by Tracey Schabel

Created on: July 28, 2009

Do you live amidst chaos? Are you not able to actually see your table because of paper clutter? Do you always run late because you can't find keys, homework, cell phone? Is life turning you into one big stress case? The following steps on clutter control may be for you!

These quick and easy steps will guide you toward the big goal- a clutter free environment! By implementing them as often as possible, the day-to-day chaos that you live with will evaporate. These are tried and true "secrets" that busy, and organized, people already do. Make them a part of your routine, and actually regain some precious time in your schedule! Time to do what YOU want- isn't that what we all crave?

1. Tray on the Entry Table. This is a really easy thing that is often overlooked. Put a tray, platter, basket, whatever is relatively flat and you find attractive on your entry table, to collect your stuff (keys, mail, wallet) as you enter your house.

2. Clean out your inbox in your computer. Empty, file and delete your inbox on a weekly basis. If you haven't found a home for that email in a week- you probably do not need it.

3. Collect all of your mail in one spot. Collect all the piles of mail and put them in that decorative box on your entry table! Of course, junk mail should go in the garbage without ever being set down. Set aside one day per week and sort, shred and toss.

4. Sign up and implement all of the do not call and mail lists. Contact catalog companies and ask to be taken off of the mailings. Not only will your junk mail decrease, but you will save a tree or two in the process.

5. Greeting Cards. Send out greeting, birthday, and anniversary cards at the beginning of the month that the date occurs. This frees up so much time, and people are thrilled to be remembered, even if it is early. Buy extra and store them- then send out, and you will not miss the date. You can now even buy greeting cards in packs of twenty or so all occasion cards, and then they will always be on hand.

6. School mail and correspondence. Keep a multi-pocket folder in your junk drawer. Each family member has a pocket as well as miscellaneous folders for takeout menus, maps, invitations and phone directories/lists. These pockets are for papers that need to be kept, but not dealt with on a daily basis.

7. Seven Days to less Clutter. You will need 14 garbage bags and a week where you can stroll through your house each day for about 10 minutes per bag. Try this- it really works! Each day,

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