A GON Reader Asks

Hi Maria,

How do you start when I am overwhelmed with my mess and my health and my son that is living with me since his divorce? I feel like I am drowning! You are so smart, Maria. I will be waiting for your response!

This Reader Question was submitted by:

--Karen


Maria Gracia responds...

Dear Karen,

First of all, thank you for your letter. You must be feeling overwhelmed if you are reaching out for help. Rest assured, you can and will find your way through this.

Often, when you're in the middle of things, it can be difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but I can assure you that it is there. First and foremost, take care of your health. I'm not sure what health challenges you're dealing with, but your priority TO DOs right now should be doing what you can do...to feel the best you can feel...in whatever situation you're in.

Next, the fact that your son is now living with you means that there is an extra pair of hands to help you with not only the day-to-day tasks that need to be done but also with the bigger organizing projects that you want or need to accomplish. Another adult in the home means that cleaning jobs can and should be divided up. Have him play an equal role in getting and keeping the house clean and organized. Recruit him to help you with the bigger jobs that seem too overwhelming to accomplish on your own. Even one extra pair of hands can make big jobs go so much faster than you ever thought they could.

Lastly, don't think you need to accomplish everything all at once. Homes don't get messy and cluttered overnight so you shouldn't expect them to get decluttered overnight either. Accomplish what you can in small bursts and, in time, you will see the fruits of your labor. Often our feelings of being overwhelmed come into play when we feel we need to accomplish everything right away. That is an unrealistic expectation that we should never burden ourselves with. Do a little each day (5 to 10 minute projects at a time), and between you and the help of your son, you should begin to see a more organized environment appearing before your eyes.

Hugs,

--Maria

P.S. I specifically hand-picked today's quote, at the bottom of this issue, in honor of your letter.

Just a very quick shout out to let you know that my latest issue of Anything and Everything is now available. It's the DECEMBER 2019 issue and I know you're going to love it. Check it out:

https://www.getorganizednow.com/rd-ae.html

If you don't already receive it, it's a great time to get your hands on a full year of Anything and Everything because, when you do, we're giving away 10 Bonuses, AND ALL of the back issues...complimentary!

Here are the topics in the DECEMBER Issue...

A Season of Celebration
25 ways to eliminate holiday stress and time-consuming preparations

Organized Spending
14 tips to help ensure you don't run out of money before payday

Bullet Journaling
What is it...and is it for me?

How to Write a Thoughtful Thank You Note
The 4 vital components and why you may want to go the extra mile

What's for Dinner?
Have you ever thought, 'I don't know what to make for dinner? I'm so bored.' If so, here are four ways to avoid dinnertime boredom

3 Great Side Dishes for Your Holiday Table
Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole
Cranberry Walnut Brussels Sprouts
Brown Butter and Garlic Green Beans

Reflecting on the Past Year
The Naikan process of self-reflection

New Year's Eve at Home
Fun ways to ring in the new year in the coziness and comfort of your own home

It's a great month for YOU...to do things you enjoy and that help you unwind and lift your spirits

If you don't already subscribe to my 'Anything and Everything' resource, you can learn about how to do so here:

https://www.getorganizednow.com/rd-ae.html

We have thousands of readers who LOVE it...and I'm certain you will too!

Maria

P.S. BONUSES...Only Until 11:59 p.m. on December 6: When you sign up for your Anything and Everything Subscription, you will receive tons of bonuses, plus ALL the BACK ISSUES COMPLIMENTARY!

GON Monthly Organizing Checklist It's the last month of the year. End on a super-organized note. You can do this when you use our NEW December Organizing Checklist
getorganizednow.com/organizing-checklist-dec.html

GON Mini Organizing Challenges For each week of December, our mini challenges will be focused on 'All Things Organized and Cozy' so you can have organized spaces and cozy moments this holiday season
getorganizednow.com/organizing-challenge-dec19-organizing-cozy.html

GON Ask Maria Should I keep old margarine tubs and such for storage?
getorganizednow.com/ask-maria-tubs-storage.html

In ADDITION, on my home page, you'll also find lots of NEW and featured STUFF including...

Web Poll When do you get the most done? Vote in my web poll on my home page and let us know.

Facebook Feature What are your top 3 holiday season goals this year?

Winter Inspirational Quote 'Winter is a time to...' Read the full quote on my home page

Access all of the above on my home page. Visit:
getorganizednow.com

'I noticed every time I felt overwhelmed, I would hold my breath. I had to learn to stop, relax, and take long deep breaths, and within seconds I would feel more clear and ready to deal with the situation in a more loving way.' --Gisele Bundchen

I'd love to hear from you.

Comments, suggestions, or just to say hello. Just REPLY to this email with a short note.

And remember...Being organized creates a happier, healthier, more fulfilling life!

Warmly,

Maria Gracia
Get Organized Now!

getorganizednow.com

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