Evernote: An App to Organize Your Life

I basically tell anyone who will listen to me about how amazing Evernote is. It’s an app and website that keeps track of nearly anything you want it to. A friend who is also obsessed with it once called it an “extension of her mind.” I think that’s pretty accurate. Anything you want to keep track of but might forget — should go into Evernote.

Here’s how I’m using it: Read more

10 Ways to Cut Out Paper Clutter

I have a confession to make…I can sometimes be a paper hoarder. I keep things because I “might need them.” I’ve gotten better now that a lot of records and statements can be found online. But when the mail comes sometimes it hard to part with some of the pieces “just in case.”

But I’ve been getting better thanks to my organizational friends like Bonnie Joy Dewkett. She’s a professional organizer and owner of The Joyful Organizer. These tips will help you tackle any pile of mail, bills, magazines or flyers in a flash!

Top 10 Paper Organization Tips

By Bonnie Joy Dewkett

Paper is one of the biggest problems we have as a society. Here are ten quick tips to get you organized and keep you that way!

1. Have a big pile of paper? Flip it over and start sorting at the bottom. Chances are that most of the stuff on the bottom is old, expired, or no longer valuable to you. Read more

Checklist to Prepare for Hurricane Isaac

Isaac has his eye on the Gulf states and residents are bracing for the storm.

Angie Hicks, founder of customer review site, Angie’s List gave me these tips to get your home and family ready for the storm.

What to do ahead of time:

1. Gather Your Documents – Get your insurance documents together and put them in a safe place – a place you’ll remember!

2, Program Your Phone – Have your insurance agent’s phone number stored in your phone so you can access it easily.

3. Know your Coverage – Understand what is covered on your homeowner’s insurance policy and what is not.

4. Snap Some Photos – Take photos of your home and it’s contents, be sure to include all electronics and other expensive items. This will assist you if you need to make a claim on your contents insurance.

Here are a few checklists that will help you as the Hurricane approaches:

Preparing for a Hurricane by FEMA

Securing Your Home for a Hurricane by National Hurricane Center

Emergency Plan Checklist by GetButtonedUp.com

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist by GetButtonedUp.com

Be safe and smart in the storm!

List of Things to Say in Awkward Situations

photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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BONUS FREEBIE: Want even more ways to stay organized, productive and less stressed? Click here to get access to my List-Making Starter Kit. It will boost your efficiency and get you back to doing more of the things you love.

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We’ve all been there — in a situation where we are fidgeting and searching for just the right thing to say. These awkward social encounters can make us anxious, stressed out and agitated.

Dinner Parties

For some people – dinner parties can be excruciating. Small talk, people you don’t know and awkward silences can really make you uneasy. If you go into social situations like dinner or cocktail parties prepared — you will have a much better time. Here’s some ideas to pull you out of this tough time: Read more

Be More Efficient When Working Virtually

As a producer I don’t often work from home. But when I do I find that I have to be extra disciplined to get stuff done.

It’s so easy to get distracted when you’re at home and the comforts of, well…home, are all around you.  But fear not — there are ways to be more productive when working virtually. Shilonda Downing, the owner of Virtual Work Team has a few dos and don’ts for being successful.

Dos and Don’ts for Working Virtually

by Shilonda Downing

As the owner of a successful virtual assistant company, there is one question I’m often asked by not only those looking to start their own virtual business but also by journalists who write for major media and that question is: “What does it take to work successfully, virtually?”

I think it goes without saying that you should have the skill set to pursue your virtual dream business, however, I’ll discuss a couple of “Dos and Don’ts” that people often forget and that can wind up causing problems when trying to start and run a successful virtual business. While I can’t provide as much information as I provide in my consultations, making a list of these few key points, will get you started on the right track. Read more