The following is an article submitted by reader Seana Turner as part of a series on organization. If you would like to submit an article for The Daily Darien, send it to cdonahue@ mainstreetconnect.us.
If you are like most people, forgetting things is a pesky part of life. For some, it's kids calling from school needing items they left at home. For others, the problem is lost keys, misplaced passports or the inability to remember what we drove to the grocery store to buy! These days, a plethora of tools are being marketed to tackle these challenges (smart phones, electronic notepads). But tools can take us only so far. Here are a few tips to keep forgetfulness at bay:
When struggling with "I can't remember where I put my...."
Designate specific "residences" for frequently used (and frequently misplaced) items, and then NEVER, EVER, EVER put these items down anywhere else. For example:
a multipronged key hook right inside the door
an attractive dish near the entrance for sunglasses
a charging station for all electronic devices (e.g. a Callpod)
a specific niche in the kitchen or corner of a counter for a purse or wallet
It is important to have designated locations at home, at work and in your car. You can set a spot in your purse/briefcase where all your regular items will live (e.g. cell phone in the side pocket, key under the inside flap, makeup in a small pouch). The key is to make an intentional plan for the items you often misplace, and then never let yourself get away with temporarily stashing them anywhere else. It also helps to take a few minutes when initially selecting spaces to stare at the area for a few moments and make a mental imprint of where things go. Most people remember visual clues best!
When frustrated by repeated "I forgot to bring my..."
The word here is staging area, and every member of the family should have their own. This is a designated location where you put items that need to go out the door tomorrow. Some folks give each family member a cubby; others use a specific section of a kitchen counter. Sleep-deprived teens might need a section of the floor that they have to walk over to leave the house. The next step is "setting the stage." Every night before you let yourself get comfortable in front of the TV or computer mentally walk through the entire next day, and put anything you will need in this one spot. Most nights this would include a backpack, a briefcase and/or a purse. Dance class after school? dance bag into the staging area tonight. Out of town trip? tickets/passport/itinerary visible and ready to go.
Parents can help kids form good habits by placing the filled lunchbox or completed form in a child's staging area. Another trick is to type up a list of what is needed on different days of the week and post it at the staging area (e.g. Monday: lacrosse bag; Tuesday: band folder; Wednesday: staff meeting folder.) No need to reinvent the wheel every night!
The common themes here are intentionality and self-discipline. With a little planning and a strong dose of accountability, even forgetfulness can be put it its place.
Next week: The bottomless pit of photos and memory cards.
Seana Turner, Professional Organizer
Freedom Through Organization
203-219-9105
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