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.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Clutter Free Home Files & Paper Systems
Clutter Free Home Files & Paper Systems
May 18, 2009 (from Organized A to Z Blog entry)
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/.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Real Results from Organization Plus
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).
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).
Thursday, May 14, 2009
International Business Image Improvement Month
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:
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.
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
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....
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
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Beverly Chamber Trade Show
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
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
Monday, May 11, 2009
Srategies for Success
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
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
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