Why don't we

get organized?

People are often perplexed as to why they cannot get organized. "Gee, it isn't that hard. Why can't I do it myself?" they think.

Organizing is pretty simple, straightforward and doesn't require a Ph.D. However, I've found that people have little physical energy to tackle the simplest of tasks. Running errands, doing yard work or getting ready for a birthday party are work. When you really want to tackle an organizing project, it can be overwhelming. Many other people in the Napa Valley also feel like they just don't know where to begin.

Let me share some statistics that explain why it's harder to keep the mundane in order. Business & Society Review states that the amount of junk mail grew 13 times faster than the population in the 1980s. The Wall Street Journal states a business executive wastes one hour a day looking for things. American Demographics Society estimates together Americans waste a 9 million hours per day searching for misplaced items. USA Weekend states that 83 percent of people say getting more organized is among their goals. Finally, 78 percent of adults say they wish they had more time to stop and smell the roses.

You need to be in the right frame of mind to tackle your organizing project. After a hard day at the office, it's probably the last thing you want to do. Give yourself a Saturday to tackle the big projects. Or if you're anxious to dig in after a long day of work, start small. You can begin with a kitchen drawer and that will propel you to continue elsewhere. It's all about motivation. You're likely to feel better after a small task is completed. Be sure to leave yourself enough time and you will probably continue organizing other areas once you see your initial progress.

Try to stay focused on the job you are doing and complete that task before beginning something new. Don't move on until you're done. This is hard to do because once you begin to get organized, you may go wild and just run amok. Try using a timer, not answering the phone, having the kids not at home or whatever else will help you stay focused.

Sometimes it's great to have a friend to help you or to just hold your hand through the process. If you're digging out from under, the extra help and added fun of having a buddy or two to move things along quickly can make all the difference. Every little bit helps.

People tend to underestimate how long it can take to get organized. Having a plan of action and support systems in place can make the process a success rather than a disappointment. Don't give up.

This is the perfect time of year to get organized. It's not too hot yet and it'd be great to get it done before having to get ready for your summer vacation. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family and watch how the clutter is slowly removed and how joyful it is to have your life back.

Lanna Nakone is the author of "Organizing for Your Brain Type" and "Every Child Has a Thinking Style." She can be reached at www.organizedworld.com or by calling 524-9896.