Free from clutter

Room to breathe

Everything in its place

Sort and simplify

Honor your priorities

Let go; lighten up

You can do it!

]]> http://freshlyorganized.wordpress.com/2012/01/23/give-me-an-f-give-me-an-r/feed/ 0 Amy at FreshlyOrganized.com http://freshlyorganized.wordpress.com/2012/01/16/sounds-so-simple/ http://freshlyorganized.wordpress.com/2012/01/16/sounds-so-simple/#comments Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:33:54 +0000 Amy at FreshlyOrganized.com http://freshlyorganized.wordpress.com/?p=356 ]]>

~ Amy

1. Empty it all out.  It is easier to identify what we have in our purse if we can spread it all out on a table. While the bag is empty, do a quick dusting and wipe out.
2. Remove items that belong elsewhere.  Yes, we all have these items in our bag…the movie stubs, receipts, old shopping list, kid’s toys, etc.  These items get tossed in there because it is the quickest place to put them.   Now is a good time to transfer these items to where they belong.
3. Group similar items together.  If your keep make up in your purse then put it all together.  Other items that can be easily grouped together are your pens, change, breathe fresheners, jewelry and first aid items.
4. Contain the stuff.  If you have a purse with lots of pockets, you can designate each pocket for a group of similar items.  The most accessible pocket should be for your “all the time” items like your keys and phone. You can also place a few small containers in your purse if you don’t have enough pockets.  A plastic sandwich bag is very helpful if you are in a pinch. The key is to not have a collection of small stuff at the bottom of your purse.

Completing these steps will only take about ten minutes and if you do them just once a month you will have a fun and functional purse.  If you like to switch your purse on a regular basis you may want to look into purchasing a purse organizer.  They are generally small multi-pocketed bags that can hold all your essentials and be easily moved from one purse to another.  They come in a variety of sizes and colors.

Next time you go shopping for a purse, here are a few things to keep in mind.  If you buy a large bag, you will fill it up.  If you buy a small bag, you will only carry basics.  The key to a good functioning purse is to find the balance between big and small that works for you.  Also, look for a bag with some variation in the pockets.  I once had a bag with four identical pockets on the inside.   I could not tell the pockets apart so anytime I needed anything I just had to start digging.  The purse was very cute but it got retired because of my frustration with the pockets.

This article was featured in the September Momaha Magazine.  Enjoy the article and be sure to check out the magazine!

Beginning in September, Amy will be sharing her organizing tips each month in the Momaha Magazine.  All the articles will be easy to read and include quick tips to help you get organized.