For me, organization is really about more than just...being organized. Having a tidy and organized home or workplace makes me happy or I guess I should say that when everything is a mess in the physical sense (read:stuff everywhere); I become an emotional mess. I am less efficient and to be honest...I am miserable. I know most of you know what I'm talking about. There is a certain zen that comes about when everything is in its place. Recently, I had the amazing opportunity to attend a webcast hosted by Peter Walsh (from Clean Sweep and Oprah) and Office Max to introduce Peter's new line of organization products, called [IN]PLACE by Peter Walsh. Words can't express how excited I was to be invited-I LOVE Peter Walsh. The best way that I can describe him is that he is REAL. He tells it like it is and his organization advice is realistic and doable.

A couple of weeks before the webcast, Office Max very generously sent me several products to try out in preparation for the webcast. I received the following products:

[IN]PLACE System Organization Kit (RV $19.99): This is Peter Walsh's answer to the needs heard over and over from people around the country. This organizational system helps with efficiency, assists with finding and managing files easily, reduces clutter and is flexible as well as portable.

Includes:

• 1 Erasable marker
• 5 Clip Tabs
• Document Wallet
• 3 Poly File Folders
• 3x3 White Post-it Super Sticky notes - 50 sheets
• 1 Poly Document Envelope
• 3 Poly Document Sleeves

[IN]PLACE System File Tote (RV $9.99): Designed with handles that extend to transport files easily and compress to fit inside a bag, case or cabinet.
Features:

• Retractable handles
• Up to 2" capacity; 500 sheets
• Durable poly material

[IN]PLACE System Post-it Wallet (RV $7.99-$8.99): Easily label and color-code your work.
Features:

• Wallet keeps sticky notes protected while traveling
• Super sticky technology helps when removing and replacing
• Designed to fit in all [IN]PLACE products without overhang
• Unique design allows you to access any color easily
• Can be used to color code archived files

Office Max also sent me some beautiful and ultra modern file folders, a journal, and some other goodies by DiVoga and a very useful OfficeMax Rubberband Ball.

So just as I expected, Peter Walsh and Office Max surpassed my expectations with the new [IN]PLACE product line. All of the [IN]PLACE products work together as a system and can be expanded. It is actually a VERY INNOVATIVE system with some great features unlike any that I've seen before. For example, the products are all made out of a poly material. Of course, the obvious is that this system is durable, but more than that; you can also write on all of the products with the [IN]PLACE erasable marker! That means that when you want to rename a file folder (or make a mistake), you just erase it and you have a brand new folder. Also, since they are clear, you are not tied to any particular color scheme.


Also, the Post-it Wallet is really cool as well. The Post-its are actually designed to replace traditional tabs. You know how you always run out of the right tab for your hanging file folders? Well, these Post-its solve that problem. They fit in all [IN]PLACE products and the file folders actually have measurment guides so that you always get the Post-it placed just right. Since the [IN]PLACE system is clear, you can see the tabs or Post-its clearly and they are easily accessed.

I used the system for two different things. The actual kit I am using to organize my coupons, which were a mess! I wasn't using my coupons as much BECAUSE they were a mess! Now, everything is clearly labeled and organized. The file tote I paired with the DiVoga file folders and journal to use for my blog. This is something I have been wanting and NEEDING to do for a very long time! I love that all of the [IN]PLACE products are portable because I am a wahm, which means that even though I do have an office; my entire house usually ends up as my workspace. Now, I can take my blog work with me everywhere in my house and still be organized. Next, I want to get my property management business organized with the [IN]PLACE system!


Peter Walsh also gave awesome organization tips that I wanted to share with you as well.

1. Keep your children's paperwork organized by color coding each child.
2. Start teaching kids good organizational habits at a young age. Start by modeling good behavior (i.e. picking up trash from car each time and have kids get involved in the process).
3. Peter says that 80% of what goes into files NEVER sees the light of day! His suggestion is to purge every 6 months (not including tax and banking records).
4. Be consistent when naming both electronic files and physical files (i.e. have same file names for same info stored both electronically and in physical files).
5. Organization does NOT start with products. It starts with a VISION! Determine what the purpose of the space is first.
6. Clearly label all file folders with the date a project started, as well as a descriptive, specific name for each subject filed. File or store folders alphabetically for quick access.
7. Sometimes, you just need papers close at hand, right where you can see them. But don’t just let them take over your desktop! Instead, organize papers in labeled folders and stack them in a stepped organizer.
8. For travel, business and leisure, create a different binder devoted to your important documents. For your travel binder, include pocketed folders to store airline tickets and receipts, a contact section storing important phone numbers, and a location portion highlighting hot spots and destination details.
9. Combine home and work calendars. Simply choose various colors to mark important dates: one for professional tasks and meetings, one for personal appointments, one for social engagements, one for your children’s activities, and so on.
10. Get out your pens, and color-code your tasks on your to-do list. For example, write out action items with a red pen, and use a black pen to cross out completed tasks. Then, write follow-up notes or comments with a blue pen. At the end of the day, rewrite the list for the next day with your current action items.

Want It: [IN]PLACE by Peter Walsh is available exclusively at Office Max stores.