Work Her Way has asked our favorite organizing expert, Jane Carroo of Clutter Coach, for her thoughts on getting organized in the new year. As always, Jane has come through with some excellent tips!

There’s more good news: One lucky person who comments on this article (and hopefully shares some organizing wisdom) will win $100 worth of Carolina Pad products! These beautiful and practical goodies will keep you on track with your organizing goals.

Take it away, Jane:

We’re starting a new year.  It’s not only a new year, but a new decade.  So, it’s even more important to get off on our best footing.   It’s time to take stock.  Figure out what is working and what needs changing.  We’re empowered to check things out and consider heading in a new direction.   Here is an organized way of approaching your life goals.

• Get a fresh start by taking a new perspective.
• Approach your home or work as if for the first time.
• View each by understanding its function. 
• Identify anything that is unnecessary or unloved. 
• Take notes!
• List all clutter.  Anything that doesn’t add to your life, takes energy to maintain. 
• Think about what would be really functional, beautiful and enjoyable for you.  What worked before may not meet your needs now depending on your situation. Things change!
• Think purpose and benefits. 
• Create a plan to meet your needs.
• Break it down into manageable pieces.
• Add your project plans into your calendar.

Consider various ways to capture your plans.  Possibilities include spiral notebooks, binders with dividers, journals, note cards, etc.  It’s all about personal preference.

When you want to list all your notes by category, don’t forget to include home, work, family and personal projects.

If you have difficulty doing this yourself, consider getting a buddy or hire a professional to help you with your project. 

Be inspired to create your life and stay on track.  When next year approaches, you’ll be glad you succeeded!

Dive into the decade with direction and make your dreams come true!

(Click here  for contest rules and regulations. Drawing will be held on March 1, 2010)