become so overwhelming. Because here's the thing, the entryway and or the exit way. Usually, it's the same, may not always be, but we are treating it as one of the same for this conversation because those are the areas that are not changing. Therefore, you have to work around it. Like, this is not like a desk The you can move around. This is, For the most part, a permanent area that you're coming in and out of for the space. So unless you're redesigning that space, which is an entirely different conversation, that entryway area is there to stay, and you have to work around it. So when it comes to areas that are very permanent like that, you have limited, you you're a little bit more limited with what you can do with it.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:02:42]:
Right? I mean, the possibilities are not as endless as the creativeness that you can get to in other parts of your room or space. And so when you're working with spaces like that, you really need to think about how do you naturally what do you naturally do when you come in and out of the room, and how do you utilize that entryway that is so permanent. So we'll talk I'm gonna give you some tips on that. There's about 7 tips that I'm gonna give you and just how to just how to maintain that area, how to avoid it getting cluttered so fast, and making sure that that is a space that gives you tranquility because that is the 1st place that you're entering in, and that is also the last place when you leave. Okay. So first things first is understanding how you utilize the entryway and what that means. And if you're following our 7 steps of organizing almost anything, this is this aligns with step 1, which is assessing the space you are about to organize. And if, we have the show notes to our 7 steps of organizing almost anything, which is our general framework here at The Organize Flamingo.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:03:51]:
And so if you're assessing that area, it means asking yourself questions like, how often do I go on here? What do I normally drop off? How do I utilize it in my natural behavior? Not the way that you intend to or want to. This is truly an area because these are the areas where you're usually maybe in a rush or you're you have a lot of things on you. You know, you're carrying a lot of things to take into your car, to leave your apartment. And so This is one of those spaces where creativity goes a long way. But the natural way that you use The space should take precedence over how you would ideally want it to look like. And sometimes they will be the same, and, hopefully, they both will merge. Your inspiration and your creativity will align with how you naturally use The space. But, sometimes, those are 2 very different things.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:04:45]:
If you have a family that you're you know, other people need to utilize that space and you need a lot of room to come in and out and you live in a smaller entryway space, you will have limited things that you can do in that area. So this is where be honest with yourself and assess how do I use this entryway. How do I am I normally is this the way that I normally go out to go to the garage, into my car? Or is this the way that goes out immediately to the street or to the front door or to the sidewalk? So think about your natural tendencies. And within this tip, what I'm gonna have you do is is write it down. Some people will, what we'll do with them is we'll do, like, sticky notes. Like, this is the area where I naturally will put my keys down, where I would put my gym bag on, where, when I'm leaving, this is the area that gets the most frustrated because there's always something here. And so we usually will do, like, a little sticky note situation to note how it is that I'm using or how you, in this case, you're using The space. So that's my number and tip.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:05:52]:
How do you use this area and then sticky note it or label it and so that you know where things are supposed to be as we segue into tip number 2. My tip number 2 on The process would be, okay, now ask yourself, what are your pain points? So you have assessed how you utilize that space. You know, how you normally come in, where you come in, where you put your stuff down, how you naturally navigate through the area. And so for the 2nd tip is figure out what your pain points are. What really annoys you? What gets in the way? What are the things that you really want to fix and categorize them or prioritize The? Because the space will probably only tackle 1 or 1, 2, maybe 3 of your pain points. Hopefully, we can get through all of your pain points. But because of The, again, the nature of this very permanent space, you will have less options on getting creative. Like, you can't really move the entire entryway very easily unless you redesign.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:06:59]:
So you're starting to get limited on this permanent space. So this is where I want you to just at least categorize them of priority. What would make you feel the best if this was if this problem was solved? This next tip is all about, figuring out what your end goal is. So it's not just the pain points now. Now it's following our steps, you know, through 2 through 5 of our 5 or 7 steps of organizing almost anything, meaning, is your priority to downsize? Like, you're just trying to get rid of stuff, declutter? Are you trying to find a new design and inspiration because you just feel very stagnant in the place? Is maybe your family changing, the dynamic of your living situation changing. And, therefore, what you had before is no longer working. So This tip is all about find out the end goal of this. So this will guide you to picking out some of the the items, how you will be redesigning this space, how will you be organizing it going forward.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:08:02]:
Okay. This next step is probably the most Fun for many of you, especially you DIYers, those of you who are very visual, creative. This is super fun, and this is personalizing personalizing the entryway in the area to how you want it to be according to what we just talked about in the first three tips that I gave you. This section is full of many options. Right? You can go all over the place. So I'm gonna give you a couple just to narrow down. If you have a small entryway or narrow and or narrow type of entryway, the kind that immediately goes to the street, maybe, or immediately, when you open it up, you're there, like, in your living room. Right? Like, it's there's not a big gap between, like, a hallway or a big entryway area or staging area to get to the next room.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:08:49]:
So if you have a narrow and or small space, think about going vertical. I always talk about The, especially in very awkward spaces. Think about, is there something like a hanging basket that you can like, you know, the plug type of the plant type of hanging baskets that you can incorporate so that you can put maybe your mittens in there if you live in the cold weather or your scarf or whatever it is that you immediately drop off. So think vertically. Then the next thing I'm going to tell you if you have a very small entryway is think about what can you hang from a wall or can you bring in a rack, like a a rolling type of wall, like a movable rack wall. Sometimes they're 1 piece and sometimes they're they have more like a rack type of rod system. Can that be the place that is immediately in that area so you can quickly hang the items and then roll it out of the way as soon as you come in. Basically, it's your way of when you come in, just making sure you have a place to put all this stuff and then moving it so that it's out of the way for your everyday living.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:09:59]:
So that's just a couple of bonus tips I'm giving you here for small, and or awkward type of spaces. If you do have more room in the entryway or staging areas. This is where picking your favorite type of table or baskets in the front is going to be very helpful. This, is especially true for shoes or anything that you take off, that needs to be kind of in the bottom of something. So it's your table. Everybody thinks about, oh, okay. Well, you can put, like, a bowl where your mail goes or a bowl for where your keys goes. Okay.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:10:33]:
That's wonderful on a counter space. But don't forget about the bottom part, where where where are you taking off your shoes? Are people just throwing them everywhere? Okay, so that staging area, you can also incorporate the table with the bottom or maybe a cabinet or maybe some kind of shelving area where people will put their shoes in there. So that way, it's you know, there's a home for everything, basically. This is the part, like, entryway in general. This is the type of area where if you have a lot of guests that are coming in and out, Let's say you have different roommates, and they have their own visitors. Maybe you have a large, you know, family or the dynamic of where you live it means that you have a lot of people coming in and out. Maybe you have a lot of parties or entertaining or whatever it may be. If you are one of those people in households, then don't forget that that The entryway is a perfect place to label instructions, label your Wi Fi password.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:11:33]:
Whatever it is that you want to tell your guest The entryway is a great place to do it so that they know where things go. Also, if for small, small children or really big children too, but and children, so they know where their specific area is, where they hang their coats maybe, where they put their shoes, their backpacks, etcetera, etcetera. So think about labeling the entryway so that people outside of who of you know where to put things away as well and where things go. And for this last tip, it's all about maintaining and making sure that you're constantly evaluating that place. Don't overthink it. The overthink it. This this is not a report card type of situation. In our 7 steps of organizing almost anything.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:12:22]:
I talk about some easy ways for you to create a system for when you're maintaining this area. The thing about entryways entry and exit ways is that if they are not kept up with, maintained, The it starts to creep out, so so, like, outside of that area. Meaning, like, it just starts to spill over to the rest of the room. I'm sure many of you can relate to this. I mean, if you're visualizing, if you're a visual person, think of it as an overflow of, like, a water or a cup that you just keep putting stuff there and you're not maintaining it and cleaning it out. It's just overflowing to other parts of the room. And that's when clutter really starts to become a problem. It's hard to maintain, and it just spills over to other places of the house.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:13:07]:
And so the entryway is a very easy place that that gets It's a problem area that gets to that place because that is one of the most frequented places. You you need to come in and out. So that is one of those places that you can't really ignore. And so if you're not keeping up with it, it can become a problem for the other parts of your house. So a very important place to organize and keep up with. Okay. So there we have it. Thank you for walking in to this conversation.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:13:38]:
Okay. I Productive. That's done. That's my last entryway joke or pun. Thanks for joining the conversation today. If you need a little bit of assistance with figuring out what to keep, what to toss. We have a keep it or toss it decision guide in the show notes, which you can download for free, and that might help a little bit with figuring out, okay, you know, the problem spots of things that you're having a hard time letting go of in spaces like The entryway. Also, if you are brand new to the this podcast, we have our new 2024 workshops that have been introduced.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:14:13]:
Every month, we have a different workshop. Some of them are online. Some of them are in person here in Colorado. Take a look. The website is in our show notes if that is something of interest. If you want to take your organizing to another level. If you need a little bit more assistance, but yet you wanna do it yourself, the workshops are perfect for that. So take a look at The, and, also, don't forget to tag us.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:14:36]:
If you decide to declutter your entryway, organize it, redo it a little bit, let us know, tag us. I would love to cheer you on. Have a wonderful day, and happy organizing. Thank you for listening to the Organized and Productive podcast with The Organized Flamingo. If you enjoyed today's episode, I would love it if you'd leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. It helps with letting people know that we're here. For full show notes and resources, head on over to the Organized flamingo.com/podcast. Happy organizing.

50: 10 Questions to Ask Before Starting to Organize Any Space

This week, we discuss 10 key questions to ask yourself to make decluttering and organizing fun and purposeful. We break down each of the 10 end goal words, such as purpose, usefulness, frequency, and comfort, and provide insightful questions to consider within each category. Whether you're just starting your organizing journey or looking to maintain an already organized space, these questions will help you create an organized space that aligns with your needs, enhances efficiency, and contributes to a comfortable and visually appealing environment. So get ready to dive into this episode and kickstart your organizing journey with purpose and joy!

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Questions to think about for your organizing project or journey
  • Identifying the primary function of the space to determine what should stay or go
  • The importance of comfort, aesthetics, and adaptability, ensuring your space is not only organized but sustainable in the long run

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 001: 7 Steps to Organizing (almost) Anything

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/7-steps-to-organizing/

Episode 008: Step 1: Assess and the Power of Planning Ahead

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/8-step-1-assess-the-power-of-planning-ahead/

Download your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

The 10 End-Goal Words:

Purpose, Usefulness, Frequency, Storage, Prioritization, Efficiency, Comfort, Aesthetics, Maintenance, Adaptability

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Join our weekly email newsletter for all-things organizing & productivity delivered right to your inbox

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/quicklinks

Download your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

Review the Transcript:

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:00:00]:
Hi, Haley and team. This is recording for episode 50, organizing without the tiers, 10 questions to make decluttering fun. Thank you so much. If you find it difficult to make a decision, there could be several factors of why that is. But one of those factors could be because you don't have a purpose, a goal, or a visual at the end game. It helps to have the end goal in mind. So for today's episode, we are going to focus on 10 words and questions within those words that you could be asking yourself to find a purpose in your organizing journey and project. So this may help The organizing journey a little bit more and make it a little bit more fun and purposeful and help you avoid the tears of frustration that comes when you don't even know why you're trying to declutter or organize.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:00:54]:
So I'm excited to dive to dive in with to these with you and to help you avoid the frustration in Tiers that sometimes just really do does come with organizing and decluttering and not knowing why you're even doing it. So let's dive right in. Alright, friends. So first things first. This episode is airing for the 1st time at the beginning of January of 2024. So probably January 1st. And with that, happy New Year. You know, we we try to keep all these episodes as relevant as possible.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:01:28]:
So if you're listening to this episode after January, don't you worry. We like I said, like, we try to make all these episodes long lasting. So you this episode is relevant regardless of when you're listening. But because we are airing this at the beginning of the year, I just wanna say happy new year. And if you're listening to this after that, happy new start of your organizing journey or project. So in typical fashion of our solo podcast episodes, I like to give you an outline of what's to come in the episode so that you can, either if you're a note taker, you know what's to come. If you're a visual, more listen like, if you like to visualize it in your head, this is really helpful for all of you. So what's coming is we've got 10 sections here or 10 words that are end word or end goal words, And you'll see what I mean when I first start the the list.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:02:19]:
And when it within each word, there's questions for you to ask yourself. If you need the list, it's down in the show notes. So I've I've I've outlined the 10 words and then you can just listen to the episode to, you know, to follow along with the questions. We also have the transcript available to anybody that may need it and it is in our the link to all of our podcast episodes are in the show notes and then that will take you to the show to the transcripts of this episode as well. And one other thing, if you are not familiar with our 7 steps of organizing Almost anything, which is our framework here at the Organize Flamingo. There is a link to that episode down in the show notes because I refer to Step 1 in this episode. What that means is we have a framework that 7 steps of organizing almost anything. And Steps 2 through 5 are interchangeable depending on what your end goal is.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:03:13]:
So you'll wanna listen to that episode so that you can understand What is it that you're trying to achieve? And then you could decide, you know, which steps are next after this one. With that being said, all of these questions in this entire episode Fits very nicely with step 1, which is the assess step, which is figuring out your plan. And I've got you know, we go deeper into that episode on that, You know, step 1, assessing episode. And then these are just questions that whether you're following our framework or not, they're still useful, but they're Incredibly useful if you are, you know, following along with our 7 steps. So let's go. Let's head to the questions. So the 1st and goal word is purpose. What is the primary function of the space? Is it for work, relaxation, creativity, or is it something else? Identifying the primary function of the Space is going to help you determine what should stay or what should go.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:04:15]:
So for instance, if it's a workspace, Items related to work should take priority over the leisure items. Right? And so you'll go down the list for this particular end goal. So Ask yourself, what is the purpose of the space, the closet, the area, whatever it is that you're working on? If you're going on a long journey, You will also ask yourself this question. The 2nd and goal word is usefulness. The question here is, do I use or need all the items in this space? Are they serving a purpose, or are they just taking up space? Assessing the usefulness of items is crucial to decluttering and organizing. If something is in used or doesn't serve a purpose, It might be worth maybe donating, selling, discarding, one of those. There is a decision tree that I've made for all of you, which you can find in our show notes. It's called the keep or toss decision tree, and it's a 1 pager super quick.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:05:18]:
And it gives you, like, a yes or no type of decision tree So that if you're if there's, like, I if there's items when where you're just not sure about, this decision might help you with that. Okay? Like, there are some limbo items, and you're like, I don't know. I'm stuck. So the decision tree is gonna be super helpful, especially for this this section. Our 3rd and goal word is frequency. How often do I use these items? Should frequently used items be more accessible maybe? Like, these are the questions you're asking for yourself. Right? Like, these are in your perspective. Items used daily or frequently should be really easy to access.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:06:00]:
Rearranging to prioritize access to these items can save you so much time and effort. I've talked about this before. It's some I mean, this is really predominant. Like, if you're in a, if you're in an industry like you're if maybe you're in the Kitchen and food industry, you know this very well. Right? Like, it needs to be within your hands reach, within your movement. If you're an architect For builder, you know what I'm talking about. When you design spaces, you analyze and you study how somebody functions in that space so everything's readily accessible. So that's what the frequency why frequency is so important.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:06:35]:
If you're needing something all the time, should those items be a little bit, you know, placed in a place where it's accessible to you much easier. Let's talk about storage, and this is our next end goal word. So it's storage. Do I have adequate storage solutions for these items? Can I optimize storage to save space? Because efficient storage solutions will be able to prevent clutter. It's not the answer to all. There's steps that need to come before finding the perfect storage solution, which we talk about in our 7 steps of organizing almost anything. Storage does not come first. It should not.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:07:18]:
Investing in storage containers is great and shelving and furniture that maximizing space that maximizes the space will make such a big difference. So think about that. Do I have enough storage solutions for what I'm trying to achieve? So this is a very important question for you to be asking yourself. The next end goal word is prioritization or the ability to find things. So if it's easier for you to think about this, it it's how do I find things? So what are the essential items in the space? Can I prioritize or categorize them for easier access? Which, By the way, we have a podcast all about categorizing your items and how important that is. And also just finding a category system or categorizing system that works for you, and how your brain works and how you retrieve things. So listen in on that episode. So prioritizing essential items will ensure that they're readily available, which we talked about before, right, in one of our other words.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:08:18]:
Categorizing them can also simplify the retrieval, which is how you find things, and, of course, then it will reduce the time spent searching for said items. Let's talk about our next and goal word, which is efficiency. If this is important to you, then, I mean, You know, listen in to all of the tips, but this is a big one for a lot of you, especially that are just trying to be more efficient. So can I arrange items in a way that makes The tasks at hand easier or more efficient? You know, maybe in your craft room, in your areas where you don't utilize as much, but when you're in there, you do need to be efficient. This is a really big category in word for business owners, for people that work from home or like your home office or homes or your office space very important efficiency. Because arranging items based on frequency of use or workflow will enhance productivity. There and as an example, organizing a kitchen so cooking essentials are close at hand, Can streamline meal preparation. Another example is if you're shipping things all the time and having that area just Feel and be more efficient for the way that your brain operates and the way that you do things is going to be a lifesaver.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:09:36]:
So very important for you to be asking yourself these questions as well. The next 2 words are all about feeling, and the first one is Comfort. So the fur the the end goal word is comfort. Is this space comfortable and conducive to its intended use? Can you add anything to enhance comfort so that when you're organizing, the end game of comfort will be important? Because sometimes Get very stuffy in our organizing journey. We think everything has to be and look a certain way, and it ends up not feeling comfortable for you, your Family, whoever it is that's using the space. You know, they'll feel a a space that feels comfortable, encourages the productivity and relaxation that you need. Some people don't think about that as either. You know, they think that it has to look a certain way, and if your brain isn't comfortable around that surrounding, or maybe your work needs a little bit of a different feeling, like you need to relax, to think, to write, to do, then you that space needs to have, that as a component.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:10:44]:
So this could involve arranging furniture for better ergonomics or adding cozy elements for relaxation areas, you know, maybe the bathroom, maybe the bedroom, your closet, areas where maybe that is a place of relaxation, living room, family rooms, things like that. So think about, comfort as a very important question. And this is a really fun, I think, a very fun section to experiment with. So I don't know. This is one of my most favorite questions to ask myself and make sure that I'm asking so that it doesn't get too rigid. The next one is also about feeling, but a little bit of visualization, which is aesthetics. So the end goal word is aesthetics. Do the items and their arrangement create a visually appealing space? Can I personalize it to reflect my style? Because visual appeal contributes to the overall ambiance.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:11:40]:
A few people don't think about that. Julie Hood in one of our past Episodes, I think hers is episode 49. She talked about that. You know, how the visualness of of your area contributes to setting yourself up for success. So that is a very important piece. Creating an organized space that also looks pleasing is going to enhance your motivation, and the mood of whoever is utilizing that space. So a very important word as well. Okay.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:12:10]:
Before I give you the last 2 words, like I mentioned, all of these were all of these words and questions fit very nicely with our step One of assessing, your project and asking all of these questions before you start a project. But if you've already started, Questions like all of these as you go along will also be very helpful. Okay? So don't feel like you like, if you didn't ask ask answer or ask yourself these questions At the beginning of the project, you know, you're set up for failure. Definitely not true. Do check ins whenever. These 2 words though fit very nicely with our Step 6 and 7, which is evaluate your project and maintain it. So though these 2 specifically are, like, perfectly tailored, but you could be asking yourself These questions it should be way before you start. But if you haven't, just know that these 2 questions are going to be perfect for step 6 and 7.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:13:05]:
Okay. So maintenance is our end word or end goal word, and this is all about how is it to clean and maintain this organized setup. If you are just starting your organizing journey. This is very important to think about. Okay. I may have this grandiose or marvelous idea that I'm about to commit to, But if it's not easy to clean for you and the people that are using it, especially if it's, for little ones, you know, that really becomes predominant. But honestly, this is for Anyone at any age. Or if you have you're a caretaker for maybe an elderly parent or something like that.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:13:45]:
How is how easy is it to clean and maintain? Very important question. Can I establish a routine to keep it organized? Maybe okay. If you're in a space where it's very awkward and you just it's going to be hard to maintain and clean no matter what. Very relevant in smaller spaces. You know, you're working with what you got. Like that that's what you were given. Awkward bathrooms, awkward rooms, like this is it. Your kitchens, Cabinets that are very awkward in the in the corner.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:14:14]:
You know what? That's that's what I have at hand. Okay. Fine. You know, you we've gotta move on. But can you establish a routine to keep it organized and cannot be part of your plan? Okay. So that's this that's what the section is about. An organizing system that's easy to maintain is going to encourage consistency, and that's what we're looking for in this section. Like, how do I Make sure that this is going to be sustainable in the long run.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:14:41]:
Establishing a cleaning and organizing habit is going to really ensure that the space is functional in the long run, and, it's sustainable for you and the people. Maybe if you're teaching somebody how to do it because it's, it's for children or somebody else's space. You know, is it can they keep it keep up with it as well? So that's what this section is about. Our end goal questions and word is all about adaptability. You should be asking yourself as you're making this plan or as you're going along, a question about is this is this system, is this space, is this Thing that I'm about to, you know, to plan out is it flexible enough to accommodate changes or new items in the future? Changes, you know, whether it be, for whatever reason. The this is especially true if you, you know, your family dynamic is changing. If you're introducing new members or if there will be, like, reconstruction of a house or a space, if you're moving I mean, this is very a very important section if you're moving. If you know that that area will need to move with you or it will need to you know, you need to figure that out, if you're in a space where you're renting, you know, in in having this area Be adaptable to that change is going to be important.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:16:04]:
This, you know, being open to the adjustment as it is like your life evolves ensures that the space remains functional and organized over time. Because what we see here in the when people don't ask themselves these questions is sometimes they will make permanent changes in the system that either are very you know, they were perfect for that time. But as time moved on, it did not go it did not suit those new needs. And now they're stuck with a very Quite permanent solution. And now to get it down, to get it off, or to demolish it will be way more costly. Now sometimes a permanent solution is going to be perfect. This is very much true for those family areas, you know, the the entertainment center or whatever you're building out for the TV, for the puzzles, for the books and stuff. Great.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:16:57]:
I mean, you're there for the long run. Right? Like, you know, if you're You're thinking long term. That's fine, but just ask yourself that question. Okay. As I'm about to purchase this very permanent item, this permanent solution, Am I, am I okay with that? Or if it needs to change, just what will be my options? Just think about it. You don't have to make a full plan. Just think about it. Okay.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:17:23]:
So what do you think? Did you ask yourself all these questions? Are these questions helpful? I hope they are. I have been asking these questions in our client intake forms and or when I first, you know, Start to meet people and they have proven to be very helpful. So I didn't just make these up. These are things that I have been asking throughout the years, And I've outlined the ones that were not life changing, but project changing. You know? The ones that if they would not have answered the Question. The project or the journey would have not been as successful or as streamlined. Okay. So that's why I outlined these Ten end goal words and questions.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:18:05]:
Because I just think that if you ask yourself, at least you're conscientious, if you're, you know, making sure that you're answering them even if they're short answers that they will set you up for success. And in each question is playing a vital role in creating an organized space that aligns with your needs, enhances efficiency, and contributes to a comfortable and visually appealing environment. Right? As always, if you need a little bit more of a tailored approach, let us know. Send us a message, and we would be happy to help. And happy New Year, and happy start of your project, whichever one you're listening to and comes first. Wishing you the very best, and cheers to an amazing year, an amazing start of new beginnings. Until next time, happy organizing.

49: 2023 Favorite Guest Moments: Tips To Take Into The New Year

In this special episode, we take a reflective journey through the insightful conversations we've had this year with our guests.  We revisit the highlights and key takeaways from our esteemed guests who shared their wisdom on productivity, organizing, and the pursuit of a fulfilling lifestyle.

We hope these conversations continue to inspire you on your journey towards a more intentional, organized, and fulfilling life.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Suzanne Orlando: 

Episode 003: Mental Health and Organizing with Suzanne Orlando 

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/3-mental-health-and-organizing-with-suzanne-orlando/

Caroline Bower:

Episode 005: Set Yourself Up for Success With a Capsule Wardrobe

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/5-set-yourself-up-for-success-with-a-capsule-wardrobe

Tomesha Campbell:

Episode 007: Organize  Your Way to a Healthier Kitchen with Tomesha Campbell

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/organize-your-way-to-a-healthier-kitchen-with-tomesha-campbell/

Magdalena Mendez

Episode 009: Organization with flair: How to have a stylish and tidy home

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/9-organization-with-flair-how-to-have-a-stylish-and-tidy-home/

Susie Castellanos Hansley

Episode 011: The Science of Procrastination: Why We do It and How to Stop It with Susie Castellanos Hansley

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/11-the-science-of-procrastination-why-we-do-it-and-how-to-stop-with-susie-castellanos-hansley/

Kate Hufnagel

Episode 013: Untangling the Web: How to Practice Good Digital Hygiene

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/13-untangling-the-web-how-to-practice-good-digital-hygiene/

Kristy Krugh

Episode 015: The Pros and Cons of Subscribing to Email Lists

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/15-the-pros-cons-of-subscribing-to-email-lists/

Dr. Dar

Episode 017: Living with an Unorganized Partner: How to Avoid Frustration

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/17-living-with-an-unorganized-partner-how-to-avoid-frustration/

Eboni Creighton

Episode 019: Finding Your Summer Groove: Staying Organized During the Long Break

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/19-finding-your-summer-groove-staying-organized-during-the-long-break/

Jennifer Bassman

Episode 021: Avoiding Burnout and Achieving Mindful Organization with Jennifer Bassman

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/21-avoiding-burnout-and-achieving-mindful-organization-with-jennifer-bassman

Adria Thompson

Episode 023: Navigating Dementia: Practical Organizing Tips for Caregivers

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/23-navigating-dementia-practical-organizing-tips-for-caregivers/

Sabrina Runbeck

Episode 025: Defining Productivity: Actionable Steps from Sabrina Runbeck

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/25-defining-productivity-actionable-steps-from-sabrina-runbeck

Monica Monfre

Episode 030: Teacher Talk: Monica Monfre’s Advice for Staying Organized in the Classroom

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/30-teacher-talk-monica-monfres-advice-for-staying-organized-in-the-classroom/

Julie Hood

Episode 047: Setting Your Workspace Up for Success with Julie Hood 

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/47-setting-your-workspace-up-for-success-with-julie-hood/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Join our weekly email newsletter for all-things organizing & productivity delivered right to your inbox

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/quicklinksDownload your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

Posted on Categories Podcast

48: Best Organizing Products of 2023: Our Tops Pics

This week, Stephanie dives into her favorite products of the year. As a certified professional organizer, Stephanie shares her top 10 products that have either changed her perspective or have been consistently effective in her organizing work. From versatile bins to space-saving storage solutions, Stephanie covers a range of items that she has found invaluable in helping people create efficient systems in their lives. Whether it's for the garage, small living spaces, hobbies, the kitchen, digital organization, or other universal needs, Stephanie provides insightful recommendations for products that have stood out in 2023. 

In this episode we talk about:

  • Must-Have Items for a Clutter-Free Space
  • Tried and trusted products we found during this year
  • Recommendations for products of good quality and practicality for reuse

Mentioned in this Episode:

Please note that we may earn commissions when you purchase through our links.  We only suggest, refer and recommend products we actually use or would recommend to our closest friends.  

Google Referral Program

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/GoogleWorkspace

Our Amazon Storefront

www.amazon.com/shop/theorganizedflamingo

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or are constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Join our weekly email newsletter for all-things organizing & productivity delivered right to your inbox

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/quicklinks
Download your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

Review the Transcript:

Hey organized and productive listeners and community. Welcome to our next episode here of the podcast. I'm Stephanie, your host, and welcome. If anybody is new welcome, I'm so happy that you're here. Today we are talking all about my favorite products of 2023. But more specifically, the you know, I'm not, I'm not in the business of influencing you to use a particular product. I'm actually the opposite of that. I am a CPO, Certified Professional Organizer. My whole goal and my values lie on making sure that that whatever systems you use are optimal to how you lead your life like he's had doesn't have to be with a product, I am also not married to one particular product or brand, I actually make it a very strong point to not be influenced by that because I never want that to be the reason that I suggest a product to you, or don't suggest one at all. So this list is all about my favorites that either are new to me this year that I have, like changed the way that I think about something, or I've been using through and through. And they just made the list again this year. Okay.

So these are all products that I use in the organizing world, whether with my clients or myself. And there's just happened to be my favorites for this year. So let's get to it. Welcome to the organized and productive podcast with organized Flamingo. I'm your host, Stephanie, a professional organizer and productivity expert, ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solutions for you. Yeah, well, then let's go. So in typical format, I like to give you a table of contents, if you will, so that you know what's coming for the episode. So for this year, I've got 10 products that I'd like to highlight. And these are in no particular order. So I've got the 10 that I'll talk to you about. I've got them labeled and organized in the typical area or spot that you would normally like use them under or in. But some of these products that I'll talk about it when I talk about each of them can be used in multiple rooms, it just happens to be the you know, I'll I'll kind of name it off based on the area that you would normally use that product in. And but again, these can be interchanged for different things. And I'll talk about that. And there's 10 total. So let's go first one is going to be bins and the bins, I actually didn't put them under a space because you can use bins wherever. And my favorite bin for this year, there's actually two.

One is the black bin like the black and yellow bins at Costco, I'm not going to name the brand because each region area changes a little bit. Right now I think they've got a consistent to Maker production company that makes them but it's not always the case. So I just don't want to name off that brand. Because if you listen to this a couple months later, and they decide to use a different brand than it won't be the same and you will be looking for something that doesn't exist. But basically the black and yellow lids, their black bins and then yellow lids from Costco. If you don't have a Costco membership, or in your region, you just don't have one at all. Really, honestly, most black bins with the yellow lids are really good. And I recommend them for multiuse. But here's what I want you to look for, which is why I like the Costco ones, the food grade because they can be interchanged for so many different things.

You can put your food in there, you could you know, if you go camping, you can use it to organize your stuff in your garage, just the critters will be less likely to get in there because they just the material is a little bit hardier. They're meant as food grey types, so you can use them in your kitchen in your restaurant. There's just so many uses for these. I'm also a big proponent of purchasing items that are of good quality. And if they're priced, right, that's a big bonus but good quality so that if you need to resell it, or reuse it or give it away to somebody else, there's still some life in it. And it just doesn't end up in the landfill right away. And so these types of bins tend to be in that in that category where they can be just used and reused. I've had I've had some my own personal ones for years. So you know highly recommend them under the same category of bins and bins that I would recommend Are any of the clear totes that already have the lids attached to the bin. Costco happens to have some as well but they don't have to be from Costco. Several stores carry these. I love them because you don't have to lug around the lid. You know so many lids get lost this way. So I'm a big proponent of any of those clear bins that you can just fold they have two sides of a lid and then you could just fold them in. I will say that the reason I have two bins this year is because these types of bins that I just talked about that Have more of the hinges and you close in and out.

They're not as weatherproof or critter proof if you will, because there's gaps in the hinges of the lids right they don't just snap on the way that the other more conventional one lid and it just has a snap on the sides type of bins do these will inevitably have more cracks that the elements can get into. So that's why you just want to make sure you have two types of choices. But what I love about this is if you have the type of space where you're always losing bins or you need a little bit more wiggle room because some of your items are taller and you can't close the lid and so then some of you will put the lid to the side and then it gets lost this way you can play around with the items inside the bin. If you can't close it, that's okay you're not going to lose the lid. So that's what I want to give you two types of options this year. A product that I really would recommend and that I you know you could check out and see which one works for you. Our next section here is the garage and or shed or any space where you keep your sporting equipment and more specifically, there is a product a bike pulley product that we ended up using this year that I absolutely loved it we use it on a personal basis I have seen it in clients is spaces as well. So I can attest that other people have used it as well but we installed it for ourselves and I love it. It also goes in line with going vertical I'm always talking about use your vertical space don't just think about shelving and the floor think about what can you hang from your ceiling or roof or top areas. Of course making sure that you have you can do that and you have the space and the sturdiness of of the walls and the ceilings to do that.

But always think vertical like can you hang something can you take something from the top and then that way eliminating having to put clutter the flooring space in the shelving space So always think vertical if you can and this is one of those products that covers that space. We are using it for two adult bikes and three adult bikes excuse me, and they're wonderful. They've they've stood there for a couple of weeks now I have seen it in other clients as house where they used it for adult heavier bikes and it worked great. So this police system that I have in the shownotes is the one that I'm recommending for this year. Okay next up in the small spaces RV living room or anywhere you want to maximize the space category is our two items.

One is this automatic storage that is collapsible, I'm sure maybe you've seen them around. But this one I got at The Container Store you if you don't have a Container Store, you can also get one at Amazon. But this one in particular I loved because I think they've started they've perfected I just remember getting some of these Ottomans in the past and they were very flimsy. You couldn't even stay sit on it. And I think they've just they've been perfecting their formula on building these types of Ottomans and I'm very happy with them this year. We I used him for a client where we set his RV up and it was great because it's lightweight. So you know heavier furniture in RV is not always great because you have to lug around your RV or you have to pull it so the more weight that you add to the RV, the less efficient it will be so you really do want to keep it as lightweight as possible but yet sturdy. And this Ottoman fit that category and also they could just put like you know extra stuff in the in the storage area because it's a sit down like an ottoman type of sit down.

They come in single squares or rectangle like a little bit bigger. So they come in different sizes and it was just wonderful because then you can also collapse it when you're on the road you can put it away so it's up to you. A lot of uses with this automate. I'll put it in the show notes. I got mine, the one for this client at The Container Store. But I know there's a few variations of it on Amazon and other websites as well. And then the second one under the same category is a shoe holder for this one we got from IKEA but you can again get it for most places. Now I will say that this shoe holder cabinet is the plastic type. It's very lightweight. I've only been able to see it like here. I don't know if they have a patent on it or something but the only one that I saw that was this lightweight and didn't get like the lids didn't get stuck was the one at IKEA. And so you can put it wherever to store your shoes.

And it's very slim. It's very thin, so efficient with space you can put it in hallways and areas like those. And so this shoe Holder was my favorite. Again you can use it you can get it at different places. But when it comes to whether RVs or small spaces you want to think about the efficiency of the space and how much the item actual actually weighs. All right, so let's move right along to hobbies. And this one item I really enjoyed. We've we've personally been using this item I've seen it been being used in different ways. But the puzzle storing system like a place where you can store your puzzle pieces, when you're not working on the puzzle, I loved them, I really thought it was a very like now the felt like they come in different sizes. And I just think there's just more variations to them. And again, kind of like the ottoman, I think this is a product that has been gone has gone through different reiterations. And this year, or as of lately, those products just seem to be better. And so I think for all of you who have hobbies, like puzzles, like you're like to build things, and you need to put them away, at the end of the day, or at the end of whatever you're working on that item I think like a table like this, that you can put something over it like a map or something like a cover over it and you can safely put it away so you can come back to it whenever is a great system to help you stay organized.

And you're not just having to always have to like put everything away at the end of the day and then not know where things are or you're using random places or you're occupying, you know, different boxes and things in little pieces get lost. I think this is this type of table is really good for Legos and puzzles and arts and crafts. So you just put the cover over it, put it away, it's very sleek, very thin, so it fits under, most like under like most furniture pieces like if you need to put them away for the evening, under the coffee table or wherever it may be. All right, we've got three more areas to cover with four products. First is the kitchen for the kitchen. My favorite product of this year was the M design. Standing the stackable bottle storage rack. It goes by different names. But basically it's this organizer where you can organize all of the those around, drink like containers. So water bottles, you can do you can do wine, you can put them in the fridge, you can utilize it for almost anything that's round, the drinkable kind of containers that are always running around and like in your cabinet.

Loved this product this year, there are different variations of it online, different makers make this so you will probably need to play around with the type of product that you like and would be best for your cabinet. But the reason I'm highlighting em designs is because it was the sturdiest. And for me that's really important for clients. Because well, you don't want things to be wobbly or feel like it's cheap material, you know. So this was by far the the kind of the best product for the price and for most cabinets. Now let's shift over to the digital world, though digital side of organizing. And I'm going to highlight one particular set of products that I really enjoyed and would recommend, there were my favorite for 2023. And that's the Google workspace lineup of family of products. Very important here. I do work with different types of digital spaces and products and platforms. Microsoft Office, Google workspace, some clients have their just have their own. And so I'm familiar with the you know, the popular ones out there. But the reason I'm highlighting the Google products is because they're really doing a good job with linking each of their products together so that they work. Even for even with people that don't have the platform.

So you tie like your spreadsheets together, or maybe your Word document to another, the Google Sheets or for your notes page, right. So they all can actually interchangeably work together, you can link them together. I used it a lot to organize my podcast actually. So I loved it. I loved using it for my own personal preferences. But I really do think that they've done a great job of tying all of their products together. And it's accessible to those that don't necessarily, you know, have the paid version. So somebody that just uses the regular Google free account, can use it as much as the person who uses it for business and pays for the for the workspace and for the business platform side of it. So I love any product that allows people to use it regardless of if they have a paid version or not.

So for me, Google just has done a really good job with that. I'm not recommending it now. But I do want to say something really quick that I'm not just recommending it because I'm in the referral program. I actually became I got into the referral program because I liked this aspect of Google. So really for for this, the digital product recommendation is really, for me, it's just all about accessibility, and making it available to anyone and everyone just regardless of what type of device that they use. Regardless of, you know if they're due if they have a paid version or not, so that to me is really important, especially in the digital world that it's accessible to all as much as possible. So good job for the Google products. That is my preferred one for this are the 2023. And going into 2024, under Project Management, and digital organizing. Remember, they

do have everything from Google, like Google Photos, where you can store or you can store your digital files as well, not just photos, but like your digital files.

So you can use it for files for work like spreadsheets, and they got their docks and so the list goes on. But you can they have, you don't have to use them all. And you can also use them independently of each other. All right, so under the category of other and just very universal type of products that I would recommend and wear my favorite for this year are. One is the acrylic tape that I've actually talked about this product for many, many years. It acrylic tape is a double sided tape that you can use to tape things to things to things to walls to do you know physical products, physical places. The reason I like this acrylic tape is it's the one that is most versatile, depending regardless of where what temperature you're using it in. So you know, if you're especially in Arby's, or maybe in garages, or places where the weather fluctuates a lot, this type of acrylic tape is great. So if you it's more I prefer this one more than your typical double sided like three M type of tape. Sorry, three M, I know you have a great product and love your hooks, but your tape, oh man, the one that comes with the hooks. Not the best, not the greatest.

So I really prefer the acrylic tape, I have a link in the show notes where you can find that different brands have it available. But it's just dirtier and it's easy to peel off to and weatherproof. So it's a win win for me. So that's one of my favorite products. And I know it's not technically an organizing product. But it is because if you're you know you're adhering things to the walls or the you know, you need it to like your hooks and to organize some of the products that you use to organize. So it's kind of like related, so that's why I put it under the other category. And for the last product, it's these extra large storage bags. I've actually been using these bags for numerous years. If you're following us on Instagram, I've talked about these bags for many years now. It's these oversized moving bags, they're technically I guess, they are known to be used as moving bags.

They're heavy duty, they're like square rectangle really big. And they just have become more mainstream. And people have used them a little bit more for multiple uses, uses like storing things, not just carrying and moving things. But these have been my favorites for a long time. Because they're sturdy, they're reusable, they're easy to clean. I've just had really good luck with them. My clients have loved them, when they move they get them they're very lightweight, they're multifunctional, usable, so they can use them for sporting events. But then if they need to move, they just use these bags. Also for our viewers, it's great because you can fold it on like storage bins that you know, they take up more more room, they're sturdy, you don't like heavier, they're not really collapsible. And then also remember how I said earlier than in small spaces and or like RVs weight has a lot to do with it like weight in the space. So these are just lightweight, you can just fold them and put it away in a cabinet and then then take them out when you need them. So these extra large storage bags, they're waterproof. They're just really sturdy. The thing that you want to look into is that the seems that the stitching is really well done. That's kind of one of like the secret sauce, if you will of these types of bags versus other type of like plastic tote bags.

Okay, so these are some of our favorites that really stood out in 2023. That if you'd like to try out or you are in search or need of maybe look into these and see if they would work for you. If you have a product that you want us to try. You haven't yet you've heard things about it, let us know. I'm always trying out things for clients. And for people in the community. Like if they say, Hey, have you used this? And if I haven't, I will put it up to the test and let you know what I think so if you have a recommendation, let us know send us a message at Hello at the organized flamingo.com. You can also head on over to Instagram, the socials, all the things and reach us there. So with that being said, we're off. Until next time. Thank you for listening to the organized and productive podcast with the organized Flamingo. If you enjoyed today's episode, I would love it if you'd leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. It helps with letting people know that we're here. For full show notes and resources head on over to the organized flamingo.com/ This podcast Have you organizing.

Posted on Categories Podcast

47: Setting Your Workspace Up for Success with Julie Hood

In this episode, Julie and Stephanie discuss various strategies and tools to enhance your productivity and create a conducive work environment. From utilizing virtual assistants like Alexa to managing passwords and backing up important files, Julie offers practical tips to streamline your digital workspace. We also delve into the importance of time management, prioritizing meaningful activities, and finding what works best for you. 

Additionally, Julie shares her personal experiences in organizing her physical workspace, including her preferred tools, lighting system, and recording setup. We explore the concept of personal routines and how they can impact productivity, as well as the evolution of Julie's own routines throughout different seasons of life. 

Whether you work from home or have a flexible work schedule, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you optimize your workspace and take your productivity to the next level. So grab your favorite pen and notebook, and let's dive into this inspiring conversation with Julie Hood on setting your workspace up for success.

In this episode we talk about:

  • Leveraging technology and AI for productivity
  • Workspace organization and setup
  • Dealing with distractions

About Julie Hood: 

Julie Hood is the founder of CourseCreatorsHQ.com where she helps turn coaches, consultants and bloggers into well-paid experts with their own amazing online courses – created quickly and easily! She shares the best tools, resources and strategies from her 20 years of working with brand-new and 7-figure experts each week on her Course Creators HQ podcast and her weekly emails.

Where to find Julie Hood online:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliehoodonline/

Instagram: https://Instagram.com/CourseCreatorsHQ.com

Podcast: Course Creators HQ Podcast https://CourseCreatorsHQ.com/podcast

Free Workbooks & Trainings

Find Your Profitable Course Idea Mini-Course – https://coursecreatorshq.com/OFprofitableidea

Is Your Course Idea Any Good? Mini-course – https://coursecreatorshq.com/OFidea

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger. For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at

Join our weekly email newsletter for all-things organizing & productivity delivered right to your inbox

46: How to Choose A Paper & Digital Planner You’ll Actually Use

This week we dive into the world of planners and help you find the perfect one for your needs. We explore the different types of planners, whether digital or paper, and share essential factors and considerations to keep in mind when choosing the right planner. Whether you're a seasoned planner or a beginner looking to get organized, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you make the most out of your planning journey. Let's get started on this organized and productive adventure!

In this episode we talk about:

  • Characteristics of Paper Planners and Digital Planners
  • Making the Most out of Your Planner
  • The Importance of Habits in Using a Planner

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 010: Note-Taking Made Easy: The Different Styles You Need to Know

Episode 002: Digital Space vs. Physical Space Organizing

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/digital-space-vs-physical-space-organizing

Episode 007: 7 Steps to Organizing (almost) Anything

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at

Join our weekly email newsletter for all-things organizing & productivity delivered right to your inbox

Download your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

Review the Transcript:

Hey friends, welcome to organized and productive the Podcast. Today we are diving into the world of planners. This is one of those tools that everyone knows about in the organizing industry, that people just correlate as Oh, you're organized, you probably have a planner, or oh, I need to get organized, I probably need a planner. So this is an important tool as part of the organizing journey. It's also not a necessary tool. But if you are getting one, you do love one or you're thinking about one, then this episode is for you. So whether you're a seasoned planner, or someone stepping into the world of organization, for the first time, choosing the right planner is going to be a game changer. But you also just need to ask yourself the questions if you even need one. And in this episode, we are going to cover that we are also going to cover both digital planner versions and paper planner versions. So we are talking about both. And also a very important note, I don't want you to miss it, it has to do with habits. Okay, so make sure you listen to the whole episode. And let's get right to it. Welcome to the organized and productive podcast with organized Flamingo. I'm your host, Stephanie, a professional organizer and productivity expert, ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solutions for you. Yeah, well, then let's go.

For our new listeners, we usually like to start these solo episodes with a table of contents. So I just give you a heads up on what's to come. So that way you can plan accordingly. And you know, there's a flow. I mean, we're organized people here. So it's in our nature. So we'll start a little bit with one of those like introductions just so that you know what we're talking about today. And we're all starting on the same page. No pun intended, then we will talk about the types of planners will talk about the factors to consider the factors and considerations of the characteristics of a planner, and will slightly very quickly touch upon the making the most out of your planner, this is actually an entirely like a whole conversation that I want to reserve for one of our upcoming guests. Okay, so I'll touch about on that really quick. But I'll just just know that there's a bigger conversation with that. And then there's a tip here in the quick thing about habits and I don't want you to miss. So we'll talk about that. And then right after that, we'll do a recap of the episode. Okay, so first things first is picking how like why is it so important to pick the right planner? Why is there so many of them? I don't know about you. But I'm sure you've noticed, I know, I've noticed that there has been a growth and the number of planners, both digital and paper that are available to us. There's different versions, sometimes they're very similar, it's just some have a different vibe, a different look, visually, they feel different.

So now there's so much more to choose from, so that it fits your personality. And that really is why there's so many out there. At the core, the planner has some very some essentials, which I'll talk about in the next section here. But there's so many out there and it has grown in how many careers we don't make one because it's supposed to fit your personality, it's supposed to act as a tool that fits into your lifestyle. So you're not forcing yourself to a planner, it's supposed to be the other way around. The tool is supposed to work for you according to your life, the life that you're in right now the one that you are trying to goal or plan for and your personality, it's supposed to be, you know, encouraging, and whatnot. So that's why there's so many because everyone has a different personality, and we're all being faced, or we're going through very different parts of our lives. So just naturally, based off of that, we all don't fit into just one box, or two or three. So now we have options. But with options comes overwhelmed. And that is what I'm trying to avoid. That's what I'm trying to help you with, so that you pick the right one that fits your needs.

Because I think choices are amazing and wonderful. And we should have plenty of them. It's up to you to make sure that you know what you're looking for so that it doesn't become overwhelming. So what should you look for in a planter? More, I'm actually going to talk less about my opinion, like what I think you should because there's a lot of you that listen to this. So I don't know you on a personal basis. So I'm going to give you more of the characteristics that are out there. And then you just listen in and take note of what what you're gravitating towards based on your personality or what your goals are, and then go from there. Of course if we if you want me to help you cure aid or pick a planner for you, then let me know, send us a message. And then we can help you with that on a more one on one basis. So this is just more, hey, this is what's out there, I'll kind of insert some of my tidbits of opinion. But there really is no right or wrong, it's just options. So the first is going to be the size in. And actually, let's let me back up for just a second, I'm going to start with the characteristics of a paper planner.

And then I'm going to name the characteristics of a digital planner. And then I will end with the commonalities of characteristics that I think you should look for, regardless of what type of planner you get sidenote really quick is we do have a an episode where we talked about digital space versus physical space organizing. And we actually talked about this very thing as part of the podcast where what are things that you should look out for when you're going back and forth between the physical paper world and the digital world. So if you're interested in this, I will put it in the show notes. And then yeah, that this will help with this conversation too. So first is going to be the size for a paper planner. There's you know, paper comes in different sizes, it could be a range to what you're looking for, there's everything from the pocket, like the mini the pocket, you know, the ones that go in a pocket like a T shirt or shirt pocket. Very well known for project management construction, people that are out and about all of you creatives that are paper napkin idea, writers, you know, you need something really quick, those are the types of planners that that are meant for you, you know, they go into a pocket, they go into your pants pocket or whatever, maybe you've got your your mini so your medium pockets, or that you've got your personal planners, you've got like an a five, and then from there, we go into like the a five, a four here in the US, which are sizes of paper.

Basically, if a print shop can print it, that is an option for you. Okay, so there's everything from the letter from the legal size, there are endless amounts, but but take into consideration the size, it will fit wherever you need it to go. Well, you know, if you want to put it in your pocket, you won't be getting a big notebook, it doesn't make sense. And so on and so forth. So take the size into consideration. Second on our list is the paper style or the planner style? Which means Do you want a ring binder? Do you want a notebook? Do you want it to be spire like a hardcover? Do you want it to have to be binded on the side on this top? So it's really all about the style and how you like to open it? How do you naturally do you like to rip out the pages if so you will need it to be perforated and things like that. So think about the paperwork style number three and number four out of our six for paper planners are going to be the same but different. And it's about weight. One is specific to paper weight, and the other is the total weight.

So the paper weight will it has to do with the paper type. So heavier paper will obviously be heavier when you add it all up. But the reason I separate them is because there are planners out there that will have dit for the different sections and the different sections like the maybe the monthly calendar versus the daily calendar section of your planner, they might be different weights in you just have to decide if that's important to you. Some of you are paper aficionados like you know your paper and you know the pen to paper combination, and you know what you like you'd like it to feel a certain way to sound a certain way. So if you're that type of person, then paper weight is going to be really important. And then if you want it to be all the same, or are you okay if different sections of your planner have a different weight to the paper, so that's going to be important. The fourth is also about weight but now we're talking about the total weight and that means just what it sounds like How heavy are you wanting this thing to be?

Naturally for the most part desktop type of calendars and planners like the you know, the really the big ones will be heavier because they they stay on your desk on your table so that you know weight will be less probably important. Then for some of you who are always on the go and you need your planner to go with you at all times. So weight will be very important. This is where you get to decide also with the size with the first tip that I mentioned, how big do you want it to be? There are some beautiful heavy paper type of planners that are very small. So one does not affect the other like it could be a very light, bigger spiral tie As a planner, and it can be very light because the the paper is thin, you know, it's thinner. And then there's also planners that are small and mini and pocket that have heavy paper that are heavier than you would expect. Because some people choose to have, you know, nicer, heavier style paper. So that's all, that's what we're talking about when we talk about paper weight versus the total weight. Okay, I talked very quickly about this under our number two with paper style, but it's all about the binding. What type of binding Do you like, for some of you, you that's going to be very important because if you're putting it in your backpack, or your briefcase, and you get a spiral planner that has very thick, you know, binding, then it might not work, it might not close, it might be uncomfortable.

If you're left handed, and the binder has a spirals that kind of getting in the way when you're writing, that's going to be a problem. Now, speaking of which hand you which is your dominant hand, pay attention to that, because well, that's obviously important. You don't want it to get in the way, most of you left handers. You This is not new to you, you probably understand this very well. But just wanted to mention it, just as you're picking up the right planner that that that may be important. So it's all about binding, do you want it if you live in a hot climate, I'll tell you something. I've had a couple clients like CEO level clients, we were shopping for planners, so it was very important to them. And we went out and they decided to get a binder that you could tear out the pages like glued type of binder, and planner, and it it didn't melt fully, but they went to a very hot place like the beach type of place. And they left it in the sun and the glue started to melt. Not fully but just enough that it was awkward.

And now you know just kind of damage the shape. So pay attention to those types of things. Same thing with the binding. If you have a spiral, like, like has wires on it, and they get hot to the touch, if it has accessories that get hot to the touch that might be important to you. So take that into consideration with binding. And if that's going to be important. The last part for our paper section of things to consider is all about boundaries, meaning separators and tabs. boundaries for some people are important separation is important. You want to separate the different sections of your planner, they don't all come with tabs and separators. Sometimes you will have to add your own, is that important to you? Does it need to be part of the binding? Does it need to come with it, there are planners out there that don't come with any separators. And some people like to add their own with some sticky notes or some sticky tabs that they create on their own.

That is of course up to you. But take that into consideration because there are some planners that get bound together. And then it's really hard to add, you know, anything that you may need to separate it with. So take that into consideration. Okay, so now let's talk about your digital type of planners, and what to consider, I've got four tips on what you should look out for when you're shopping around and picking for the right digital planner. And then at the end of this, I have one tip that applies to both the paper and digital. Okay, so the first thing is all about access with digital organizing anything digital applications, digital tools, it's all about how are you going to access it because not everything will be accessible to you. If you're not connected to the internet. For instance, if you are in different countries, different locations, that will red flag, your app app or application or whatever it may be, you might not be able to get into it. So consider your location and consider if you will need some kind of internet and how you will be accessing it like is it on an iPad, like a tablet type more of your phone or your computer? Which is the three most popular ways to access digital planners? And which one of those what do you need access on all of them? And so think about that, like how are you accessing this planner?

There are planners out there that you can buy their templates, and then they fit into the application that you're using whatever it may be OneNote, Evernote, there's countless of them out there. So how are you you know, or you will download it and then they will create a template for you or are you creating your own, but whatever however it is that you're accessing it just that's the thing you need to consider like how do I need internet? Do I need to be at a desktop to download it and upload it? So think about that. How are you going to access it? Our next section is about size. And it's very different than your paper planner because this type of size and story It is all about how much storage and size it takes on the device you will be using something to think about, is it something that you will need to download, and therefore it occupies space on your tablet, your phone, your computer? Or is it web based, this is a very important part of you choosing your digital planner, right? Sometimes, some of these types of planners, they come with these really cool fine ways for you to adorn and make it all fun and cool and to your personality.

But all of those gifts and stickers, and different colors and brushes, they all add up to using storage. So take that into consideration, you might not have enough or it may your phone or your tablet, especially those two will give you errors because you may not have enough storage on your computer to but you know, those are the ones that I see the airs on the most. So take that into consideration. How much space will this digital planner take? And are you okay with that? Are you prepared? Do you have enough? This next tip are number three out of the four for digital planners is all about what are your options with printing or and or accessing outside of the digital space. Now, before you roll your eyes and say to me, but wait, this is a digital planner, I don't want a paper, I don't want the paper. That is exactly the point. I understand that I do. The thing about technology and paper to To be frank, is that it's still a little bit unpredictable. So if you were to lose the data on your planner, do you have some kind of backup? Do you need to print the important stuff, appointments or whatever confirmations that you're putting in the planner?

So that's kind of what I'm talking about. So it's almost like your options for backup really. So maybe it's not options for printing, but it's options for a backup? What do you have? In the end? Do you even need to back it up? Okay, there's a whole conversation we will have on a different episode about important making the most out of your planner and the important things out of making the most out of your planner, we will talk about storage and backing it up back in your data both for your your paper planner and your digital planner. So we'll go into detail then. But until we get to that episode, I just want you to at least consider what happens if the data gets lost? Or is it? Is it a big deal to you. And if it is let's talk about option B and C and D. The last tip for the digital planners is how are you navigating it. So something I want you to consider is that for a digital planner, it unlike its cousin, the plan, the paper planner, it's really one page at a time or one screen at a time. I know there's planners out there that you can zoom out and see the bigger picture. But it's only one screen. Whereas with paper planners, you can kind of quickly go from one to the other, you know the pages or you can you can print them out and lay them out if you need to and or perforate or cut it. So with the digital version, you don't have as much of that necessarily.

So just think about that. If you're one of those people that needs to flip back and forth often, then make sure that the digital planner allows you to do that. For instance, with Google, their planner like calendar, there are different tabs that you can open at the same time if you're on the desktop version. If you have their app versions, sometimes you have to download the sister applications and apps so that you can see multiple things at once. So just consider how are you going from one page to the other? And does that feel good to you? For our last tip that applies to both the digital and paper versions is thinking about the layout what type of layout Do you want? This no matter what type of planner you will need to think about this? Do you want it to be a daily planner a monthly a day you know, an hourly minutes, etc? How do you want it to lay out there's also bullet journals and blank journals which are a planner type of journal meaning you can then create draw or in import if it's a digital one, the sections that you want and even for the paper ones you can just buy that either stickers or templates that paste you can just cut and paste or glue or in a spiral you can just insert like the Happy Planner they have the inserts where they come in perforated or already you pick your binding and they just kind of clip in. So that is going to be really important because that will help you figure out what type of planner is out there.

There are some creators that make planners that are the way they are. You know they don't change they're not Really, I mean, they have a couple of options for you to pick from, you can pick from the daily the monthly, but the layout of the entire planner is set in stone. So instead of stone, I say that loosely because you can always make whatever you want out of your planner, but you know, it's meant to be used as prompts, they kind of navigate the planner for you. And the next steps for you, especially in goal oriented type of planners. So those are kind of set in stone, whereas a blank or bullet journal has way more flexibility. But if that seems exhausting to you, you need prompts. You don't want to be creating your own planner here, you're just you're you need it to have the boxes and the calendar and the outline. If you need that, then obviously that will be important. So think about the layout, which what do you need for your goals, and then go from there, as part of this section slash kind of like getting towards the end. And what I mentioned earlier about a really important note, I want you to think about okay, and that is about the habit of using a journal planner, calendar type of situation. Okay, so for a second to last section here, let's talk about creating the most or making the most out of your planner, I have a whole entire episode that's coming up about this with someone who is a professional in this area. And so I don't want to go too deep into it. So I was almost thinking, you know, this is just like sidenote, and behind the scenes. I almost took this whole section out out of this conversation, because if I'm not going to talk about it, then why even talk about it or mention it, but I think it's important, okay, so I at least want you to have like a little sticky note about this of something to consider. And that means that the planner is supposed to be a tool that you use for your goals and to plan out plan out whatever XYZ fill in the blank.

So consider things like time blocking, or you at a time blocker type of person, you're looking for more productivity planner, do you need it to be more of a reminders like you need it to remind you on the hour every hour, 15 minutes before it meeting starts for the digital planners, etc. Think about those types of things, okay? Because that will be really important when you're picking a planner, you also want to be setting yourself up with realistic goals and prioritizing your tasks on this planner. So that is going to be an important factor in when you're trying to pick one. You know, is this for a project? Is this for like a more like a travel savings type of planner in journal? Or is this your everyday go to lifeline type of planner, the one that you go to as soon as you wake up, you start your day? Or is this more of a project. So think about the goals you will be trying to achieve with this planner and go from there as a continuation of what I just talked about. And making the most out of your planner is this next section before our recap or reminder, and this is what I didn't want you to miss from this episode. If you take anything away from today's episode, it's going to be this. And that is that your planner is supposed to be a tool that helps you achieve XYZ goal, fill in the blank goal. As part of using any tool for your goals.

There is also the habit that you need to create to use that tool for your goal. If that makes sense. It can get a little confusing sometimes for people like Wait, isn't this supposed to make me more organized? And yes, in theory, but there's a very important step that comes well before that. And that is you need to understand that you need to create a habit of using this planner so that it can work for you. Because if not then the other the other side will happen where you are tied to this planner that isn't helping you achieve anything in particular and when you're sometimes using it and sometimes not and you don't have any emotional connection to it, you will stop using it which is what I see all the time and it bums me out because I know how much people want to be able to use a planner and have it be it's you know their lifeline to whatever project they're trying to achieve a goal. But if you don't have a clear goal as to why you're using the planner and a plan on how you will be using this planner, then it will it will fail on you.

This is where I insert the hashtag habits or category of habits. Learning to use a a planner properly requires you to make a habit of it. If you bought the planner that looks really pretty and cute you download did whatever method you're using. And you're, you're watching yourself really not not using it after a while, it's because you didn't create a habit to begin with. So there's two, there's two things that I would, I would give you suggestions for this one, if you don't want to be creating a holding habit, like it just seems like a lot of work. Figure out what your natural tendencies are, we talk about this in the seven steps of organizing almost anything, and really a big framework for us here at the organized Flamingo. And that's working with the natural movements and the natural lifestyle that you lead. So if you are always at a desktop, or like a desk, using a desktop, then for you, that is naturally how you do like, why would you get something that goes against that if naturally, you're at your desk all the time? If you're always on the go, then why would you get something that ties you down to a desk, you will never create a habit of opening that really heavy planner, because you don't have a place to put it. It's heavy, it's cumbersome, you're always forgetting it. So create the habit first, or just use whatever habits you're already using now, like what is part of your daily life, if you're trying to create a new habit, that's an entirely different conversation.

This really comes into play with planners that have to do with physical health, mental health, those types of planners, those are the types that you have to remember to take action on something. So it's almost like you're planning to use the planner, which is really funny, because you might need a planner to plan to plan with the planner inside the planner, you know, but that's a different conversation. And that is all about creating new habits. So if you want to go down that rabbit hole, definitely low, you know, do some research, we've got some habit experts that are coming in to the podcast in the next couple of episodes and for 2024. So hang on tight for that one. But if you can't wait, then you know and you see yourself, always failing to use the planner, you might need to create a new habit and work on that first. And then use the tool to help you achieve your goals. And or go with your natural tendencies. If you don't have the time, patience or desire to be creating new habits. Watch yourself what do you naturally do and use? And make sure you're picking a planner that works with your natural tendencies.

All right. So that's it for our all about planners conversation today. Let me know what you think. What planners are you using? I would love to see what your planners look like or which one you picked? Or are you a digital planner person or paper planner person. I love this is like one of my favorite things to look at it because it reflects the personality of the person using it. So I love seeing what everybody picks. So tag us over on social media send me a picture. I'd love to see it and cheer you on. Thank you for listening to the organized and productive podcast with the organized Flamingo. If you enjoyed today's episode, I would love it if you'd leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. It helps with letting people know that we're here are full show notes and resources head on over to the organized flamingo.com/podcast Happy organizing.

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45: Check These Things Off Before You Go On Vacation

This week we are sharing our favorite tips for when you are about to embark on a vacation or a long trip. Whether you're flying, driving, or taking any other mode of transportation, we are providing you with valuable advice to ensure you have a stress-free, safe and organized trip. From preparing for emergencies to managing finances, taking care of pets and plants, and handling personal and business matters, we’ve got you covered. So grab a pen and paper or get your digital note-taking device ready as we take you through the checklist.

In this episode we talk about:

  • Organizing Tips for a Relaxing Getaway
  • Who to contact when you are out of town
  • Customizing the checklist to suit individual needs
  • Actions to consider before you head out of town for a long period of time

Mentioned in this Episode:

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The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

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Review the Transcript:

Are you heading out of town, especially for a long period of time. If so, then this episode is perfect for you. Today we are talking about preparing to go on vacation. Some of our favorite organizing tips that we recommend for people that are heading out of town for a long period of time. This can either be whether you're flying somewhere or driving somewhere, you are just going to be away from your permanent or primary residence. And therefore just need to prepare a little bit. So today we are talking about our tips that would give you some peace of mind so that when you're away, you're not feeling stressed or feeling like you left anything behind. So here we go. Welcome to the organized and productive podcast with me organized Flamingo. I am your host, Stephanie, a professional organizer and productivity expert, ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solutions for you. Yeah, well, then let's go.

So on theme with most of our podcasts, I like to give you a table of contents, if you will, just a what's to come in this episode, so that you can plan accordingly. Because after all, we are organizers here and we like to give people the heads up on what's to come.

So what we're gonna do today is I'm going to give you some of our favorite tips on what to do when you're heading out of town like things that you can pre plan ahead of time. And there's about six sections, so they're short, so don't you worry, they're not like six long sections, I wouldn't say they're six tips, because within each section, there's like one or two tidbits that I'd like to give you. And the reason that these tips are some of our favorites here at the organized Flamingo. And what we'd like to remind people of before they head out on vacation or long trips is because we have noticed that these are the things that when they're done or at least considered ahead of time, then people just tend to enjoy their vacation or time off a little bit more because it gives them a peace of mind that these things were taken care of in some way, shape or form. Now, some of these may not apply to you. And some of these will be will need extra attention. Okay, so we are obviously giving you a generic list. But it's a list that has been vetted by us and we think is and has some of the most popular things that people worry about on their vacation. As always, if you would like your own personalized list of things to consider before you head out out of town, then give us a call, send us a message and we will provide that over to you more specifically and more personalized. Okay, so let's talk about checklists for just a second because the tips I'm about to give you serve really well if you do it as a checklist or you create a checklist based out on the tips we're about to give you. Now, checklists are meant to work for the mission that you're trying to accomplish. So there's going to be different checklists for everybody. And depending on what your mission statement is like is this, you're trying to make sure that everything is taken care of so that when you come back from your vacation, you want to feel less stressed like that is a mission in itself be as specific as possible.

For some people their vacation mission statement is to enjoy the time away and not have to worry about anything back home. If so then your checklist is going to reflect that. Okay, so that's out of the way. Now that you have your piece of paper or your digital note taking device out, let's start making your list. The first section is about in case of an emergency. That's what we're going to title it, it's all about okay if something were to happen if I needed help, especially if you're going overseas, or you're going to a foreign country somewhere where you've never been or any of those then this is an even more important section. The in case of the emergency so notify family and friends, anybody that you are close to you trust, let them know of your travel plans and how to contact you in case of an emergency. Again, if you are going to a place that has limited cell phone service Wi Fi any of that then there should be at least a way to contact you even if it means that they will need to reach you with a donkey and a two mile hike let them know that that is the only way they will be able to reach you but at least one or two people several of you really ideally would like but at least one person so they know make copies of your travel itinerary passport and other important documents and leave them with that trusted friend or family member. The further away you're going the you know the further away or the a place you've never been is even more important to let somebody know where you will be. Print out copies of important phone numbers such as your hotel, the emergency contacts, all of that in case you cannot access your phone. It breaks anything were to happen with your digital life and your digital organizing system if that were to happen. What

When you're going out of town for a really long time, we highly suggest that you at least print out a quick one pager with those important phone numbers. Things like where your hotel is the address all of that just so that you have it handy, and you have a backup. For our next section here is the Money and Finance section. This is where you will set up your bill payments or make arrangements for someone to pay your bills. while you're away. This is the section where at least you think about it, if it means that you're taking the payment with you, and a lot of people need to mail it out. So if that's still you, then make sure that you bring an envelope and stamp and whatever method of making the payment will be with you so that you can send it out while you're away. This is also the section where you will notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans. So the further away or the most obscure places that you go to, the more this is important because your note your bank may notify you or maybe giving you some red flags saying hey, there's someone using your credit card in a place that we don't recognize. So you definitely want to call them ahead of time, so that you limit those red flags. I have seen many clients who do that and still get the red flags. Honestly, I'd rather get the notifications than not, it's supposed to be there for your protection. So I personally welcome them. I know a lot of clients have gotten them before, even though they notify their bank and credit card companies up ahead of time. But hey, you can only do so much and at least if anything, you will have documented that you told your credit card company and you know, if there's any issues there, at least you told them ahead of time. This will also prevent any fraud prevention, if you are in a place where you know, of course that you did not approve of. And that way it's recorded in some way, shape or form.

So notify those financial institutions really quick. Also, as part of notifying your banking credit card company, you should also let them know that you might be logging in from a computer or device that is outside of your usual locations. That also applies to Wi Fi and all of that, okay, so if you're going to a place that like a foreign country, where the web, you know, the socials is a little different, the connectivity is a little bit different, you definitely will want to let them know, you may not be able to log in online. And so this is where at least you thinking about that will be really important so that when you are away, and you can't log into your bank application or your app or your website, you're not surprised at least you understand that that may happen. And you have made arrangements to take care of that stuff ahead of time in case you're not able to get in. Okay, so let's keep going to the pets section. It is all about your friendly animals and your furry animals and your babies back home. This also includes plants by the way so actually pets and plants we should label this is arranging for someone of course to take care of them the plans and other living things in your house while you're gone. But doing the check in tell them when do you want them to check in with you do you want them to send you pictures or updates do all of that in this section like the pets and living things that you're leaving behind section that is not including, that is not net? You know, kids, I just mean more of the pets and plans and things like that. And just make sure that you you write down what you want the people that are visiting and taking care of those things to do while you're gone.

Okay, moving on to the personal this is just all about your personal stuff like it's not business related or finance related or any of that like this is the you and or your loved ones that are going with you take care of any necessary medical appointments. Of course ahead of time, look at your calendar and make sure that nothing needs to be confirmed before you go. In today's age. A lot of the doctor offices are looking for you to confirm your appointment, 48 hours, 72 hours 24 hours in advance and if you don't they will cancel it. So take notice of that look at your calendar a week after you will be back and see if there's anything that unity you need to be confirming ahead of time maybe before you leave or and or while you're on vacation, make sure you set a reminder so that those things aren't taking care of the next on our personal section here is stop your mail and newspaper or any deliveries from coming, you know, arrange for someone to pick them up, arrange for them to not come in and be held at the post office, whatever your arrangement needs to be. Take care of that so it doesn't pile up. It doesn't get damaged. And also just so that people don't don't see that you're out of town. They don't take it especially with packages and things like that. Make sure your home is secure by locking the doors and windows and setting up the security system may put that on your checklist. I think sometimes we just go on on our daily day like our daily

routines and we forget about our security systems that those also need to be charged. Maybe if there's a battery that needs to be charged for your cameras, you know, is there a special code that you need to do before you head out for a long period of time, if you do have a security system, let them know so that they're aware and more diligent about the security that they may be giving you in your area. I know some of you have security systems where they'll do check ins in your home. So anything to do with the security of your home, make sure you do that ahead of time. And then the last on the personal section is, for all of you who not like to come back to a nice clean home, make arrangements for that either, you know, however, you are going to clean your home, make it a reminder do that ahead of time, don't get caught in the last minute frenzy of trying to do everything all at once, is really stressful and not fun. So make arrangements to do that well ahead of time.

So that when you come back, it's nice and clean, if that's important to you. And the say on a similar note, it's to empty the fridge you know, or like any perishable items, take note of what's in your fridge, throw it away, if you think it's going to get damaged in your refrigerator, or wherever you're storing it and make plans for that. Maybe somebody comes and picks it up, you throw it away and make sure that you don't miss trash day so that it doesn't just sit in your trash bin and get all stinky and smelly. So make plans for those perishable items. Okay, let's move on to our business section. It's anything business or work related. The first is let your clients and business contacts know that you will be out and what to do in case they need you while you're gone. If you have a backup, if you have the plan of attack, if while you're out of town, what should they be doing, you can either do it from your out of office, I know a lot of people just will put it in the out of office instead of telling people ahead of time, because at the end of the day, it's nobody's business. And you don't need to be telling everybody what your plan is for vacations. But if you do have clients and business contacts looking for you, and you did not tell them, then this is where the out of office will come in very handy. So that when they do message you when they do call you, they understand that you're not just ignoring them that you are are out of office.

And the next step is to do XYZ for the last section of your checklist. We can call it other or other things to consider. Now this is where you will get to put in whatever is applicable to you and your circumstance in your household and space. But here are some of the suggestions that I have under other one is make arrangements for someone to check on your home periodically to ensure that everything is working, okay, I don't put this under the security or personal section because this is really more about checking in on your plumbing or if you live in a place where you're susceptible to freezes or hurricanes or big storms or wind gusts or whatever it may be. This is the section where you ask someone to come in just to check in and make sure there's no flooding that you know your house is okay, maybe you live in an area where there's wild a lot of wildlife that can get into your house and space. So this is where hey, you will ask someone to come in and just check in and make sure that it's not getting invaded by the elements of the surroundings around you. Okay, so that's the second this part.

The other is arrange for your car, what to do with your car like for someone or something or for somehow you to check in on your car, such as storing it, maybe you're going to take it into a storage facility, you will put it in your own storage and just making sure that it's okay, especially for those older cars or cars that need to get started every once in a while. Again, if you are susceptible to freezes or harsh weather patterns, you will want to check in on your car. So make arrangements for that probably the person that will check in on the house, the plumbing and all of that that I just mentioned, probably this person can do it too. They can just quickly turn on the car, make sure that it's working okay, if you're heading out of town and out of the country, this is Eve for long period of time, this is even more important, right because you will have no way of doing it yourself at all. I've got two more for you here under this other section. And that is to unplug or have a surge protector available for the electronics especially the electronics that are important to you. This is one of those tips that you will need to determine what's important and what's not to you. You know I can't decide that for you. For some people, the computers are going to be really important and for some people it is but not really or your television that you saved up for whatever that may be just make sure it's protected.

Unplug it and or have a surge protector some of You have are equipped with that with it because you live in an area where there's natural activity like thunder, like big storms and big freezes. So you are used to that. But if you're not, and you don't need to be, then you don't need to worry about this section. But if you do, then heads up and put it on your checklist, this is a tip really quick that I learned a long time ago from a client. And she said that she would put a cup of water in the freezer. And then if you know, put the coin on top, so a frozen ice cube Ice Cube essentially, and then you put the coin on top, if the coin has sunk, you know that the fridge was out was off for a long time and the food may be bad. So that is for all of you who you know, you never know the electric company comes in. And they have to do some work in your neighborhood. And you had no idea that it was scheduled. So they turned off the electricity around there. Or maybe there was a cable that came down, you had no idea you came back, everything was backup, like nothing happened, you had no idea that your fridge was unplugged for two days. So this is a really good, I thought it was a really good tip in this section.

But whatever that may be, just make sure that you're aware that things can happen while you're away for a long period of time. And just have some kind of checklist, some kind of way of of having a checklist so that when you come back, you feel good about pre planning a little bit, you don't have to be a stress, you don't have to think about all these other things that that you could have prevented ahead of time if there was an emergency. So okay, that is the list for today. Let us know if this was helpful. I am putting in the show notes, a link to where you can find this list as well, if you just kind of want to really quickly print it out or go look at it somewhere else. Because you didn't want to write it down yourself, I get that sometimes you're just you just need to have it in both formats. You're listening to it, but you also need a list. So I've compiled that for you. But the reason I didn't mention this when the episode started was because these checklists should be specific to you and your needs. I'm giving you our favorite tips here. But you should be able to pick and choose what is applicable to you. You don't have to write all of them down so it doesn't just become more information you don't need just apply the ones that are important to you the ones that you need to know and make your checklist personable to you. Okay, so that's why I didn't mention it had ahead of time. But if you do want to start with a template, we do have one it's free, and it'll be in the show notes. That is it for our episode today. With that being said Happy Travels Safe travels. Enjoy your trip. And until next time, happy organizing.

Thank you for listening to the organized and productive podcast with the organized Flamingo. If you enjoyed today's episode, I would love it if you'd leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. It helps with letting people know that we're here are full show notes and resources head on over to the organized flamingo.com/podcast Happy organizing.

 44: Let’s Organize Your Party and Home Decor Closet

In this episode, we’ll guide you through the process of organizing and decluttering your party and home decor closet. So whether you have a small closet or a dedicated room for your party supplies, this episode will provide you with practical tips and strategies to maximize accessibility and maintain an organized party and home decor closet. 

In this episode we talk about:

  • Tips for Easy Retrieval
  • Organizing Your Party and Home Decor Closet
  • Tips for incorporating creativity into organizing your party and home decor closet

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 008: Step 1: Assess. The Power of Planning Ahead

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/8-step-1-assess-the-power-of-planning-ahead/

Episode 41: How to Keep Unwanted Critters Out of Your Storage Areas

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/41-how-to-keep-unwanted-critters-out-of-your-storage-areas/

Episode 004: A Different Way To Declutter: Seasonal Decluttering

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/4-a-new-decluttering-mindset-seasonal-decluttering/

Episode 001: 7 Steps to Organizing (almost) Anything

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/7-steps-to-organizing/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Join our weekly email newsletter for all-things organizing & productivity delivered right to your inbox

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/quicklinks

Download your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

Review the Transcript:

Hey organized and productive community and listeners Welcome to our next episode here at organized and productive. I'm Stephanie your host, aka the organized Flamingo. And today we are going to talk about organizing your party and home decor closet. In our typical fashion, how I like to usually do these types of episodes is I like to give you a quick overview when we first start the episode like right now, so that you know what to expect. So if I have a certain amount of tips that I'm giving you, I'll tell you, I have five tips 10 tips today, or I'll give you the overview of what we'll be talking about. So if you're new, that's usually how I do these solo episodes, so that you know what to expect. In today's episode, I'll be talking about assessing your space, which is our step one in our seven steps of organizing almost anything. If you're unfamiliar with that, I will put that in the show notes. It's our it's our framework here at the organized Flamingo of how we usually like to organize kind of the steps of how we'd like to organize with steps two through five being flexible and being interchangeable. So we'll start with that. And I'll talk about how do you assess your party room or your party closet so that you can get it ready for the organizing and decluttering phases. And then we'll talk about some storage solutions that I would recommend things for you to think about when you're storing these types of items. And then we'll talk about like the creative side and how to bring your creative side of organizing into life, and then how to maintain it. So we'll kind of go in that order. Today. I do want to mention that this episode is not so much the seasonal boxes like your Christmas or Halloween or Valentine's Day or whatever holiday that you celebrate, and you decorate for, so that it's not those boxes necessarily. Now, you could have those boxes in the same area or those items in the same area. But those are seasonal decorating seasonal items that we talked about. And it's we do have an episode about seasonal decorating and decluttering. And how to organize that those items. I'll put that in the show notes. But this is more about your day to day home decor hostess type of material, the like the tray like the maybe the the party favor tray that you bring out when you have a party when you have guests over when you have like a special event. Maybe it's for birthday parties, but so more specific to every day party home decor usage, and not so much just the seasonal, if that makes sense. But like I said for you, you may have both of those things in the same room or in the same area. And I'll talk about that too. Because it's all about categorizing it's, it's it depends on how your brain works. And it depends on how you retrieve items, that's going to be the difference here. For most of you, when you go and retrieve your holiday items, you're very much in the holiday spirit. And so that's why we keep these two spaces a little bit different in the conversation, but they could be living in the same space. It's just two different conversations when we're addressing the organizing needs. Okay, so let's get to it. Welcome to the organized and productive podcast with organized grooming go. I'm your host, Stephanie, a professional organizer and productivity expert, ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solutions for you. Yeah, well then let's go.

Okay, so to start off, we definitely want to be stepping back for just a minute right in this in this room, maybe it's a closet. So So for some of you, it's going to be a closet of air or a very big closet, or maybe a room. So we're talking just the area where you host your vases, your you know, the plates that were the paper plates that you have leftover from the last gathering it like those types of items, right? Or the paintings that maybe you switch out in your home, if you're a big enthusiast of of changing it up your home decor. So whatever that space is, you want to step back for just a second, which we always talk about. It's step one, in our seven steps of organizing almost anything you want to just step back and figure out okay, what do I want out of this room, that's going to be really important in this space, it's important to in any space, but this one in particular, because you probably aren't in this space all the time. You're probably only in this space when you're about to host a party when you have people over when you're in the mood to change the decoration. So you're probably not in that space all the time. So the items that you have in there are not on top of mine, like it's not something that you're seeing everyday or touching every day. Now, if you are in an industry that you know you are in that place all the time you're a designer, you're an interior decorator, you're a stager like a home stager, maybe you're even a photographer who uses a lot of drops, then obviously for you, it's going to be a little different because you're in that space all the time. But actually, this conversation can also apply to you. So, you know, don't dismiss the conversation. But if you're not in this space, it's really important for you to try to start with a clean slate. So assess the space, how often are you going in there, take everything out if you can, if you have the time, so that you can see and touch everything that is in there. Okay, so after you step back, and you figure out what what you're working with, this is where you will decide what's most important to you. We talked about this in the seven steps. And you'll determine what if you're looking for like, if you want this room to be pretty, you know, are you looking for the visual just for it to look and feel nicer? If so, then you will head on over to step five, which is find the containers first. So get the system install it and then you will kind of go to the other steps in the process, which is decluttering, and sort and the other steps if for you, that's not really important. Your mission is just more to get a hold of what's in there. Maybe you need to downsize, maybe you need to declutter, maybe you haven't been in that space for a long time. And if that's the case, then your next step is going to be either sort and or declutter, maybe both at the same time. Because for you, you know, you're trying to get a handle for this space, and you haven't been in there for a long time. So you need to declutter and just do some sorting and see what you have, and then get the bins and then find a home for everything. So for you, those are the two steps that will come next, after, you know, stepping back and coming up with a plan. So that is how I would start the whole process. And then we can get to the fun part. So let's talk about the storage solution, some of the tips that I would have for you some of the things that I have seen for that have worked really well for people over the years in some creative organization systems. So for this particular area, the most important thing for the to keep in mind when you're trying to get new storage solutions is the accessibility part, how easy is it to get in and out of the space, and to get the items in and out. That is probably the number one I probably actually for sure the number one hurdle that I hear from clients and from people say that I have the space like my party space, but I can never get to the things that I need when I need them. And especially if it's like a last minute celebration, or maybe you just didn't have the time or energy to pre plan and you're putting everything together the night before. And you go into your that area, the closet or the storage area where you have all of these party supplies and home decor items to decorate and you can't get to anything, or you can't find anything. So my biggest tip for you is whatever system you get, or whatever bin you get, or shelving unit that you get, make sure that it's easy to get in and out of some of the tips that I would have for that is don't go too deep or too shallow or too deep into the shelving or too deep into the drawers. So basically, these need to be a little bit more shorter or shallower type of spaces so that you can easily get to it. If it's going to be in a drawer, then don't go too deep in the drawer. And if you do have deep spaces, sometimes those closets are very deep. Try to figure out a way where you can separate or get something that rolls in and out. There are cabinet rolling cabinets that you can install, so that you can just like bring out the drawer out almost like installing, you know, pseudo drawers with wheels. If you have a closet where there's a lot of floor space, get some shelving units, or rolling carts that you can bring in and out. So accessibility and getting the stuff when you need it as soon as possible is going to be your number one priority in these spaces. Here's a little golden nugget for you. This is a theory that I have had for years, I mean over, you know, 15 years, like a couple years into me starting to organize, I started to observe this and it's become a framework that I use. I've never scientifically proven it. But it's been pretty, pretty right on every time I use this. So basically, when you go too deep into your or your category, so if you go more than three, you know, even up to five, maybe five, but honestly, it's like three layers into you looking for something three layers, like subcategory subfolders then that is when people start to give up and get frustrated and give up on the organizing journey or just get frustrated and no longer look for something. So then they go by it and go by a duplicate and then it just starts to accumulate. What this means is like I'll give you the example of what I mean when you have let's say you have your closet and you have something in a box when you when you're nesting. like think of those, you know, nesting dolls, when you're nesting more than three steps in. So you went into that closet, you opened it up, and then you got the box that right there is two steps in, if now you open the box, and you're looking for something and you have to go to another box to open it, that's another step, that's three or four, and then you know, in layer and layer and layer it. Same thing with folders, like file folders, when you go too deep into your filing system into your category system, you start to lose interest, you get frustrated, and especially if you're doing it at the last minute, or you're in a hurry. So don't go too deep into your storage solution. Okay, so if you can, you know, don't nest more than three layers in so that you can quickly find things. So whatever your storage solution will be, don't go too deep. That's why I'm that's why I say like, if you you have drawers or anything that's too deep or too deep, like in the new shelving like in the back, it's just going to create all these layers of obstacles for you to get to it. So as far as storage solution goes in these areas of your party and home decor closet, just don't go too deep. As far as what type of storage like exact storage solution, this is where your creativity has to come in and what type of person you are, it's going to be a personal preference for you and the people that are using it. Don't forget the people that are using it. So if you're not the only one retrieving items, make sure that this works for them. As far as like clear containers versus colorful containers or using a color coding system or any of that that is going to be a personal preference. For some people. You know, having colorful nonmatching bins or system is too overwhelming. So you will want to go for more of a uniform system that you use in that closet. But if that doesn't, you know, that's not important for you, but you need labels, then of course, get labels. So at this point, this becomes a personal preference. I do talk about the storage solutions over on the episode where we talk about containing the step the containing steps. So if we want to go deeper into that, I'll put that in the show notes. But that you know that point that becomes a personal preference, I will say there's a couple of things that I will I'll give you as things to consider. Don't forget about going vertical, you know, you've you've got vertical space too. So don't just think about the shelvings that are given to you, maybe you've got a door where you can hang something from it as long as it's sturdy or a light item. So don't forget to go vertical. Also, when you are dealing with shelving units, you can also put things to make items in subcategories, you know, so I mentioned don't go too deep into your subcategories, but you can also just go like one things that you can separate. So if you have your vases in one, you know half of the shelf, you can get a divider, a shelving divider, that will separate that from whatever the next items are next to it. And that way you can keep them clearly separated and clearly labeled so that you know where to put them back. So as far as maintaining this area, be okay, so I mentioned this a little bit earlier in this area is probably a space where you're not in it all the time unless you're in an industry where you have to be in it all the time. So this is the area where keeping an inventory is probably going to be very helpful. If you want to go that extra mile go in and either and by the way, in keeping inventory can come in different ways. Some people think it's got to be like written in this Excel spreadsheet and all you know, like a store or like a warehouse or something. And yeah, you can go that deep. I've worked in organizations where we have who have had to do inventories that deep. I've worked for like prop company, propping companies and stuff like that. And yes, if you have the excitement to do this, go for it, but you don't have to, it could also be taking pictures. So once you are done organizing and decluttering and going through all the seven steps of organizing everything, and now you have everything left, you can just take a video or pictures and then put it in your phone under a folder that says the space so your closet, you know home decor closet, party, closet, party and home decor seasonal closet, you know, whatever, hostess with the mostest closet. So that way every time you're out and about and you're trying to figure out what else do I need for my next gathering my party? What am I missing? What would I don't need, then you can just refer to your inventory list whether it's this amazing Excel, Google doc spreadsheet or a picture type of inventory spreadsheet. So definitely an inventory is important in areas that you don't frequent very often and you have a lot of stuff in we actually talked about this in In our household boutique blog post, and household Boutique is basically a place where you go in and and quote unquote shop for your own stuff, it's so it's stuff that goes in there that you've been there in transition to be donated or transitioned to be sold. And you're just not sure yet. So this is a really good area for that. And to keep inventory via like a visual inventory by pictures or in a sheet. And that way, you can always refer to it and see what you have, what you don't have and what you need. So think about doing something like that in these areas that you don't frequent very often, but you need to have, you know, easily available when maybe you're not there all the time. Speaking of areas that you may not frequent all the time, this is one of those areas that you do want to have like a quarterly, maybe if you're you know, every couple of weeks, go in and clean, clean it out, vacuum or just check it out and make sure that there's no critters, no unwanted little visitors crawling around your stuff. I actually talked about this in one of our previous episodes, which I also will link in the show notes and on how to avoid having little critters in your storage areas like this. But you do want to go in and do like a maintenance check, or reminder on your phone or something like that. Because you know, areas that are not frequented that often or sometimes are in the dark or just perfect little nesting grounds. I know that's something that you probably don't want to hear, but it's the truth. And so I just want to make sure that I mentioned it. And then also, if you're in a place where there's a lot of vibrations around that area, you may also want to be checking that out because something may be breaking or moving or, you know, kind of shattering especially if you have a lot of things that are fragile. So make sure you go in and check it out. Because you don't want your stuff to break or get damaged. So make that as a part of your maintaining this space. Okay, so for our takeaways today on this really fun topic, which by the way I love I love this is one of my most favorite places to organize garages are one of them. And the other one is these party and host is with the most is home decor storage places or warehouses where there's a lot of really fun seasonal props for photographers or stagers like I love these spaces are so fun, okay, take aways, step back, and assess, make a plan, go through our seven steps of organizing almost anything so that you can come up with a plan and make the most out of your time when you're organizing these spaces. second takeaway storage solutions, this is where your creativity will come into play, get creative, really have some fun with it. This is a place where you won't be a frequent teen very often. So you want to make sure that whatever storage solution is easy, you can get to it quickly, you it's not too deep, it's not too hard to get to. So think about that. Let your imagination run wild enjoy this really fun space that you have for your hostess and your party supplies and your home decor. So have fun with it. And then have a maintaining checklist of some sort, checking in often clean it up a little bit once in a while so that it doesn't accumulate, you know stuff that you don't want it to and that you are taking care of the stuff that's in there. So those are the takeaways. If you have any questions or you want to show me your party closet, your home decor room,

I'd love to see your propping your prop props area I would love to see it so share it with us tag us at the organized Flamingo and I look forward to cheering you on. Thank you for listening to the organized and productive podcast with you organized flamenco. If you enjoyed today's episode, I would love it if you'd leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. It helps with letting people know that we're here. For full show notes and resources head on over to the organized flamingo.com/podcast Happy organizing

43: Before You Go: Preparing Donations for Drop-Off

This week we are sharing expert tips on how to maximize your donation experience and save time in the long run. With the holiday season approaching, nonprofits are in need of donations, making it a perfect time to declutter and give back. Stephanie will guide you through the process, ensuring that you have a positive and efficient organizing journey.  If you're ready to make a meaningful impact with your donations, then this episode is for you. Let's dive in and learn how to prepare your donations for drop off.

In this episode we talk about:

  • Preparing donations for drop off
  • Tips for an efficient and positive donation process.
  • Matching the nonprofit or cause to the items being donated

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 004: A Different Way To Declutter: Seasonal Decluttering

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/4-a-new-decluttering-mindset-seasonal-decluttering/

Episode 001: 7 Steps to Organizing (almost) Anything

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/7-steps-to-organizing/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Join our weekly email newsletter for all-things organizing & productivity delivered right to your inbox

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/
Download your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

Review the Transcript:

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:00:00]:

Hey, Organized and Productive community and listeners, welcome to our next episode here at Organized and Productive. I'm Stephanie, your host, and this week we are talking about preparing your donations for drop off, something that many of you probably don't really think about. But if you can prepare just a little bit before you head on over to the donation center, it will save you so much time in the long run and you will be able to maximize the donation, the actual drop off, the donations, and the gesture. So let's get to it. And let me give you my tips as a pro organizer. Welcome to the organized and productive podcast with the Organized Flamingo. I am your host, Stephanie, a professional organizer and productivity expert, ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solutions for you. Yeah.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:00:48]:

Well then let's go. Okay, so if you are looking at the calendar and you're listening to us live, you probably are noticing that I'm airing this episode in November, which is around the holiday time frame here, especially here in the US. Right? End of the year. It's both the holiday season and end of the year, which is a time when nonprofits really do a big push to get more donations. Monetary, yes, and kind as well. But also they give you really specific lists on what they need for the holidays, lists on what they need for the end of the year, what they're in most need of. So it's a great time to be donating and dropping off your stuff that you've been lugging around in the back of your truck or has been hanging out in your garage or in all these boxes that say donate but you never take. So this is going to be a great season for that and that's why I'm airing this episode in November.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:01:50]:

But all of these tips and this whole episode can be applicable all year round, okay? So don't think that it's just for the holiday. It just seems to be a little bit more timely at the end of the year during the holidays when it's just naturally a time when we are in gift giving donation mode. So this probably comes as no surprise to you, but I have been to a lot of donation drop offs. I spend a lot of time dropping off, driving around, collecting things for clients, decluttering their bags and all of their stuff and then driving them to their preferred donation centers or donation centers that we work with, especially here in Colorado. I also used to do this in California, so I'm also familiar with that location. And also, in more of the most recent years, we have also shipped stuff to donation centers because, luckily, with technology, a lot of the donation centers and nonprofits allow you to bag up some of your stuff. Like your fabrics or your old whatever may be shoes and whatnot. And you can just bag them up or box it up and then send it off to a donation center.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:03:01]:

So I am familiar with the art of gift giving to donation centers and I've got a couple of tips for you. So I say this not as a brag but more as a reminder that I have some experience in this field and that my biggest priority here with this podcast and with these episodes is to maximize your time so that you're more efficient and that you have a positive experience when you're in your organizing and decluttering journey. As we know to create some habits, you do have to have a positive experience with it. It doesn't have to be good, it just has to be positive. Meaning you learned something quickly, you were consistent with it. There's got to be some kind of positive reinforcement in order for you to associate this and want to do this again in a positive way. Okay, so the first couple of tips are more like reminders because I'm assuming that you have your between you and maybe your accountant and your family and your financial goals and your personal goals. You probably have picked causes and nonprofits that are near and dear to your heart already or they're very special to you or that align with your goals as a family, as a business, or whatever it may be.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:04:15]:

So the first couple of tips are not so much about giving you tips on how to pick a nonprofit, but more so just how to align it with your organizing journey. So for instance, for the first tip that I've got for you is pick a nonprofit that is important to you and donate there because when you are going through your stuff then you will be able to associate like you will know who you're donating to. And that's really the tip here that I've got for you. It's really important for you to match your giving, your donation, your decluttering to something because it'll connect the two. There won't be such a disconnect where you're left wondering well, where is this going to go? Is this going to be thrown away? It's going to be part of the landfill. And now you're just in this circle of thought and overthinking. And so when we have a direct place of where the thing is going or what is near and dear to your heart, you will have an easier time letting go with more intention. And that is why, to get us started and actually in the seven steps of organizing almost anything episodes and podcasts and exercises that I have for you, that is one of our very first things that we talk about.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:05:28]:

Like figuring out your why and figuring out what is important to you as far as a nonprofit and causes so that you have a place that you're thinking of when you are going through all of your stuff. So first things first is let's pick a nonprofit that is important to you donate there. If you don't have a particular nonprofit per se, but you have a cause, the pick the cause that is important to you and do some searches around your community and see if there are nonprofits that align with that. So in other words, be specific. So if you don't have the name of a nonprofit or a donation center that is particular and special to you, then maybe it's more of the cause. So women or children, or children under 18 or girls in college, whatever it may be, or boys, it could be animals, it could be whatever it be. Be specific. Pick a couple.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:06:27]:

Pick like two or three I would recommend so that you have your eyesight on that. And once you have your nonprofit of choice, then you will then match the nonprofit to what you have available. So when you're going through all of your stuff and you're decluttering, then of course you will be able to match the nonprofit to that. So let's say you have some linens to give away and you have picked three different types of nonprofits. Maybe one is children, maybe the second is animals. And then the third is going to be schools. Not necessarily for children, but just schools in general. So when you're decluttering and you're going through all of one of your closets and you come across linens and paper that you know, hey, oh my gosh, it's really special for me to donate to schools.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:07:12]:

They may be able to use your unused paper and you can donate directly to them and you have them in mind. And instead of just a bin that says donations overall, you have a very specific place you're taking it to. And it will be much easier for you to let it go because you know where it's going. It's going to some a place and to people that are looking for those things and that are in need of those things. Same things with linens and towels and things like that with animals, the shelters are always looking for those so you will know exactly where they're going to go. Okay, so as part of picking the cause that is special to you and you would like to donate your stuff to head on over to their website and or call the and ask them what are their rules and what do they need and where is there? If there's a guide to donating, that is just whatever they say is going to probably be your guide to how you donate and what kind of things you are going to donate. So if you have that already, then take their guide and run with that. And then the rest of my tips, apply them, but make sure that you apply theirs first because obviously the stuff is going to go with the my tips that are coming up in just a second here.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:08:26]:

The rest of them are if they don't have a guide if they don't have a guide. The these are some of my tips that I would recommend and honestly, some of these are very universal anyway that most nonprofits would appreciate. So I think that they can be applied even if they do have their own guide. But like I mentioned, it's take their guide and make that a priority. A very important insert I'm going to add in here before I keep going is don't overthink this, okay? I'm trying to make this episode as quick as possible and give you some good tips, but I don't want you to overthink it. If you don't have a particular cause that is near and dear to your heart or you just don't know yet, that's okay. As you know, there are general types of donation centers. Some are the big names and then some are local.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:09:14]:

Of course, we always try to go local. Don't overthink it. If this is your first time doing a big decluttering project or like big decluttering exercise, just go ahead and head on over to your local donation center and let it go. Don't overthink it. This is just one of those exercises that it's like the little cherry on top. Or you can go above and beyond so that you can be a little bit more thoughtful and can maximize your time. But by no means am I saying go through these exercises before you donate. I mean, don't do that.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:09:50]:

Don't keep the stuff around your garage or your car just because you haven't fulfilled any of these tips or any of these exercises that I just mentioned, okay? So I'd rather you let it go even if it's a general donation center, because a lot of the big box donation centers do have relationships with local places and so they'll sometimes hand off items to them. Like I do say though, and I'm not even mentioning the big names for a reason because I'm of the mind that local is always best. So try to go to a nonprofit that is local to you, like a local shelter, local places of need instead of going to the big boxes first. But again, if that is going to be an obstacle for you or in a hurdle, please don't let that stop you. Just head on over, donate it, let it go, and we will work on being more intentional the next round. Okay? So I've got about six tips for you. And here we go. So the first is wash it if you can.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:10:54]:

Wash the stuff that if you can, like the towels and whatever, the linens and stuff and air in your clothing if you can. But again, ask them first because a lot of the donation centers will do their own cleaning anyway. So yes, wash it or clean it if it's dirty, if it's gross, especially if it's gross. If it's gross, it might just need to go into the trash. By the way, don't donate trash that's not fair. This is more if it just needs like a quick wash, definitely do that and then donate it. Especially if it's been sitting maybe in a box for a really long time. It could be beneficial just to do like a little quick wash.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:11:36]:

But a lot of them will have their own cleaning process. So I just kind of want to give you that heads up that you may not have considered that they probably do their own cleaning and washing anyway, so ask them, but give it to them in good enough shape that it won't be considered trash. For the next tip on preparing your donations for drop off is seasonal items should take priority. So take that into consideration. Especially when it comes to clothing and holiday items like holiday decor because that's what they will be able to give away. The quickest give away or sell, this can be easily done if you do seasonal decluttering too, which is something we talk about and have a podcast on and I will put it in the show notes. So we talk all about decluttering in a seasonal manner where you reserve time and energy every season to declutter as you're putting away the stuff from the last season and you're taking the stuff out for the new season. So really just being intentional every couple of months instead of doing it, like one big project every couple of years, this is just more of being intentional and also efficient with your time.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:12:43]:

Because, hey, since I have the bins open, let me see what I haven't used in the last year, or let me see what I don't need anymore for this season, or what my kids outgrew, or what I no longer like, or whatever, maybe it doesn't fit or whatever it is. So seasonal items should take priority when you are giving it to the charities. And so this is going to marry very well if you are a seasonal declutterer or seasonal organized. So this is like the perfect thing to do. At the same time. Also the donation centers will be very grateful because you're kind of helping them not store things that they can't sell right now. So right now, since this is airing around the holidays, they probably are going to have a harder time selling summer clothing, especially if you're in a cold climate place, then they probably won't be able to sell that as easily so they have to store that. So if you can give them the seasonal items as you're seasonally decluttering.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:13:46]:

This next tip is all about doing a little bit of pre work before you go and drop off the stuff. But remember, don't let this stop you. Just like head on over and drop off your stuff, okay? Don't overthink it. But if you have a minute, I would have you call them beforehand and or go to their website and ask if there's a limit to what you can bring. I'll be honest, I have better luck just calling them or going there in person, especially the local charities and nonprofits and donation centers because nonprofits don't always have the time or energy or resources to be updating their website. 24/7 so I have found that the stuff that's online, the information that is online is not always super accurate. It's not always the case. There are some nonprofits that are on top of it, but check their social media, go and give them a call, go on their website.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:14:41]:

But if you can't just get like I said, give them a call or head on over to their offices and ask the if there's a limit to what you can bring. Some nonprofits and drop offs will limit it to a box or a truckload or they'll have a limit of some sort. So ask them ahead of time before you accumulate all that stuff and take the effort and think you're going to be dropping it off at their place and then they don't allow it. So do a little research ahead of time. Also while you're at it, ask for their drop off hours. Not all of them are open all the time or every day, regular hours. Sometimes you might have to take a lunch to go drop it off. The other day I did a drop off on this Monday and it took me seven minutes between getting off of the freeway, dropping it off and the just getting back on the freeway.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:15:29]:

So it could be really quick, but it was in the middle of the day. Like they only do drop off or they only accept your drop offs between nine and twelve, but it took me seven minutes. So it's not a big deal. But you just have to kind of know obviously their hours of operations and when they will accept your drop off. Something else to take note of is ask if you will be able to get a tax write off or some kind of slip if that is important to you ahead of time. Think about that. Is that important to you? If it is, then obviously ask for it when you're there. If it is, or maybe if it's not, or you're not sure, I would still write it down in some kind of log.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:16:08]:

Especially if you're a business and you're donating for a business. So let's say you're donating some business tools or business equipment. Definitely write it down when you did the donation what it is. There is a donation valuation guide, at least here in the US. Most of the big nonprofits have it. It is part of the tax guide. I'm not sure if that's the official name of it, but it's called the Donation Valuation Guide and they give you a guide as to how much things are worth and that is how you can guesstimate what and how much you donated worth of stuff. So some of them will give you a slip and the you can write it down there.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:16:50]:

But if they don't give you a slip, then go ahead and write it down in your own log. So don't forget about that. My last tip here before you go and drop off your stuff is to make a map of where all these drop offs are going to go and be and ask what entrance you should be going into, especially if you've never been to the drop off or to the donation drop off. That is one of the biggest frustrations that I see people have is, oh, I took it. I got their address from their website and I took it and I got there and I was so lost. There were so many entrances, so I just left. Some of these donation places are in warehouse type of places. They're not necessarily super perfectly well labeled.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:17:32]:

I mean, after all, they're a nonprofit. They're making do with what they have. So some of them are they've been doing this for a really long time. So they're well labeled. You know exactly where the entrance is, where there's a drive in, there's a drive through. They're built for this. But especially the local ones may not. So do have a little map.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:17:52]:

See where ask them where is the entrance? Especially like church drop offs and stuff like that. Those may not have a very easily like an easy warehouse type of entrance that you can back up to. So ask them because if you are going to have to park your car and then carry all that stuff, that's very heavy. So you might have to get a dolly to carry your stuff from your car to the donation door. So ask those questions. Just kind of map it out. Well, that's it for our episode today. I hope that these tips have helped you and are setting you up for success and get you all excited about gift giving and donating and get you all prepared for your donation drop off.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:18:32]:

Until next time, happy organizing. Thank you for listening to the organized and productive podcast with the Organized Flamingo. If you enjoyed today's episode, I would love it if you'd leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast here. It helps with letting people know that we're here. For full show notes and resources, head on over to theOrganizedFlamingo.com/podcast. Happy organizing.

42: Don’t Let Your Gift Cards Go To Waste!

Today we focus on how to organize gift cards. These small, thin, and often overlooked items tend to disappear in the clutter or hide between furniture pieces. In this episode, we're going to tackle the issue head-on and give you some practical tips to prevent your gift cards from going to waste. We'll also discuss how to give gift cards in a way that ensures their recipient will actually use them. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's get organized and productive with gift cards!

In this episode we talk about:

  • Reasons why gift cards get lost easily
  • How to organize your gift cards
  • Tips on avoiding gift cards going to waste
  • Tips on gifting gift cards so they are used

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 029: School Papers: The Sneaky Uninvited Guests in Your Home

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/29-school-papers-the-sneaky-uninvited-guests-in-your-home/

Episode 001: 7 Steps to Organizing (almost) Anything

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/7-steps-to-organizing/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Join our weekly email newsletter for all-things organizing & productivity delivered right to your inbox

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/

Download your FREE “Should you Keep It or Toss It?” decision tree https://organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

Review the Transcript

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:00:00]:

Hey, friends. Welcome to our next episode of Organized and Productive, the podcast. I'm Stephanie, your host. And today, we are talking about an item that tends to get lost but is very valuable, and it gets lost in the clutter or in the in your stuff because it's small enough to get lost and it's thin enough to be hiding between, furniture pieces or your car seat. It's just one of those items that is very it's it's very susceptible to being lost and overlooked because it's not consistently the same for all of the items. And that item, if you've already looked at the title of today's episode, is a gift card. There are many reasons as to why gift cards get lost, but the main one that I have seen from the clients and the people that I work with is because 1, and that this is something that doesn't get talked a lot about, is that they look different depending on the vendor. So, you know, if you go to this 1 store, it might be red.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:01:00]:

If you go to the other one, there might be some graphic on it. In another store, it just looks a little different and has a different shape. They used to all be more of the rectangle style if you had a physical card, and now they just come in all shapes and sizes and they're so cute. But also they're not consistent the same way that maybe cash is. You know, cash is usually at least here in the US. Most of our cash is is green. If you're whatever country you're listening from, your you know what your cash looks like. Right? So you easily will gravitate towards what it looks like and find it when you're looking for it.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:01:36]:

And with gift cards, they're just so different all the time that they can easily be mis, looked when you're looking for them because they're just they they can all look very different. Unless you're looking for a very specific card that is green, that looks like a circle, and then you might be you have better chances of finding it. But outside of that, that's one of the reasons they get overlooked. Another reason why they get lost so easily is because they do fit in between, cracks and behind furniture and in between paper. They're just so thin. They're not just awkward shapes, and they're easily missed that way, but also they can easily flip into something else, and then they just become lost. They be you know, they they get lost in the abyss. And if you're not looking for it, specifically, if you're not on a mission to use that card and then you, you know, it's been gone for a couple of weeks and then months, then it's pretty much lost, you know, and and it just goes into the abyss.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:02:34]:

So that's another reason why it tends to get lost, and it gets refound when you're moving around your furniture, when you're doing a deep clean, when you're decluttering, when you're about to move because you're moving around, all those furniture pieces or your bag, and that's when they get refound again, and then, you know, you you give the expression of, oh my gosh. I forgot that I have this. And, you know, now, yes, you found it, but it may not be worth the same or maybe just so much time has passed that, the value may have gone down. So because of all these reasons I just mentioned, it really kills me. It hurts my heart when we find these valuable I mean, truly valuable gift cards, and they were not used. I mean, it's essentially money. It's it's not essentially, it is money. When somebody gives you a gift card or you purchased a gift card, that is the exchange of money, and it just hurts my heart when we find them and they have not been used or that the, you know, the client or somebody has said, I know that I had a whole lot of them and I never got to use them.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:03:43]:

And then I'm just like, oh my gosh. I I get it. You know, it's you just lost money, and it's hurtful. So that is what this episode is all about, avoiding that hurt and avoiding that pain of losing money in the shape of a gift card. We will touch a little bit about on ecards, but I'm not gonna go too too deep into ecards because it's a little bit different in the way that we organize those, but I will touch upon it so that, at least, you can have some tips on how to organize those if you do receive ecards, instead of gift card, like, the physical gift card kind. Alright. So what I'm gonna do is, in typical fashion of our podcast, I I'd like to give you, like, a table of contents almost because I think it's just easier to navigate some of the episodes. I don't always do this, but I try.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:04:31]:

And this one is no exception, so I'll do a 5 tips of how how to avoid your gift cards going to waste. So I'm gonna give you 5 tips, and then I'm gonna give you about 3 tips on how to gift give these gift cards so that the person that's receiving them will avoid them going into the abyss. So how can you, as a gift giver, avoid that for the person you will be giving it to because I think that is part of the gift giving, trying to get the person to actually use it, use a card. Right? I mean, that's why you're giving it to them. So I'm gonna break it down in that way, and let's go. Welcome to the Organized and Productive podcast with the organized Flamingo. I am your host, Stephanie, a professional organizer and productivity expert. Ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solutions for you.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:05:21]:

Yeah? Well, then let's go. So for our 1st tip on avoiding your gift cards going into way into the waste and the abyss is treat it like money. I mentioned in the introduction, gift cards are money. They are the equivalent of cash because you exchanged cash for this gift card. And the reason that you did not get the cash. Could be many reasons. If you got it as a gift, it could have been, you know, for whatever reason. Maybe your company, you know, that's what they just stuck to 1 vendor and they gave everybody the same gift card or if you got it for a birthday or something and somebody just thought, hey.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:06:02]:

Every time I go to the store, I think of you and, you know, they gave you a gift card because of that. It could have been because they got a discount. Maybe the person giving it to you had this gift card, and they're not using it. And they thought, you know what? This person may like it or they were lazy. Okay. Let's be honest. That is a lot of the the reasons as to why you get gift cards is because gift giver may have found that getting a gift card is just more time efficient. Some people will call it lazy.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:06:29]:

In my experience, I don't I don't see it that way. I just see it as you know what? That is a very efficient way of gift giving, and I understand that it's not always very personal. We won't get into that part of gift giving and gift cards, but I get it. For whatever reason, you got this gift card, but the person, giving it to you or if you bought it yourself, exchange to money, like, real money for this gift card. So treat it that way. Don't forget that this is actual money. So the next couple of tips are going to be centered around that. This is a gift a a a type of gift, like an item that is that is cash.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:07:06]:

That is money. So treat it like money and think of it as, oh my gosh. I just lot I just lost $20. What would you do if you if you knew somebody gave you a $20 bill, US dollar bill, and you couldn't find it. You would go and look for it. You would go and, you know, move all the furniture and try to go look for it. So when you know you got a gift card, make sure that it's in a place that you keep your money, whether it's your day to day wallet, maybe it's a box that you go to whenever you need money, you know, a safe. Wherever you keep your money, that's where I would keep your gift cards because that's what it is.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:07:47]:

It's money. So that's straight off the bat, I just wanna remind you of that, because sometimes you just need that little reminder that this is not just a gift. This is not just like the the gift that somebody's regifting you. This is essentially money that you could be using. So that's tip number 1. Let's head on over to tip number 2. For tip number 2, this is all about getting some kind of way to organize the actual gift cards. Now the difference, like I mentioned earlier, between cash and gift cards is that they come in different shapes and sizes, and they're for different vendors.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:08:18]:

And they're for very specific vendors sometimes. You know, whether it's a store, a very specific store, versus, like, a a regular Mastercard Visa gift card. You know, it could be for a specific merchant, and this is where an organizer comes in. These were really popular more, you know, in the last not, you know, 5, 10 years in the couponing big days even the, like, the last 20 years. Think of those organizers. A lot of people will keep them like a little of a binder, especially if you get a lot of them. Especially true for all of you educators, teachers, people that tend to get gift cards from your communities. So that's if you're wondering, listening to this, like, who who gets gift cards anymore? Or wondering why would you get a binder for a gift card.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:09:03]:

Who is getting so many gift cards? Well, a lot of people do. And a lot of people also have families where they will exchange, gifts, like in gift card ways instead of going out and buying the gifts. So there's a lot of you out there that probably still are receiving receiving gift cards or have them from the the history of gift giving that you've had. So get yourself, like, an organizer, like a credit card organizer, a little mini binder, a little mini wallet that you can keep all of your gift cards nicely organized. I mentioned, egift cards. Egift cards are are tricky because they come in into your inbox, into your email inbox. So your organizer for email or, excuse me, egift cards will look a little different. Most of the time, you will get them via email.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:09:52]:

So put get yourself a folder that's specific in your inbox that says gift cards, egift cards. So every time you get one, immediately put it into that folder. You can also create a rule in most of the email servers, definitely Google, definitely Microsoft Office. Most of the the big email server types, will allow you to do a rule, what's called a rule. So every time there are certain keywords in the title or in the message, they will go into this inbox. And so you can either create a rule that's consistent with what however you you you receive egift cards. Maybe there's a couple keywords. Yeah.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:10:32]:

I would do, like, a egift card. I would do, certain quotes from vendors. Like, they'll say, you just received this. Now, you know, if you're listening, you probably are aware of this already that, there's a lot of scammers out there that send you pretend gift cards so that you will click on a link and then, you know, kinda get you to, like, a bait and switch type of thing. So very be very careful with that. That is why egift cards can be well, all kinds of gift cards can be a little little funny sometimes, but just be careful with that. But you can definitely create a rule so that they go into that. Again, this is especially true if you receive monetary gift cards from your communities.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:11:13]:

Like, if you're an educator, if you are, maybe you're you're somebody that just works with a lot of different people that will give you these tokens of appreciation in the form of egift art. So definitely create a folder for that. Okay. So that get yourself an organizer. That seems to work for a lot of people and this will get you this will lead us into the next tip. So what if you do get yourself an organizer, then you will find this next tip very handy. For our next tip, it's all about keeping track of what how much is the balance of each of the gift cards. And what I've seen work very well is putting either a little sticky note in the front of the gift card or like, tape, like, some like a, removable tape, painters tape or something like that in front of the card and then writing down the balance.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:12:04]:

And then, of course, every time you use it, you write down the balance little by little, and then that way, you know very visually what is left as opposed to having to call or log in to the app every single time if there's a website in the back or calling it in. Now pros and cons to this is, you know, pro easy easy to see. You can quickly look at what you know, how much your balance is, and it's just it's just much easier to keep track of. But, of course, the con is going to be it's a manual. I mean, you have to write it down, bring your pen and paper. And if you're not a pen and paper, oh my gosh, this sounds like a whole lot of work, then you're definitely going to push this habit away. You won't be doing this. Right? And then, of course, it's the if people can see that, you know, susceptible to theft, all that all that that comes with when you're physically putting together monetary items in one place.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:12:59]:

I mean, you have your organizer, and it all says how much is in each card. I mean, that is, like, a red flag for, for, you know, stealing if somebody sees it. But if you're not you if you're you can keep it at home in a safe place, and that way it's more for your internal purposes, that I think it will work. You know? I would not be parading it around, flashing it around. It's the equivalent of carrying, you know, hundreds of hundreds of bill $100 bills in your wallet, and all of a sudden you just get the roll of cash and you just expose it to everybody. I mean, it's probably not the safest thing to do. Same thing here. So I wouldn't be doing that, but I would find a way for you to visually keep track of the balances in what you have that is easily accessible and you can easily see and, you know, just see visually see so that you don't have to create an extra step to find out what you have left, and then that way you know, how much you have left.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:13:55]:

As as part of this org, getting an organizer and clearly writing what is left in each of these gift cards tip. I nowadays, I would suggest, that you also add your gift card to the website if you're like a webs. You're not afraid of, like like, the technology piece, in a lot of the merchants' website, you can just add the gift card to the cart, even even if you're not buying anything, basically, to your account. I'll just name some of the bigger ones like Walmart and Amazon and Target, Starbucks. They all will allow you to add a gift card that somebody gave you and added to your account so that next time you go, next time you check out, next time you order something online, you get it delivered. You can select if you want to add your funds on your account. So that is another way of having an organizer. Some people will do it if they have a especially if you had, like, a a wedding or a baby shower where you got and received a lot of gift cards, then they will have, like, a little folder.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:15:02]:

They'll have their the printouts of the gift cards, and then they will also add it to their account. So it's almost like a double check because, you know, because they they wanna make sure they use it, especially if you wanna accumulate as many of the gift cards as possible for 1 big purchase 1 big purchase. That's where this comes in very handy. Maybe, you know, for graduation. This is very predominant for graduations. Right? You send your graduation invite to all your relatives and your friends, and the gift cards kind of trickle in, not all at once, but maybe in a couple of months. So as you get these gift cards, put them into that account for that merchant and until you reach the goal that you're looking for. So that is another way of adding them to an organizer.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:15:48]:

So it doesn't always have to be old fashioned, like a binder. It can also be a digital version of it if the merchant makes it easy for you to do that, which most of the big retailers do. Okay. So for our next tip, we are talking all about combining your gift cards and selling them. There are apps out there or platforms, I should say, that will buy your gift cards. If you are somebody that has many, multiple gift cards. For whatever reason, gift you know, great again, graduation, celebratory events where you seed in abundance of them or you work in an industry where you receive a lot a lot of them from different merchants that all don't necessarily align with where you go and buy, places that you don't really like or whatever it may be. You do have options to sell them, not sell them back to the merch original merchant, but sell them to a third party merchant.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:16:42]:

I because of when I'm recording this, I I still have not found 1 particular merchant that I absolutely love, but I know many of my clients have used different types of merchants, and I'm happy to discuss those. So if you wanna reach out on Instagram and and, ask for my recommendations, then I will give them to you. And that way, I can give them to you in a little bit more of a up to date basis. So I won't name any right now on the on this podcast, but, basically, your search is going to be centered around online gift card marketplaces. So search for online gift card marketplace or gift card marketplaces or resell gift cards, and then you will come you know, make sure you shop around. Make sure that you, you get maybe some reviews. Test it out with 1 card. Don't just put up all of your cards immediately.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:17:34]:

Make sure that they're reputable because once you put in the number of your card and the PIN number. Then, you know, they they need to check that it's valid, that you're a real person that is giving them a real card with a real value in it as well. So they need to do their verification. But in the meantime, if there is a card if there's a website out there that is impersonating a legitimate online, gift card marketplace and, you know, they try to get your information and you had no idea, then that that would not be good. So I don't wanna this isn't like a scare tactic. This is more of a just be careful and maybe test it out with 1 of your gift cards and then see if it's a reputable company or ask your, your neighbors or your, you know, communities and ask them, hey. Have you ever sold your gift cards. Where where have you sold them to? But those are available to you, and you can just sell them, or exchange them for a merchant that you would use.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:18:28]:

Now this is where I think it's a really good idea to resell them if you have a lot of gift cards, because if you have 1 big purchase that you wanna make at a specific merchant, at a specific, store, then, like, let's say, you know, furniture store, even Amazon or the Targets or the Walmart or the Starbucks or whatever, and it's a big enough item, then reselling all the other $5, $25 gift cards you have received over the last couple of years could potentially be a benefit, in the long run because now you can buy that 1 big piece of item. And, you know, here at The Organized Flamingo, we are all about intentional buying and intentionally intentionally using your stuff with with a purpose, not just keeping it for the sake of it. So purchasing things that you actually will use will become more beneficial then having all these little things that you only use once in a while and are collecting dust. And for our last tip, it actually goes in theme with the last tip, and that is using it to purchase something else, like maybe a favor from a friend. And, actually, it's a favor because you would be exchanging it in a bartering system. So if you have the type of community or friends and family or, you know, Facebook or the neighborhood type of groups where you can put that out there and say, hey. I have this, and I need this. Can we exchange or message somebody or tell them what you're looking for and say, hey.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:19:54]:

I have a gift card, an abundance of gift cards to this one place that I, you know, I received. I no longer need. I don't use it. By any chance, would you want them in exchange for this? So don't be afraid to ask. You never know. I do think that it's all in the way that you ask. You know, don't come in all weird and and spammy. Like, if you've never met this person and you're just cold emailing them or messaging them on Facebook or Instagram and all of a sudden saying this.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:20:22]:

It just might seem a little weird and fishy. So, you know, maybe this is more of a tip for in person relationships or people that you, you know, you you know each other and you trust each other more than just randomly messaging somebody. But then again, you never know. You never know until you ask. So, but I would like to add this as a tip so that if you are coming across many, many of those gift cards that you don't use, then this could be a good way to exchange them for something else. Okay. So I'm gonna leave you off with about 3 tips on how and they're very quick, the way, and 3 tips on if you're the gift giver. So how to gift gift gift cards, well, say that 10 times, in a more thoughtful way so that they're actually being used.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:21:09]:

Right? So the person who you're giving it to doesn't lose them as easily. Maybe, know and actually put something to you. So that's what these tips are coming in for, but also a reminder that depending on your on your country and state in states, there are rules and laws that, have been put in place for gift cards. So please make sure to do a search, read through the fine print, and may and see what, you know, what kind of gift card you're getting, what are the fees, and when they expire. Here in the US, you have 5 years to use them, and then, I believe you know, actually, I don't even wanna go into detail with it because it depends on when you're listening to this pod to this episode. But, basically, we all have states and country laws that are very specific to gift cards, so look those up as well. Okay. So the 3 quick tips are ask the person, the gift the person you're buying this gift card for, where do they shop? You know? That I I feel like sometimes that's obvious, but maybe not.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:22:12]:

And if you're in a rush or it was a last minute decision to gift gift this person a gift card, that's okay. You know? I would rather somebody ask me what where I shop or what I like versus just giving me a gift card that they found, you know, in the bottom of their drawer. Not that there's anything wrong with that, honestly. I'm very appreciative of any gift that people that anybody gives me because I know that that is their hard earned money or they thought about thought about it, and even if they didn't think about it, they obviously gave it to me, you know. And, anyway, whatever. That's that's a different discussion. But the point here is is that, if you're trying to be more intentional, ask the person. You know, go ahead and ask them.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:22:53]:

Where do you shop? What do you like? Tip number 2. Write a note that is with the gift card. It either a note or maybe print out a picture of what you think that they would like or what the gift card is intended for. So let's say that somebody is a painter and you wanted to buy them paints, but you had no idea what kind of paints they liked. So instead you went to the local art shop and get and you're giving them a a gift card. So in the note, say that. Hey. I didn't know what to get you quite frankly, and I think it's better that you pick your own gift.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:23:26]:

Like, what kind of paint? Because everybody, you know, has specific taste. So please accept this as, you know, a token of my appreciation, gratitude, celebratory moment, and go ahead and pick something that you like. Or hey. I didn't know what size you were, but this is the shirt I wanna get you. If you wanna go ahead and buy it, you know, just here's a gift card, but this is the this is the shirt I wanna get you. So something more personable. And then the last is write the instructions on how to do or how to how to access the gift card or how to exchange the gift card or how to redeem the gift card because not all merchants are the same, not all vendors are the same. So especially if this is for somebody who is not tech savvy.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:24:10]:

Write them the instructions. Say, hey. This is what this the gift card is for this or for this place. Go to this website. You'll do this, this, and this. Even if you think it's obvious, even if you think that the back of the card should be enough or that they should do it themselves, I I am of the mindset that if you can help somebody use their gift in and optimize what you're giving them, that is just so much better. So, right directions and make it easy for them to redeem and use. And then if you can, make sure that you read the instruct you know, well, the instructions first, but also anything about the fees.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:24:49]:

Like, anything that might be important to note and to tell the person about. So, hey. You have 5 years to use this. This expires in 2020, you know, 50. So that way they know and it's apparent and it's not just another little gift card that they're going to put, you know, in their drawer, and it's gonna get lost. At least they know that where they can redeem it and how long they have. So write those things down and make it easy for them. Okay, so that is it for our episode this week.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:25:16]:

Easy peasy lemon squeezy. Right? We're gonna go in and get all of our gift cards that you know are in your drawers. Go dig them up, put them in a binder, put them in an organizer, load them up and use them, and make sure you get the most value out of them because it's cash that's just laying around. So head on over, start decluttering those. And if you are so inclined, share your experience with us. Let me know if you found some new gift cards you didn't know you had and you're putting them to use. Share it with us over on social media. We'd love to cheer you on.

Stephanie Y. Deininger [00:25:48]:

Until next time, happy organizing. If you enjoy today's episode, I would love it if you leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. It helps with letting people know that we're here. For full show notes and resources, head on over to the organized flamingo.com/podcast. Happy organizing.

41: How to Keep Unwanted Critters Out of Your Storage Areas

This week, we're diving into the eerie realm of keeping pests out of our storage areas, pantries, and closets. We are sharing top tips for avoiding these little creepy crawlers and what to do if you do find them in your storage areas while organizing. Grab your brooms and get ready for some storage magic as we keep our spaces less eek! and more chic.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Keeping your storage spaces organized, safe, and critter-free!
  • Tips for Preventing Water Damage
  • Preventing Pest Infestations

Mentioned in this Episode:

Keep or Toss Decision Tree

www.organizedandproductive.com/keeportoss

Garage & Basement Organizing Products on Amazon I recommend: Amazon Storefront Here (*earns commissions)

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or are constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/

40: From Start to Finish: How Long Is Your Organizing Project Going To Take?

This week, we get into three categories that we see most organizing projects falling into.  These categories, the Simple, Functional and Personalized type of projects,  will help you estimate how long a project will take. Whether it's a simple, functional, or personalized project, we'll explore the mistakes people often make in each category and provide tips on how to be successful in each type of project. This way, you can avoid the frustration that comes with starting a project and never finishing it.

In this episode we talk about:

  • Tips to avoid leaving your clutter half-done
  • How to plan out your organizing project
  • mistakes people make with their organizing projects

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 006: Should You Do It Yourself or Outsource It?

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/6-should-you-do-it-yourself-or-outsource-it/

Episode 001: 7 Steps to Organizing (almost) Anything

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/7-steps-to-organizing/

Blog: The Best Way To Organize Your Dresser Drawers

https://www.housedigest.com/1163727/an-expert-explains-the-best-way-to-organize-your-dresser-drawers/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/

39: Should You Keep it, Repair it or Throw It Way?

This week we dive deep into the age-old question of knowing when it's time to declutter and make intentional decisions about our belongings.  As a professional organizer with over 20 years of experience, I'll share my thoughts and insights on when it's time to keep, repair, or let go of these sentimental items. We'll explore questions to ask yourself and provide you with practical tools to help you make intentional decisions about your possessions. So, whether you're facing the dilemma of decluttering your physical or digital space, join us as we navigate the gray area and find balance in our organizing journey.

In this episode we talk about:

  • Guilt and remorse associated with buying things
  • Exploring the question of whether to keep or let go of items
  • Importance of Intentional Decision-Making

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 006: Should You Do It Yourself or Outsource It?

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/6-should-you-do-it-yourself-or-outsource-it/

Episode 016: Step 3: Decluttering Your home For a Happier You

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/16-step-3-decluttering-decluttering-your-home-for-a-happier-healthier-you/

Keep it or let it go decision sheet: Release on Tuesday, October 17, 2023!

www.theorganizedflamingo.com/quiz

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/

38: Debunking Clutter Myths

This week, we dive into the topic of clutter. What exactly is clutter and why is it such a big deal? We take you on a journey to define clutter and how it can vary from person to person. We explore the impact clutter can have on our mental and physical health, and even discover how clutter and creativity can intertwine. So sit back, relax, and let's unpack this concept of clutter together. This episode will challenge your perception of clutter and help you understand its significance in our lives.

In this episode we talk about:

What is clutter?Why is clutter a big deal?The relationship between clutter and creativity

Mentioned in this Episode:

Ep. 17 Living With An Unorganized Partner: How to Avoid Frustration

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/17-living-with-an-unorganized-partner-how-to-avoid-frustration/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/

37: Kitchen Organizing Ideas You May Not Have Thought Of

This week we explore the challenge that many of you have shared with us—finding a home for everything in your kitchen and containing your items. This episode is dedicated to helping you navigate this crucial step in the organizing process.

In this episode we talk about:

The importance of finding a home for everything and containing items Thinking differently about space and utilizing vertical, horizontal, and diagonal areasPractical tips on how to organize your kitchen

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/

36: Organizing Your Books: Beyond Dewey and Color Coding

This week, we have a fan-favorite topic to discuss – book organizing! Unlike other organizing tasks that might not be as enjoyable, many of you have expressed your love for organizing books. Whether you dream of having your own mini library or want to categorize your books like a professional librarian, we've got you covered.

We'll share expert tips and considerations to make your book-organizing journey even better. So, if you have a ton of books begging for organization or simply want to discover new ways to enhance your bookshelf, then you're in the right place.

Get ready to dive into the wonderful world of book organizing.

In this episode we talk about:

  • Different organizing methods like the Universal Classification System, Dewey Decimal, Color Coded, Alphabetical, and many other
  • Who benefits from these systems and why
  • What to consider when you are organizing books

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 009: Organization with Flair: How to Have a Stylish and Tidy Home

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/9-organization-with-flair-how-to-have-a-stylish-and-tidy-home/

Episode 022: Reselling Revolution: Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks of Garage Sales

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/22-reselling-revolution-weighing-the-benefits-and-drawbacks-of-garage-sales/

Episode 001: 7 Steps to Organizing (almost) Anything

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/7-steps-to-organizing/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie:

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/

35: Dealing With Gifts That You Don’t Want: Letting Go Without Feeling Guilty

This week we discuss an interesting and relatable topic: what to do when you receive gifts that you don't want or need. Whether it's during the holiday season, birthdays, or any other occasion, we all find ourselves in this situation at times. We are sharing several tips and solutions to help you let go of these items or find a way to actually put them to use without feeling guilty.

In this episode we talk about:

  • The problem of keeping unwanted gifts
  • Practical tips to help you handle those unwanted gifts like a pro
  • Dealing with the guilt that comes with gift-receiving
  • Different guilt-free solutions you can try the next time you receive a gift you are not fond of

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 003: Mental Health and Organizing with Suzanne Orlando

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/3-mental-health-and-organizing-with-suzanne-orlando/

Blog Post: Timeless and Tidy – Using Antiques to Organize Your Space

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/timeless-and-tidy-using-antiques-to-organize-your-space/

Blog Post: Virtual Marketplaces

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/virtual-sell-buy-marketplaces/

Blog Post: Creating Your Household Boutique

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/creating-your-household-boutique/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/

34: Unlock the Hidden Powers of Your Email Inbox: 5 Must-Know Features

Do you dread opening up your email because it’s a messy digital pile of messages? On today’s episode, we have five essential features that can help you stay on top of our emails and prevent overwhelm, especially during times when we're away on vacation or taking a well-deserved break. We are sharing and how to create efficient email habits that will save time, increase productivity, and ensure that important messages don't slip through

In this episode we talk about:

  • Tips on how to avoid being bombarded with email messages
  • Underutilized email features challenges and how to avoid them
  • Getting your email inbox under control

Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 031: Ctrl+Alt+Declutter: Taming the Digital Chaos

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/31-ctrlaltdeclutter-taming-the-digital-chaos/

Episode 015: The Pros & Cons  of Subscribing to Email LIsts

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/15-the-pros-cons-of-subscribing-to-email-lists/

Episode 013: Untangling the Web: How to Practice Good Digital Hygiene

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/13-untangling-the-web-how-to-practice-good-digital-hygiene/

Episode 002: Digital Space vs. Physical Space Organizing

https://theorganizedflamingo.com/digital-space-vs-physical-space-organizing/

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/

33: Get Organized for the Holiday Season: Creating a Mindful Shopping Plan

As the year comes to a close, many of us find ourselves going through our closets, basements, and attics, getting out holiday decorations, and doing some much-needed decluttering. This episode marks the beginning of a series of conversations about getting organized during this busy time of year.

Today, our focus is on mindful shopping and how to create a shopping plan to avoid overspending. We'll discuss the importance of decluttering and the feeling of overwhelm that often comes with impulse buying. Our goal is to provide you with helpful strategies to avoid accumulating excess stuff and to be more intentional with your purchases.

In this episode, we talk about:

How to avoid overspending during the holiday show Impulse buying leads to accumulating duplicates how to navigate holiday sales when you are trying to declutter

The Organized & Productive podcast is brought to you by The Organized Flamingo and hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger! For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or are constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!

Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast

Connect with Stephanie

https://www.instagram.com/theorganizedflamingo/