Nancy Black's Organization Plus Blog

New Blog

2010-06-21T09:19:00.000-07:00

I have upgraded my blog and moved it to http://www.threehourtransformation.com.

Watch for all future updates and new information there.

~ Nancy

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Nancy Black, Organization Plus
http://www.organizationplus.com

Nancy Black's Organization Plus Blog: A Veteran's Experience at NAPO Conference

2010-06-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

Nancy Black's Organization Plus Blog: A Veteran's Experience at NAPO Conference

A Veteran's Experience at NAPO Conference

2010-06-18T08:43:00.000-07:00

A Veteran's Experience at NAPO Conference
Nancy Black, Organization Plus
(Excerpts from NAPO/NE Newsletter article with minor edits.)

This year I attended my 19th NAPO Conference.

While riding in the van from the airport to the hotel, I met a mother and daughter who have an organizing business in Bogotá. In one session, I sat next to an organizer from Hong Kong. In an elevator, I met the president of the Australian Association of Professional Organizers. Other attendees were from Canada, Japan, Bermuda, and The Netherlands. Obviously, people all over the world have organizing challenges!

The theme of this year's conference was "Innovate, Connect and Inspire."

Tim Sanders, former Chief Solutions Officer for Yahoo, shared his vision for innovation as it relates to our personal responsibility for social consciousness and business growth.

Gina Schreck, the Geek Chick, addressed connections vis-à-vis the value of technology and communications in the business environment.

Monica Wofford spoke about how "Contagious Confidence" can inspire you to be the absolute best you can be.

I also attended other sessions that have enhanced my professional growth.

The highlight for me was being recognized as a 20 Year Golden Circle member.

ORGANIZE YOUR WAY TO PROFITABILITY

2010-06-17T18:37:00.000-07:00

PLAN AHEAD:

ORGANIZE YOUR WAY TO PROFITABILITY

Tuesday, August 10 —8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. FREE
As a business owner, are you spending more time fighting fires or sparking new ideas? Drowning in paperwork or making your business watertight? Getting lost in details or finding better ways to run your business? In this workshop you will learn organizing tips that will help you focus on your top priorities. We will discuss how you can organize your way to profitability.
Speaker: Nancy Black, Founder, Organization Plus
Co-sponsored by the Small Business Development Center
www.theenterprisectr.org

Blogging for Business

2010-06-13T16:55:00.000-07:00

I heard Christa Terry speak on Blogging for Business at the North Shore Business Forum.

She was an excellent speaker, who presented the information in a very user-friendly way.

Christa is the author of "iDo:Planning Your Wedding with Nothing But Net".

If you would like to have a blog, but don't think you have the time to do it, contact Organization Plus so we can help you fit into your schedule.

Reduce Stress: Plan Ahead for 4th of July

2010-06-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Independence Day - July 4th: Declare Your Independence

While most of us are celebrating this day with barbecues, parades, fireworks, etc., our armed forces are fighting to preserve our freedom.

Take a moment of silence to acknowledge their sacrifices to preserve our freedom. Whenever you see someone in uniform say "thank you."

Every year I attend the rehearsal of the Boston Pops Esplanade Concert. It is wonderful to see thousands of people celebrating the 4th.

Highlights of the evening are a sing along of "This Land Is Your Land;" the unfurling of our flag, with the music of "Stars and Stripes Forever;" and the exhilarating sounds of the "1812 Overture," with the cannons going off.

For more information visit http://www.july4th.org

~ Nancy

Real Results: Declare Your Independance

2010-06-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

Declare Your Independence in time for this 4th of July

Clients who have declared their independence have told me...

"Being organized is so liberating."

"Working with us to identify where our time goes has been invaluable in scheduling work and personal activities that relate to our values."

"I am feeling very empowered, as if organization might be something I will be able to maintain in my life. You have helped me to feel lighter."

~ Nancy

As a professional organizer on the North Shore, I help people change their lives, reduce stress, and enjoy work! (yes, you can actually enjoy working!). Visit my website at http://www.organizationplus.com.

See how I transform people's lives in as little as THREE HOURS.

Recommended "Get Organized" Product - June 2010

2010-06-01T08:34:00.000-07:00

Elfa® Freestanding™ Drawer System

While re- organizing a client’s desk and office supply drawers, I realized that items were getting stuck in the shallow drawers, and lost in the deep ones.

My solution was to create an Elfa® Freestanding ™Drawer System.
We selected a platinum frame, butcher block top, and silver mesh draws, so they would blend in with the decor of his office.

When I put things in them, I used drawer organizers so that small items have a specific home, and will stay neat.

He now has an attractive set of drawers, clearly labeled, Office Supplies, Peter, Mailing Supplies, and Paper, where he can find whatever he needs within seconds.

The products I suggested are an example of my knowledge of the best organizing products available to get the job done.

These are available at The Container Store via my Recommended Products page.

~ Nancy

As a professional organizer on the North Shore, I help people change their lives, reduce stress, and enjoy work! (yes, you can actually enjoy working!). Visit my website at http://www.organizationplus.com.

See how I transform people's lives in as little as THREE HOURS.

What Would You Do With an Extra 10 Hours Per Week?

2010-06-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Do you dream of having another 10 hours a week?

One of my clients thought it could never happen.

Voila…I taught him how to break his projects down to manageable time segments and he now leaves the office at 5:00pm each day instead of 7:00pm.

Yes, he has another 10 hours a week.

That's more than 500 hours per year!

Just think you could get in a round of golf after work, get home for dinner on time, or make it to your kid’s little league game.

~ Nancy

As a professional organizer on the North Shore, I help people change their lives, reduce stress, and enjoy work! (yes, you can actually enjoy working!). Visit my website at http://www.organizationplus.com.

See how I transform people's lives in as little as THREE HOURS.

Clutter = Chaos and Stress

2010-05-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

Are you overwhelmed by the clutter in your home office?

One of my clients, who is the CEO of a real estate development company, had her home office enlarged. Her first appointment was 10 years ago and she calls me whenever she needs an “organizing fix “. ( I have also worked with her staff in her corporate office.)

On April 26th I received the following email from her:

“Are you available Monday May 24th to organize the office. They have tentatively given me the week of the 17 for the installation and they say they will need the entire week. If that should move up at all and I am trying hard to get it moved up, I’ll let you know.”

Miracle of miracles, it was done by May 24th, (although we worked around the installer and the electrician for a few hours). Because I knew how her office had been set up, I was able to organize the new space in only one day.

~ Nancy

As a professional organizer on the North Shore, I help people change their lives, reduce stress, and enjoy work! (yes, you can actually enjoy working!). Visit my website at http://www.organizationplus.com.

See how I transform people's lives in as little as THREE HOURS.

Tired of tripping of your old electronics?

2010-05-20T13:27:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 22nd old electronics collection, Beverly, MA.

8:00am to noon, Beverly High School

See April 18th blog post for details.

Have you had a Iron Mountain pick up lately?

2010-05-11T18:14:00.000-07:00

Recently I worked with someone, in a management position, to help him decrease the paper clutter, in his office.

As I looked around, I asked him questions about the different piles that I saw. He said that the reason there were so many piles was that they were long overdue for an Iron Mountain pick up.
However; the storage room that they needed to go in, for preparation to be sent out, was so full that you couldn't get another box in it.

I challenged him to set a deadline for an Iron Mountain pick up.
The good news is that, within a few weeks, he had sent 150 boxes.

Other departments were envious that his files were no longer taking up valuable space in his office, or in the storage room. Consequently, they are preparing their files for an IM pick up.

The long term benefit is that each department now has retention guidelines for how long files should be kept on site and when they should be sent to IM.

Do you know that clutter in your office causes clutter in your mind?

Contact us to help you clear your clutter.

~ Nancy

As a professional organizer on the North Shore, I help people change their lives, reduce stress, and enjoy work! (yes, you can actually enjoy working!). Visit my website at http://www.organizationplus.com.

See how I transform people's lives in as little as THREE HOURS.

Being a Mom is the Greatest Job in the World

2010-05-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

Being a Mom is the Greatest Job in the World

Where else can you get a bonus paid in hugs and kisses? Of course, the salary isn't the greatest, but you're always assured of steady work.

Being a mom calls for the most diverse qualifications. Teacher (for homework); chauffeur ( for carpool); maid (for picking up messes); minister (to give those much-needed sermons); doctor ( for skinned knees); therapist (to dispense unsolicited advice); parole officer (for being grounded).

What other job description can offer so many challenging opportunities? And the greatest perk of all is job security - you don't have to worry about downsizing layoffs! A good mom is hard to find

Connie Meyer (from I Love You Mom)

This poem is for all the moms, whose full time job is being mom, and all the women who have two jobs; one in their home and one working in a business.

This poem was taken from a book that my oldest daughter gave me years ago.

Do you know what's in your file draws?

2010-05-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

This week I worked with the president of a company who called me because his desktop had an avalanche of paper piles.

Before we could start to go through the piles, to turn them into files, we needed to determine whether or not there was space in his file drawers for them.

As we opened each drawers, I saw: Dog treats
A sweatshirt
An assortment of cords and battery chargers.
Poduct manual
Snack food.
Just to name a few.

Do you know what is in your file drawers?

Together , we re-organized the files and created a color-coded system so that he could find things more easily. Note I said "we created". He needed to decide what he wanted he wanted the major and sub categories to be.

He was amazed at what we accomplish in only a few hours. He can't wait for me to come back next week to continue reorganizing his office.

Do you know what is in your file drawers?

~ Nancy

As a professional organizer on the North Shore, I help people change their lives, reduce stress, and enjoy work! (yes, you can actually enjoy working!). Visit my website at http://www.organizationplus.com.

See how I transform people's lives in as little as THREE HOURS.

JUMP START Your Productivity

2010-05-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

Many people tell me they want to get organized, but they don't have time.

The solution our Jump Start Program.

With our Jump Start offering , we only need one hour ( 60 minutes) of your time.

In that one hour, we will define an action plan to get you on the road again -

de-cluttered, organized, prioritized.

For more information, e-mail : nancy@organizationplus.com or contact Nancy at 978-922-6136.

Client Sees Benefits of Being More Organized

2010-04-30T10:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I worked with a client , who told me that since we have been meeting, he has seen the following benefits :

1) He is better at prioritizing and focusing on the most important tasks to do.

2) He is breaking projects down into manageable tasks, and making appointments on his PDA, to work on them in specific time slots.

3) Now that he schedules his tasks , he can see where his time is going, so he plans it more efficiently.

4) He has learned to assess which tasks take his skills and which ones can be delegated.

5) His office and storage room are no longer cluttered because he has sent over 100 boxes of files that need to be archived, to Iron Mountain storage.

5) He is most excited about the fact that he now leaves work closer to 5:00 than 7:00.

Click on: www.organizationplus.com to see how you can benefit from being more organized.

Cell Phone Do Not Call Number

2010-04-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

Remember: Cell phone numbers go public this month.

You will be charged for these calls.

To prevent this call the following number from your cell phone.

888-382-1222

It is the National DO NOT list.

It will only take you a minute and will save you time and money.

Learn other ways that you can save time and money.

Getting Rid of Electronics

2010-04-18T07:12:00.000-07:00

Electronics Collection Day
Beverly(MA) High School
8 AM to noon ---- May 22

Now is the time for Beverly residents to collect all of their electronics they are no longer using, that are tangled in a big plastic bin, taking up valuable desk drawer space, or worse yet, stored in valuable file drawer space.

Residents will not be charged for computers, keyboards, printers, fax machines, video cassette recorders, compact disc players, radios, microwaves, vacuums and telephones.

There will be a $10 fee for plastic frame televisions, $14 for console or woodframe TVs.
There will be a $3 fee for computer monitors, and a $5 fee for air conditioners,
refrigerators, dehumidifiers and freezers.

While you're sorting through these things, be sure to label the ones that are still useful to you.
Need help getting through this contact: http://www.organizationplus.com/.

DeClutter For Good Donation Drive April 2010: Beanie Babies!

2010-04-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

From my colleague, Nancy Gallant, regarding DeClutter Good April Drive.

DeClutter For GoodTM Donation Drive April 2010: Beanie Babies!

Focusing your de-cluttering efforts on one topic at a time and contributing toward a collective drive for a worthy recipient organization is manageable, empowering and rewarding...

This month's DeClutter For Good donation drive is quite focused, and, I believe, quite worthwhile... Along the way, there's the opportunity to stop and reflect on the circumstances of children in war-torn parts of our world as well as the safety and well-being of our brave men and women in uniform putting their lives on the line to help those in need of peace and security. Beanie Babies?? Who woulda thunk it? Indeed, Beanie Babies are the perfect size for our soldiers to keep in their backpacks, ready to take out this gift of kindness at a moment's notice. Think of the smiles and joy these little stuffed creatures ~ of all variety of color and species ~ can bring to a child who has so little to brighten his or her day. And, the gift coming from someone in uniform delivers the message that our troops are there with kindness in their hearts and, indeed, hopes for a brighter future for these young children who have already endured so much pain and tragedy.

What a great use of the Beanie Babies that many of us ~ yours truly included ~ purchased in excess for our kids because it was the "in" thing!

Here's a link to some great photos on the Beanies for Baghdad website, the organization we will most likely be working with on this DeClutter For Good effort. So, if you got 'em, dig 'em out from the closet, under the bed, in the attic... No Beanie Babies in your home? Please share this news with the people you think of when you think of Beanie Babies!

DeClutter Beanie Babies For GoodDrop-Off Day Sunday, April 25th10am-4pm @ Time Well Spent's Pre-Launch Office(click here for directions)

Reply to this email if you'd like to arrange an alternative date/time. In addition to the drop-off day on the third weekend of the month, Robbie and Jeffrey are this month's service learning students working on taking the collection to the townspeople of Ipswich and surrounding communities. So, locals can watch for more details in the newspaper and on flyers.

For more information go to www. Time Well Spent.com

Sign up for MA License Renewal Reminder

2010-04-04T17:01:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles is no longer sending reminders to renew your license through the mail?

Many people are concerned that they will forget when the renewal date is.

You can sign up for RMV Reminder Service online.
Click on Residents
RMV Transactions
Other Services....more
RMV Service Reminder

Another Organization Plus suggestion to simplify your Life Management.

Looking for other ways to simplify your Life Management? Post a comment and I'll respond.

Organizing Product Handy Hold-All

2010-04-04T16:50:00.000-07:00

Handy Hold-All

It's a smart way to utilize your vertical space to keep accessories visible - and can help save time in the morning rush!

Keep handbags, jewelry, belts, scarves and hats neatly organized with our Handy Hold-All. You can hang it on a door with the removable overdoor hook or on a hanger, thanks to the small grommet at the top. Made from cotton
Seven loops can each hold up to four items, depending on the size of the items

Visit http://organizationplus.com/organizingproducts.html and click on The Container Store.

LIFE 101 - EMAIL Overload and EMAIL Management Advice

2010-03-31T15:27:00.000-07:00

LIFE101 – Questions & Answers with Nancy Black, Organization Plus (organizationplus.com)

Q: Nancy, I’m suffering from email overload and it was even worse after a recent vacation. Do you have any email management advice?

A: First, let me assure you that you are not alone. Many people are now asking Professional Organizers for help dealing with email overload and email management in general. Here are some ideas:

Have someone retrieve your email for you, or login to your account, and delete junk email and unsolicited offers (SPAM).

Limit the number of newsletters you subscribe to.

Get a separate or “alternative” email address at Google (GMAIL) or Yahoo! for email newsletters.

Be very careful who you give your personal or private email address to. Give out your “alternative” email address more freely.

Talk with your email provider (Verizon, Comcast, webmaster) or technical support person to discuss the best ways to reduce junk email and SPAM based on the email client software that you use (i.e. Outlook, Thunderbird, Eudora, etc.).

Use your email software to “report” SPAM and junk email. How you actually do this varies from one software package to another, but most have it.

I hope this helps. These things have helped my clients who had the same concerns.

~ Nancy

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About Nancy Black

Nancy Black is a Professional Organizer in the Boston area, with more than 25 years of experience helping people get organized, manage the clutter in their lives, and "turn their piles into files." Visit her website at http://www.organizationplus.com or call her at (978) 922-6136 to learn more about how she changes people's lives in only three hours with a "3 Hour Transformation."

2010 Cenus Due April 1st.....

2010-03-28T17:02:00.000-07:00

How It Affects the Nation - 2010 Census

Be sure to mail in your 2010 Cenus by April st.

It only takes a few minutes to fill it out.

Only 45% have been returned to date
You can help this increase this percent.

April 22nd 40th Anniversary of Earth Day

2010-03-26T13:51:00.000-07:00

April 22nd is Earth Day.

It is hard to believe that this year is the 40th anniversary of Earth Day.

It seems like it has only been promoted in the last 5 to 10 years.

Many magazines feature articles on recycling and ways to conserve energy. They also promote organizing products that make recycling easier and that are made with recycled material. Check out See Jane Work and The New Essex Office, and The Container Store at: http//:www.organizationplus.com /recommendedproducts/html for eco-friendly products.

Looking for a product that you can't find?Ask me about doing product research for you.

Do you recycle, plastic, metal?

How many recycling bins, do you fill up on your recycling collection day?

Do you know that the more you recycle, the more money your community will save?

Have a brainstorming session with your family and friends on what you can do to make your community and the world cleaner and more sustainable. I'd love to hear your ideas.

Real Results: Email from a client.

2010-03-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

Real Results

Email from Client Letter:

Many people ask me if they will be able to maintain the system after I create it for them.

Recently I received the following email from a client. According to my records, I had organized her office 14 years ago.

“How many years has it been??? And even in another office I can still do what you said to do way back when!!! Good news is that I do not have those humongous number of boxes stored on those tall shelves anymore in that back room - somebody else is fulfilling orders these days ;

] and my new office only has two offices. But I DO still find myself amidst piles of papers even though I got rid of the 18,000 paper file cabinets! I am down to one file cabinet and keep it pretty lean most of the time ;-].

I left NSBF this morning with renewed impetus to clean off the desk - have been trying (occasionally successfully) to maintain a clear surface ever since I moved (and even before I moved) 18 months ago. Today was THE DAY!!! Got most of it done. Still working on it, however. Recycle paper bin is FULL!!!! And the next pickup day is NEXT Friday ;-[.

I have a nancy-angel on my shoulder whispering sweet somethings about where to put this and that. I sometimes have even put everything from the desk on the floor to filter through!!! Arrruughh, that is tough to clean up!!!

Thought you should have a reminder of your impact - even maybe decades later and still going!!! Could we initiate a Nancy Bunny???

Catheryne (Cathy) Draper
The Math Studio, Inc.
Creator and Publisher of The Algebra Game

What systems have you maintained for over 10 years?

Daylight Savings Time Begins March 14th

2010-03-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Daylight Savings Time Begins March 14th

Remember to set your clocks ahead 1 hour. Spring forward.............

You will loose an hour of sleep, but you will gain daylight at the end of the workday.

Only 6 days later, March 20th, Spring begins.

Those of us who are not "snow bunnies" are happy to that it is almost spring. WE look forward to the birds chirpping , the forsythias blooming, and the flowers budding.

Evening At The Museum March 18th 6-8:30 pm

2010-03-05T08:27:00.000-08:00

Charitable Event to Benefit Windrush Farm Therapeutic Equitation

Mayor Kimberly Driscoll scheduled to welcome attendees to event.

On March 18th, WINGS (Women in Networking Giving Support) is hosting its 2010 Networking Event at the Peabody Essex Museum, “Evening at the Museum”.

WINGS is a non-profit organization which aims to enhance the lives and provide resources to empower women across the North Shore. WINGS is comprised of women professionals, entrepreneurs and women owned businesses.

All net proceeds of this event will benefit Windrush Farm Therapeutic Equitation a non-profit, working horse farm that has been successfully helping children and adults with physical, emotional, and learning disabilities since 1964.

Special guest speaker for the event will be Victoria Block, a long-time member of the 7NEWS and Emmy Award-winning general assignment reporter who has covered a variety of subjects from breaking news to investigative features, from education to politics, and from neighborhood crime to global warming.

Mayor of Salem Kim Driscoll will welcome attendees. Silent Auction, cash bar, music and hors d’oeuvres. Doors open at 6:00pm.

Advance ticket sales only at www.wingscares.com. The cost of admission is $35 advance sale, $40 after March 12th.
For more information, contact Cheryl Wogan or DawnMarie Corneau, President 978-299-3035.

Hope to see you there. Nancy

Life Management 101

2010-03-02T11:19:00.000-08:00

Life Management and Organization Basics

With more than 24 years of experience as a Professional Organizer it's clear to me that people often forget about the fundamentals of time management and organization.

With that in mind, I thought I'd use the next few editions of my newsletter to "Get Back to the Basics" of life management and getting organized.

The Why

When people don't understand the purpose behind doing something, the "why," they can quickly drift away from their intentions.

So here is the "why" behind managing your time and getting organized:

Being organized and managing your time effectively will help you to reduce stress, reduce feelings of anxiousness or feeling "out-of-control," and generally have an all around IMMEDIATE positive impact on your life.

Being organized and managing your time effectively will make you feel better about yourself, feel better about the work you do, and allow you to spend more time doing the things YOU want to do for YOU.

Here are some things to consider:

Keep a Calendar

Keeping a schedule, or a calendar, is the only way to manage your time. It will help you plan your time and appointments more effectively.

There are so many different "calendar systems" available it can be overwhelming when looking for one. Whether electronic or paper-based, find one that you like; the style, the layout, the size - and you're more likely to stick to it. Set a goal to use it every day for a minimum of 60 days. I think you'll be very happy with the results!

Plan Each Day

Planning each day ahead of time will help you accomplish more and feel more in control of your life and work. I've worked with people who do this the "night before" and others who do this first thing in the morning. Whatever your choice, planning ahead is a good thing and fairly simple. Write out a to-do list but avoid putting too many things on it!

Prioritize Your Tasks

Not everything can be a "top priority" and time-consuming but relatively unimportant to-do items can quickly be overwhelming and eat up your day.

Prioritizing is very important. You have to choose which items must get done first and which items can wait or be done after the more important tasks. Prioritizing is the cornerstone of time management and getting organized.

Have a System

Having a "system" in place is another critical component of effectively staying organized and managing your time.

Why do so many people lose weight with Weight Watchers?

Because it is a system. If you follow it, it works.

If you fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants, as they say, without a system, you will create unnecessary stress and anxiousness for yourself.

There are residential systems and there are office systems. There are filing and paperwork systems and there are mail management systems.

Without systems managing your life becomes more difficult.

Without systems getting and staying organized turns into a clutter control problem - I guarantee it.

http://www.organizationplus.com

MassPay Got It Done!

2010-03-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Jason Maxwell, President of MassPay, and Sarah Harwood, Security Coordinator, they completed their WISP by the March 1st deadline.

Jason learned about this law at a seminar given by Laurie LaBrie, President of Integrated Staffing and then worked with Nancy Black, Compliance Coordinator of the Get It Done Team.

On March 1st Laurie and Nancy presented Jason & Sarah with a Get It Done cake deigned by
Kelly Delaney, Owner of Cakes for Occassions.

To see the great cake watch for the Beverly Chamber Newsletter and The Salem News. Sorry
photo wasn't available when this was posted.

MA Data Security Law Effective TODAY!

2010-03-01T17:34:00.000-08:00

Massachusetts business owners (all) are required by law to protect their customer's information - in any form, electronic or otherwise -
starting TODAY March 1, 2010.
The new standards are pretty stringent. Penalties are significant.

Did you complete your WISP? Do you know what a WISP is? If you aswered NO to either of these quesions call 978-922-6136 noto ask how you can get it done.

Nancy Black, Compliance Coordinator, GetIt Done Team

and owner of Organization Plus

www.organizationplus.com

Vote for Time Well Spent for Pepsi Refresh Project Grant.

2010-03-01T17:07:00.000-08:00

Vote for Time Well Spent for Pepsi Refresh Project Grant.

One of my colleagues, Nancy Gallant, has applied for a grant from the Pepsi Refresh Project.
She is a March Grant Candidate.

Time Well Spent will be an Eco-Arts & Creative Repurposing Community Enrichment Center. The mission of Time Well Spent is to help people live with mindful awareness of the impact of their daily lifestyle & consumer choices on the quality of their life, the lives of those in need & the environment. Inspired by the need to rid ourselves of the clutter that creates barriers to our best life, we'll put our collective clutter to use in service to our mission!

To find out more about PEPSI contest and to VOTE: http://www.refresheverything.com/timewellspent
It only takes a minute!

Organizing An Art Studio

2010-02-25T18:01:00.000-08:00

Today I worked with a client to organize her art studio.

Her goal was to de-clutter an area that she would be comfortable working in it. After determining which part of the room would give her the best natural light, we repositioned some of the furniture to use the space most efficiently.
It was important to have the supplies for her current project easily accessible

Getting organized saves time and money. We sorted her supplies so that she knows what she has and will not spend money buying duplicate materials. We put all of her picture frames in one area. Imagine her surprise when she realized that she had over 60 frames.

In the 25 plus years that I have been an organizer, I have worked with a number of artists . People have asked me if they require a different approach to organizing. The key to working with creative people is helping them set up visual systems so they can see a specific place for supplies to go.

Clutter stifles creativity. If you are tired of working in your disorganized studio, help is only a phone call away. Contact me at 978-922-6136.

When was the last time you cleared the clutter out f your studio?

Do you have trouble finding containers to keep your supplies in?

What is the greatest obstacle to working in your studio?

Skating Party Saturday February 20th 1-3pm

2010-02-16T13:04:00.000-08:00

Skating Party

Our Foundation Celebration Skating Party 20 February 2010

The Ipswich Museum in conjunction with the Alexander Knight House (AKH) Team invites the public to a skating party to celebrate the completion of the foundation for the re-creation of the CA 1657 Alexander Knight House foundation.

Bring your beach chair for changing into your skates and skate with us on Sally's Pond next to the Whipple House between 1-3 PM on Saturday 20 February 2010.

Hot cocoa and snacks will be served. Event runs weather and ice conditions permitting.

Parking in the Town lot adjacent to the Police Station. FREE!

Can't find time to have fun? I help my clients find time to have fun. http://www.organizationplus.com

Free College Funding Workshop February 24th

2010-02-14T14:51:00.000-08:00

One of my colleagues, Dick Joseph, is conducting a Free College Funding Workshop on Wednesday, February 24th from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Osgood Landing at 1600 Osgood Street in North Andover . I would love to have you and your family attend.

For more details visit: http://www.mvpcollegefunding.vpweb.com/

Telling you about this workshop is an example of how I can save you time and money.
To learn more visit: http://www.organizationplus.com/

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Every year on Valentine's Day I made liver and onions for dinner.

Believe it or not, that is what my husband and I ordered for dinner on our first date. It was 47 years ago at the Harvard Grill, in Harvard Square, Cambridge.

Treat yourself to spending time with someone you love.

What are you doing on Valentine's Day?

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-13T14:42:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Every Valentine's Day I make liver and onions for dinner. That is what my husband and I ordered for dinner on our date.

What are you doing to celebrate Valentine's Day?

Plan to spend sometime with someone you love

Stuck in the snow? Work on your taxes.

2010-02-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

If you are in the house because of the snow, it is a good time to work on your taxes.

I am going to walk my talk and work on mine. It is my top priority today.

Having trouble prioritizing? Visit http://www.organizationplus.com/ to see how I can help.

NEW Location of Newburyport Ma Data Security Law Seminar

2010-02-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

The Newburyport Chamber Ma Data Security Law Seminar

NEW LOCATION: Newburyport Public Library Community Room, 94 State Street
** Please enter through back door off Prince Place. Parking on State and in municipal lot off Prince.

See previous post for details.

MA Data Security Law Seminar Feb.17th

2010-02-10T05:39:00.000-08:00

Seminar planned on new security law
NEWBURYPORT — The Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce & Industry will be presenting a seminar on the New Massachusetts Data Security Law.
This law requires all Massachusetts companies, whether they have 1 or 1,000 employees, to implement a Data Security Plan by March 1. It requires all companies — large or small — holding in any form: a Massachusetts citizen's name combined with any one of the following: credit card number, Social Security number, driver's license number/state issued ID, or financial information/account number to protect it according to stringent laws. Substantial financial penalties may apply for non-compliance.
The speaker is Laurie LaBrie of Integrated Staffing. It is sponsored by The Institution for Savings and will be held at the Institution for Savings Lending Center at 93 State St., on Wednesday, Feb. 17 from 7:45 a.m.-10 a.m. Parking is available on State Street and in municipal lot.
The cost is $15 for members and $25 for non-members. Pre-registration is required.
For more information and to register, contact Patty St. John at 978-462-6680, ext. 14, or visit http://www.newburyportchamber.org/events.shtm.

Time Saving Tip: Voice Activated Software

2010-02-09T07:36:00.000-08:00

My husband gave me the greatest birthday gift, a gift of time, Dragon Naturally Speaking software.

I had been listening to the ads for Dragon and saying to myself " I need that." So you can imagine how excited I was when he gave it to me.

Because I am a slow typist, I can already see that it will save me time. I use it with Outlook,
Word, Excel, and Quicken. It also works on the Web, searching, accessing info, and navigating Web pages by speaking URLs and links.

Have you used voice activated software? How do you like it? Do you think it saves you time?

To learn other ways that I can save you time visit:www.organizationplus.com/.

Wear Red Save 20% Now-Sunday, February 7th

2010-02-05T09:29:00.001-08:00

Wear Red Save 20% Now-Sunday, February 7th at Macy's.

Show your support for national Wear Red Day.

Wear red, or purchased a Red Dress Pin, for $2.00, at any register and get the extra 20%
( 10% in some departments).

Macy's will donate all Red Dress proceeds to American Heart Association's Go Red for Women movement.

Just think you have the fun of shopping in the fulfillment of donating to the American Heart Association simultaneously. Enjoy your shopping spree!

For more ideas on how I can save you money and time visit my website at http://www.organizationplus.com/.

NShore Jazz ProjectConcert My Funny Valentine

2010-02-03T07:29:00.000-08:00

Love jazz...Float on dreamy vocals of Sandi Bedrosian, John Hyde, and friends.
Drinks, snacks, cash bar.

My Funny ValentineFriday, February 12, 20107:30-11 P.M.

John Archer's home10 North StreetDanvers, MA

$20 at the door $17 in advance Hear a music sample >>

John Archer opened our fund-raiser with three songs and was so excited to see the response to the NSJP that he is opening his house to for a "My Funny Valentine" party on February 12th.

To learn more about the North Shoire Jazz Project visit: www.northshorejazzproject.org

February 5th is National Wear Red Day

2010-02-03T07:19:00.000-08:00

February 5th is National Wear Red Day

By doing so you'll help save women's lives -perhaps the life of someone you know.

Did you know that heart disease is the #1 killer of women?

Wear red, and/or the GO RED FOR WOMEN sticker and speak up about the risk of heart disease in women.

Our Hearts. Our Choice.

For more details visit www.GoRedForWomen.org

Tax Preparation Is Less Taxing

2010-01-12T16:17:00.000-08:00

NEW! Income Tax BinderOrganize Your Tax Documents in One Spot with our pre-packaged binder, tabs and binder envelopes!

Tax preparation is less taxing when you have all your paperwork in one place.

With this NEW! Income Tax Binder, it’s easy to collect and organize your tax documents throughout the year and avoid the last minute tax time rush.

You can also organize your previous tax returns and create a valuable resource for future tax planning. Plus, with your documents in order, you’ll be ready for the unexpected audit.The

Income Tax Binder includes:
your choice of a 2- or 3-ring Bindertek binder
six pre-printed index tabs that follow the IRS 1040 form to fit any tax situation
one Blank-Write On Tab
two Binder Envelopes to store loose receiptsPRICE: $20.00Buy TWO & SAVE $5.00!

To order click on Bindertek at: http://www.organizationplus.com/organizingproducts.html

Travel Size Items Simplify Your Life

2010-01-10T18:58:00.000-08:00

I just discovered that Bed, Bath and Beyond has a great selection of travel size items. From make up wipes, soap to Hello Kitty band-aids , the selection is great. Stock up on your favorites and keep them in a "ready to go" cosmetic kit. Happy travels!

MA Data Security Law January Seminar Dates

2010-01-08T11:16:00.001-08:00

MA Data Security Law got you feeling overwhelmed?

Have you attended a MA Data Security Law workshop,

presented by Laurie LaBrie of Integrated Staffing, Inc. ?

If not, be sure to sign up today! Attendees have given this workshop rave reviews.

The MA Data Security Law requires ALL companies holding in any form: a MA citizen's name, credit card number, social security number, driver’s license number/state issued ID or financial account number to protect it according to stringent standards.

The law requires ALL Masachusetts companies to implement a Data Security Plan

by March 1, 2010. ******** Less than two months away.

MA will issue substantial financial penalties for non-compliance.

Choose from one of the following dates and times:

January 12th, 8:30 - 11:00

Colucci Norman

900 Cummings Center, Beverly

January 13th, 8:30 -11:00 am
Waterfield Business Center
12 Alfred St, Woburn, MA

January 20th, 8:30 -11:00 am
Peabody Chamber, Main Street
Peabody, MA

DUE TO LIMITED SEATING RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED
$99 Workshop fee includes exclusive CD with documents that will protect your business.
Payment is due at time of reservation.
To reserve your seat, please call 978.531.2103 or email laurie@integratedstaffing.com
Refreshments will be provided

January is GO (Get Organized) Month

2010-01-08T10:26:00.000-08:00

January is *GO (Get Organized) Month.

Being organized enhances the quality of your life. Would you like to be happier, healthier, and
less stressed? If you answered YES, now is the time to get organized!
You need organizing systems, not just for this year, but that you can maintain for years to come.

People say they would be organized if they had more space. Organizing is about systems, not about space. I have organized people who live in studio apartments, mega mansions, and everything in between. I have organized offices that are a section of a room, to penthouse executive suites.

What area of your life would you like to organize?

Your office? Paper piles? Planning your time? Shrinking the Email Elephant?

Your Home? Piles of mail? Home office? Kitchen? Linen closets? Storage?
Planning your time?

Many people say they want to get organized but don't have time. It takes less time than you think. I can change your life in 3 hours, only 180 minutes.

Make 2010 the year that you get organized. To see how I can help you do that click on
http://www.organizationplus.com/. For information call 978-922-6136.

*Sponsored by the National Association of Professional Organizers.

United Way Campaign still going strong.

2010-01-06T08:55:00.000-08:00

This morning I attended a Beverly Chamber coffee connection at the United Way office.

The 2009/2010 United Way Campaign is still going strong thru March 31st.

The services that they provide funding for are more critical than ever.

Help them , help the important agencies that they fund.

To donate click on http://www.nsuw.org/

FYI: I maintain charitable contribution records for my clients throughout the year.
They just have them over to their CPA's for tax prep. It saves them time and money.
Click on http://www.organizationplus.com/ to learn how I can save you time and money.

Eliminate holiday storage hassels with smart organizers!

2009-12-25T09:04:00.000-08:00

Did it take you forever to find your holiday decorations this year? Did they sit aound your house for weeks after the holidays last year? If you answered yes to either of these questions,
I have the solution for you.

The solution is having the best holiday organizing products to store your holiday ornaments, decorations, etc. It is soooooo easy you'll even enjoy putting them away.

Whether you choose to pack them away this week or next, you can do it in only 3 hours (or less)
with Solutions great products.

The link below will show you great ways to organize your holiday decor! Shop Now >

While you are there, check out their Tips for Holiday Storage. They are just what I have been telling my clients for years.

To learn other ways that I can change your life in 3 hours...only 180 minutes at http://www.organizationplus.com/

Wishing you Happy Holidays

2009-12-24T09:19:00.000-08:00

Wishing you Happy Holidays and a Wonderful New Year!

During this holiday season take the time to do the things that are the most important to you.

I'm spending the holidays with family and friends because that is what I enjoy the most.

I would love to hear what you choose to do. Please comment below.

Special thanks to all of you who have read my blog this year.

I'm always looking for new topics to write about. If there is something speacial that you would like me to write about send an email to: nancy@organizationplus,

Great Time Saving Gift Items to Simplify Your Life

2009-12-17T16:11:00.001-08:00

Have you, or someone you know, ever spent hours reconstructing your address book?

If you answered yes check out Flexaddress . If you prefer a paper address book to an electronic one this will simplify your life. Each address label peels off so you can easily replace it with an updated label. You will never have to replace your address book again.

Were your holiday decorations stashed in your basement, crawl space, attic, or hidden among the boxes in your storage unit? Get a head start for next year. Order holiday storage products from The Container Store so you will have them on hand when it is time to take your tree down.

Check our these items and more on the Organization Plus Recommended Products page.

Real Results at Stone Digital Productions

2009-12-05T09:12:00.000-08:00

Real results from getting organized at Stone Digital Productions Video Production and Videography

For your own 3 Hour Transformation give me a call at (978) 922-6136.

Nancy
Organization Plus
http://www.organizationplus.com

Real Results

2009-12-05T05:51:00.000-08:00

Real Results from a Professional Organizer
Nancy Black / Organization Plus

While helping a woman organize her beautiful oceanfront home we found the architectural drawings for the layout of the water system for her house. She needed them but hadn't taken the time to look for them.

A client who dreaded wrapping gifts had me create a gift wrapping area in her home. She saved time, because she knew where everything was, and money because she didn't buy duplicates of supplies that she already had. When we were organizing it she realized that she had enough holiday tags for the next five years.

Many of my clients have told me they didn't have time to get organized until they heard that I could change their life in 3 hours - yes, only 180 minutes.

People are amazed at what we accomplish in so little time! You would be surprised what goes on behind closed doors in custom designed closets and cabinets.

Organizing is about systems, not about space. If your closets and cabinets need to be organized, help is only an email, or a phone call away.

Other common clutter areas are the built in kitchen or home office desks. If yours has become a launching pad for mail, school papers etc., call me to discuss an Organization Plus 3 Hour Transformation.

Nancy
(978) 922-6136

http://www.organizationplus.com

Holiday Tips: Steps To A Calmer Holiday Season

2009-12-02T05:36:00.000-08:00

From my December "News from Nancy" newsletter... If you are not already a subscriber you can subscribe for free by following this lin k.

First, start by deciding, in advance, what you will do and what you will not do this year.

Many people feel guilty if they do not do everything they think that they should. Be realistic about the free time that you have to cook, bake, decorate, and shop.

Consider these options:

Don't do it all yourself - delegate. Ask your family and friends for help.

A personal chef can make your favorite recipes.

Hire a caterer.

Hire someone to decorate your home.

Catalogue or shop online vs. malls or boutiques.

Use relaxation techniques to stay calm. Slow, deep breathing will keep your stress responses to a minimum.

Reward yourself by taking little relaxation breaks frequently throughout the day, like a 15 minute walk, a bike ride, or simple stretching exercises can make holiday stress melt away!

You're doing plenty already - don't try to do it all. Have more realistic expectations of yourself and of others.

Decide to do less. Ask yourself, "Should I really be doing this? Do I really have to do it or can someone else do it?"

Break holiday tasks into manageable segments, you'll be less stressed than if you try to do it all at the last minute.

Have fun! Smile and enjoy the little things in life like a beautiful sky, fresh air, or children waiting anxiously in line to see Santa Claus.

And finally, remind yourself that no one is going to look to see if your baseboards are clean. If they do, remind yourself not to sweat the small stuff!

And after all... isn't most of it really the "small stuff?"

Have a great holiday season!

Nancy
http://www.organizationplus.com

Look for me at...

LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/in/organizationplus1983
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/people/Nancy-Black/527784526
Twitter - http://twitter.com/organizednancy

Newsletters 74 New Subscribers needed to meet my 2009 goal.

2009-12-01T18:54:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the Organization Plus e-newsletter, News from Nancy?

Sign up now at www.organizationplus.com for your free subscription.

I need 74 new subscribers to meet my 2009 goal.

Organization Plus Annouces Our Facebook Fans Page

2009-11-21T09:01:00.000-08:00

Organization Plus is excited to announce that our Facebook Fans Page went live yesterday at 5:45 am.

Consider becoming a fan and invite your friends to join you.

Special thanks to my marketing coach, Charlene St. Jean, of The Purple Diamond, for designing it.

Thanksgiving Action Plan for a Hassel Fress Holiday

2009-11-15T18:02:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving "Action Plan" for a Hassel Free Holiday

Today I saw an ad for a new pill that you can take to reduce holiday stress.
My reaction was, "It is really sad that people are so stressed at holiday time.

Having an "action plan" will make preparing for your guests easier and less stressful.

NOW is the time to create your "action plan".

1) Plan menu and decide what you are going to make and what you want others to bring.
If other people will be bring food tell them what you would like them to bring.

2) Make a list of what food and supplies you will need.
Categories to consider:
Refrigerated/Deli
Fresh Produce
Bakery
Grocery
Frozen
Beverages
Cheese, Chocolate & Flowers
Other: Linens, paper goods, table decorations,etc.

3) Purchase non-perishable items, beverages.

4) Place order for fresh turkeys, baked goods, and prepared food.

5) Plan what foods you can make ahead and schedule time on your calendar make
them.

6) Day before: Write out menu and cooking and heating schedule (include oven or stove
top temperature).
Put out platters, bowls, dishes and serving pieces and put a post-it
each labeled with what it is for.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not self-clean your oven just before a holiday. The intense
heat may cause the temperature control to mal-function.

I usually have large groups for holidays and with an "action plan" I am able
to relax and enjoy my company. For major holidays I hire help to heat up the food and clean up so that I can be a "happy hostess". If you are cannot that ask for help.

Best wishes to you and your guests for a Happy Thanksgiving!

Nancy
Organization Plus
http://www.organizationplus.com

Give memories this holiday season.

2009-11-11T05:49:00.001-08:00

Strapped for cash. Give memories this holiday season.

Shop in your own photo stash and surprise someone special to you with a gift of memories. One of my colleagues, Midge Gravelese, can help you create Creative Memories.

Midge Gravelese
978-921-1643 Home or Cell 617-285-0900
SHOP 24/7 www.mycmsite.com/midge
StoryBook & PhotoCenter #89482032

Need help finding your photos among the clutter, call 978-922-6136 for a 3 Hour Transformation. www.organizationplus.com.

Donate Halloween Candy to the Troops 11/13/09

2009-11-11T05:45:00.000-08:00

Donate leftover Halloween candy to the troops. Soldiers Angels will send to troops. Bring to Briscoe Middle School, in Beverly, MA. FINAL collection day there is Friday the 13th. Final day overall is Wednesday, November 18th, at the Dane Street Church.

A sweet way to say thank you to our troops.

November Book Collection

2009-11-08T15:41:00.000-08:00

One of my colleagues, Nancy Gallant, of Time Well Spent, has set a goal to collect 1,000 books this month to be donated.

Donations will be given to
More Than Words and The Lynn Community Health Center
and a few may be placed in the * S.O.S. Resource Library

Drop-Off Day @ Time Well Spent ~
Saturday Nov. 21, 10-4~
89 Turnpike Rd/Rte 1
Office #209
Ipswich, MA 01938

Contact Nancy Gallant to schedule
alternative drop-off arrangements.
Cellphone: 617.548.6340 (call or text)

*The S.O.S. Resource Library is a space within Time Well Spent that has over 300 books.

Showcasing ~ Time Well Spent at the annual North Shore Women in Business Showcase, November 12th, 3:30-7:30 @ the Danversport Yacht Club. It's free of charge, open to the public and features many fabulous local businesses, including products for sale ~ an opportunity for great local holiday shopping and networking!

New solution for kitchen clutter.

2009-11-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

Have plastic containers been causing clutter in your kitchen for years?
Have you been frustrated searching for the right cover?

The search is over. The answer is EASY FIND LIDS, only from Rubbermaid.
The lid fits right under the container.

Check the coupon section of today's Sunday paper for a $$ saving coupon for them.

Holiday Organization and Planning

2009-11-02T05:48:00.000-08:00

Holiday Organization and Planning

The 34 days between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day are the most chaotic time of year for many people.

Getting organized for the holidays will save you time and money and reduce your stress.

Everyone is so strapped for time that the best advice I can give you is to ask for help.

Whether it is planning the office party, or having people at your home, make a list of what you need to do yourself and what you can ask others to do.

Holiday Shopping...

Traditionally, the day after Thanksgiving is the busiest shopping day in stores and in cyberspace.

If you shop at the mall, note stores that you need to go to according to their location. It will save you miles of mall walking.

Shop locally, it will save you time and gas.

List gifts to buy by store, i.e. toys, electronics, books.

Have people circle items wanted in catalogues.

Have ship to and credit card information available when shopping or placing orders.

Shop early for gifts that have to be mailed.

Mailing...

Save time - use automated systems in Post Office lobbies instead of standing in line. http://www.usps.com has mailing options, including purchasing stamps.

Send all of your overseas gifts before Thanksgiving.

Most people have too much stuff, too little space.

Consider giving gift certificates, which are no hassle to wrap, and can be purchased online, or even at the supermarket.

Give A Gift of Time...

Gift Certificates from Organization Plus will give what people want most, a gift of time.

The perfect way to help get that disorganized person in your life on the right track.

Have a great holiday season!

Nancy
http://www.organizationplus.com

Shrinking The EMAIL Elephant

2009-10-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

Did you know?

Most business people receive 100 - 200 emails a day.

It takes an average of 64 seconds to recover your train of thought after interruption by email.

People who check their email every five minutes waste 8 1/2 hours a week figuring out what they were doing moments before.

If your time is worth $50.00 an hour, you waste $65.00 a week, $260.00 a month, $3,120 a year.

Top 10 Tips to Shrink the Email Elephant:

1) Remember the Inbox is a temporary location for storing email.

2) Don't be at 24/7 email slave. Schedule times to check and process email.

3) Prioritize emails, using color coded flags, so they do not all look equally important.

4) Delete junk as you eyeball what is in your inbox.

5) Forward to someone else, if you can assign that inquiry or task to them.

6) Reply, if you can do it in less than 2 minutes.

7) Move to other folders, i.e. calendar or task folders.

8) Archive emails that you need to CYA.

9) Unsubscribe to newsletters that you do not have time to read, or that no longer interest you.

10) Shut off email signal to avoid distractions.

Setting email boundaries will shrink the email elephant and give you the time and freedom to focus on high priority work.

Nancy
http://www.organizationplus.com

Planning time to do what is important to you.

2009-10-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

Question 1: Are you planning time to do what is important to you?

Question 2: Are you always doing "shoulds" and putting everyone else's needs before your?

If you answered no to question 1 and yes to question 2, Organization Plus can help you.

Daylight Savings Time Ends November 1st at 2:00am

2009-10-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

Daylight Savings Time Ends

It's here again. Eastern Daylight Savings Time Ends on Sunday, November 1st, at 2:00 am.

Set your clocks back 1 hour (Fall back, Spring forward).

The bad news is, you lose an hour of sleep. The good news is, you will gain it back in the spring.

Nancy

p.s. If you know someone who is looking for a professional organizer in Boston or needs help with residential organizing be sure to refer them to my website at organizationplus.com.

Nancy Black on WCAP980 radio, Oct.26th, 11:00am

2009-10-20T17:12:00.001-07:00

Nancy will be interviewed on Women for Women, WCAP 980AM, Monday, October 26th, at 11:45am.

Listen to learn more about Organization Plus.

Purple Diamond Blog 10/20/09 Re: Decluttering /Organizing Her Office

2009-10-20T16:47:00.000-07:00

In Charlene St. Jean's Purple Diamond Blog today, 10/20/09, she wrote about how I motivated her to de-clutter her office and re-organize her workspace.

To read the article click on the link to her Blog, Purple Diamond.net/blog under links on right.

Follow this link to learn how an Organization Plus Three Hour Transformation can help you.

Clearing my (psychic) clutter, Day 3: What Lies Beneath

2009-10-15T08:53:00.001-07:00

Clearing my (psychic) clutter, Day 3: What Lies Beneath

Posted using ShareThis

Enjoying the Columbus Day Weekend

2009-10-11T18:30:00.000-07:00

Hope that you are enjoying the Columbus Day Weekend.

As I look out my window I can see the beautiful fall foliage. Take a moment to enjoy the beauty of autumn.

I'm having a wonderful weekend.

On Friday I went to the deCordova Museum in Lincoln, MA. It has fantastic outdoor sculpture. My favorite was a 1936 Chrysler Air Flow Sedan, Requiem to the 20th Century. It has video, audio, monitors and speakers.

The indoor exhibits were wonderful. One was an exhibit of work by Lalla Essaydi, a
Moroccan-born photographer, painter, and installation artist.

It is so nice to have 4 days off.

What did you do this weekend to relax?

If you didn't take time to relax, go to http://www.organizationplus.com to learn how I change your life in 3 hours.

COLLEGE FUNDING SYSTEM FAILING PARENTS

2009-10-07T18:06:00.000-07:00

Received this from a colleague today. Learn how he can save you time and money planning your college funding strategy.

COLLEGE FUNDING SYSTEM FAILING PARENTS

COME TO A FREE WORKSHOP TO SEE HOW TO SEND YOUR KIDS TO COLLEGE
WITHOUT CHANGING YOUR LIFESTYLE!

The college funding system, which is designed to help parents of college students pay for their children’s tuition, is failing families. The system of federal applications for student aid, loans and grants is leaving both high and low-income families with large gaps to fill when their children apply to colleges and universities.

• Few realize that even if they do receive some sort of award, they could still face
bills of over $15,000 per year per child!

• Government aid tends to only go to families who earn $60,000 or less.

• For middle and high-income families however, the amount of state and federal help is minimal or non-existent. However, that does NOT mean that upper middle class or high income earners cannot receive assistance. They can!

On Wednesday, Ocotber 14th at 7:00 PM, a FREE One Hour Workshop will be presented to show you how to send your children to college without dramatically changing your lifestyle!

During the seminars, you will learn:

• How the financial aid system works and how complicated it can get.

• A step-by-step explanation FAFSA, Profile, SAR, Pell Grants, Stafford and Perkins Loans and when they have to be submitted.

• That families can lower their EFC’s (Expected Family Contributions) legally.

• That college expenses can be paid for without dramatically changing family lifestyle for all income levels.

• What you hear and see will supplement and enhance the work done by the school Guidance Departments.

• On average, families can save several thousand dollars in college funding expenses for each child in the family.

Because every family situation is unique, after the free workshop, you may schedule a FREE follow-up individual meeting to let you know how much you can expect to pay for college. You will also learn whether it is possible for you to lower your expenses.

Call 1-888-285-4970, 24 hrs, to reserve seats for yourself, your friends and your student(s). Call NOW to reserve your seat at the next workshop in Dining Room A of Osgood Landing located at 1600 Osgood St, North Andover, MA(The old Lucent Technology Bldg.) on Wednesday, October 14th at 7:00 PM before it fills up! You will receive confirmation call that you have registered with further details about the meeting. Seating is limited, so please register early. (Please arrive at 6:45 PM so that you can sign in and so that we can start promptly at 7:00 PM)

Light refreshments and snacks will be served.

This is only one example of how I can save you time and money. To learn more visit:
http://www.organizationplus.com.

Have a great week . Nancy

MA Data Security Law : Additional Seminars Scheduled

2009-10-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

Additional MA Data Security Law Seminars Scheduled

MA Data Security Law got you feeling overwhelmed?

Attend a MA Data Security Law Seminar for Small Business Owners

Presented by one of my colleagues, Laurie LaBrie, President of Integrated Staffing.

These seminars are designed for you to create a WISP specifically for your company.

Choose from the following dates and times:

Thursday, October 8th 8:30 - 11:00am
Colucci Norman
Cummings Center, Beverly MA

Wednesday, November 18th 8:30 - 11:00am
Peabody chamber of Commerce
Main Street, Peabody, MA

Limited Seating: Reservations Required
$99 Workshop fee includes exclusive CD with documents that will protect your business.
RSVP: Call 978-531-2103 or email nclark@integratedstaffing.com

Trying To Fit It All In

2009-10-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

On Monday, I received a SOS call from a client who needed help scheduling her time.

She is an artist and a budding author.

Of course,in addition to these two components in her life, she is also doing many other activities as a wife, mother, grandmother, etc. . Sound familiar?

Luckily for her, I had a cancellation for this afternoon. When we met,I helped her think through what she needed to do to take the next steps to reach her goals. Clients tell me that this is one of the most valuable aspects of my consulting The first step in planning your time is to recognize what you are trying to find the time to do.

We scheduled a follow up telephone consult for two weeks from today. I'm looking forward to her progress report because she always accomplishes so much after each time that we meet.

FYI: She first called me in 1989, yes 20 years ago, and calls periodically, as needed. Together we have organized her office, supply storage areas and even created
a mailing center for one of her businesses; as well as addressing time management challenges. Over the years she has had different business, but has always been most passionate about being an artist.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by your "to dos" call me at 978-922-6136.

Visit www.organizationplus.com to learn how I can change your life in 3 hours.

Get It Done Team

2009-09-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

Massachusetts business owners (all) will be required by law to protect their customer's information - in any form, electronic or otherwise - starting March 1, 2010.

The new standards are pretty stringent. Penalties are significant.

For more information contact me at (978) 922-6136.

I'll be glad to tell you more about what is in store for you and your business and how you can be prepared for this new law.

Organization Plus
Nancy Black
http://www.organizationplus.com

LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter

2009-09-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

You can now follow me at Facebook as well as at Twitter.

Twitter

http://www.twitter.com/organizednancy

Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/people/Nancy-Black/527784526

LinkedIn

http://www.linkedin.com/in/organizationplus1983

Taking Time for #1 ---- YOU

2009-09-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

Do you feel like you are always working or taking care of someone else's needs?

Take a moment to think about what you would like to do that you do not plan the time to do.

A few months ago I decided that I needed to take more personal time. One of the reasons that I started my business was so that I could have work/life balance.
Although at the end of the month, I realize that I do take time off, I needed something to look forward to.

The key was that I needed to give myself permission to take some personal time during the work week.

I joined an organization that offers a book group and trips to museums.

I now take one afternoon a month to attend the book group and plan the time to read the book before the group meets. Notice I said, plan the time, not FIND the time. It's been 2 months and it feels good.

In a few weeks I'll be going to a museum with ladies from this group.

Remember "Life is not a dress rehearsal." .

What do you do to take time for #1 --- YOU?

Organization Plus
Nancy Black
http://www.organizationplus.com

Do 1 Minute Clinics save time?

2009-09-26T12:24:00.000-07:00

A pharmacy near me recently opened a 1 Minute Clinic.

When my physician's office told me that they didn't have flu vaccine in, and I should call back in a week to see if it came in, I decided to go to the 1 Minute Clinic for my shot.

Yesterday, as long as I was in the pharmacy,I thought it would be a good time to get my flu shot. Although I was there at the posted hours, the clinic was closed for lunch (it was 2:30).

Today I went back, checked in and learned that I was the 2nd person in line. The person ahead of me told me that he was there for a flu shot, too.

A half hour later, the person who had been seeing the clinic practitioner came out.

When they called the name of the person who was ahead of me he had left because he got tired of waiting.

Although it only took 1 minute to get my flu shot, the practitioner needed to enter my insurance information in the computer.

It probably took me 5 minutes less than if I had driven 10 miles each way to my physician's office. The good new is I can check "get a flu shot" off my To Do list.

Organizing Tip: If you go to a 1 Minute Clinic, take something to read and toys for the kids.

I'd love to hear your comments on visiting a 1 Minute Clinic.

Organization Plus
Nancy Black
http://www.organizationplus.com

Epitome of Customer Service

2009-09-10T04:59:00.000-07:00

"Nancy went out of her way to help me locate a professional organizer who would be willing to travel to Norwich, Vermont, as she is located in Massachusetts. Nancy could have sent me a short e-mail saying this was out of her travel range, but instead she took the time to speak with me personally and discuss other options and she contacted colleagues, that she knew, who might work in my area. That's the epitome of customer service. I have since found a perfect match, but if I were closer to Nancy I wouldn't hesitate to consult with her on any of my organizational needs."

Susan Murphy Norwich, Vermont

Organization Plus
Nancy Black
http://www.organizationplus.com

Awesome Resource

2009-09-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

Today I received the message below from one of my clients.

SF has sent you a message.

Date: 9/09/2009

Subject: Your Wonderful Services

Hi, I need you again, more of moms papers need your thorough organizational skills. Please give me a call when you have time.
thanks!

PS: If this seems like an ad for Nancy, it is! I do need her, but I want you all to know she is an awesome resource!

Maximizing Your Time Presentation September 10,2009

2009-08-31T17:17:00.000-07:00

Nancy Black Speaking on "Maximizing Your Time"
Homebased Businesswomen's Network
Thursday, September 10, 2009 7:00pm
Members Free, Guests $10.00
Village Green Restaurant
Route I North, Newbury Street
Danvers, MA

Learn how to identify where your time goes, how to plan your time,
and find out about cutting-edge organizing products that are functional.

Organization Plus
Nancy Black
http://www.organizationplus.com

Heavylift Garage Storage System

2009-08-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

One of my new favorite products to recommend is the The Heavylift Garage Storage System.

The Heavylift Garage Storage System allows you to get items off the floor by loading and lifting heavy items "overhead" (up to 12 ft high) without using a ladder.

It allows for easy storage of file boxes, outdoor furniture, lawn mowers, big tools, snow throwers, large toys, canoes, kayaks, holiday ornaments, tires, ladders lumber, third row car seats and just about anything else you can imagine (up to 250lbs.).

The Heavylift Garage Storage System includes heavy-duty steel support beams, a 4x4 platform, winding axle, vinyl coated steel cable, hand crank and all mounting hardware. Assembly is required.

The best price I've recently found, is at Amazon.com, for $129.99 and that's with FREE shipping!

Visit my Recommended Products page and follow the link to AMAZON.COM.

Is Back To School A Hooray! or Hassle for You?

2009-08-30T09:17:00.000-07:00

The people who shout "Hooray!", have organizing systems in place and look forward to having free time for activities of their choice.

The majority of people who think "hassle" are concerned about how they can manage all their work and family responsibilities.

Studies prove that people who are organized are healthier and happier.

Do your homework and prepare ahead of time so back to school can be easy!

Back to School Shopping Tips

Have school supply list ready
Some teachers have specific supply lists
Staples has them specific for each grade
Target has suggested dorm room supply lists
Many other stores have them also
Check out sales in your Sunday paper
Buy early for better selection and faster check out time

Clothes Shopping

Clear out clothes & shoes that don't fit
Do it with kids
Buy uniforms, if required
Watch for sales
Don't wait until the last minute

Arranging for Before / After School Childcare

Know your options
Have a "Plan B"
Sign up early

Need a jumpstart or help to get organized for back to school? Consider an onsite organizing consultation or a telephone consultation. Call me at (978) 922-6136 today.

Avoid "Morning Madness" to Get to School and Work

Have A Daily Routine List

Evening To-Do's

Make lunches / put lunch money in book bag
Have lunch treats or snack packs handy
Put out clothes for next day
Collect supplies needed for next
Put things to take to school in book bag
Put "Take With" items in designated area
Sign any papers that need to go to school
Put non-perishable breakfast foods out
Set clock radios and alarms
Have bedtime routines
Set boundaries

Morning To-Do's

Get yourself ready before waking kids
Have teenagers wake themselves up
Keep breakfast simple
Pack perishable foods in back pack
Do not allow morning TV
Have specific time to leave
Make sure hidden or spare key is in place
Check "Take With" area
Lock door
Turn alarm on, if applicable

~ Nancy

Massachusetts WISP Law Update

2009-08-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Privacy Regulations Revised And Simplified Deadline Extended Until March 1, 2010

Citing concessions to the burdens placed on small businesses, on August 17, 2009, the Commonwealth's Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation ("OCABR") again revised the so-called identity theft or privacy regulations, further extending the date for compliance until March 1, 2010.

The major conceptual change in the revised regulations is their new emphasis on a "risk-based approach" to implementation. In plain terms, a company now has the flexibility to scale its efforts in implementing the regulations based on "the size, nature of its business, the kinds of records it maintains, and the risk of identity theft posed by its operations," as summarized by the OCABR. Where the prior version of the regulations indicated that compliance would be judged (assumedly at the time of enforcement) in light of the relative business size along with the amount and accessibility of personal information, that scalability has now shifted to the demands required of a business in initially implementing the regulations. According to OCABR, the "[n]ew language in the regulations recognizes that the size of a business and amount of personal information it handles plays a role in the data security plan the business creates."

The revised regulations postpone, again, the date for compliance an additional two months (formerly the deadline was January 1, 2010). The plain language of the remaining changes to the regulations tighten, focus and simplify language, but do not appear to materially change the process for businesses. Each company must still evaluate its use and storage of personal information, create a comprehensive written security plan or plans, implement feasible safeguards (including employee training and reasonable protection of electronically stored and transmitted information), and monitor and report breaches and unauthorized disclosures although each phase may be moderated to the scale and nature of business operations and volume of protected information. A public hearing on the revisions will be held by OCABR on September 22, 2009, which may result in further updates. Look for additional alerts throughout the fall.

Source: Hanify & King, P.C.,

This information may be considered advertising under the rules of the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts. The information is provided for background purposes and should not be considered legal advice."

MA Data Security Law Effective Date Now March 1,2010

2009-08-24T15:56:00.000-07:00

MA Data Security Law Effective Date is now March 1, 2010

On August 17th (2009) the MA Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations ("OCABR) issued amended implementing regulations related to the M.G.L.c.93H data security statute.
Check the www.magov.com website for more specifics.

The effective date of implementing regulations has been extended from January 1, 2010 to March 1,2010.

MA Data Security Law got you feeling overwhelmed?

Attend a MA Data Security Law Seminar for Small Business Owners
Presented by one of my colleagues, Laurie LaBrie, President of Integrated Staffing.

These seminars are designed for you to create a WISP specifically for your company.

MA Date Security Law Seminar for Small Business Owners
Waterfield Business Center, in Woburn
September 15th. 8:00-11:30am

To reserve your seat : call 978-531-2103 or email :nclark@integratedstaffing.com

For details see previous post .

Hope to see you there!

Need help getting started after the seminar? Call Nancy at 978-922-6136
to ask how Organization Plus can help you.

www.organzationplus.com

CHANGE IN DATE Seminar was 8/18/09 now 9/15/09

2009-08-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

The MA Date Security Law Seminar scheduled for August 18th at the Waterfield Business Center, in Woburn has been rescheduled for
September 15th. 8:00-11:30am

To reserve your seat : call 978-531-2103 or email :nclark@integratedstaffing.com

For details see previous post .

Hope to see you there!
Nancy www.organzationplus.com

MA Data Security Law Seminars

2009-08-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

MA Data Security Law got you feeling overwhelmed?

Attend a MA Data Security Law Seminar for Small Business Owners

Presented by one of my colleagues, Laurie LaBrie, President of Integrated Staffing.

These seminars are designed for you to create a WISP specifically for your company.

3 convenient times and locations: Tuesday, August 18th 8:00-11:30
Wakefield Business Ctr. ,Woburn

Thursday, August 20th 1:00 - 4:30
The Enterprise Center, Salem

Wednesday, August 26th 8:00 -11:30
Colucci Norman, Beverly

Due to limited seating reservations are required.

$99 Workshop fee includes exclusive CD with documents that will protect your business.

To reserve your seat, please call 978-531,2103 or email:

nclark@integratedstaffing.com .

Refreshments will be provided.

Sponsored by Colucci/Norman, LLP

For information on how Organization Plus can help you implement your WISP call or email Nancy at 978-922-6136

or nancy@organizationplus.com

Get Organized in the Kitchen: Home Organization Tips from Nancy Black

2009-08-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

Get Organized in the Kitchen: Five Simple Kitchen Tips
by Nancy Black, Professional Organizer

Five Simple Kitchen Organizing Tips

Having an organized kitchen will save you time and money.

You’ll save time by having what you need easily accessible.

You’ll save money because you won’t buy duplicates of things that you already have!

Here are five simple kitchen organizing tips:

1. Alphabetize your spices so that you will be able to see which spices you already have, avoiding duplicate purchases.

2. Use drawer organizers to arrange items in “junk drawers” and drawers used for cooking utensils. Use appropriate organizers to accommodate different utensil’s sizes and shapes.

3. Use rectangular storage containers to store foods in the refrigerator: they stack well and allow you to store more food in the same space.

4. Small packages of nonperishable foods can be organized in containers to keep them neat and visible.

5. Know the interior measurements of your refrigerator, kitchen cabinets, and pantry. This let’s you choose the right containers or shelf dividers to make the use of the space you have.

For more advice to help you get organized, eliminate clutter, and reduce the stress in your life, as well as how to "transform" your disorganized tendencies in as little as 180 minutes, visit http://www.organizationplus.com.

Get Organized With Organization Plus Telephone Consultations

2009-07-29T06:19:00.000-07:00

Three weeks ago I did a home organizing assessment for a new client.

After talking about how she would like to see each room look, we created an action plan, listing tasks and deadlines.

I suggested that she schedule a phone consult for the next week.

She has had two 15 minute phone consults that have motivated her to
check off items on her action plan.

The 1st two phone consults were scheduled a week apart. The 3rd one is scheduled for two weeks later.

In the future we will schedule on site organizing consults as needed.

Would you like to learn more about our Telephone Consultations?

Visit http://www.organizationplus.com/teleconsultations.html

or call Nancy at 978-922-6136.

Taking Time for #1 ---- You.

2009-07-12T17:24:00.000-07:00

My favorite place to relax is Crane's Beach. I was there both yesterday and today. The blue sky and sunshine were wonderful.

While I was there I read an article on the importance of taking time to relax. People who take time for themselves are happier and healthier.

Did you take time for yourself this weekend?

What is your favorite way to relax?

If you think you do not have Time for #1 --- You, call 978-922-6136, to ask how Organization Plus can help you find the time.

http://www.organizationplus.com/

Great Day To Purge Your Files! 1/3 Off On Shredding Services Until 8/16/2009

2009-07-02T07:29:00.000-07:00

Today is a great day to purge your files!

Those of us living in the East Coast area are getting ready to build an ark.
Only kidding.....
Annie says "The sun will come out tomorrow."
I hope she is right.

Rainy days are the perfect time to purge your files.

Documents and mail containing confidential information
need to be shredded. Identity theft is the #1 crime.

For residents: That means anything with your name, address;
numbers for social security, drivers license, financial accounts (including credit & debit cards), state or federal ID. You need a good quality cross cut shredder. Most will shred credit, debit, and charge cards. Fellows makes a good one the sells for between $200 & $300. If you don't want to invest in a shredder, see coupon offer below for 1/3% off on shredding services in Northeastern, MA .

For Businesses in MA : Now is the time to start to prepare for the
MA Data Security Law, that will be effective January 1, 2010.
Recently I attended an excellent seminar sponsored by the Beverly Chamber of Commerce. The panelists were an attorney, a computer consultant, and an HR consultant. All of these people can advise you on
what you need to do to be compliant with the law. See my August
e-newsletter for more details. In the meantime your can visit:
http://www.magov.com/. To sign up for my free e-newsletter click on:
http://www.organizationplus.com/ and you will will see the subscriber sign up.

The 1st step is to purge your files. Organization Plus can help you do that . Call Nancy at 978-922-6136 to learn how we can help you do that.

Once you have determined what you can purge, it has to be shredded,
the law says pulverized, or shredded by a service that shreds it in compliance with the law.
See coupon offer below for 1/3% off on shredding services in Northeastern, MA.

In collaboration with Heritage Business Services, a program of
North Shore ARC, Organization Plus will email you a gift certificate for 1/3 off on shredding services until 8/16/09.

Let Freedom Ring! New 1" Binders Now Available In Red, White and Blue

2009-06-29T15:44:00.000-07:00

From "sea to shining sea" Bindertek has changed the way we work.

Their vast collection of America's Best Built Binders is as diverse as our country's landscape and people.

Legal Size, Letter Size, CD Size
Side Punch, Top Punch
Three Ring or Two Ring
Leather plus 16 colors including Red, White and Blue.

To order: Visit our Organizing Products web page at:
http://www.organizationplus.com/organizingproducts.html
and click on the Bindertek icon.

Would you like to see more information about innovative organizing products in future blogs?

Beverly Chamber Brown Bag Lunch

2009-06-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

Beverly Chamber Brown Bag Lunch

Thursday, July 16, 2009 at Noon

Featuring Nancy Black, of Organization Plus

Organizing Tips to Save You Time & Money

Hosted at Endicott College Van Loan Graduate School, Room 112

376 Hale Street, Beverly, MA

Free Event

Please RSVP to director@beverlychamber.

Save Time & Money: Have Less Stress and More Fun this Summer - Diva Toolbox

2009-06-25T05:52:00.001-07:00

Save Time & Money: Have Less Stress and More Fun this Summer - Diva Toolbox

Shared via AddThis

Nancy Black's Article in NAPO-NE Newsletter June 2009

2009-06-12T16:54:00.000-07:00

*... Nancy Black, one of NAPO-New England's most experienced members, offers the benefit of her perspective in her article, Accentuate the Positive!, in this quarter's newsletter.

Accentuate the Positive!
by Nancy Black

There's been so much gloom and doom recently in the news. I'm surethat people would feel more optimistic if the media would stop bombarding us with negative news and feature a "good news of the day" segment.

I've decided to adopt the mantra "[You've got to] Accentuate the Positive, Eliminate the Negative, Latch on to the Affirmative." These are the first words to the lyrics from a Johnny Mercer song, "Accentuate the Positive," that was sung in the film "Hollywood Hotel" in 1938.

It's as easy as 1, 2, 3.......

1. Accentuate the Positive

Read at least one positive business news story each day. Read "People on the Move" and acknowledge their achievements.

2. Eliminate the Negative

Think about the glass being half full, not half empty. Avoid spending time with people who have negative attitudes.

3. Latch On To the Affirmative

Mary Kay Ash said "If you think you can, you can; if you think you can't, you're right." Tell yourself you can and you will. Remember the song from the musical, "Annie, ""The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow". If that poor little orphan could think positively, you can too.

http://www.organizationplus.com

News from Nancy Black and Organization Plus - June 2009

2009-06-01T05:46:00.000-07:00

It's Summertime

The words from the song "Summertime" (from Porgy & Bess) are, "Summertime when the living is easy..." (Watch the YouTube clip here).

Will your summertime living be easy?

Unfortunately many US workers do not take most of their vacation days because of fear of loosing their job and pressures from their managers and co-workers.

People need vacations to re-charge their batteries.

Stats from the Rights 2 Vacation website are:

** Men who don't take regular vacations are 32% more likely to die of heart attacks, and 21% more likely to die early of all causes. Women have 50% more risk of heart attack.

** Stress and burnout are five times more costly to treat than average workplace maladies.

** Women who don't take vacations are twice as likely to be depressed as those who do.

Business owners have the power to create a culture where people are encouraged to take a no guilt, no Blackberry vacation.

An outstanding example is Andrew Lutts, CEO of Net Atlantic, in Salem, MA., who offers a unique employee benefit, a Sabbatical Program. When an employee has worked for 7 years, they can take a 3 month Sabbatical.

He understands the value of cultivating loyal employees and rewarding them for their commitment to his company.

Enjoy the summer and take time to smell the roses.

If you are looking for a Professional Organizer in Boston, or a Professional Organizer on the North Shore (Beverly, Peabody, Cape Ann, Newburyport, etc.), call Organization Plus today at (978) 922-6136.

Clutter Free Home Files & Paper Systems

2009-06-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

Clutter Free Home Files & Paper Systems
May 18, 2009 (from Organized A to Z Blog entry)

Thanks to our guest blogger, Nancy Black of Organization Plus, for today’s tips on creating a clutter free home file and paper sorting system!

Here are some ways that you can decrease the papers that come into your home.

Pay bills online or put them on auto pay.

Call 800 #s on catalogs & ask them to delete your name from their mailing list.

Do not renew the magazines that you do not have time to read.

Request to have your name deleted from charitable request solicitations for charities you will not be contributing to.

When you fill in warranty forms check box asking them not to share your name.

Shred credit card solicitations that you do not want.

Mail: Process each day and sort by what action you need to take action on it. Have a desktop action file, with hanging file folders, or cubbies labeled with the action that you need to take or by category. Example: Calls to make.

School Papers: Have a folder in each child’s back pack for school papers. Review with your child daily, sign permission slips and fill out forms.

Magazines, Newsletters, & Newspapers: Set retention guidelines on how long to keep.

Post-its, scraps of paper with messages/addresses on them: Put info. in phone message book. You will have carbon copy of it.

Organizing Home Files:
The Homefile System is an excellent way to set-up an easy-to-use filing system for your home.

Creating a filing system: Purchase functional products so that it will be easy to set up maintain your files. Example: Decorative File Folders. The Homefile system gives you suggested categories and retention guidelines.

Color coded files are easy to identify by category. Example: Bright green for finances. Choose color for each family member.

Organizing existing files: Set retention guidelines on how long to keep documents. Purge outdated information or categories you are not longer interested in. Check with accountant or attorney on how long to keep legal and accounting files.

Shred any confidential information you are purging.

Nancy Black, of Organization Plus, is an Organizing Consultant with over 25 years of organizing experience. She was quoted in the NY Times, March 26, 2009. She created the “3 Hour Transformation” to turn your piles into files. She specializes in helping people create paper-flow systems, organize their space and plan their time. These services are provided on site or through telephone consultations. Her Web site is http://www.organizationplus.com/.

Real Results from Organization Plus

2009-05-29T05:58:00.000-07:00

Recently I was an exhibitor at the Beverly Chamber of Commerce Trade Show.

It was held at the Cummings Center, in Beverly, Massachusetts.

A CPA stopped by my booth and talked about her concern regarding protecting her client's confidential information in compliance with the Massachusetts Privacy Regulations, that will be effective as of January 1, 2010.

It was important that the client files were visible to her, yet secure. She was looking for Barrister Bookcases that lock. My response was "I know just where you can get them. My latest affiliate resource is Bindertek and there is a link on my Recommended Products web page so that you can order directly from them".

I gave her a Bindertek catalogue and explained that there was an Organization Plus coupon code on the back of it that would save her 10%.

Looking for an organizing product to suit your needs? Call 978-922-6136 and ask about our Product Research Service.

Nancy Black at Organization Plus is one of the most experienced Professional Organizers in Boston and the North Shore (Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Marblehead, Cape Ann, Beverly).

International Business Image Improvement Month

2009-05-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

May is International Business Image Month

Did you know that people judge your business image by the way you, your office, and collateral materials look?

Although there is an expression, "You can't judge a book by its cover.", you will be judged by the way you look. You need to dress for success.
For some that may be traditional conservative suits, for others dressing that way that may be intimidating to your clients. When people meet you that is the first image that they see of your company.

When someone walks into an office that has piles of papers covering the desktop, with the overflow on the floor, their first impression is that the person is disorganized.

Your business cards, letterhead, and brochure convey the image of your company.

If you want to improve your business image:

consult an image consult on how to dress
a professional organizer to declutter your office
a graphic designer to design your

You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Organization Plus would be happy to refer you to an image consultant, graphic designer, or tell you about the organizing services we offer.

For information call 978-922-6136 or click on www.organizationplus.com.

Small Business Week

2009-05-14T09:13:00.000-07:00

Small Business Week
May 18th – 21st

Since 1963, the President of United States has proclaimed National Small Business Week every year to recognize the contributions of small businesses to the strength and economic well-being of America.

Small businesses create most new private-sector jobs in our economy and help our citizens succeed.

Many small business owners do not give themselves credit for their accomplishments. They focus on what they have not accomplished.

Celebrate yourself and give yourself a pat on the back for what you have accomplished.

As a business owner, are you spending more time....

Fighting fires or sparking new ideas?
Drowning in paperwork or making your business watertight?
Getting lost in details

If you have too little time to make big plans for your business, it is time to get the clutter out of your mind so that you can start thinking more about the future of your business.

For information on how we can help you focus on the future of your business, call Organization Plus today at 978-922-6136 or request information online at www.organizationplus.com

Beverly Chamber Trade Show

2009-05-12T18:49:00.000-07:00

Visit Organization Plus at the Beverly Chamber Trade Show
May 20, 2009 from 10-3p.m.

Join the Beverly Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses for dozens of exhibitors with information and give-a-ways. Support your local businesses by attending and learning about great products and services in your community.

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
100 Cummings Center, Suite 135E
Access to the Trade Show is from 135Q entrance with large lot to park in or 135A with many one hour spots, follow straight down the hall to the show!

Free Raffle – over $1000 worth of prizes
Organization Plus Raffle Prize $100.00 Gift Certificate

Register for raffle upon entrance to the show, drawing begins at 3:00p.m.
SPEAKERS, TRAININGS, and more – FREE

9:30-10:00 President of the Retail Assoc.of Massachusetts, Jon Hurst
10:45-11:15 Motivational Life Coach, Dennis DeAngelis
12:00- 12:30 The Office Genies -
1:15-1:45 Michael Stare – Best Workouts for those with little time
Entertainers – Northshoremen Chorus
2:30-3:00 North of Boston Visitor and Convention Bureau Representative

EXHIBITORS: 2020 Franchise Consulting, American Lazer Services, Arbonne International, Beverly Athletic Express, Beverly Chamber of Commerce, Beverly Golf and Tennis Club, Beverly Hospital/NEHS, Atty. Charmaine Blanchard, Children’s Center for Communication, Creative Imaging Group, Cummings Properties, Danversbank, DiValore Hair Salon and Day Spa, Edward F. Cahill Financial Advisor, Edible Arrangements, Endicott College, Essex Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Extreme Packing Solutions, Fallon Community Health, Fitness Together, Franson Family Chiropractic, Hamilton Bookkeeping, Institute for Corporate Training and Technology at North Shore Community College, Leslie Ray Insurance, MG Products, Micro Data Group, My Print & Copy, North Shore Bridge Church, NortheastLink, Northeast Senior Health, Northshoremen Chorus, North Shore Cross Fit, ORGANIZATION PLUS, R&L Associates, Salem Five, Salem News, Sandler Training, Sign-A-Rama, Spectrum Fitness, Sterling Insurance Co., Supporting Strategies, TD Banknorth, The Entrpreneur’s Source, The New Essex Office, The Office Genies, Wylie Inn.

Beverly Chamber of Commerce, 28 Cabot Street, 978-232-9559, www.beverlychamber.com

Srategies for Success

2009-05-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

It's May 1st and I can hardly believe it.

Lately I've talked to a number of people who shared their frustration and stress as a result of hectic schedules, work, and family obligations. I thought I'd share with you, what I shared with them, some strategies to help you reduce stress.

Also, you are invited (save the date)....

"The Paperless Office" with Guest Speakers Nancy Black and Kate Ritter, North Shore Business Forum, Friday, May 8, 2009, 7:30 - 8:30 AM, Danversport Yacht Club, Route 62, Danvers, MA.Organization Plus (booth) at the Beverly Chamber Trade Show May 20, 2009 from 10 - 3 P.M., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 135E, in Beverly, MA.

Stress: Here Are Some Coping Strategies to Reduce Your Stress Level

Child Care Coverage

Expect the unexpected. Have a contingency plan if your child wakes up sick,
there is an early release day, school vacation, or last minute school cancelation. Have an "on call" list of people who can provide coverage. "Barter" with other parents, so you can cover for each other. Know what your company flextime and telecommuting options are.

Work Overload

Prioritize what is most important. Break your projects down into manageable segments. Schedule tasks on a calendar. If possible, focus on what takes your skill and expertise and identify what you can delegate.

Technostress

Email is the #1 stress in the workplace. Limit the number of times you check it throughout the day. Delete, forward, or respond ASAP. Ask yourself if all the bells and whistles are saving you time or zapping your time.

Late Bill Payments

Many people pay late fees because they missed the date, not because they don't have the money. Avoid this by having money direct deposited, doing online banking, and putting bills on auto pay.

Lack of Exercise

Exercise energizes you and improves your ability to think clearly. Walk before work, at lunchtime, or after dinner; join a health club, sign up for a class, hire a personal trainer. Hike, bike ride, or plan time to participate in a sport.

Commuter Stress

Travel delays are inevitable. Listen to traffic reports and allow extra time to get where you are going. Just think, if you arrive early you will have time for a cup of coffee! Always have "to read" items with you when you are traveling by plane, train, bus, or subway. You can't control the delays, so be thankful for your "found time."

Still Stressed?

Let Me Help You...

* Analyze where your time goes (little things are probably zapping away your time and energy and you don't even realize it).

* Identify and eliminate your biggest time wasters.

* Set goals and prioritize your activities.

* Develop a plan of action that allows you to focus on your priorities, get more done in less time, and do more of the THINGS YOU WANT TO DO.

* Save time and money.

Contact me today to schedule your phone or on-site consultation and take back your space, time and peace of mind. 978-922-6136.Or visit my online inquiry form 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. I'll follow-up promptly.

Terrible Too(s)

Too much to do, too little time to do it in. These are the Terrible Toos.

If you suffer from the terrible toos you need professional help. Without it, you quickly can become overwhelmed and the problem will never go away. Call me today for a free initial consultation - (978) 922-6136.

A Great Mother's Day Gift Idea

Gift Certificates from Organization Plus make a great Mother's Day gift. Call my office at (978) 922-6136 to order or click here to download a Gift Certificate order form.

Thank You...

Thank you for subscribing to my email newsletter. I welcome your comments and feedback. Call me or drop me a line via email at: nancy@organizationplus.com.

Nancy
Organization Plus
http://www.organizationplus.com
(978) 922-6136