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The Things That Have Gotten Me Through

2/15/2021

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A few things that have saved my sanity
​over the last 11-months



​If you were to have told me that this is what living through a pandemic looks like, I don't think I would have believed you. Nearly 11 months (and counting) at home? School and work via Zoom? Staying 6-feet apart at all times? These are things I could never have imagined a year ago, but here we are. Since it has been such a surreal experience, I feel compelled to share some of the things that have kept me sane over the past 11 months.

Booty-Kickin' Boot Camp
I never thought I was a "Bootcamp" kind of person, then lockdown started. Suddenly I was at home... all the time. There were no excuses not to work out. My dear friend Heidi introduced me to Lisa's Boot Camp and I have never looked back. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 8:30 AM you can join her Bootcamp via Zoom, or watch the video on her Facebook page anytime. Lisa is easy-going and mixes it up in every class. They are hard, but I feel great at the end of class. Bootcamp is definitely a silver-lining of lockdown!

Lisa's Booty Kickin' Bootcamp - Zoom Link
Lisa's Booty Kickin' Bootcamp - Facebook live page
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Funny Animal Videos
Most days my daughter and I have lunch together when she is on her lunch break from school. Inevitably, we watch silly animal videos together during that time. One of our favorites is this Squirrel Obstacle Coarse. Funny animal videos never fail to cheer us up!

Coach Training
In October I took the plunge and started a coaching program. I have been thinking about getting my coaching certification forever and it felt good to dive in! I am getting trained through The Coach Approach for Organizers, a program created by Delsow Brown.

It has been so rewarding and enlightening, I just can't say enough! I'll share more about coaching in the coming months as I progress in the program. It's been wonderful to have something to focus on that is NOT  1) the pandemic and 2) politics. Thank goodness for lifelong-learning!

Puzzles and Games
I don't know about you, but puzzles and games have become VERY important to our family in the last 11 months. Whether it's Quirkle, Blokus, Set, Dixit, Tsuro, Azul, or Laser Maze we have acquired (and mastered) many games this year! My daughter now beats me at Quirkle every time (rather depressing) but I still have a chance at Blokus.

Papermaking
​At the start of quarantine, my daughter and I started making handmade paper. I love all things paper and have made paper in the past so it seemed like a fun thing to try again. At some point, we had so much paper we decided to put it on Etsy. The result has been so fun and surprising! As we have come up with more paper ideas our shop has expanded. I find having a handmade craft you can go to regularly is such a nice remedy for all the time spent on the screen. You can visit our Etsy paper shop here.

What's gotten you through the last year? I would love to know!
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Translating ADHD

2/9/2021

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I love podcasts. Whether it's Unlocking Us, The History Chicks, or Pod Save America, you will often find me with earbuds in and a podcast playing. 

I recently started listening to the podcast Translating ADHD. From the few episodes I have listed to, it's an insightful show for those living with ADHD, suspect they have ADHD and even those with no brain-based differences. 

Cameron Gott, one of the hosts, also co-created the coaching program I am currently enrolled in so I was curious to listen to his podcast. I recently listened to the one about Imposter Syndrome... so good! They discuss how imposter syndrome comes up in our lives as a story we tell ourselves, despite evidence to the contrary. 

Many of my organizing clients have told me that they have or suspect they have ADHD. This can definitely impact their home and lives. What I like about this podcast is that both hosts (who also have ADHD) encourage listeners to accept their brain-based difference and see them as both a positive and a negative to their life. It's both. It's not always easy, but in the end, it adds up to who you are and contributes to your unique perspective.

Embracing our brain-based differences and educating ourselves about them can lead us to answers in our life that only we can come up with. Give Translating ADHD a listen and let me know what you think!


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Changing Your Brain with the 5 Second Rule

1/25/2021

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​I recently learned about the 5 Second Rule. Have you heard of this one? No, it doesn't involve dropped food. It's a concept created by motivational speaker Mel Robbins that states "if you have an instinct to act on a goal, you must physically move within 5 seconds or your brain will kill it."

Robbins says "If you do not take action on your instinct to change, you will stay stagnant. You will not change." Of course, we know this is true, but how do we get ourselves to act?

As Robbins explains, research shows that 40% of our day is spent on repetitive behaviors. We're on autopilot and our actions are based on habit. Some of these habits are helpful (brushing your teeth) some not so helpful (scrolling through Facebook). When our day is full of unhealthy habits or habits we are not actively choosing, life can start to feel out of control.

Robbins says "by taking actions that make you feel in control of your life, your life will literally begin to change in every single way. As you use the Rule, you cultivate what researchers call an “internal locus of control,” which means that you believe you have control over your outcomes and future success. "

I decided to start using the 5 Second Rule. When it occurred to me to reach out to an old friend, instead of letting the thought evaporate, I sent her a quick email. When I thought about fixing something that was broken, I got up and put it down on my to-do list. When I considered going to virtual boot camp, I opened up my dresser drawer and started putting on my workout clothes. I had to admit, it seemed to be working.

As the last year has taught us, much of life is out of our control. But our own behaviors and reactions to life need not be. When we act on our good instincts, we build our belief in our ability to create change in our life. This creates a positive feedback loop. Our positive actions lead to a greater belief in ourselves which leads to more positive actions.

So, the next time you have a thought about a positive action in your life, physically act on it within 5 seconds. Give it a try and let me know how it goes! You can read more about Mel Robbins and the 5 Second Rule at melrobbins.com.

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Tackle Your Paper Pile in Minutes a Day

10/2/2020

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​For many people, the constant onslaught of paper is a challenge that never seems to end. I often hear:

"What should I do with this?"
"I have a file cabinet, but I have no idea what's in there."
"Do really I need this?"

The answer, of course, depends on the paper and the person. I have found the trick to managing household papers is to have a system in place that reliably catches all that paper and helps you decide what to do with each item. Think of this as your paper flow. 

In the Pick It Up Quick-Guide to Paper Flow, I discuss the three steps to creating an effective paper flow. Papers should land in the same location each day. They should be processed with regularity, and a system is needed for both short and long-term retention. For additional tips on creating your flow, subscribe to the Create Your Home quarterly newsletter and get the Quick-Guide to Paper Flow as a free download. 

An area where many people get hung up is reference files. Most of us have a filing cabinet, but for many people, it is full of old files and is often in an inaccessible location. By following the below steps, you can bring your filing cabinet back to life!

1) PURGE. Dust off that cabinet and purge it like crazy! The older the files, the greater the chance they can be tossed or shredded. Ask yourself if you really need the papers for reference? Are these documents accessible online? Tax documents only need to be kept for seven years. Ask your CPA if you have any specific tax-related questions or check out the IRS retention guidelines. Always shred any documents with personal information like your social security number or account numbers.

2)  STRUCTURE. Now that your file cabinet has been whittled down to current files, start giving it some structure. Do your remaining files fall into natural categories? Common categories would be Auto, Finances, Home, and Health. Create a broad category and nest appropriate files under this heading. Here is an example:

AUTO (the broad category)
Auto Insurance 
DMV Registration 
Maintenance 

I find it is visually helpful to keep the broad category tab on the far left and the sub-folder tabs to the right. If you like to alphabetize, go for it!

3)  MAINTAIN. Now that you have an easy-to-use filing system all you have to do is maintain it. Easier said than done, I know! File your papers right away, to avoid a huge pile of documents that need to be filed. Purge your filing cabinet a few times a year to keep it current. 

Filing may seem tedious, but with a little time and work, it can become a routine that helps keep your life running smoothly. If you're looking for help with your paper pile, schedule a free virtual assessment. PICK IT UP works virtually with clients nationwide! 

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Back to school... kind of

9/15/2020

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​Another Fall and the kids back to school... kind of. This has not been a typical year and is not a typical "back to school" season. There is no denying it can be tough with everyone Zooming in their own room, be it for school or work! 

I love the above image because it's how I feel several times a week. With everyone home, getting the house under control right now can feel like a monumental task! Take a few minutes to congratulate yourself on small victories, even if it is just organizing a drawer.

It does seem that all this time at home has made people really want to invest in their homes, which is a wonderful silver lining of all of this. I see lots of houses getting painted and back yards getting spruced-up. Places like Goodwill are also overwhelmed with donations as people simplify their lives and learn how good it feels to live with less.

Take care and stay well,  
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Virtual Mini-Sessions

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​Over the past six months my business, like many others,  has changed in significant ways. The biggest change is that I am now offering virtual organizing services. In these mini 1-2 hour organizing, coaching, or planning sessions, we meet via Zoom and choose a limited area to dive into. Whether it's planning for a move, strategizing how to tackle a larger project, or purging your closet, you are doing the hands-on work and I am coaching you through it. After the session, I do offer contactless donation pickup for SF residents. Simply place the items outside at the appointed time and watch them disappear!

To find out if virtual organizing is for you, take a look at my website. Of course, you can always call or email me with questions or book a free assessment or virtual session.
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I am happy to announce that PICK IT UP has been a certified California green business for over 5 years! Being a green business is important to me because it shows my community and clients that I care about sustainability. In the context of being an organizer, this means:
  • Donating usable items rather than sending them to the landfill 
  • Working with an extensive list of donation organizations including Goodwill, SCRAP, Building Resources, and others
  • Teaching clients the safest way to dispose of hazardous items and e-waste
  • Encouraging clients to purchase sustainable organizing supplies made of fabric or bamboo rather than plastic
There are so many ways to go green with our everyday choices, and they all add up! If you want to support other green businesses you can find them in the CA Green Business Network.
​
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Checking-in, Virtual Organizing, and a Cute Bunny

5/5/2020

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Clockwise from top left:  one of our many puzzles, Buttercup, bike rides, and a Zoom party!
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What a time we are living in. I hope this post finds you well as we shelter-in-place. I also hope you are finding some silver linings in all of this. For me, they are puzzles, lots of bunny time, zoom birthday parties, and bike rides.

Spending so much time at home can be challenging, but maybe we can use this time in positive ways. It could be as simple as clearing out a drawer or dusting off your art supplies. Action always feels good, even if it's confined to our home!

​I wanted to let you know that I have started offering Virtual Organizing Services. In these mini 1-hour sessions, we meet via Zoom and choose a limited area to dive into. You are doing the hands-on work and I coach you through it. When donation organizations are open again, I will pick up all donatable items (for SF residents) at no charge. Learn more about Virtual Organizing or book a session here. Of course, you can always call or email me with questions.

Wishing you lots of silver linings,
​Erin
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Don't Fear the Compost Bin!

3/9/2020

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With lots of recycling and composting going on in SF our trash bins can get kind of gross. A few months ago I signed up for a trash bin cleaning service and I am loving it!

Bin Cleaners comes by quarterly and cleans my trash containers with hot, high-pressure water right after they have been emptied by Recology. It's a non-toxic way to keep them sparkly clean! I swear it is SO worth it. Now I never dread taking out the compost. See my bin cleaning below in action!

Bin Cleaners
888-903-7374
bincleaners.com
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Donation Spotlight! Wonder Dog Rescue

3/2/2020

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Looking for a great place to donate gently used dog supplies? Look no further than Wonder Dog Rescue. This great local rescue organization is focused on small dogs and dogs facing the greatest risk of euthanasia in shelters due to medical conditions.

Their website states:
In addition to small dogs, "we also rescue dogs who are at the greatest risk of euthanasia in the shelters due to medical issues, both physical and emotional. While some of these dogs continue on to being adopted, many remain with us as foster/hospice, or fospice dogs… beloved dogs who need care and compassion at the end of their lives."

Wonder Dog Rescue is always in need of the following items:
Exercise Pens – our GREATEST need for foster homes!
Crates
Leashes and collars for small dogs
Dog food (check with us about brands!)
Bully sticks
Flea and tick control​
Toys
Pet Carriers
Learn about Wonder Dog's specific donation needs here.  

WONDER DOG RESCUE
2926 16th Street, San Francisco, CA  94103
(415) 621-3647
wonderdogrescue.org

Thanks to Freepik for use of the dog icon!
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Closet Tips from a Pro

10/7/2019

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The Home Edit Starter Solution from The Container Store.

​I spend a lot of time organizing clothing and closets.  Along the way, I have come up with a few tips I wanted to share. It goes without saying that any closet spruce-up needs to start with a purge. Go through each category and ruthlessly purge out the items you no longer need, want or wear and toss them in a bag for donation.  Once that's done,  move on with these tips and your closet will be spruced up in no time!

Tip #1:  Return the Wire Hangers
Wire hangers bend out of shape easily, get tangled, and don't hold clothes nicely. If you are used to getting your hangers free from the dry cleaner, it's time to upgrade. I recommend switching to velvet hangers. They're affordable, super-slim (so they maximize the space in your closet) and hold items with skinny straps. Trust me, you won't miss those wire hangers! Most dry cleaners will happily accept them back.

Tip #2:  Use the Space You Have
If you have lots of hanging space and very little drawer or shelf space, don't be shy about hanging things like tees and jeans. You can even purchase a hanging shelf for folded items or a rod expander to increase your short hanging space.

If you are long on shelving space but have no drawers, consider using open bins to hold things like socks and underwear. Just don't make the bins too deep or things will get lost at the bottom. There is no "right" way to organize a closet. My advice is to use the space you have!

Tip #3:  Organize in Zones
Organizing your closet into zones helps keep what you need at hand and everything else out of the way.
  • Zone A is a high priority space, it's right in front of you and easy to see. This is where you want the things you are reaching for every day like your favorite shirts and shoes.
  • Zone B is a bit higher, lower, or off to the side. It's still easy to get to, but it should not be for items that get used every day. This space may be for things like heels or cocktail dresses.
  • Zone C is usually really high (that could just be because I'm short) really low, or deep in the corner. This is an area for things that are not used very often like extra pillows, luggage or ski gear.
Tip # 4:  Divide the Conquer
If your shelves are a mess of disorganized stuff, consider dividing up the space. Clear shelf dividers are an easy way to delineate areas for different items such as shirts and pants. A large drawer is in dire need of drawer organizers when used for small items like bras and underwear. See if you can find other areas where dividing up the space would make it more manageable.
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Gray Drawer Organizers and  Clear Shelf Dividers from The Container Store.

​Tip #5:  Organize By Color
Once you have edited your closet completely, group all items of a category together. For example, all blouses together, all dresses together, all jackets together. Then, I love to organize each category by color going from white, through the color spectrum to black. It makes your closet look neat and makes it easy to find what you are looking for. 

Tip #6:  Use Hooks
I love hooks in a closet! Whether it's over the rod, over the door or on the wall to hold your outfit for the next day, hooks are essential in the closet.

Tip # 7: Upgrade the Shelf and Rod
I see so many closets that are just a shelf and a rod. Now, this closet design (a favorite of contractors I have noticed) can work, but if your closet really needs an upgrade, consider getting a custom closet from The Container Store. When we hear the words 'custom closet' I know that sounds expensive, but it doesn't have to be!

Elfa is The Container Store's most affordable closet solution and my favorite. If you want a little more from your closet design, go for Elfa Decor which adds wooden drawers, shelves, and trim.  If you want to go all out on your closet consider Avera or Lauren, The Container Store's highest-end closets that are absolutely gorgeous. You can see all of these designs at their website, plus all closet systems are 10-25% off right now!

Tip #8: Create-A-Closet
If you are in a space with no closet at all, consider an armoire or garment rack. For a minimal wardrobe, this IRIS garment rack even has shelves and would look great in any space!

If you need a pro to help with your closet, book your free assessment today!
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IRIS Garment Rack from Amazon and Steel Valet Hanger from The Container Store.
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Marine Layer Wants Your Old Tees

10/2/2019

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I have long been a fan of Marine Layer. With super-soft clothes in great styles, it fits my life perfectly. When I recently learned of Marine Layer's t-shirt recycling program, Re-Spun, I was hooked! Drop-off (or send in) old t-shirts of any variety and in any condition and they will send you a $5 Marine Layer credit for each shirt (up to $25, but no limit on donations.)

They sort the tees by color, break them down to the fiber level, add recycled plastic bottles to the fibers to create their recycled yarn, and create a brand new(ish) shirt using sustainable methods. No water, dye or new materials are used! Pretty amazing!

So far they have collected 100,000 tees and plan to keep going. On the Re-Spun FAQ page to the question "How long will you be collecting T-shirts?" Their answer is:
"Forever. (Or at least until we go out of business.) But seriously. We want Re-Spun to be a core part of what we do — and t-shirts are just the beginning. We're working hard to expand the program to other kinds of products. Stay tuned."

If you want to find out more or get a prepaid mailer, visit the Re-Spun site. If you want to drop off your tees in store, check out all of their locations. I had no idea there were so many!

Marine Layer (SF Locations):

CHESTNUT
2106 Chestnut St.
San Francisco, CA 94123
(415) 400-4136

HAYES
498 Hayes St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 829-7519

marinelayer.com

If you enjoyed reading about interesting ways to repurpose items, take a look at my recent post about La Casa de las Madres.
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    Author

    Erin Becker is the owner of PICK IT UP, a
    San Francisco-based home organizing service.

    ​At     PICK IT UP design and organizing come together beautifully.

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