If you find yourself struggling with paper, your desk, and productivity levels consider the book "Getting Things Done" by David Allen. David proposes a unique system using lists to increase your effectiveness and efficiency.

Prevent delicates/hand washables from inadvertently getting thrown in the wash with the everyday laundry by hanging a bag on the side of the hamper to store them before laundry day.  See the photo below of a small mesh bag hung on the side of a hamper for stockings and knee highs that will be hand washed.

Stash extra plastic bags at the bottom of the bin so when you remove the full bag, a fresh one is right there at your fingertips.

Start a toy rotation system.  Pack up and store approximately half of the toys.  Keep one of each kind out and store the others (e.g., have 2 shape sorters? keep one out, store the other).  Every change of season (or when the kids start to complain of boredom), pack up the toys that are out and pull out some of those previously stored.  A toy rotation system is a wonderful thing.  It keeps kids interested and keeps parents happy because it saves money and reduces clutter.  A win-win.   

Try a 3-bag sorter and skip the "sorting step" all together.  As you remove your clothing, simply place articles in the appropriate section of the sorter.  Use one section for whites, one for colors, and one for darks or delicates.  

One example is this Satin Silver Laundry Center.  Find it at: www.stacksandstacks.com

Sean Kirst, a columnist for The Post Standard, wrote an article about his experience with Put it Simply Organizing.....a must read if you have resolved to "get organized" in 2011.  Click here to read it.

Being organized is like having 25 hours in a day.