I like to gather lessons in organising and decluttering everywhere I go. That does not stop when I travel....
Are you ready to discover if a career in organising is for you? As an organiser, one of the...
It was lovely to sit down for a chat with Veronica Kennedy from A Hand to Help. We talked...
Two things happened this past week that have me thinking about my holiday packing checklist. I leave for seven...
I’d like you to meet Jemma Wahbah from DOT My Home and The Organising Academy. She shares her insights...
Developed by Dr. Randy Frost, the Clutter Image Rating Scale uses a set of nine images to depict nine...
The recent joyous arrival of a new family member has me thinking about perfection. Everything about my new granddaughter,...
Allow me to introduce Lucy Steen from Serenity Organising, based in Canberra. In this recorded interview we discussed Lucy’s...
The concept of work life balance is not a new one. Way back in the 1800s, workers campaigned for...
When it comes to getting organised, there are several things that can turn good intentions into a failed attempt....
Have you ever lacked motivation for your business? That is the question I asked in my most recent survey...
Here’s a quick and easy way to start decluttering if you’re not sure where to start. Often people overthink...
My last article talked about joint ventures and how they could benefit your organising business and your bottom line....
If you joined my mailing list in the last 2 years, you will have received my free article called...
“What are your top 5 tips for being organised?” That’s the question that comes regularly from journalists, radio presenters,...
Have you heard of Duolingo? It’s a remarkable app that teaches languages. In fact, you can learn over 40...
As a born and bred Melbourne girl, I am well aware of the four seasons. Melbourne is infamous for...
Since I began my organising career in 2005, I’ve been privileged to witness the growth and evolution of the...
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry said, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” I totally agree. I plan my...
I’ve written before about my downsizing adventures. In case you missed it, my husband and I downsized from one...
2023 has been a year of travel for me. After the lockdowns of COVID times, we have taken the...
When I shared my article about the 7 milestones to celebrate in your organising business recently, a few people...
If I say, “It takes two, baby” and you immediately start humming the old Sonny and Cher hit in...
We’ve done the alphabet, now it’s time for organising by numbers. And where else could we start than with...
Can you believe it? We’ve come to very last A to Z of Organising. X-rays – What the...
Even organisers make travel packing mistakes. That’s the theme for organising lesson #6 from Morocco. In my defence, I...
One of the joys of travel is seeing wonderful sights, taking photos galore and then enjoying them when you...
Organising lesson #3 from Morocco came when we were blessed to join a local family in their tiny home...
Well, well, well. The A to Z of Organising has landed on W. Wardrobe – Sometimes the best...
Organising lesson #2 from my Moroccan holiday is about communication and comes from Mustapha, our wonderful tour guide. Not...
Organising lesson #1 during my recent trip to Morocco was actually something I already knew. But I was reminded...
I am recently returned from a lovely 16-day trip to Morocco. It was entirely different in many ways to...
Please allow me to introduce you to Kirrilee Lehman and Taryn Maybury, from Queens of Clutter in Perth, Western...
Last month I asked my colleagues a question: Do you enjoy listening to music while decluttering? Because I sure...
Va Va Voom! We’re up to the letter V in the A to Z of Organising. Enjoy! Virtual...
Rachel Attard, now based in Melbourne, has a unique role as a professional organiser. I’ll let her explain. I...
One of the biggest frustrations our clients have with the process of getting organised is getting started. They don’t...
In my most recent Quick Question survey, I asked, What misconceptions about your work have you encountered from non...
Grab your calendar. Turn to May 20th and mark in big bold letters – World Organising Day. If your...
Lauren Jackman operates her business, Serene Spaces for You, 30km from Christies Beach in Adelaide. She agreed to an...
Are U ready for the letter U in the A to Z of Organising? Umbrella stand – The...
In the early days of my professional organising business, I heard a lot of naysayers. When I told them...
Recently I shared my simple little spreadsheet that helps me quickly locate items in my new home. It’s official...
Karen White from The Sorting Angel operates in the Melbourne metro area, particularly the east side of town. She...
In this edition of the A to Z of Organising, I bring you 3 diverse T words. Teeth...
Way back, over ten years ago, I was on holiday in Western Australia. Those wildflowers are amazing! So are...
I’ve been active in the organising industry, both here in Australia and overseas since 2005. I’m privileged to...
Sarah Deitz from Reclaim Your Space is based in beautiful Otford on the NSW East Coast, about an hour...
Here we are already at the letter S in our A to Z of Organising. Safety – Decluttering...
With the summer school holidays just passed, I want to ask, did you take a break from work? If...
I’ve chosen my word for the year. It is Nurture. In past years, I have done some thoughtful exercises...
Are you considering a career change into the world of professional organising? If so, all kinds of good stuff...
I’ve introduced them to you before. The organisers I’ve interviewed for the Organiser Showcase series gave great advice in...
In my Organiser Showcase interview series, I always ask: What would you say to someone just starting out as...
The next letter in the A to Z of Organising is R. Recipes – Recipes come to us in...
On average, how many weeks of annual leave do you take each year? That’s the question I asked professional...
After not being able to travel overseas for so long, and with many trips cancelled, my husband and I...
Are you Q-rious? In the A to Z of Organising, Q is for… Questions – Being able to ask...
Christie Flora from florandorder operates entirely online and has clients all over the country which she finds very exciting....
Out of the blue, over the weekend I received a phone call from someone whose children I cared for...
In last month’s Quick Question survey, I asked: What occupation, paid or unpaid, did you hold immediately before becoming...
There are milestones worth celebrating in your organising business. I wrote about seven of them here. But there are...
Amanda Lecaude from Organising Students works with students and their parents, as well as schools throughout Australia and even...
In the A to Z of Organising, P is for… Pantry – If the kitchen is the heart of...
Do you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert? That’s what I asked organisers in last month’s Quick Question...
You may have heard that I moved house recently and it involved heavy downsizing. My husband and I moved...
Stefanie King from The Organising Project services the Lower Hunter Valley, Lake Macquarie, Northern End of the Central Coast...
And now we’ve come to the big O. What would the A to Z of Organising be without it?...
As an organiser, do you work with clients on weekends? That’s the question I asked organisers in last...
I’ve known Amy Kennedy from The Organising Bee in Canberra for many years now and have always admired her focus...
In our wander through the serious and lighter sides of organising with The A to Z of Organising, we’re...
Each month I ask my fellow organisers a Quick Question. Their responses each month help to build up an...
I’m downsizing again. After ten years living in my lovely little apartment, I’m moving to an even smaller apartment,...
I invited Marion Ivermee-Villarosa from A Place of Calm to answer my interview questions, and she graciously accepted. Marion...
Mmm. Our look at the serious and lighter sides of organising with The A to Z of Organising, we’re...
How will you celebrate World Organising Day? That’s the question I posed last month in my Quick Question survey...
There are milestones to celebrate in your organising business. There are anniversaries and revenue targets and launch dates, and...
As a graduate of my professional organiser training, I invited Virginia Wells from WellSorted – Professional Organiser to answer...
In our journey through the serious and lighter sides of organising with The A to Z of Organising, let’s...
What will you be doing over the Easter holiday break? If you dream of putting your feet up and...
Each month I ask my fellow organisers a Quick Question. Their answers help to build an accurate picture of...
Let me introduce you to Narelle Sheeran from Organise and Enrich. Narelle is a graduate of both Intro to...
In our exploration of the serious and lighter sides of organising with The A to Z of Organising, we’ve...
Last week I wrote about the survey results on the question of supplying organising supplies for our clients. The...
Each month I ask my fellow organisers a Quick Question. Their answers help to build an accurate picture of...
As a graduate of my online training, I asked Georgia Holmes, professional organiser and founder of Thriving Spaces Organising,...
On we go with our exploration of the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the...
When Rocketbook Core appeared on my granddaughter’s schoolbook list I was intrigued. After checking it out online, I was...
I’ve been active in the organising industry, both here in Australia and overseas since 2005. It’s been a privilege...
One of my organiser training graduates is Rachael Wald, who has a unique background and path that brought her...
I have often recommended a shredder as an essential home office tool for disposing of sensitive information. I wrote...
Let’s continue with our exploration of the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the alphabet...
What a joy it was earlier this month to catch up with my fellow professional organisers of Melbourne for...
I asked my fellow organisers to share their favourite clutter free gifts to give. Thanks to everyone who responded....
Allow me to introduce Chantal Imbach from Photos In Order, based in Eltham, a leafy green outer suburb of...
Has COVID Killed the Organising Industry? I often hear this question asked in various ways: “Is now a...
Each month I ask my fellow organisers a Quick Question. Their answers help to build an accurate picture of...
Let’s keep exploring the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the alphabet with The A...
I’ve seen lots of clutter in my 16 years as an organiser. I’ve seen the effect it has on...
In this month’s Graduate Showcase, allow me to introduce Shari Robinson, professional organiser and owner of Sensibly Sorted, based...
Let’s talk about self-care for organisers. October’s Quick Question Survey asked… How do you wind down after working with...
Oh boy do I love magazines. I love the glossy pages, the ideas, the recipes, the pretty pictures, and...
Let’s keep exploring the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the alphabet with The A...
Welcome to a new series of blog posts showcasing the talents and journeys of some of my training graduates....
One of my earliest organising memories is sorting and organising the household button jar. I had great pleasure in...
A lot of professional organisers have asked me about virtual organising consultations lately. As lockdown restrictions continue to come...
We’re still on the journey, exploring the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the alphabet...
One of the very first organising projects I got paid for was to organise someone’s recipe collection. I gathered...
Last month I posed the quick question, With the Australian Census taking place this month, what will you declare...
Last week I wrote about helping clients to let go and the magic of being able to pass things...
When you’re getting rid of something because you don’t need it, use it or love it, it feels great...
Let’s continue our exploration of the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the alphabet with...
Last week I wrote about the Quick Question survey results which showed that 74% of professional organisers who responded...
Last month in my Quick Question, I asked the simple question, “Right now, would you rather have a day...
“Organising is fun. Whenever we go into lockdown, I get more decluttering done.” That’s how one conversation went this...
At the start of each Professional Organisers of Melbourne meeting, we have some fun with what we like to...
Let’s explore the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the alphabet with The A to...
Last month I conducted a survey of professional organisers to see which are their favourite organising books. The results...
It’s time to celebrate the end of financial year. What are your plans? Seriously, is there a better feeling...
Do you know why people hire a professional organiser? I’ll give you the tip. It’s not to get organised....
Let’s explore the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the alphabet with The A to...
At the start of each Professional Organisers of Melbourne meeting, we have some fun with what I like to...
Just like fashion, organising trends come and go. I’m curious about those trends in organising. Noticing and analysing the...
Do you love to help people? I do, but something’s got to change. A while ago I wrote about...
What if you needed help to get organised and you couldn’t find someone who spoke your language? It’s something...
Let’s explore the serious and lighter sides of organising with a wander through the alphabet with The A to...
It’s a wonderful thing when you get to live your dream life. I’m a lucky lady. I get to...
Professional organising is a privilege. I get to do what I love and get paid for it. I get...
Guess where I will be at 5am tomorrow morning (Wednesday, April 21st)? I’ll be attending the NAPO Virtual Conference....
Last Sunday I attended a book launch. I’m part of the Band of Batchers led by Holly Cardamone from...
When helping clients to get organised, the focus is often on decluttering. But there is more to being organised...
Over my organising career there are certain phrases I hear from clients over and over again. Here are just...
The life of a professional organiser is not a glamourous one. It’s certainly satisfying but the satisfaction often comes...
Let’s talk about before and after photos. I have some thoughts on the matter and it’s time I shared...
I love lists. They are a great way to get things out of my head and into an organised...
It was only February when it happened, just 6 weeks into the year. How could I have already forgotten...
Three things happened on Monday this week that reminded me that sometimes to get the good stuff it takes...
Have you ever noticed how sometimes starting is the hardest part? Just as our clients feel daunted by starting...
One of the most frequently asked questions I get from wannabe new organisers is “How did you get started...
Sometimes it just doesn’t come. The energy and enthusiasm to get things done. Yes, I’m here to tell you...
When I first started out as an organiser, back in 2005, I was good at organising things. I knew...
I’ve been an active part of the organising industry for around 15 years now. I’ve seen the industry here...
See Ya later 2020! I sure am happy to welcome in a new year. I frankly can’t wait to...
This time of year is a wonderful chance to lay on the beach/couch/verandah/hammock and read. Here’s a list of...
Usually around this time of year, I host a webinar class all about the organising trends of the past...
When I first contemplated the idea of being an organiser, there were very few of us here in Australia....
Have you ever wondered where to start when you are becoming a professional organiser? It’s a lot like where...
I believe that getting organised has the power to transform lives! Getting organised can help you make time for...
Have you ever wondered why clutter makes you feel bad? Clutter is a DISTRACTION Clutter calls to you, demanding...
Last week I wrote about the power of celebrating milestones with our clients. It’s important for them to feel...
There is a wonderful power in celebrating milestones. Milestones are markers along the path to success and have 3...
If you judge success by the number of successful actions completed, boy do I have a tip for you!...
It’s high time I let you know what’s going on at Creating Order from Chaos. As usual, I’ve been...
My mother would have been 96 years old on October 14th, 2020. I think of her almost every day,...
“What label maker do you use?” That is one of the frequently asked questions from clients and organisers alike....
When I heard there was a new organising TV series coming to Netflix, I had two simultaneous but opposing...
100! It’s a big number. It’s a number worth celebrating. Small children celebrate their first 100 days in school....
Last month an email landed in my inbox that seriously knocked my socks off. The email came from one...
Spring has sprung and isn’t it wonderful to see the flowers blooming? Our natural human instinct is to fling...
Are you ready for a Spring Fling? I am. I love that spring I get in my step when...
Let me share with you five of my favourite apps and how they make my business life easier and...
Hey fellow Professional Organiser, I want to talk about your target market. Let me ask you something… If you...
Memorabilia can take the form of many things. It could be a random collection of childhood detritus the postcards...
Over the past couple of years, I’ve featured some wonderful colleagues on my webinars. In this article, seven of...
It’s high time I let you in and showed a little of what makes me the woman I am...
Some things are easy to say No to. A plastic bag at the supermarket checkout. A second helping of...
I guess it’s no accident that my Creating Order from Chaos logo is all about squares. It turns out...
Last week, as part of my usual service, I mentored someone over a video conferencing call. Isn’t technology wonderful?...
I do enjoy a Saturday morning relaxing read of the newspaper, and always enjoy checking out the Domain section....
Last week I worked on my testimonials web page. In the process, I received some wonderful testimonials from past...
Working face to face with clients in their home is how most organisers deliver their services. The process works...
It seems to me that Mary Poppins is very much like a good professional organiser. Let’s see 7 things...
I love to give gifts, and to receive them! Who doesn’t? But none of us needs more clutter. At...
Giving a handwritten card is a wonderful way to show you care. Receiving a heartfelt card makes you feel...
I want to tell you about a few simple ways you can organise greeting cards. Handwritten cards are still...
How is it that some people find decluttering easy, and others find it so difficult? It sure does come...
Today’s post is brought to you from the wonderful world of shoes. Shoes are a girl’s best friend, right?...
Do you think you don’t have time to get organised? What if I told you there are lots of...
Is your car organised? Is your car maintenance up to date? There’s so much to having an organised car. ...
The good news and the bad news Over the years I’ve worked with some wonderful women with one common...
At some point in our lives, most of us will move house. If that’s coming up for you, read...
Organising children can be like herding cats. But life is definitely easier for everyone when things are organised. Read...
As well as working as a Professional Organiser, Tracey Warren from Professional Organising Solutions is a sole parent to...
Is your email out of control? Look no further. Organise email once and for all with tips galore in...
It seems like we all struggle with keeping email under control. If that’s you, read on because Tracey Warren...
Continuing the Downsizing theme for this week, I thank Tracey Warren from Professional Organising Solutions for her downsizing tips....
Downsizing is a hot topic. Whether you are an empty-nester, or looking to reduce your mortgage by reducing the...
Part of the organising process is letting go. Letting go of clutter, of piles, of appointments that sneak into...
Paper is everywhere. Organising paper is something almost everyone struggles with. Thank goodness for my organising colleagues and their...
Spring has sprung and, in my humble opinion, there is nothing better than organising in Spring. Organising in Spring...
Pets pick us up when we are down. They share love and make us feel happy to walk in...
Are you ready to listen to organising tips? These days there are so many ways to consume information, learn...
Do you hate decluttering? I get it. Even though I love to declutter and organise, I understand that it’s...
What is the best reason to have an organised bedroom? For me it has to be all about the...
Are books the hardest thing to let go of? So many of my clients say that they are. I...
One of my very first paid organising projects was to organise recipes. It was a collection of recipes, with...
My granddaughter just might be a Professional Organiser in the making. I had some special time with her over...
Let’s face it. We’ve all been there… a wardrobe full of clothes, but “nothing to wear”. It’s a common...
I think I’m pretty good at keeping an efficient, functioning, decluttered wardrobe. But recently, out of necessity, I had...
Have you ever wondered what it’s like working with an organiser? Or even what a Professional Organiser actually does? ...
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It nurtures you, and it keeps you healthy. A cluttered kitchen...
I am getting a personal lesson on what being “organised enough” is all about. It’s cold at my house! ...
The bathroom is the unsung hero of our daily organising routines. It’s where we look after our bodies and...
Back in the days when I worked in childcare and kindergartens, to organise toys was a daily task. As...
Memorabilia can be the toughest items to declutter and organise. How do you balance the need to remember with...
I’m pleased to present another guest post from my friend and colleague, Tracey Warren, from Professional Organising Solutions. Thanks,...
The kitchen is the heart of the home. If the heart of the home is organised, then you’re off...
Who doesn’t love a clever storage idea? Big thanks to my organising colleagues who generously share their best storage...
It’s hard to be organised if you don’t have the time. My amazing organising colleagues from around the world...
I’m pleased to share this guest post from Tracey Warren from Professional Organising Solutions, where Tracey helps individuals, families...
The change of seasons is the ideal time to take a look at what’s in your wardrobe, make room...
Now is the time to get out your basket and practice for the Easter Egg Hunt. Seriously though, now’s...
Here’s my tip for organising an Easter Egg hunt. Keep it simple. 1. Hide eggs 2. Have fun hunting...
School holidays are an excellent time to involve the children in getting organised. Here are some great ideas to...
It’s my pleasure to present another guest post by Tracey Warren from Professional Organising Solutions. This time Tracey gives...
These are a few of my favourite tools for getting organised… check out these past posts… Absolutely essential favourite...
What’s for dinner??! Don’t worry. Check out these articles about meal planning to help you put an end to...
Well here we are at the end of National Organising Week, and the end of the NOW Mini Declutter...
Our mini declutter challenge is really ramping up today with challenge #6. But don’t worry. Even though it’s a...
We are on a roll with this mini declutter challenge, and here comes #5. But first, if you missed...
On we march with the mini declutter challenge. So far we’ve covered the wardrobe, the linen press and the...
Already it’s Day 3 of our week-long mini declutter challenge. Yesterday we tackled the linen press. Take a look...
Here we are at Day 2 of our week-long mini declutter challenge. Yesterday we tackled the wardrobe. In case...
Happy National Organising Week! NOW is a great time to get organised. Because NOW stands for National Organising Week. ...
Thanks to Tracey Warren from Professional Organising Solutions for this guest post. Many of us struggle to keep...
Could you be a great professional organiser? Last week I wrote about whether there was room in the current...
The bathroom is the centre of self care. It’s where most folks keep their medications, as well as lotions...
Hooray! This semi-regular blog round up has a name – Organising Wisdom. Look out for the wisdom of others...
Have you’ve been asking yourself whether you could pivot your career and become a professional organiser? Maybe your friends...
One of the things I am especially good at is supporting my fellow POs (professional organisers). There are some...
Last week I did what I love to do most – shared my love of organising with others who...
In my last post, I wrote about making big changes one small step at a time. Read it here....
So often we want, and need, to make big changes in our lives and our homes. We want change...
It’s almost back-to-school time and parents all over Australia are collecting school uniform, booking haircuts, buying stationery supplies, convincing...
I attended a funeral last week. It was a lovely send off for a lady who had lived a...
So we’re one week down in 2017. Statistically, a good many resolutions have already fallen by the wayside. Hang...
Is there a “right” way to start the New Year? Maybe. There sure are plenty of “wrong” ways, but...
It must be New Year’s Eve. There are ads to quit smoking and weight loss programs all over the...
As I write this, I have just returned from 5 fabulous weeks away in Europe. It was wonderful to...
Adam Centofanti is a man on the go. He works for Melbourne City Football Club, as well as...
NRL player, Billy Slater, is pretty sure that his Melbourne Storm teammates would call him organised. But it was...
What’s your organising superpower? Consider this… everybody, yes everybody, has at least one thing they do well, and where...
One of my favourite pens ran out of ink. Sad face. No problem. I knew that I had a...
Are you struggling to make a new habit stick? This is for you… I was in the habit of...
On this very last day of the year, I have 2 questions for you. What will you take with...
Thanks to You! I am so grateful for all the messages from my readers and followers, letting me know...
Today is a really special day in our family. It’s a milestone for my son. It’s the culmination of...
Today I am grateful for compassionate people. Thank goodness I have lots of them in my life. It doesn’t...
Today I am reminded of the power of new habits. First I noticed that I have developed a new...
I am grateful for a night at the opera with my opera-loving friend. The Marriage of Figaro was a...
As a grandparent, I am delighted to be included in the little things that make up my granddaughter’s life. ...
I just love my place of work. My office is the place I spend a lot of time in...
Here I am at Day 53 of my Gratitude Project, with just a week left to go. (But I’ll...
Ah ha! Thank goodness for those bright, shiny, Ah Ha! moments. Yes it happened to me today. There was...
It’s raining, it’s pouring. As much as I enjoy warm sunshine, we need some rain in my part of...
I love to bake. The other day I was watching The Great Australian Bake Off on TV and even...
Today is the first day of three for this month’s Professional Organiser Training. I so enjoy sharing with new...
In The Success Principles by Jack Canfield and Janet Switzer, there’s a chapter called Acknowledge Your Positive Past. One...
You know what’s brought me a lot of joy over the years? Doing things for others. Yes, volunteering has...
Today started out like a typical relaxed Sunday. A chance drop in at a local heritage centre brought such...
I attended a baby shower today and it was a joy. There was so much love and hope and...
Oh the joy of having a really good massage by a professional that knows what they’re doing. As much...
Don’t forget to show some gratitude for the most important person in your life – You! One wonderful gratitude...
Spending just 30 minutes once a month speaking with my business coach provides me with clarity, encouragement, drive and...
It should be no surprise that as a Professional Organiser, I am a big fan of lists. When I...
Today marks the first anniversary of my mother-in-law’s passing. Although she hung on for a long time through illness...
Home again, home again, jiggety jig. There’s no place like home. Home is where the heart is. Yes it’s...
To me, a truly relaxing holiday has 2 important components – warmth and swimming. When I have those 2...
Being on holiday has meant eating out for dinner every evening and a buffet breakfast daily. We’ve been making...
Today marks the 10th anniversary of AAPO’s incorporation. AAPO is the industry association for Professional Organisers in Australasia. And...
There are little clues to the wonder of life everywhere. On our walks through the rainforest here on holidays,...
Hats and horses and high heels and hors d’oeuvres. It’s all about the Melbourne Cup in Melbourne (and I’m...
As much as I love my work, it’s great to have a break now and then, especially if it’s...
These wonderful tropical products of Mother Nature really caught my eye today, and I sure am grateful for them. ...
Boo! I’m grateful for Halloween. Yes, I know lots of people say it’s “American” and we live in Australia...
I’m thankful for the start of the Melbourne cruising season. Seeing the cruise ships at berth adds a little...
Quite often, as I load my dirty laundry into my modern front-loading washing machine, with its detergent dispensers, electronic...
Oh the joy of having a clean home! It’s so nice to have a space to return to at...
One of the things I enjoy most about my work is the unexpected conversations I have with my clients. ...
I spent the weekend with a group celebrating a friend’s significant birthday. One of the fun things we did...
On this day when I am feeling under the weather with aches and pains and a nasty tickle in...
My gratitude today is a little left-field. Yesterday I mentioned I’d been to see the tax accountant. He always...
This morning I am still smiling from my unexpected treat last night. Here I was thinking that my husband...
Remember that song in the film, Mary Poppins, “I Love to Laugh”? It’s a good’un and my kids and...
I know I lead a blessed life. I have a roof over my head, food in the fridge and...
The other day I gave praise to my morning routine, and briefly mentioned my accountability buddy. Today it’s her...
I’m pleased to have Sharon McWilliams from All Things Organised share her wisdom and experience about Estate Organisation in...
Don’t you just love holidays? I sure do. But I love planning holidays almost as much. It’s so fun...
I’m grateful for art, in all its many forms. I went to an exhibition today that showcased art in...
I am grateful for the couple of hours I spend getting my hair done. Oh the quiet time to...
I am grateful for audiobooks. I have found something that makes driving and housework a joy, keeps me company...
I’m so grateful for my morning routine, which sets me up for a productive and fun day. On the...
My desk friends are reminders that people have thought of me, and reminders for me to think of others...
Life is good, especially when I’ve had a great night’s sleep. And I can’t get that if my bed...
Hallelujah it’s Monday! I love Mondays, the start of a fresh new week, full of possibility and promise. On...
I’m grateful for my car. It’s not fancy but it is reliable. I’m most grateful for what it gives...
When I wake up in the country, one of the first things I hear is the birds. Today I’m...
Coming into the warmer weather means there is a greater variety of the fruit I like to eat available...
I’m going to get a bit mushy. I really can’t talk about gratitude and joy in my life without...
I feel grateful for crafting. That little bit of alone time, creating something with my hands. My personal favourites...
I’m celebrating the joy within as a daily reminder of all the wonderful things in my life. Today I’m...
Cats. Yes, today I’m grateful for cats. I can’t look at a cat without smiling. I can’t watch a...
Today I’m grateful for Daylight Saving. I really enjoy that “extra hour” of daylight. I use it to get...
Today I’m grateful for my legs. Yes, even though they are not perfect with their varicose veins and occasionally...
Today I am grateful for my home – the strong walls and roof to protect me, a safe place...
For a long time I’ve known that a grateful attitude is a wonderful, powerful asset. Privately I practice gratitude...
Yes, being organised, having more time, feeling less stress, can be its own reward! But I truly believe in...
Asking the right question is one of the Professional Organiser’s most effective tools to help you get organised. Some...
Go to your most comfortable chair. This “challenge” could take a few minutes or an hour. I want you...
Go to your Outdoor Storage. Today we’re looking at the shed or garage. At my place it’s a teeny...
The Pareto Principle, aka the 80/20 Rule and named after the Italian economist, Vilfredo Pareto, states that approximately 80% of...
Go to your Medicine Cabinet. It’s very important to keep your medications in a safe place, and out of...
We are flying through these challenges. Go to your Herbs and Spices. Whenever I declutter a client’s pantry, we...
If your free time is limited, have you thought of outsourcing, aka delegating? Outsourcing tasks frees you up to...
Let’s keep up the momentum with Day 3 of the challenge that celebrates National Organising Week. Go to your...
Onwards with our National Organising Week Declutter Challenge. Day 2 brings us to … Your Linen Press. Let’s assume...
It’s National Organising Week – NOW. Time for a challenge, I reckon. Go to your Wardrobe. Find 5 items...
Planning your meals is a surefire way to save time and money while ensuring control over your diet. Simply...
You might have heard it before but I’ll say it again… Clutter is anything you don’t use, need or...
I love labels. They help you find things more easily, as well as put them away again, right where...
Could you be the next Marie Kondo? Could you be the next clever, articulate person who takes the world...
The best organising systems and strategies are so SO simple. The fewer steps there are the better. More steps...
Getting organised and staying organised is a journey, not a destination. You don’t “get organised” once and then never...
Forgive me for being shy. I find it hard to blow my own trumpet. But something happened to me,...
An overflowing email inbox is the bane of many people’s existence. It can be so overwhelming, some people describe...
Habits can be helpful, like brushing your teeth daily. Habits can also be downright unhelpful, like dumping your mail...
Most of my clients find that getting rid of things they don’t use, need or love is easier when...
To be really efficient, focus fully on the task at hand. I mean really give that task your full...
Eliminating just one thing from your life makes a difference and helps to get you organised. It doesn’t have...
Have you ever heard this expression…? Clutter is just delayed decisions It’s true. Clutter and piles build up...
An enquiry came in about storing craft papers. I know this is something a lot of people wonder about,...
Good communication makes life easier. It is the key to good organization. Process manuals at work that everyone can...
Everybody sets personal boundaries, mostly without even realising. “I will not go out of the house without makeup on”...
Whichever organising goal you’re aiming for, being accountable to someone for your actions (and inactions!) will help you succeed. ...
Mid way through January, many of the goals and resolutions that were set on the first of the month...
At the beginning of each year, I take time out from the day to day routine of my business. ...
Welcome to 2015. I just love the start of a new year, don’t you? It’s so sparkly new and...
I’ve been thinking about writing this post for a long time. It’s something I feel strongly about. In this...
So here we come to the final day of our Spring Fling. And the most important of our challenges....
Don’t let paperwork get you down. It stacks up quickly, and the best way to keep it under control...
The car is sometimes neglected when it comes to decluttering. Grab 2 bags (one for things that belong...
Is your utensils drawer overflowing? Is it so full it jams as you try to close it? Is it...
Magazines. They come in to our lives with the promise of delicious recipes, interesting articles and gorgeous glossy photos....
Yesterday we looked under the bed. Today we’re looking on top. Your pillow is one of the most...
What’s lurking under your bed? Today I want you to get down on your hands and knees and take...
Do you buy gifts in advance and stash them away in a special place? And is that special place...
Today’s challenge for the Spring Fling is a little different. I want you to fling any 5 things you...
How many games do you own? And how many do you actually play? Today’s a great day to do...
Every parent knows that toys are necessary. And they are plentiful. And they keep coming. Every birthday and Christmas...
Babies are tiny. But their stuff takes over! Right? No doubt about it, babies change your life for the...
Just like a kitchen counter full of clutter, an overflowing inbox can produce similar feelings of overwhelm and distress. ...
You know those handy sticky notes? You know, the ones that are supposed to remind you of important things? ...
How many pens, pencils, notebooks, scissors, post-it notes, rulers, and paperclips does one home need? Stationery can take over...
In celebration of being half way through the Spring Fling, let’s declutter all those half-filled containers you haven’t touched...
Come Spring, sporting equipment gets dusted off and starts to be used again. Cycling, running, swimming and more start...
Today’s Spring Fling challenge is easy. You can even do it while you’re out and about. Declutter your purse...
Spring is a great time to go through your wardrobe and check what still fits, and what doesn’t....
Shoes! I’m not a shoe-loving kind of girl, but even I have too many. How does it happen? For...
C’mon, it’s time to take a look at your handbags and purses. When you brought a new handbag home,...
Are your shelves overrun with books? Want to make room for more? Or for something different? The answer is...
Today we’re (gently) flinging vases. Go on, you know there are some you just don’t use. Maybe it’s the...
How many cookbooks live at your place? And how many recipes do you use from those cookbooks? Here’s what...
Being organised is a chance to live with your best stuff. The kitchen is the perfect place to do...
Life is too short to use blunt knives. After tackling the kitchen counter yesterday, now is a good time...
I often hear about people’s frustrations with the kitchen counter and its ability to collect clutter. Does that happen...
As you fling open the doors and windows during Spring, it’s time to fling open the doors to visitors...
One of the easiest areas to declutter is the bathroom. It’s a small space and much of what you...
Spring has sprung! It’s time to fling open the windows and fling out anything you no longer need, use...
Here comes Fathers Day. You can tell by the value packs of socks, jocks and aftershave for sale in...
A few weeks ago I was thrilled to receive the 2014 AAPO President’s Award. I mean really thrilled. It’s...
This recording from 2012 gives you 3 essential questions to ask yourself to stay organised. Let me know what...
This 2-part recording gives you my top 5 tips for creating order. Aimed at the business person but definitely...
I am not a fan of the glorification of “busy”. Yes, there’s a lot to do, but mostly just...
I’m so excited to be speaking at the upcoming AAPO (Australasian Association of Professional Organisers) Conference. Twice! First I’ll...
My clients and I do enjoy a good laugh. Recently one lovely lady I worked with coined a new...
It’s been a family joke for a while – that I hoard Hoarders. That’s the TV show. I’ve been...
I remember so long ago when we were promised the paperless home office. Since that promise was made it...
Narelle Todd, from Successful Living, is a woman with vision. She is a leader in the Professional Organising industry. ...
Picture this… A young mum, 2 growing kids, a small house and a new hobby that said mum hopes...
“I don’t want to live like this any more” said my client as we started our session together. She...
Being organised can help you achieve all kinds of goals. Clients come to me with lots of different motivations....
Just over 3 years ago my husband and I downsized our home. We went from a 4-bedroom + study...
If you’re a crafter like me, then you may keep many different categories of craft supplies. From instructions (patterns,...
I’m often asked to help with household filing. It can be scary to make decisions on important papers. What...
One of my favourite things about driving is that I get to listen to my audiobooks via my iPhone....
All the best to you for a 2014 that supports you and your goals. I’m a little late sending...
It’s the last minute. You just remembered you need one more gift. Don’t worry. Food is the ultimate clutter-free...
What do you give someone who has everything? Some kind heartfelt words. Years ago when my children were still...
Most women love a good pampering. Would you be surprised to know that many men do too? Don’t underestimate...
Want to buy a gift that won’t create clutter? The gift of Participation is always a winner. How about...
The Christmas File has come of age. Way back I wrote a blog post about keeping a Christmas File....
Lots of people tell me they have enough “stuff”. Lots of people also ask me for clutter-free gift suggestions....
With the festive season on the way, will you be hosting overnight guests? How is the guest room looking?...
I was asked a question today. It’s a frequently asked question I hear often from the Professional Organisers I...
No two organising projects are the same. That’s one of the things I love about my work. See from...
It goes without saying, I hope, that I love what I do. I love to help people make a...
My top 5 favourite tips for keeping clutter at bay are lessons we can all learn from. What’s YOUR...
Most people working as organisers call themselves professional organisers (or organizers in America). And yet many people looking for...
“My kids have too many toys!” “The kids don’t play with their toys, they just throw them around.” “The...
One thing people ask me about a lot is books. I love books myself. But since downsizing to an...
Without a doubt, paperwork is the one organising challenge that comes up again and again. Whether you run a...
Happy Day 3 of National Organising Week. Today we’ll concentrate on your handbag. And if that’s not your thing,...
Let’s get straight into it… Reduce the volume by tossing anything that’s out of date. You can’t take chances...
National Organising Week (NOW) 2013 has the theme of Reduce, Rethink, Reorganise. Each day this week I’ll share a...
I am conducting a little research about what we Organisers call ourselves. If you’re an Organiser, and want to...
When I work with a client in her wardrobe, we usually identify things which are cast offs. For various...
Jill Chivers is a speaker, writer, coach, creator, author, designer, professional facilitator and workshop leader and avid movie watcher. ...
Mornings can be rough, especially if you haven’t had enough sleep things you need for the day ahead aren’t...
I want to share with you a work of art – inspired and thought-provoking – which will be entered...
Back in the days when my children were at school, I worked from 7am to 6pm, minding 4 preschool...
Hands up if you’re a crafter! Sewing. Scrapbooking. Knitting. Bookbinding. Felting. Quilting. Embroidery. Cardmaking. There are so many great...
Chantal Imbach, from Simply in Order, agreed to be interviewed for this blog. She shares how she got into...
I am not a fan of the Garage Sale. Let me tell you why. Firstly, the time they take...
A funny thing happened to me this week. I got organised. Don’t get me wrong. I’m pretty organised. But...
I’m pleased to share a new post I’ve written for The Calm Space. Happiness is Room to Dance...
The subject of Hoarding is in the media a lot lately. Yesterday I participated in a talkback discussion about...
Being organised at home means having what you need on hand for any common and predictable situation. AND being...
The nights are getting colder. Winter is just around the corner. Good home maintenance is the organised way to...
It is all systems go here so that I can take some time off for the rest of the...
Because of my experience and years of involvement in the industry (since 2005), I am often asked by people...
Protecting your assets is part of being organised. Your home is probably your biggest asset. Protecting it will pay...
Children grow so fast. Before you know it, they’ve grown out of clothes, and if you’re not careful, the...
Every client I work with has their own “Why” for getting organised. For some it’s so they can eat...
Each month I am pleased to write about organising for The Clam Space, an online magazine that inspires women...
I came across an article on Houzz.com I’d like to share. Great reading, and personal insight, in Decluttering –...
Checklists save lives. No kidding. Atul Gawande wrote his bestselling book, The Checklist Manifesto, after research showed that using...
Does everyone in your family have the opportunity to learn about life through planning meals? It’s quicker and easier...
What if I told you there was a simple way to be more organised and more productive that didn’t...
Have you been watching The Block All Stars? I must admit I enjoy this show and always learn a...
Sometimes we have stuff in our wardrobes we never wear. Sometimes our stuff is used in only a limited...
Yesterday Warren Moore and I had a good chat about the benefits of downsizing and how to keep clutter...
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Goal setting is BIG this time of year. But the best goals are smart ones. Or...
Does your laundry get stuck? It may sound like a funny question, but I often see laundry bottlenecks in...
Here’s another 5 minute organising task. Sure, you might have more time on your hands. Sure, big organising projects...
Think you have no time to get organised? I’ll bring you a series of quick tasks that will make...
You’ve decided to declutter – to make the tough calls over what to keep and what to let go...
Jill Chivers, creator of My Year Without Clothes Shopping, has developed a 6-week Conscious Shopping Mini Course, designed to...
Have you ever heard of a Float Home? It’s a home that floats. It’s not a houseboat. Houseboats...
Sarah Webb is the talent and brains behind Vivenda, a fabulous service that frees up your time and feeds...
Today marks the start of the Australian Open – 2 weeks of top-quality tennis. TV sets will be tuned...
Drum roll please! We’ve come to the final in our list of 7 Common Mistakes of DIY Organising Projects....
We’ve already discussed mistakes #1 to #5 in the 7 Common Mistakes of DIY Organising Projects. #6 is Stop...
#5 in the list of 7 Common Mistakes of DIY Organising Projects Let the unwanted stuff hang around is...
#4 on the list of 7 Common Mistakes of DIY Organising Projects is Have unrealistic expectations from the space...
We’ve talked about how to avoid organising mistakes #1 and #2. Next on the list of 7 Common Mistakes...
In the 7 Common Mistakes of DIY Organising Projects, mistake #2 was Buy the storage solutions at the start...
Yesterday I wrote about the 7 most common mistakes people make when tackling an organising project. You can read...
For many this quiet time between Christmas and New Year has been set aside for tackling an organising project. ...
It’s all done. What you haven’t done by now won’t happen … and it won’t matter. Merry Christmas to...
Santa’s on his way and many a household will be leaving a little something out for him and the...
Got enough film/memory for your camera to capture the big fun day? Are the batteries charged? Check that checked....
Only a few more days. Forgotten anything? Are you sure? That extra person who got invited to Christmas dinner...
Do you struggle to find suitable places around the house to hide gifts until Christmas time? Here are some...
Charity begins at home. And this is a great time to be thinking of others. With so much obvious...
Expecting overnight guests? Ready? What do they need? A clean bed, towels, clean bathroom, space to put their suitcase...
Expecting overnight guests? Where will they sleep? In the guest room? Have you been treating it like a junk...
Going anywhere special tonight? Are the invitations coming thick and fast? If you’ll be a guest in someone’s home,...
Are you hosting any meals or parties over the festive season? Ever heard the phrase, “How can I help?” ...
Having worked in kindergartens in a past life, I never have to buy soap again as long as I...
With this month so focused on giving to others, I’m here to remind you to give to yourself as...
It’s a quirky name but a nifty product. As you may know, I have downsized my home this...
If you’ve decided to send cards this year, at least you can rely on reduced rates if you keep...
Are you one of those people who uses Christmas as an opportunity to tell those you care about that...
There’s more to Christmas than the tangible. One of the things I personally enjoy about Christmas is singing my...
O Tannenbaum,O Tannenbaum! With a German mother, I grew up hearing the lyrics of this Christmas carol and...
I hope you’re enjoying the Ready Set Christmas series. Feel free to share the posts and your thoughts. We...
Have you decorated your home yet? Do you go all out, or are there just a few special decorations...
When I was small my mother worked very hard at Christmas. She wanted to make it “perfect”. “Perfect” included...
Lots of money gets spent this time of year. Have you budgeted for it? It’s not too late to...
Step aside! Make way! Incoming! You are about to be hit with an influx. An influx of festive foods,...
The local butcher, fishmonger or providore is ready, willing and able to provide you with top quality meat for...
There are a couple of schools of thought on Christmas gift wrapping. Set up a gift-wrapping station and wrap...
For various reasons, you may choose (or wish you could) not to give gifts this festive season. Or just...
With all the pressure to get the gift shopping done, you could be forgiven for feeling the urge to...
Here we are at the start of December, with a month of parties, end of year concerts and “we...
The last day of November means that tomorrow children will be expecting to start opening their advent calendars. Save...
It’s the one date on the calendar which sends people into a panic and a frenzy. And my firm...
Last year in the lead up to Christmas I posted a series on Christmas Shortcuts, hoping to make this...
Back in December 2009, I wrote a series called Angela’s Advent. The series offered daily ideas for clutter-free gifts....
This is a fun look at sorting and if you listen closely you will hear a gorgeous Swiss accent...
I am super excited to announce the new-look 5-day Become a Professional Organiser Training Package. The first class is...
Thanks to Peter Walsh for sharing this one on Facebook. It’s so clever and beautiful.
There’s a big storm brewing over Melbourne today. Severe weather is expected today and for much of the week...
With the change of season, now is a good time to assess your wardrobe. What’s missing? What do you...
I quite enjoyed seeing this plea from the toys for sale, on behalf of the shopkeeper, in Whistler, Canada.
My friend, Chris Owen, has joined our “A Word with” series. I asked Chris about how her business Pink...
Here’s a quick little video that makes a big point. I like it so much I want to share...
Meal Planning Monday back again and we’re talking about getting stuck. Sometimes you can lose your creative groove when...
I can’t think of any sorrow in the world that a hot bath wouldn’t help, just a little bit....
In our A Word with… series, you’ve been hearing from people about what makes them tick and how being...
Are there leftovers from the weekend in your fridge? What are you plans for them? After a Sunday full...
For maximum efficiency and productivity, people should not multitask. But furniture should. ~ Angela Esnouf 😉 Like quotes? There...
My mother always used to say, For every pot, there is a lid. She was referring to love, meaning...
I am a big fan of family communication, as well as giving children responsibilities and some input into family...
Much of the stress that people feel doesn’t come from having too much to do. It comes from not...
Thanks to the past 3 wonderful weeks, my Bucket List is looking shorter. What an amazing time I’ve had...
Hello from Raleigh, North Carolina, where I will be attending the Institute for Challenging Disorganization conference, which commences tomorrow. ...
The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak. ~ Hans Hofmann Like...
I guess I’m like most people. I like to read recipes. I have a few cookbooks that are favourites...
Time and space – time to be alone, space to move about – these may well become the great...
Once again I bring you an interview with a woman who gets things done. I spoke to image consultant,...
Hands up who does NOT have a busy life? Ok, so the rest of you… do you enjoy grocery...
We used to build civilizations. Now we build shopping malls. ~ Bill Bryson Like quotes? There are 214 more...
I do my best housework when I’m mad. All that frustration turns into elbow grease and speed and before...
Part of the Meal Planning process is to figure out who will do what. Firstly, who does the shopping...
Celebrate any progress. Don’t wait to get perfect. ~ Ann McGee Cooper
We love to inject fun into the organising process. Getting children happily involved in getting organised teaches them great...
There are some things most everyone wants to know about our Organising services and about me personally. Do you...
What’s important to you and your meal planning? Want to know how to achieve all you want from...
He who would travel happily must travel light. ~ Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Sometimes it’s just too darn boring to put things away where they belong. Before you know it, you can’t...
It seems everyone loves a labelmaker. I am no exception. They make my work easier. I’ve also used my...
If there were only one way to get organised I’d be out of a job. You wouldn’t need customised...
I’ve known Sandi Givens for some years now, and heard her speak many times. If you attended the 2009...
I know from the outset that my list of Top 5 iPhone apps is by no means conclusive, complete...
The most important thing about meal planning is just to do it. But for those who are doing this...
Hard work is often the easy work you did not do at the proper time. ~ Bernard Metzler
Sometimes you need a little incentive to get the decluttering job done. And most certainly, once the job is...
I have a children’s song stuck in my head. One grey elephant balancing, Step by step on a piece...
As part of our review series, today we’re looking at the television series Hoarders. From the outset I have...
We’re starting a new series of regular posts called Top 5 Tuesday. We hope you’ll join in the discussion...
Want to know a sure-fire way to save money, time and stress… all week long? It’s as simple as...
A BIG thank you to Larna Pittiglio, Facebook connection and engagement guru and businesswoman (see Party Plan Portal and...
How do you get your kicks? Personally, I enjoy organising: sorting, alphabetising, purging and boxing up. That probably explains...
I have some pretty awesome resources at my fingertips. One of those is my friend and colleague, Imogen Lamport...
Breaking News: I’m human. Having recently moved into a much smaller home than I have ever lived in before,...
A while ago on Facebook, I posed the question, “You know it’s time to tidy your desk when…” and...
And so it’s come to this, our final Organised Alphabet entry. Z is for Zen It’s that feeling you...
We’re almost there. We’ve had some great feedback about the Organised Alphabet, and for that I thank you. Y...
It’s tricky to find a word for the Organised Alphabet 24, but we’re nothing if not determined. X is...
Wow! The Organised Alphabet is whipping along now. W is for Wardrobe An organised Wardrobe saves you money, time...
V is for Vision What’s your Vision for your home? Family? Work? Day? Week? Year? Life?
The Organised Alphabet is all about You. Today’s it’s all about U as well 😉 U is for Unique...
Many thanks to guest writer, Katrina Nockolds, for writing this book review of her favourite organising book. My absolute...
Time is Ticking on for the Organised Alphabet. T is for Time Management Your time is one resource with...
Strictly Speaking, being organised comes in many Shapes and Sizes. We’re having fun with the Organised Alphabet and today...
Ready for some Organised Alphabet action? Today’s a 3-pronged one. R is for Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Part of being...
Quick! Think of something for the Organised Alphabet, Q edition! Q is for Quick decisions Those are the things...
Recently I took my grown children to see Mary Poppins, who is “Practically Perfect in every way”. A great...
O what a beautiful morning! This morning is brought to you by the Organised Alphabet and O is for...
Just imagine how organised they must have been to rehearse and pull this off to perfection. In honour of...
Now it’s on with the second half of the Organised Alphabet. N is for No! A very useful little...
The most important part of getting organised… M is for Maintenance Just as in weight loss and dental care,...
Lots of Lovely L words come to mind when I think of the Organised Alphabet. L is for Lists...
K is for Keeping it simple Keeping it simple will make it easier to do, easier to repeat, easier...
J is for Journey Organising is a Journey, not a destination. We have even more J words for the...
I is for Inbox A very practical one in the Organised Alphabet today. And there are plenty more I...
Happy Happy day. We’re Having a Hoot of a time with the Organised Alphabet. H is for Harmony Are...
There’s no doubt about it G is for Goals Goal-setting (or “goal-getting” as one friend calls it) is integral...
It’s time for the F word 😉 F is for Focus Focus brings you a long way to being...
We’re on a roll with the Organised Alphabet. E is for Effciency Efficiency is the cornerstone of Organisation. And...
D is my favourite of all the Organised Alphabet letters because… D is for Delegate Can you think of...
On with the Organised Alphabet and… C is for Calendar Taking control (another great C word) of your calendar...
B is for Be Prepared and a whole lot more. Join the conversation on Facebook to add your voice.
In March we’re celebrating that most organised of things – the alphabet. So I guess it’s appropriate that we...
A Guest Post by Aby Garvey, Simplify 101 (When I read this article by Aby Garvey from Simplify 101,...
How to Procrastinate Like a Pro. Everything you ever wanted to know about not getting things done. Unfortunately this...
You may have noticed I’ve been laying low for a while now. Well, I’ve been busy building my new...
This year Creating Order from Chaos clients have… reclaimed junk rooms and turned them into home offices, baby nurseries,...
When it comes time to take down the tree and pack away the decorations, Leave the hooks on the...
I dedicate this one to my children, and wish you all a Joyful Christmas. And as an extra...
Take a moment before it gets too crazy to evaluate the festive season so far. Take stock. Have you...
Don’t shop for food today. There’s bound to be something in your pantry, fridge or freezer that will make...
There are all kinds of clever people out there with great Christmas tips and how-tos. I thought I’d share...
The large shopping centres can make your crazy at this time of year. Steer clear of them and save...
Have you collected craft ideas and recipes galore, in readiness for the festive season? To find them quickly and...
I love that this time of year, friends are likely to drop in, often unannounced. For easy entertaining which...
Keeping gift wrapping simple can save space too. Buy just one large roll of multipurpose gift wrap. A solid...
Keep gift-wrapping simple to save time. Use gift bags. They are attractive, quick and easy to use and reusable....
The Unclutterer blog is always a good read and every so often I like to kick back with a...
Are you running out of space on your shelves, mantle & windowsills for all the Christmas cards arriving in...
Do you love the look of Christmas lights but don’t have the time, energy or inclination to create your...
Want a quick decoration or centrepiece idea? Try this… Candy canes in a glass. And when you’re done, no...
If you still want the impact of Christmas decorations, but lack the time and energy it can takes… Keep...
So you’ve decided to put up the tree, and the lights are twinkling beautifully. Now where to keep the...
One way to save time and effort… Don’t put up a Christmas tree. There are plenty of alternatives to...
It had to be said at some point. D is for Delegate. Those who know me, know I say...
For the ultimate “get work done in your pyjamas” day… Shop for gifts online. There is pretty much nothing...
Still on how to make gift buying easier… Buy all the gifts in one shop. This is relatively easy...
Here’s another way to save time and effort on buying gifts. Buy the same gift for everyone. Buy up...
Still want to give gifts but save time and effort? Buy one gift for many people. Here’s how it...
Got your gift shopping done? Before we get too much closer to the big day, here’s something you could...
Ok, so you still prefer to do the traditional handwritten Christmas card. Don’t bother with writing addresses. You can...
Was yesterday’s shortcut a step too far for you? Still want to send Christmas cards to keep in touch...
Here’s one way to cut down on Christmas-related tasks. Don’t send Christmas cards. Yes, you read that correctly. Go...
Welcome to the first in a series of Christmas Shortcuts, designed to make your Christmas festive but stress-free. If...
Last year I shared with you Angela’s Advent, where each day brought a different clutter-free gift suggestion. If you’re...
At this time of year, our minds turn to the festive season and the ceremonies, rituals and traditions that...
Love this – “Procrastination” Tales of Mere Existence
Could you survive a year without shopping for clothes? My friend, Imogen Lamport, is busy writing for her part...
Seen on a calendar: Some of us learn by other people’s mistakes… the rest of us have to BE...
Man vs Woman, Loft vs Man-Drawer, Stuff vs Space. Any way you look at it, this clip from Michael...
Christmas Workshop Don’t let Christmas stress you out. Swap Chaos for Order this Christmas. Come along to our pre-Christmas...
November 24th is Go Home on Time Day. It’s a day dedicated to winning back some work/life balance. Recently...
Have you ever felt like taking control of your clutter is like herding cats? Well then, this one’s fur...
You may already know that my home of 15 years is on the market. You may also have heard...
Last week I got to meet OrganiZing Royalty, Julie Morgenstern, author of several books which I now have signed. ...
Let’s talk unmentionables… And…
A little midweek survey for you. I’m interested to hear what goes on at your house.
The children of hoarders have a lot to deal with. It helps to know there are others out there...
Today Corinne Grant launches her book Lessons in Letting Go – Confessions of a Hoarder. She injects her humour...
Peter Walsh says, Do the Trash Bag Tango Each day for a week, take 2 bags. For 10 minutes,...
Washing which has been washed but not hung out to dry turns smelly and mouldy. Similarly, other tasks which...
Here’s some great advice from a friend. Always keep several get well cards on the mantle. If unexpected guests...
Are there others in your home or workplace making an organised life almost impossible? Peter Walsh shared a great...
Peter Walsh says… 80% of what goes into a filing cabinet never again sees the light of day. Think...
Ever wondered how to stop those pesky interruptions from co-workers? If you’re working from home, do you have trouble...
A great tip from Peter Walsh: Icon be Gone. Declutter your computer desktop. Bring the focus back to the...
Bacon, eggs, pastries, fruit, yoghurt, juice and great coffee, a fabulous view of the river, some wonderful advice laughs...
So, you’ve made the big decision to sell. You have hopes of a quick and successful sale. Now it’s...
One family’s success with Organising their Lego A guest post by Alana Phillips We have a LOT of Lego....
Have you ever considered a career as a Professional Organiser? Here’s what I love about my work I get...
2 new Creating Order products are now available. Meal Planning Made Easy Workbook A 33-page e-workbook deisgned to make...
If you could Ask an Organiser anything at all, what would it be? At Creating Order from Chaos, we’re...
Are you considering a career as a Professional Organiser? You probably have a dozen questions, and they can all...
What motivates you? Is it the carrot or the stick? Pleasure or pain? This question was a big feature...
In yesterday’s labelling post I mentioned labelling children’s puzzles. So here’s the skinny on that… Jigsaw puzzles are great...
Sometimes you need a little extra motivation. The right word said at the right time can produce inspiring results....
Ok, so there’s a labelling theme happening here. Today I’m looking at the various and numerous things you could...
Yesterday I wrote about my gorgeous new Dymo LabelManager 260P. Perhaps you’d like to know why I get so...
I am a lucky lady. I was sent a brand new Dymo LabelManager 260P to try out. I’ve been...
The wonderful Kàren Wallace, from The Calm Space, asked me to write an article about Happiness, so I did. ...
Yesterday it was my great pleasure to speak to a group of businesswomen at Accelerate Women about 4 Ways...
There are 168 hours in a week. How many do you spend sleeping? And how do you feel about...
There are lots of misconceptions about hoarding and hoarders. One such misconception is that hoarders have chosen this lifestyle....
Here’s a lovely little something I want to share with all my women readers. Oh Thank Goodness, It’s Not...
I’m feeling rather special. The lovely Janet Barclay from Organized Assistant has named me the first “Professional Organizers Blog...
A quick poll to gauge what’s really important to you…
In a survey of 2,611 managers across 5 countries, 60% believed that being organised is a learned trait, rather...
Each month it’s my honour to contribute to The Calm Space, an online magazine that’s a virtual day-spa for...
According to a 2001 Ikea survey of 620 customers, women were four times as likely as men to organise...
see more Please note: At Creating Order from Chaos we take both hoarding and gun control very seriously. This...
A little Facebook discussion around this amusing quote: The trouble with being punctual is that nobody’s there to appreciate...
Lately, almost everything I buy comes with instruction manuals. Do you find the same? Even simple garments come with...
According to a 2001 Ikea survey of 620 customers, men were three times as likely to cook dinner if...
How’s your productivity? Spending a little too much time on Facebook? Please enjoy this insightful and funny depiction of...
When I’m alone in my home, surrounded by my stuff, my stuff speaks to me. I hear “I’m the...
For as long as I can remember, dancing has been fun. As a child, my dance lessons were the...
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful” –...
1 Value your own time and those of others in your life. 2 Be clear about what time you...
Did you know that Creating Order from Chaos specialises in 3 distinct areas? We specialise in helping * families...
Organized Assistant, aka Janet Barclay, does a wonderful job supporting the Professional Organiser and online communities. Each month she...
A lovely group of ladies participated in the Meal Planning Made Easy workshop last night. We had some great...
Hello to all the Mothers out there, and to all those that have mothers. Happy Mothers Day! As a...
This month over at The Calm Space, the focus is on Purpose. In my article, Fit for Purpose, I...
“I had the blessing of a heart attack just last year. It helped me to discard things I didn’t...
One of my favourite things to do while travelling overseas is visit bookshops. One of my other favourite things...
I’ve taken 3 flights to get to Columbus, and I’ll be taking 3 more home again. I’m an only...
My final favourite thing – well, for now anyway – is the humble list. Nothing beats getting your thoughts,...
This morning I woke up in lovely Columbus, Ohio. I’m here attending the National Association of Professional Organizers Annual...
There is one thing which goes along with yesterday’s favourite thing. Without it, a calendar would be kind of...
Now we’re getting serious. I use this favourite thing every day. I used to use a paper one. Now...
Tomorrow I head off for the NAPO Professional Organisers conference in the US. Last week I settled some last...
I am so often asked to recommend one specific product that will solve all organising puzzles. While there is...
There’s something I recommend to almost every client. It could be a life saver, but use it with care. ...
It really is difficult to pick a single favourite organising tool. Everyone’s needs are different and so are their...
Yesterday I mentioned labels. Labels are essential to the organising process and can be done in all sorts of...
Today’s favourite thing is small, space efficient, really inexpensive and just like yesterday’s, multifunctional. It’s also very simple. Meet...
Over the next few days, I thought I’d share with you some of my favourite organising things. Some will...
For maximum efficiency and productivity, people should not multitask. But furniture should.
Inspiration comes from all different directions. In an article on The Calm Space, I write about getting inspiration by...
Only have one minute but want to get organised? Here are seven things you can do to get organised...
Goodbye to Daylight Saving in Victoria. Be sure to reset your clocks backwards by one hour overnight. And while...
Man, those frogs are tasty. I’ve been busy with my head down working on my top 5 priorities daily....
Good morning! This morning I ate my frog. How about you? This morning I took Brian Tracy’s advice to...
Does the thought of tackling the filing pile fill you with dread? Wish the pile could just file itself? ...
Let’s talk about a little known time waster which catches a lot of people out. Assumptions Assumptions take you...
Do you suspect you have too much stuff? Do friends and family tell you you have too much stuff?...
Each month I proudly contribute to a wonderful online magazine, The Calm Space. Writing for it is such a...
What is it? Declutter Club is a first in Melbourne. It’s a monthly support group for those truly committed...
My friend and colleague, Narelle Todd, from Successful Living, has written an amazing blog post called The Power of...
Check out this way cool tool cart on the Unclutter blog.
I’ve done a little legwork so I can point you in the direction of some great advice for saving...
with apologies to Paul Simon 🙂 1. Abolish damaged goods 2. Bin the junk mail 3. Chuck old magazines...
According to the non-profit mobile phone recycling program, MobileMuster, Australia is a nation of hoarders. So what would make...
I’m just back from delivering the “Get On With Life!” Decluttering Workshop to staff at the Department of Health...
For two lucky Melbourne women it totals $3.8 million! One woman found a Tattslotto ticket worth $2.5m “filed” away,...
The final day of our FAQ Festival gets down to the nitty gritty. Do you have a cancellation policy?...
Creating Order from Chaos continues the FAQ Festival today. My job is tiny/huge. Will you help me? The answer...
This week I share the FAQs Creating Order from Chaos hears. What is AAPO? AAPO is the Australasian Association...
The many enquiries we field often have a common thread. This week I’m sharing the FAQs. How long will...
Creating Order from Chaos gets lots of enquiries. This week I’ll be sharing some of the most common questions...
There, on the table, sits a gift. It’s beautifully wrapped with glistening paper and curls of ribbon, and it’s...
Shh… come closer… I have a little-known organising truth to share. Just between you and me. Very often Storage...
The Creating Order Chronicle has just gone out to subscribers with news, tips and a project everyone can accomplish. ...
My monthly article for The Calm Space is ready and waiting for your reading and comments. This month I...
Organised doesn’t have to mean all square boxes and labels. Organised can be beautiful. This collection is contained. It...
I’ve just hosted a half hour of energetic filing on social media sites, Facebook and Twitter. It’ll be a...
A timely article, by Ann-Maree Moodie, with some great back-to-school tips… from me! Read the article here.
Are you…? Battling never-ending to-do lists? Weighed down by family pressures? Feeling like you’re talking to brick walls? Yearning...
2009 has been an eventful year around here. And for you too I’m sure. Now’s a great time to...
I am one lucky duck. A little while ago I told you about how I loved the gift of...
I caught up on a little blog reading last night. Here are 3 posts I thought you might enjoy...
And so we come to the end of the series. Who have I left out? Well, I can’t forget...
There’s more to consumables than just food and drink. How about these out-of-the-ordinary ideas – For the young adult...
If a tipple’s out of the question, perhaps a non-alcoholic drink is just the thing. How about fair trade...
If your friends prefer a tipple over a nibble, I can suggest wine, liqueur, champagne or imported beers make...
The last 2 days have seen me recommending indulgent foods. Today I’m focusing on the healthier side of things. ...
On with the consumables theme, and today I’m suggesting celebration food. At this time of year, everyone can do...
Over the next few days I’ll be focusing on consumables as clutter-free gifts. I’ll start today with goodies for...
When you make a donation to a charity on behalf of a loved one, you give twice, and neither...
School’s out this week and you may be wondering what perfect gift to give your child’s teacher. I once...
On a recent trip to LA I visited the Wells Fargo museum, which I found very interesting from an...
Short on cash? Give a gift of your time and effort instead. Create some coupons for babysitting, car washing,...
3 article from Christmases past to cheer, comfort or organise you. 🙂 No Greater Gift Noise & Crowds Getting...
At The Calm Space, they’re talking about Ceremony. There are some wonderfully touching stories and inspiring articles. My own...
Cash, money, mullah, currency, legal tender. Who doesn’t love it? But if you’re going to give cash as a...
On the 12th Day of Christmas, my true love decluttered for me 12 tasks mind-numbing 11 bits of piping...
Following on with the natural theme, how about greening up your loved one’s life with a plant for the...
I am a lucky girl. Not only do I have great friends but one of them showered me with...
Go Wild with today’s gift suggestion which will add to life experience instead of the hall cupboard. Zoos Victoria...
A picture tells a thousand words. And here’s one clutter-free gift suggestion that is “stuff” but very small and...
One of the best gifts I ever received was given right from the heart. It was a poem, written...
Now here’s a gift suggestion that definitely won’t clutter up someone’s home, no matter how hard you or they...
There’s another experience gift which is available to us all and you can’t buy in a shop. It’s your...
Well I’ve talked about gifting exercise (Day 2), experiences (Day 4) and learning (Day 6). Today I’m combining all...
Clutter gets in the way, but there’s always room for learning. Why not present a loved one with a...
Yesterday I wrote about a day out. Today I’m going to suggest A Day In. How about the movie experience? Prices range from...
Today’s clutter-free gift suggestion is simply A Day Out. My intention with these suggestions is to promote the idea that...
It’s always the right time to get pampered. And who wouldn’t love receiving a facial, massage, pedicure, manicure or...
Today’s clutter-free gift suggestion requires that you take notice of your recipient’s interests and hobbies. Any friend would love...
The countdown to Christmas has begun. Little children everywhere have hung their advent calendars and will celebrate each day...
Is your purse feeling the pinch? Instead of exchanging store-bought gifts with your group of friends this year you...
Are you a Hoarder? Do you compulsively hoard possessions? Or do you experience obsessive-compulsive behaviours? If the answer is...
There’s a new service online which can have you saving money on school supplies, or clearing out your cupboards,...
As promised, here are a few of my favourite quick-and-easy treats that impress. Pesto Parmesan Toasts – (So so...
The festive season is upon us, and often we’re called on, at short notice, to cater for guests or...
My friend Emma is an amazing woman. She is one of the Footsloggers, who are taking on the Oxfam Trailwalker...
Sometimes it just becomes too much. Life gets hectic. You barely have time to catch your breath between one...
It’s great to hear about people achieving success, so I was thrilled to receive this letter recently. Hi Angela,...
My Mother’s Garden is the very moving story of one daughter’s quest to help her mother overcome compulsive hoarding...
Here’s a great article on hoarding from Melinda Beck of the Wall Street Journal. Read it here. And take...
Here’s the great news… when you finish, it will feel great! Pop the champagne, light the fireworks! Coming to...
You’ll want to record your journey. It’s important to acknowledge where you’ve come from as well as the destination....
Plan to rest. Any good adventure takes time. Tackling the scary unknown can be tiring. For some, it...
You may need special equipment but trust me, it’s not worth loading up with these at the start of...
While I’ve been trying an experiment of my own with the Creating Order 2009 Declutter Challenge!, there’s a family...
There will be pretty side tracks leading nowhere. These are the distractions that take you away from your goal. ...
I must warn you, there will be forks in the road. These will be choices to make. Some will...
It starts with a feeling, a longing to do something different. The feeling grows to a strong desire. Before...
Do you suspect you could be a hoarder? Do you worry that your “collecting” could be a problem? Want...
It’s a brand new week. The possibilities are endless. I commit to getting things done. How about you?
How many doors to the outside world does your home have? And how many keys do you need to...
Sometimes you have to try doing something different if you want different results. I’ve just enjoyed a very pleasant...
I travel quite a bit. Somtimes it’s just for the weekend, sometimes camping, sometimes a 5-star hotel. This week...
More clutter quotes from Twitter… @grahamphelps – Time tip: Avoid clutter. Keep everything you are not working on out...
There’s a cool new storage product on the market and I’m pleased to say it’s the brainchild of a smart...
I’d love to hear your thoughts. How do you feel about organising? Are you organised? What’s your greatest wish? ...
I’m just back from the Dymo National Organising Week Officeworks workshops I presented at. It was so good meeting...
Happy National Organising Week to you all! How will you celebrate? I’ll be meeting and greeting and solving organising...
Many thanks to all you’ve called and written with their congratulations on my being granted AAPO Expert accreditation. I...
I read a lot. I read a broadsheet newspaper every day, I read online, I read for professional development,...
I am so thrilled to have been granted Expert accreditation by the Australasian Association of Professional Organisers. I...
Each month when I write my Calm Space article, there is a theme to work around. Each of the...
In the past I’ve written about how to say No. It’s a great skill to practise. But there are...
Bin Lob Hurl Toss Free Fling Clear Pitch Ditch Trash Purge Chuck Discard Release Liberate Remove Farewell Let go...
Plan to leave earlier than “on-time” for a stress-free start to the day.
“If you can’t enjoy what you have, you can’t enjoy more of it” – Richard Bandler
Donate 5 items you no longer use to charity. Make sure they’re useful to someone. Put them in a...
Organising doesn’t need to be a chore. Let’s inject some fun by organising by the senses. Sight – Get...
Here’s what we were saying a year ago. Exactly where did the time go? Highlighting the Necessary Colourful Solutions...
Yesterday I opened up about something at my house that wasn’t organised. Now it’s your turn, if you’re game....
Yesterday I had a realisation. My CDs are not organised. While I was preparing breakfast, I felt a sudden...
As a follow-up to yesterday’s theme of getting organised by staying within budget, here are a couple of older posts...
Part of being organised is living within our means. Staying out of consumer debt allows you to live stress...
Think you have no time to declutter? While it’s true you need a good deal of time to tackle mountains...
I’m a fan of Twitter and also of Tweetdeck, which organises my groups and searches so neatly. Having set...
Just because I’ve been silent on the issue doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten my Creating Order 2009 Declutter Challenge! In...
I love these alternative uses for shutters. How cute, and a great use of the wall space. Alternative Uses:...
Today’s the day. Today I took over as President of AAPO, the Australasian Association of Professional Organisers, my industry...
It’s true! The Calm Space July edition has just been published and it’s all about Truth. I write The...
Today I thought I’d bring you some posts on Hoarding I’ve been reading. There’s a wealth of information out...
Do you have any UFOs? UFOs are UnFinished Objects. A clever client taught me that. Sometimes UFOs can drive...
It breaks my heart to read of another poor soul trapped by their clutter with disastrous results. Make no...
Kindness is the theme for The Clam Space in June. My article is called Be Kind, Unwind and you’ll...
Wouldn’t you rather spend time laughing with friends than cooking for them? Next time you invite them for a...
Cook up a storm. Make double quantities and freeze meals for busy days. Slice it up. Slice meats and...
Invest in a really good, low-maintenance haircut. It will save time on styling in the morning, and you’ll look...
Fill the car with petrol when you’re not in a hurry, so you don’t have to stop when it’s...
To save time in the laundry, buy low-maintenance clothes. Washing by hand, fiddly ironing and trips to the drycleaner...
Want to know why I’ve been quiet on this blog for a while? Take a look…I hope you’ll join...
Are your files bulging? Are your filing drawers crammed? Are there more binders than your shelves can handle? Then,...
Grab a pile of magazines and flick through, looking for articles, coupons, ideas you want to keep or read. ...
It’s the end of the week. Put your feet up and read these 5 great posts by fellow bloggers...
Here’s one for the procrastinators. And let’s face it, we can all succumb from time to time. This quote helps...
Do you bring something home every time you pass by a shop? Do you buy the children a treat evey time...
Gather up your bookmarks and pop them in a pretty cup Switch email alert settings to check less frequently...
I know I’m not the only one feeling like the year is flying. Here’s April’s Project of the Month...
You might have noticed I’ve been writing about my organised family lately. Yesterday it was my organised mum-to-be daughter...
Today I’m interviewing a young mum-to-be to find out what’s important to her at this special time. Michelle, I know...
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” – Pablo...
Work and play definitely mix at The Calm Space this month. I’ve written about the balancing act of work...
In order to be fully in control of your time, it’s good to be prepared for saying “No”. Have...
With the weather cooling I have been putting on more layers, especially in the evening, and dreading that time...
Well, I promised. So here’s my latest effort in the Creating Order 2009 Declutter Challenge! 197-208: e-newsletter subscriptions and...
In my part of the world, Daylight Saving ends tonight. It’s the one day of the year when your wish...
I love the stairs in my house. When we were building, my mother predicted I would hate them one...
Today I give you the first in a series of interviews with organised people. I feel there’s a lot...
We’ve all been there. Waiting, waiting, being told our call is important to them, waiting. But if you have...
This morning I attended a business event. As is usual at these events, there were lots of brochures and...
The other day on Twitter, the call went out. I could hear the desperation in her voice. On Twitter...
Emailing invitations? Change of address notice? Arranging a meeting? Make it easy for your colleagues and friends and include a...
This is the easiest Project of the Month ever. Corral your bookmarks by creating a beautiful place for them...
Recently, declutterer Lindy reported that she’d found and decluttered 78 odd socks. 78! Wow. It got me thinking. Where...
I had a special visitor to my office this morning. Perhaps you’d like to meet him. Here he is...
I’ve come across a blog post by Lorie Marrero which is absolutely mind-blowing. In these times of supposed doom...
Together with Chris Owen and Janet Powell, I owe a very big thank you to the many people who helped...
My friend, and newly-awarded Certified Image Professional, Imogen Lamport from Bespoke Image, is conducting workshops. There are several to...
Boy, it seems like ages since I last reported in on my progress with the Creating Order 2009 Declutter...
Buying is, like, so 2008. 😉 Renting is the new buying. Seriously, it makes sense not to buy anything...
I am at peace. There are a million things on my to do list. My schedule has been put...
L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival My Sister’s Wardrobe – A clothing exchange for the ladies Admission $18/$20 6.30pm Monday 16th...
Here’s a great chance to make room on your bookshelves at the same time as helping those in need. ...
In drought-stricken Melbourne, the sight of a dirty car has become quite acceptable. There are more important uses for...
Sometimes doing very little can be the most productive work of all. Years ago, while on holidays, my husband...
If you’re a woman, then Creating Order from Chaos, Mentor Maestro and Pink Apple have got a FANTASTIC event...
It’s great to see enterprising people finding ways to help the Victorian bushfire victims and recovery effort. No matter...
Each of us has a gift to give. It may be a talent, a bathroom cabinet bursting with hotel toiletries we...
Progress continues in my Decluttering Challenge! 122: a red beach towel which bleeds whenever it gets wet, not good. It’s...
Here’s a way to get new looks into your wardrobe, clear out what’s not working for you and save...
I was working at an organising job today, where I discovered my client’s wedding dress. It was a lovely...
With Australian children heading back to school, I thought it would be a good time to point you in...
That title’s an abbreviation for the Creating Order 2009 Declutter Challenge! We are one month down and the count...
Back in November I urged all Australians to be prepared for the bushfire season. Where I live we are...
Happy Chinese New Year! I am happy to be an Ox. They are known as leaders, dependable, loyal, patient,...
105: a bottle opener in the shape of a bikini-clad woman (a joke gift) 106: a perfectly good address...
Do you have stairs in your home? Keep a vacuum cleaner on each level of your home. They are...
Ok, so we’re on the way to 2009 items decluttered. Is this the first you’ve heard of the Creating...
Ah, the New Year! Full of possibility and opportunity. I welcome it with open arms and a hopeful heart....
I’ve mentioned recently that I spent last week camping by a beautiful river. Friends who aren’t camping fans can’t...
Even while relaxing at the campsite, I’ve done a tiny bit of decluttering. I brought along magazines I hadn’t...
I’m paying heed to my quote of the month, and resting. I am camped by a creek in beautiful...
“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under the trees on a summer’s day, listening...
I set out with the Creating Order 2009 Declutter Challenge! intending to inspire readers to have a go at...
Not sure if you’re up to the Creating Order 2009 Declutter Challenge!? Having trouble making decisions about clutter? Well,...
Like many women, Oprah is a busy woman who this year decided to put her health back at the top...
When you think of “Escape”, do you escape from, or to, something? There’s a definite but interesting distinction. January’s...
Yes, I love sorting, purging, clearing clutter, finding better ways to store things, finding better ways to do things, discovering...
Happy New Year! The response to yesterday’s announcement of the Creating Order 2009 Declutter Challenge! has been phenomenal. I...
Here it comes! It’s the great big Creating Order 2009 Declutter Challenge! And I want you to be a...
I’m so saddened to hear of a house fire overnight fuelled by hoarded newspapers. I’m pleased the homeowner was rescued...
This year I was fortunate to share Christmas with family and friends over several days. It was a lovely...
“There is no greater gift at Christmas than to have everything you want before you open the gifts.” – Unknown...
If you don’t already own a shredder, put it on the list of things to buy in the Boxing...
On the 12th Day of Christmas, my true love decluttered for me 12 tasks mind-numbing 11 bits of piping...
Have you sent out all your Christmas cards yet? Does it feel more like a chore every year? Does...
This weekend is the perfect time to help children make room for all the goodies they’ll receive at Christmas. ...
“If the pace and the push, the noise and the crowds are getting to you, it’s time to...
Christmas has come early for me, and I couldn’t be happier. Nick and his team at Artful have done...
I use my Outlook Task List every day. I find it super useful in so many ways. So I...
Last Friday night I was in charge of providing nibbles for 20 for a party. Others brought the salads,...
I’ve just had a CRAZY idea. I was sitting at my desk, wondering how I can inspire my clients...
A little while ago I brought you a series on Time Management Tips. I believe being organised saves time,...
I love kikki K products. And they’ve come up with a cute way to send Christmas greetings, which you...
This month’s Book of the Month review comes from Roz Howland, a Cairns-based Professional Organiser, who runs InOrder Professional Organising...
I just love it when I hear of clutter-clearing successes. Here are a couple of examples from subscribers who...
December’s Calm Space is all about Grace. You’ll find some writing tips, gift-giving tips and some new ways to...
Take Santa’s lead. Make a list. Check it twice. If ever there was a season for lists, this is...
Lately I’ve featured Time Management Tips on this blog, and there’ve been some beauties. I have lots of time-saving...
Today’s Guest Post comes to you from Graham Dudley from Garageking™. In life it is the general rule “Aim...
Thank you, both readers and contributors, for your positive response to the Time Management Tips Collection featured here recently. ...
Wendy Davie, author of The Accidental Organiser, is a friend of mine. I know her easy-going nature and sense...
Fred Brooks said, How does a project get to be a year behind schedule? One day at a time.
One morning last week, a Professional Organiser friend and colleague and I had an important meeting. The meeting went...
Today’s tips cover planning, emails, diaries and de-stressing. Hope you find something that helps. I know I’ve learned something...
But wait, there’s more! I’m so pleased to be able to bring you this collection of Time Management Tips...
When I asked my business colleagues to contribute to a Time Management Tips Collection, I knew they were a...
I put out a call to my colleagues for their best Time Management tips. They are a generous bunch...
In the past I’ve talked about the importance of delegation. Here’s something that will help that process along. Check...
This country, particularly south-eastern Australia, is one of the most bushfire-prone areas of the world. That means now is...
Next Monday is your chance, here in Melbourne, to swap unwanted items from your wardrobe for new ones. Check out...
It seems there’s so much to think of this time of year. Make choosing a gift easy by creating...
This week Clutter Challenge subscribers have been working on their wardrobes. Not only is this project quickly achieved, it’s a...
Home is the November theme for The Calm Space. I’ve written an article called The Organised Home, and I...
Recently I heard an interesting statistic. It takes the same amount of energy to produce 3 disposable cups of...
One day this week, myself and 4 other Professional Organisers worked with a couple to transform their shed from...
Commencing from Monday, the Creating Order Clutter Challenge will be repeated. This time around the projects will arrive in...
A recent post at Unclutterer referred to a UK survey that looked at the real cost of clutter in...
Organised Thoughts was set up a year ago today. Woo hoo! I’ve had a wonderful time writing it, and...
Be prepared. Get your First Aid Kit in order now so you’ll be ready if you should ever need...
The party season is here. And I like a party as much as the next girl. I also like...
With the weather warming up there are garage sales and car boot sales scheduled by many local churches, schools...
These days we’re looking for ways to save money like never before. One way to do it is to...
Ok, it’s started already. First it was just a few cards in the supermarket, then it was lights and...
Every second Tuesday of the month, I attend a business breakfast. I always find it worthwhile. I meet new...
A friend of mine has a new gorgeous puppy. She’s having a busy time (my friend that is) training...
Adventure awaits you over at The Calm Space. The October edition of this lovely online magazine is dedicated to...
Sometimes you just have to admit you can’t do everything. One of those times came for me today. Occasionally...
I was flicking through some blogs the other day, sorting and purging as I went. There just aren’t enough...
This month’s Book of the Month post is brought to you by guest author and fellow Professional Organiser,...
I’m one of those people who rarely change handbags. Whether dining out or shopping or heading off to work,...
Recently I acquired a new mobile phone. There was nothing wrong with the old one, but I renewed my phone...
It’s no secret, I love magazines. When I read about Coverleaf at Unclutterer, my interest was stirred. So I...
There’s a new addition to the Creating Order Chronicle – the Project of the Month. For September, we’re looking...
My friends are important to me. I have many, scattered all over the city, country and the world. Keeping up...
When I met Peter Walsh last week, I made sure to take along my copy of It’s All Too...
You have to wonder about a company that’s more interested in $19.95 than their reputation. My advice is to...
Flicking through a magazine in a newsagent recently, I came across an article with the heading something like “Top...
I’ve just had a conversation with a business offering an online service. They regularly offer 30-day free trials and I...
What a week it’s been for me! Only wonderful things have happenend, including receiving a Blogger Award – Arte...
There has been an overwhelming response to the Creating Order Clutter Challenge. So many of my subscribers have written...
Tomorrow’s the day. Come along to the Ringwood Officeworks store (cnr Pratt St. & Maroondah Hwy.) on September 11th...
Yesterday I took some time out to attend a luncheon to celebrate Dymo National Organising Week. I was there...
Peter Walsh is the Dymo N.O.W. Ambassador and in Australia for media appearances. I know he has a lot...
Today marks the start of Dymo National Organising Week. Happy National Organising Week to you! You can join in...
… is the theme for September’s Calm Space. I write about how to achieve your own beautiful transformation. From...
Last night I met with other Professional Organisers in Adelaide at their Chapter meeting. It’s so good to chat...
I’m on the road, visiting Adelaide, so my morning walk today took me past new places and sights. Today...
The Technical Break is an institution in Russia. It allows the worker time off for a meal or toilet...
While in Russia, I learned a lot about customer service and efficient work practices. There were some good examples, but...
My friend and fellow Professional Organiser, Wendy Hanes from Skeletons in the Closet, recently remodelled her kitchen. As you’d...
The phone rings at dinner time and you get that feeling in the pit of your stomach. You know...
Email is so easy to use that this in itself sometimes presents a problem. It’s so easy that people take...
This morning an unwanted email arrived in my inbox. It wasn’t spam. Long ago I signed up for information...
Now that I’m back from my holiday, everyone wants to know “What was your favourite part?” Without hesitation I...
When they hear I’m a Professional Organiser, people often ask “So, is your house always neat and tidy?” The...
Yesterday was a particularly technological day for me. I started the day reading my newspaper – online. As well...
Watching the Olympics, one thing is clear. Those amazing athletes didn’t achieve success by chance. They set goals to...
The story goes that during the Space Race era, NASA spent buckets of money on research and development for a pen...
How clever, compact, cute and organised is this??? It’s a set of chopping boards, colour-coded for usage. One for...
Here are 10 things which helped me to stay organised during my 7-week, 11-country, 9-language, 7-currency whirlwind and wonderful...
There’s no reason you can’t have a little fun with your filing. To that end, here are some beautiful...
A while back, in Delegate Well, I wrote about my clever friend who hired a cleaner and found the...
There are limited places left for the upcoming workshop… Effective Time Management – from Chaos to Order in 5...
Yes, it’s the start of the month again, and that means time to check out The Calm Space. This...
My how the months fly by. I’ve really enjoyed reading this month’s offering, especially as I met with...
Even if you only downsize on a small scale, I encourage you to give it a try. Read about...
Had a client a while back – a busy builder with 4 or 5 projects always on the go at once. He...
Ever gone to the fridge only to find someone’s returned an empty milk bottle? It’s not just annoying, it’s...
Following on from the last post, the ability to say no is an important skill, especially for time management....
Interruptions are a quick and easy way to become disorganised, lose focus, fall behind and become frustrated. So dealing...
Whenever I can I like to meet up with other POs (Professional Organisers). It’s great to share ideas with...
Have you ever watched a reality TV show about Organising and wondered how “real” it actually is? Wendy Davie,...
A handy little organising tool is the humble highlighter. Use it to cut down on unnecessary re-reading. When reading...
My husband and I like to travel, and we do it a lot, for both work and pleasure. We...
Simplicity is making the journey of this life with just baggage enough. – Author Unknown More Simplicity can be...
Saving Time: really simple solutions for really busy people by Lynne Wenig is a teeny tiny tome with big...
How long does it take you to Get ready for work? Make lunch? Write a blog post? If you...
Are you thinking of starting a Professional Organiser business? I have a workshop scheduled for August 2nd, when I’ll...
Be ready for anything. Keep a hanging shoe bag near where you exit the house. It can hold your...
Want to reduce the flow of paper into your home, and do your bit for the environment? Start by...
Lately there’s been a strange phenomenon going on around me. Wherever I go with friends or colleagues, someone can’t read...
Here’s a clever tip which will save you time and elbow grease. Use a denture cleaning tablet to remove...
That which you cannot give away, you do not possess. It possesses you. – Ivern Ball The Calm Space...
Peter Walsh is a name now well-known in organising circles. His books It’s All Too Much and Does This...
For kitchen storage, the choice is clear, or maybe opaque. Clear containers let you see at a glance when...
I’m proud to call myself an AAPO member. AAPO stands for the Australasian Association of Professional Organisers. I’m proud to have...
Delegation is a very useful organising tool. There are enormous benefits in recognising which jobs are best done by...
Just because something’s free of charge doesn’t mean it won’t cost you. How many “free” toys from a fast...
I had a fabulous breakfast today. I spent it with a room full of other business people, discussing Time...
I try to save my clients money by deliberately not recommending a multitude of products. Often “organising products” are a...
What if I told you there was a simple way to be more organised that didn’t involve storage systems,...
In Australia today, on Channel 10 at 1pm, Oprah will feature Peter Walsh, author of 3 books on Organising,...
Organising is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all...
Surely having a current will is the ultimate in organisation. Let me ask you – does your will reflect...
Mothers Day is just a week away. Stuck for ideas on how to show your appreciation and affection? Here...
I know many of my readers and clients are scrapbookers. Here’s something you won’t want to miss. Aby Garvey...
This month sees the first Book of the Month post, and I’m kicking off with one of my favourites. ...
The start of the month always means a brand new issue of online magazine, The Calm Space. This month...
I always get a mid-week giggle from Unclutterer. I just love their Unitasker Wednesdays. They poke fun at those...
I’ve been trying to think of an Organising angle, so I could tell you all about this song released today. ...
I received a letter from a happy client this week, telling me of the progress she and her family...
The Creating Order Chronicle has just gone out to subscribers. It’s a free monthly e-newsletter packed with tips and articles,...
I’m not a big fan of sticky notes. In fact I have a slight aversion. I find that too...
Make appointments with doctors, dentists, accountants, etc. for when they first open for the day. You’ll have the shortest...
No time or inclination to shop for food? Thanks to CalmTechCoach for pointing out Super Cook has the answer. ...
Record your favourite TV programs. Then you can watch at your own convenience, without ads. You’ll be more in...
How much time are you giving away? Recently I made the tough decision to step down from one of...
There’s wild weather about where I live. I was in a meeting in a large office building today when...
Regular readers will know I’m passionate about online magazine, The Calm Space. That’s great because for all of April,...
It’s the start of a brand new week. Hopefully the weekend was restful and you’ve recharged your internal batteries. ...
Now’s the time to get out your basket and practice for the Easter Egg Hunt. Seriously, now’s a good...
It happens right in the middle of brainstorming a brilliant new idea. Or when you sit down to write...
Is disorganisation costing you lost sales? Don’t be like the supplier I have been trying to deal with this...
When you’re in business, every minute counts. It’s more important than ever to use time wisely, investing your time...
I found “Stuff” entertaining, interesting and a considered look at how different people view their stuff. Wendy Harmer dealt...
Tonight in Australia, “Stuff” screens at 8pm on ABC1, presented by Wendy Harmer. This first episode, Wendy talks to...
I like this quote from Ashleigh Brilliant (yes that’s his real name) – Sometimes the most urgent thing you can...
I’ve mentioned before that I’m a fan of lists. Well, here’s an easy option – ready-made lists. Why make...
If you are dreaming of a Calm Space – and let’s face it, who isn’t? – head on over...
After many requests from budding and new Professional Organisers, I am now offering Professional Organiser Training. I’ll be sharing...
Start the week off well. Identify one thing that’s been bugging you. Maybe it’s the stack of filing from...
Open the mail. Deal with the mail. It’s as simple as that. Don’t leave mail unopened guess at mail...
If only there were more hours in the day. Have you ever said that? Well, this year you get...
Chatting to an organised corporate manager yesterday, he told me he kept a stopwatch in the office for “myth-busting” purposes. ...
In my experience, many creative people shy away from time management practices. Perhaps they feel being organised will rob...
Do your bills get paid on time? Can you find what you need when you need it? Do you...
Where do I start? As a Professional Organiser, that’s a question I hear a lot. And usually it comes...
Today I witnessed a minor traffic accident. No one was hurt but a little damage was done to both...
Your local community can save you time and money. There are numerous examples of communities coming together to get...
I’m married to a romantic. Perhaps it’s because he was born on St. Valentine’s Day that he has this...
I look forward to the start of each month. That’s when I get to read the latest edition of...
I save time and money every week. You can too. Here’s how… First a bit about why you’d benefit...
Today I bought a new vacuum cleaner. Exciting, I know. But the old one just sucked, or actually, didn’t. ...
User-friendly filing In Part 1 I introduced the idea of a user-friendly filing system. Today I’ll explain what I...
A while back I wrote about a new blogging course I was looking at, and promised to let you...
Remember when they promised us the paperless office? Ha! For most of us, things have actually become worse. It’s...
Live in a small home? Or perhaps you just want to store a lot of stuff? It makes sense to invest...
This week I gave my wardrobe a workout. A few things got flung. Most of the decision-making was easy. ...
You know the scene. You’re at a party, you meet someone new, and they ask “What do you do?” ...
Clearly, after my last post, I’m a fan of learning. So… I’m evaluating a multi-media course on blogging from...
I am thankful for mistakes. I always say it’s not a mistake if you learn something from it. I...
I’m proud to call myself a Calm Space contributor. This month the theme for this wonderful online magazine is Opportunity. I...
Every year on New Year’s Day I perform a little trick that helps me keep order in my wardrobe all...
Christmas is behind us, and I hope yours was all you wished for. Mine certainly was, thanks to the...
Cartoon by Dave Walker. Find more cartoons you can freely re-use on your blog at We Blog Cartoons. Cartoon...
Here’s a great tip to ensure your Christmas lights never lose their sparkle, from Organized Christmas. “Keep holiday decor...
To make your Christmas a little easier, I offer up some organising tips to Create Christmas Order. I hope...
People call on my help for all kinds of different reasons. I often hear the words “I’m desperate”. Today’s...
Like the new look blog? I sure do. So I send out a big thank you to Nick Sibbing...
Every home has a junk drawer. It’s that place, usually in the kitchen, where things of unknown origin or...
Back in July my e-newsletter , the Creating Order Chronicle, carried a review of the book, true green @...
It’s that time of year. The time when those fans of the paper-based diary go on the hunt for the...
What does “being organised” mean to you? I have a friend who achieves more in one day than many...
I came across this inspiring little movie and just had to share it. It’s called the Eight Irresistible Principles...
With great sadness today I heard of the death of a resident as the result of a house fire. Anthony Dowsley,...
I have a confession to make. Today I wasn’t organised. And because of that I missed out. Last week,...
I come across situations all the time that could be improved with a little organisation. And every now and...
