So you want to get organized. Before you start on the road to blissful organization, ask yourself one question. Do you really want to get organized?

A lot of individuals and yourself may be included, think they SHOULD get organized. Not because they have the deep down stirrings of panic and they see the black shroud of total chaos closing in on them, but because they think it's the "right" thing to do. Not that this is a bad thing, but deciding to take the time and effort on changing your habits and routine is a pretty serious commitment. Not one that should be decided on a whim.

Take going to the gym for example. At the start of every year you highly consider getting a gym membership, buy a piece of workout equipment for the house, put together a plan to start walking in the morning, or decide to whole heartedly go on a diet. Although these intentions are great, how often to do they receive the follow up and dedication to becoming a successful endeavor? Not often enough.

Organization can be seen in the same light as a forgotten gym membership, unless you are dedicated 100% to your commitment your dream of being a size 2 organizational diva is nothing but a pipe dream.

Again, ask yourself, do you REALLY want to get organized? If the answer is no and you are happy with the state you are in right now, then, honey, don't waste any more time reading articles and buying self help books. Go enjoy yourself and find something you like doing. If the answer is yes, then let's figure out the best plan of attack for your disorganization!

Finding the right type of organizational methods

Books - Workshops - Online Seminars - Personal Organizers - Organizational Systems - Software - TV

The list goes on and on and I'm sure I have forgotten a handful of other methods to help you with your new found organized life, but which one is right for you? Organizational methods are like shoes. Depending on what you are wearing and where you are going is going to determine which shoes you wear.

Working out - tennis shoes
Going hiking - hiking boots
Beach - flip flops
Night out on the town - heels
Dressing up for your man - sexy strappy sandals

Albeit deciding on the appropriate shoes is a bit easier to determine, but the results are still the same. Wear heels hiking and not only will you break the heel on your favorite black pumps, you are more than likely going to bust your head in the process. Purchase every self help book on organization when you don't like to read, you not only wasted hundreds of dollars on dust collectors, but you also wasted time you will never get back.

Let's go ahead and determine which method is best for your situation, your personality and your needs. By answering the following two mind boggling, personality determining, and cosmos contemplating questions you will be on your way to finding the perfect organizational method for your unique situation.

Question #1: Which one do you identify with most?
a) Out of sight - out of mind
b) An empty desk is a happy desk
c) It just "feels" right

Question #2: Which statements are true to your situation?
a) Reading is relaxing
b) Seeing is believing
c) Some times I just need a little extra encouragement

Ok, let's see where you are and what you need to know before you set out on the road of organization!

Question 1
If you answered (a) you are a visual person, which means you need to find a system that is visually appealing to your senses. Example: color coding, desk top filing, white board for projects and to do's. Be sure and look for organizational methods that meet these criteria.

If you answered (b) you are more than likely a very orderly and logical thinker. You do not like clutter nor do you want to be distracted by it. Look for a system that is very regimented and orderly. Example: Paper Tiger Software system, file drawers, technology based methods.

If you answered (c) you may want to brush up on your feng shui and focus on books and articles regarding the importance of harmony and balance. Example: The color of your office may help with the balance, removing the clutter around you may increase productivity, and you certainly don't want to do anything to block your chi.

Now that you have determined what style of organization you need to focus on, let's figure out the methods you can use to get yourself there.

Question 2
If you answered (a) try purchasing a couple of self help books that focus on your style. You may even want to peruse the internet for Special Reports, e-books, e-zines, forums and blogs to help you with your organizational worries. The internet is a powerful tool and there is a wealth of information regarding organization feel free to tap its resources.

If you answered (b) you may want to try workshops, conferences and the TV in your living room. There are a slew of television shows on the cable channels these days and a lot of them offer some great tips, plus you get to SEE what books only talk about. If you are like me and TV is used only for watching Jack Bauer take on the world and Denny Crane defending it, then consider talking to a Professional Organizer. Not only will they brainstorm with you they will show you how to organize effectively and customize it to your needs. You can also try checking out Web Conferences. These are great little interactive workshops that focus on certain areas and will walk you through HOW to get started.

If you answered (c) hiring of a Professional Organizer may be the best way to go. However, your options don't stop there. Most Professional Organizers are now offering phone consultations as well as in-home/office organization. If you need a bit of accountability to help encourage you on your way, a simple phone call may be the way to go.

Regardless of which road you take on your way to organization, the two important pieces you need to know is your style and the method that works best for you. In the end, it's all about you!