Ria's Rules

1. Find a place for everything, and put everything back as soon as possible after you've finished using it.

2. Work with an organizer, or even a friend; two people can accomplish much more than one person alone can do.

3. Try to handle any specific item only once.

4. Keep yourself focused; if the job is one closet or an entire house, find a starting place and stay with the job until it's completed.

5. Be aware that you must be willing to make a mess FIRST, before you can become the organized person you really are.

6. Be willing to dispose of some things you don't use, nor will you use in the foreseeable future. Unless, of course, the item an heirloom or special keepsake. Consider whether it's something you actually need, or something you might want for this moment only.

7. There is a strong emotional component when you're planning to get rid of an item; perhaps it's a fear of not being able to replace it in future, should you want it. The real deal is usually that, if you haven't taken it out of the closet or the storage space in several years, the likelihood of using it again is remote. Getting rid of things is difficult for most of us, but once they're gone there is a wonderful feeling of lightness, like a weight off the shoulders. As Andy, another organizer has noted: 'Feel the fear, but do it anyway'!

8. Certain things you MUST keep, such as papers relating to your house - copies of mortgage payments, deeds or your will. There are other important papers you should keep as well, such as tax files, pensions, health directives, powers of attorney, etc. Originals should probably be in a bank safe deposit box or in your attorney's files. Make certain that someone you trust, such as your executor, has information on the location of all important information in his or her possession.

9. Try on clothes once a year; sell or give away items you won't wear again. Don't buy two of something when you've just given away one.

10. Enjoy your newly serene home or small office!