Quick Tips on Helping Someone Get Organized

So you decided to help someone get organized quickly.  Well, that is so nice!  However, keep in mind things don't always go smoothly when you are handling someone else's things.  Therefore, say a prayer before you start, avoid being controlling, and listen before you do anything.  Questions are always better than orders, so instead of saying, "I think you should put this there..." Ask, "Would you like for me to put this there?"  Other tips include: 

1.  Don't overwhelm them with details on what to throw out and where to put things.

2.  Select useful items to store items; rather than, selecting things because they look cute.

3.  Avoid worrying over what doesn't go where.  Instead, make a miscellaneous bin or box for questionable items.

4.  Store away items you hardly ever use.  Keep frequently used items handy.

5.  Take a moment to clean spaces, vacuum, or dust before putting items back in place.

6.  Make them feel good about their items and effort they put into organizing their space by complimenting them even if you don't like the way they do things.

Nicholl McGuire is the author of many books including When Mothers Cry.