When you embark on a journey of personal change – whether it be transforming your home, health, relationships, or anything in life – one of the common pitfalls is believing the idea that you are either good or bad. That you are either a success or a failure.
On today's episode, I share with you a story about a long time client of mine who got really discouraged when she had a rough few weeks at work and allowed her house to get a little messy and out of control.
The fact is, you will always have up and down days. But during those down days, don’t be too hard on yourself, and don't just give up.
Here is the key to making good changes in your life: No matter how good or bad your day is, just be sure you are always moving onward and trending upward and, therefore, always improving over time.
Imagine a traditional line graph chart of a business in growth mode… if you look at the details of the growth line, it has smaller jagged lines going up and down, but if you look at the graph as a whole, it's in the long run trending upward. Ultimately, you can grow and improve without having to be perfect every single day.
Know anyone would love listening to the show? Just send them to LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com and they can check out all our previous episodes.
And be sure to stay updated on all our new episodes by subscribing to Life Made Simple on iTunes or whatever podcast app you prefer to use.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode40
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
You might have noticed in the title of for today's show it says "CarlaRae Confesses". That's because every month or so on Life Made Simple, we feature a special segment when yours truly admits to an area of my own life where I've fallen short in the whole simplicity department... certain areas of life where even I need a little extra help in.
You've probably heard me talk about this before, but long before my days of being a Professional Home Organizer, I was actually a pack rat as a child. I was completely attached to everything I owned! Everything felt special to me and I wanted to keep it all.
I'm also a recovering overachiever who used to commit to WAY more than one person could possible handle. And to this day (you can ask my husband) I still sometimes bite off more than I can chew.
The fact is, in our crazy busy world it's HARD to simplify. And there's so much psychology behind it all! While I love helping all my client's push past anything holding them back from discovering true simplicity in life, I too am on this journey as well with them. I'm learning how to navigate through all the chaos as well. I too am learning how to focus only on what really matters in my life, which of course means letting go of what doesn't really matter... and that's not always easy.
I'm not a perfectionist, I'm not a holy than thou expert. I am a student of my own teachings. We're in this together! Which is why every once in awhile we feature an episode like this one called "CarlaRae Confesses".
So what do I confess on today's episode? Well, there is one area of my life that has recently gotten a little out of hand (ok, so actually, to be honest, it's gotten really out of hand). For this past year, I've been guilty of suffering from magazine overload. I have way too many magazines!
First, I tell you exactly how I got myself into this dilemma. And the fact is I LOVE reading magazines... which means solving my problem isn't as easy as just tossing them all in the recycle bin. If you also love your magazine subscriptions, then you'll probably appreciate some of the solutions I have for you to help manage the magazines that you do love to collect, read, and keep.
But then I also going to give you some very specific ways on how I plan to, not only let go of the majority of my magazine clutter, but exactly how I plan to prevent the problem from happening again. I tell you how I plan on stopping the madness once and for all!
Do you know anyone would enjoy listening to the show? Anyone who could use a little motivation and inspiration to simplify their life? Just send them to LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com and they can check out all our previous episodes.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode39
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
When it’s time to leave the house, in the morning, when you're on your way to work, to an event, run errands, or to drop the kids off at school, do you struggle getting out the door on time? Do you feel like you’re participating in an elaborate scavenger hunt every time you need to go somewhere or get something done?
On today's "3 Minute Thursday" episode I share some tips to help you save a few minutes... and to help you save your sanity!
Want more info on how to be on time? Check out Episode #19 of Life Made Simple. In that episode, I confess to you about my own struggles with being habitually late and I give you a handful of practical solutions, tips, and techniques that I've applied to my own life that can definitely help you to be on time more often.
You should also check out the free downloadable printout I made for that episode. You can find the link for it at the bottom of my show notes or you can just text the word ONTIME (all one word with no spaces and no dashes) to 44222.
Know anyone would love listening to the show? Just send them to LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com and they can check out all our previous episodes.
And be sure to stay updated on all our new episodes by subscribing to Life Made Simple on iTunes or whatever podcast app you prefer to use.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Episode #19: "Always Late? Here's What To Do About It!"
Free Download: "How To Be More Punctual"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ONTIME
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode38
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
As a Lifestyle and Wellness Coach, and Professional Home Organizer for the last 15 years, and now as the host of this podcast show, I want to help inspire and motivate you to let go of all the clutter in your life that weighs you down. Anything and everything that holds you back from living the life that you you've always dreamed of.
I am on a mission to help individuals and families take control of their chaotic homes and schedules and find the freedom of simplicity in all areas of life. Which is why one of my well known motto's is to Have Less. Do Less. And Be More.
Unfortunately, for a lot of you, when it comes to simplifying your home, you dread the idea of going through all your stuff and sorting out things that you don't love, use, or need... which is probably why many people avoid the process of de-cluttering all together. The fact is, simplifying your life doesn't always have to be hard and tedious. What if I told you that you can actually have fun letting go of all your stuff?
How, you ask? Well... if you want a unique and enjoyable way to get rid of things cluttering up your home, why not have a party? A Swap Party! That's right, you should gather up some friends - along with all their excess stuff that they don't need - and host a fun evening of trading.
Tune in to today's episode and learn a bunch of tips on how to plan and host a successful Swap Party.
Do you know anyone would enjoy listening to the show? Anyone who could use a little motivation and inspiration to simplify their life? Just send them to LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com and they can check out all our previous episodes.
To stay updated on all our new episodes, so you don't miss any, just subscribe on iTunes or whatever podcast app you prefer to use, and of course, it's totally free. If you're new to the whole podcast world, and want more info on how to subscribe, just check out my website for some detailed information on what a podcast show is and the best way to tune in to listen. Just go to CarlaRaeArneson.com/subscribe.
Well, I'm out of time for today. Thanks so much for joining me. I'm CarlaRae and you've been listening to Life Made Simple. Bye for now!
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode37
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
What do you collect? Coins, baseball cards, antiques, bottle caps, beer cans, comic books, miniatures, postcards, hats, spoons, stamps, thimbles, cookie cutters, teddy bears, frogs, action figures, concert tickets, magnets, or PEZ dispensers… the list goes on and on.
Whatever the collection, in my 15 years of being a Professional Home Organizer, I’ve seen it all! Some are very valuable and worth a large chunk of change and other collections are simply for fun or nostalgia.
The question is: Where is your collection? Do you keep it buried in a box in the basement? Or, worse, is it piled all over your guest bedroom, master closet, or home office cluttering up your usable space? Either way, how can you really appreciate what you have if it’s buried or becoming a burden?
My challenge to you is to find a fun and clever way to display all or a part of your collection. It doesn’t necessarily need to be out for everyone to see. Albums of paper objects can be stored on bookshelves. If your collection is too big, consider exhibiting a few items, storing the rest, and then seasonally rotating.
Then again, maybe you’ve decided that you don’t really want those hundreds of beanie babies that you used to love so dearly, or whatever collection you have that you're not as passionate about anymore. Maybe it’s time to consider moving on and letting go. Some collections can be sold or donated. If it’s too hard to get rid of them, only keep a handful of your favorites as a keepsake and let go of the rest. No sense keeping all of them if the collection is not cherished the way it used to be.
Remember, when it comes to simplifying your home and your life, you need to focus and hang on to what really matters, and somehow let go of the rest!
Know anyone would love listening to the show? Just send them to LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com and they can check out all our previous episodes.
And be sure to stay updated on all our new episodes by subscribing to Life Made Simple on iTunes or whatever podcast app you prefer to use.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode36
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Very important, if you don't already know, this particular episode is a Part 2 to last week's show, Episode #33. If you haven't listened to that entire episode yet, go back and push play... you'll definitely not want to miss anything from Part 1!
On this week's Part 2 episode, I pick up right where we left off. I give you a bunch more tips on how to not only boost your energy physically, but also mentally and emotionally.
To stay updated on all our new episodes, so you don't miss any, just subscribe on iTunes or whatever podcast app you prefer to use. You can also go back and listen to as many past episodes as you like. And it's, of course all completely free. If you're new to the whole podcast world, and want more info on how to subscribe, just check out my website for some detailed information on what a podcast show is and the best way to tune in to listen. Just go to CarlaRaeArneson.com/subscribe. Or you can click on the link in my show notes.
Do you know anyone who could use a little energy boost today? Or do you know someone who could use a little inspiration and motivation to simplify their life? Be sure to share this podcast show with them!
Have you liked what you heard so far? If so, I would love to hear about it! If you could, please take a minute and leave the show a quick rating and review on itunes. I would appreciate it more than you know!
FREE Downloads Mentioned in this Show:
Free Nutrition Guide: "CarlaRae's Nutrition Guide"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word NUTRITIONGUIDE
Free Download: "How To Exercise Without Really Exercising"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word MOVEEVERYDAY
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Previous Episodes Mentioned in this Show:
Episode #7: The Ultimate 3-Day Jumpstart to Good Health
Episode #9: Why You Must Make Personal Development A Daily Habit
Episode #23: How to Exercise Without Really Exercising
Episode #29: Be A Force For Good With Contagious Kindness
Episode #33: PART 1 - Quick Fixes To Double Your Energy
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode35
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Can you believe that it's December already?!? Seriously, where did the year go? We are in the homestretch of 2016... and 2017 is just on the horizon! I'm sure you've already started to hear a bunch about New Year's resolutions. It seems that everyone jumps on the whole New Year, New You movement. And don't worry, I'll definitely be covering that topic in the upcoming months.
I recently saw a funny quote that said, "My goal for 2017 is to accomplish the goals I had in 2016, which I should have done in 2015, because I made a promise in 2014 after planning them in 2013." Can you relate?
If you tend to cringe at the idea of making New Year's resolutions, or maybe you like them but - if you're honest with yourself - you have a hard time following through with them, then let me share an idea with you...
While we're closing out this current year and starting fresh with a new one, use this time to definitely reflect on your specific goals and intentions, but then take a step back from the list and adopt a power phrase for this season of your life.
Check out today's episode to learn why you should have a power phrase. I also give you specific examples to inspire you.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode34
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
We can try to get all the areas of our life in order (like our home, our finances, our to-dos and relationships), BUT if we don't learn how to manage healthy habits - if we don't feel good physically - how can we really enjoy our day to day life, whether we find the freedom of simplicity or not? Which is why every once in awhile we have an entire episode dedicated to your health.
On today's episode of Life Made Simple, I give you a whole bunch of quick and easy tips on how to feel good. Specifically, I give you some strategies and techniques on how to double your energy. Super easy things that you can do today, to boost your mood and help you to feel like you can conquer the world!
Some tips may seem obvious, but you may not actually be in the habit of doing them yet. And some things, you may not have even thought of before.
I actually have so much I want to talk about on this subject, that we decided to break it up into two different episodes. So first check out this week's Part 1 and then you can tune in to next week's Monday episode #35 for the rest of it.
To stay updated on all our new episodes, so you don't miss any, just subscribe on iTunes or whatever podcast app you prefer to use. You can also go back and listen to as many past episodes as you like. And it's, of course all completely free. If you're new to the whole podcast world, and want more info on how to subscribe, just check out my website for some detailed information on what a podcast show is and the best way to tune in to listen. Just go to CarlaRaeArneson.com/subscribe. Or you can click on the link in my show notes.
Do you know anyone who could use a little energy boost today? Or do you know someone who could use a little inspiration and motivation to simplify their life? Be sure to share this podcast show with them!
Have you liked what you heard so far? If so, I would love to hear about it! If you could, please take a minute and leave the show a quick rating and review on itunes. I would appreciate it more than you know!
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
MindBell: App for Android
Insight Timer: Alternate Mindbell App for iPhone
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode33
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Previous Episodes Mentioned in this Show:
Episode #7: The Ultimate 3-Day Jumpstart to Good Health
Episode#23: How to Exercise Without Really Exercising
Episode #9: Why You Must Make Personal Development A Daily Habit
If you're listening to this episode on the day that it was released, then you know today is December 1st. Thanksgiving has passed, and it's now time to officially dive into the Christmas holiday season! And I know for some of you out there, you took that dive somewhere in the beginning of November.
It seems like these days, people get so excited about Christmas they just can't help themselves... the Christmas lights down our street keep popping up sooner and sooner each year. And for some of you, your decorations from last year have yet to come down. But ya know, to each his own!
On today's episode I give you a little inspiration to de-clutter and clean out your Christmas decorations. And keep in mind, even if you and your family don't celebrate the Christmas holiday, you can still apply these tips to pretty much any holiday throughout the year!
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode32
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Do you ever feel stressed, overwhelmed, with way too much to do and not enough time to do it? Are you constantly putting out fires, just to turn around and find a new one starting right up?
At the end of a hectic day, do you sit down, completely drained and find yourself thinking of all the things that you tackled but for some reason you don’t feel like you truly accomplished anything. Cause your to-do list is still a mile long? And let's be real, some of those things have been on that darn list for weeks, even months now. Am I right?
But it's not like you sit around doing nothing! For most of you, you really do keep yourself extremely busy, right? Do you ever ask yourself, “If I’m doing so much, why do I feel like I’m going nowhere?”
Well, then this episode is for you!
On today's show I introduce you to Eisenhower's Urgent vs. Important Principle. I also directly apply it to Stephen Covey's Time Management Matrix (see the picture below for reference), a framework for prioritizing to-dos in regards to how important and urgent they are.
All in all, on today's episode, we talk about how to focus only on what's really important and how to let go of the rest.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode31
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Other episodes about willpower and discipline:
Episode #2: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode2
Episode #3: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode3
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
So, what is Small Business Saturday? Well, in 2010 American Express invented it as a shopping holiday to support small businesses. In the last few years, not only has Congress officially sanctioned it as a national day, but it has completely evolved into a “shop local” movement that gives retailers nationwide a considerable sales lift.
Now I know when you have shopping to do with a long list of presents to buy, it’s tempting to take the easy route and head down to the mall and shop at one of the big chain stores. And I'm definitely not against doing that sometimes. But why not shop small every once in awhile?
There's really no denying that small businesses are essential for healthy local economies. Did you know there are currently 28 million American small businesses, which account for 54% of all U.S. sales? But unfortunately, they can at times get overshadowed by major corporations and Black Friday madness. Especially since Mom-and-pop shops don’t have the resources to pull off million-dollar promotions.
So why buy from small businesses? Well, not only can they offer one-of-a-kind unique products and services, but they usually have exceptional customer service that many big companies often don't have.
By shopping small, you also get access to experts in the industry. I know from experience, that small business owners have sacrificed time, money, and more to build businesses out of their passions. They want to offer you their expertise. You technically have a better chance at getting knowledgeable answers to any questions you might have about the products or services.
Also, buying small means supporting your local community... circulating money in the same locality helps that community thrive.
American Express has created an amazing interactive map to help shoppers locate small businesses right in their neighborhood. The map can be used to search by business name or ZIP code. Shoppers can also filter the search based on dining, shopping, entertainment, travel or services. I'll include a link to the map in my show notes for this episode.
And remember, you don't have to limit your support for small businesses to just one day a year. Try shopping and dining at small businesses as often as you can. And keep in mind, there are many online small businesses as well.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Interactive Small Business Map: "Shop Small Now"
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode30
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Today, I'm keeping it real. I know that this week is Thanksgiving, which is traditionally our time to give thanks and gratitude for all that we have in life. But if you really stop and think about it, do we really always feeling so grateful and thankful?
Just because we take the time to show our thanks during this annual holiday (and we really do intend to show our gratitude) it doesn't mean we actually do. Are we really counting our blessings? Or are we just kinda going through the motions?
The fact is, it's the end of the year, Christmas is only a month away, some of us are still recovering from the craziness of Halloween. In my family, I'm not totally sure what even happened to the month of October... it was just totally gone before I knew it was even there.
Then there were the recent elections. And oh my goodness, talk about craziness!
At this time of year, we tend to glance back at how this past year has treated us... we ponder all the ups and downs that we've been through. And you know, if you look around some people are really struggling right now. You might be one of them.
Life can be so stressful! To-do lists are never ending and there's always a fire to put out or a problem to solve. Some of you may be struggling with finances, your job, or relationships.
If we were honest with ourselves, it's sometimes just too easy to get caught up in our hectic lifestyle, that we end up missing all the good in our lives. We INTEND to be thankful, especially on Thanksgiving, but sometimes it's hard.
So, during this traditional season of Thankfulness, how can we take our focus off of our problems in life? How can we take time to focus on the good in life? How can we genuinely and authentically feel thankful?
Well, I have a challenge for you today. Tune in and listen to today's episode and I'll tell you all about it!
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode29
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript29
In one week, all across America, family and friends will join together to celebrate one of the most beloved holidays: Thanksgiving. And how do we celebrate our thankfulness? We cook up a glorious feast, of course!
With Turkey Day – ahem – I mean Thanksgiving Day just around the corner, it’s time to make room for one thing that I know we can all be thankful for… leftovers! That’s right, it’s time to clean out your fridge and make room for a whole bunch of tupperware containers filled with leftover Thanksgiving dinner!
Sadly, Americans waste roughly 14 percent of their food purchases. All too often, food items get buried and forgotten about, particularly in refrigerators. My challenge to you this week is to spend a few minutes taking inventory of all your food items in your fridge, in your cupboards, and even pantry.
On today's episode, I give you some ideas of how to do just that. I also give you a helpful website you can refer to when figuring out what to toss, as well as a website that can give recipe suggestions to use up some of the food that's been sitting around too long.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode28
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript28
Now I have to give you a heads up, today's episode is a Part 2 to last week's regular Monday episode, Episode #25. It was a special Ask CarlaRae segment where I addressed a question that I received while speaking at a Mom's group recently. The question was, "How can I help my child let go of stuff?"
If you missed that episode, you might wanna push pause on this one and go back to listen to it. You can find it on my website at CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode25. Or just go to LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com.
Sometimes, kids have really hard time letting go of the toys and clothes that they grow out of. Like I explained in last week's episode, I have ALOT of personal experience in regards to this subject. Not only was I a pack rat as a child, but I now have a 6 year old son who is also a pack rat.
There's just so much psychology behind why we hang on to things when we shouldn't. And by understanding that psychology, you can better help guide your child to get to a point where there are comfortable letting things go. But it definitely takes time and a lot of patience!
So in last week's episode I give you some tips and techniques on how and where to help your child donate their unused and unwanted toys, books, and clothes. But many of you are going to find that no matter what you say or do, your child is still going to have a really hard time letting things go.
So what can you do if your child just refuses to let go of anything? What can you do if your child is a true packrat?
Well, that's what I talk about on today's Part 2 episode. I am give you some very specific strategies on how to help your child let go of things if they tend to be overly attached.
And then, whether your child is a packrat or not, I'm going to give you some tips on how to prevent the clutter from coming back into your child's room.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Download from PART 2: "What If My Child Is A Pack Rat?"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word PACKRATKID
Free Download from PART 1: "How To Help Your Child Let Go Of Stuff"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word HELPKIDS
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode27
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript27
Most of us have to-do lists... lists of things that we intend to get done either today, this week, or hopefully sometime soon. In addition to a to-do list, many of us should also have an ignore list to keep us focused and on track (like I explained in Episode 24).
But have you ever considered having a victory list?
The fact is, life can be so crazy sometimes. Do you ever feel like you're being pulled into hundred directions? Do you ever feel like your to-do list is just never ending? There are some days and I feel like I'd add more tasks to my to-do list, than I actually get crossed off. It can be so overwhelming sometimes!
Unfortunately, for many people, when they feel overwhelmed by too much to do, they then get discouraged. Sometimes it's easy to want to avoid your to-do list all together.
On today's episode, I explain exactly why you should have a "Victory List" and how you can make one.
Do you know anyone who is overwhelmed with a crazy, busy life? Do you know anyone who could use a little motivation to find the freedom of simplicity? Share this podcast show with them. They can find all our episodes on my website at CarlaRaeArneson.com. Or, you can just have them go to LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Be sure to stay updated on all our new episodes by subscribing to Life Made Simple on iTunes or whatever podcast app you prefer to use.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode26
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
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Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript26
Over the years, as a professional home organizer, I've done many workshops and other special speaking engagements. And I absolutely love any opportunity that comes up to do so! Now, I know that most people dread and fear public speaking, but for some reason I love getting up to talk in front of a huge room full of people.
Well, last week I had the opportunity to speak to a mom's group here in the Seattle area. It was a MOPS group (which stands for mothers of preschoolers) and they invited me to talk about how to clean out your closet, which just so happened to be a recent podcast episode I did a few weeks ago, Episode #21 (so I really didn't have to spend very much time prepping for it).
Anyways, during my talk, we discussed the psychology behind why it's so hard to let things go sometimes. And since it was a room full of mothers, the conversation naturally turned into talking about our kids and going through their closets. Well, during the question and answer time at the end, one woman asked a really good question, " How can I help my child let go of stuff?"
Unfortunately, I was very limited on time while I was speaking to the group and didn't feel like I was able to completely answer her question. So this episode of Life Made Simple is going to be a special "Ask CarlaRae" episode, and I'm going to give you all my thoughts, opinions, and advice to help answer that really great question that many parents have asked me: "How can I help my child let go of stuff?"
I have ALOT of info to give you on this particular subject. So much so, that we had to divide this episode into two parts. This week we'll do Part 1, and then next week we'll release Part 2.
Today, I'm going to give you some techniques and tips on how and where to help your child donate their unused and unwanted toys, books, and clothes. And then next Monday morning, for the Part 2 episode (Episode #27) I'm also going to give you some very specific strategies on how to help your child let go of things if they tend to be overly attached. And then I'm going to give you some tips on how to prevent the clutter from coming back into your child's room.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode25
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Free Download: "How To Help Your Child Let Go Of Stuff"
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript25
I have two questions for you today. First, what's on your to-do list? Do you need to fold the laundry, schedule a dentist appointment? Maybe go to the grocery store, pay the phone bill? Well, on my to-do list is to record this podcast episode, go to a fundraiser assembly at my son's school, make a mortgage payment, and call a client who left me a message this morning. Those are the most important things that I need to get done today. What's on your to-do list today?
Now here's my next question for you. What's on your ignore list for the day? Yes, your ignore list. Do you have an ignore list yet?
On today's quick "3 Minute Thursday" episode of Life Made Simple, I tell you exactly how to focus on the important things in life without letting any other distracting tasks get your undeserved attention.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode24
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
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Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript24
I'm going to give you one strategy on how to improve your health and clean up your house, WITHOUT taking any additional time out of your schedule... sounds pretty amazing, right?
Back in episode #7 of Life Made Simple, I gave you My Ultimate 3-Day Jumpstart to Good Health. On Day 3 of the jumpstart plan I have you take time to schedule in movement, as in exercise. Why? Because we all know that some sort of physical activity is important... it's what our bodies were designed to do! If we don't use our muscles regularly, if we just sit around all day, they will begin to get stiff and not work as well, which then makes us feel sluggish, and can even make us feel depressed. No movement also leads to a lower metabolism and weight gain.
In that episode, I explain that if your health goals are to lose weight, build muscle, or get in shape, then you must schedule a few full body workout sessions. This could be going to the gym, hiring a trainer, joining a sports league, or even working out from home with a few workout videos.
But, I know that so many of us just don't feel like we have the time to exercise. Or for some of you, if your honest with yourself, you just don't WANT to exercise, because for whatever reason, you just don't like it. Well, then this episode is for you!
And then there's house cleaning and chores. Maybe you already have a really good exercise routine that you love. Maybe you actually enjoy making movement a priority in your life, but you completely dread housecleaning and other mundane activities you have to do throughout your day. I mean how many of us really love to clean house or pick up after our families? Well, then this episode is for you.
Exercise and housecleaning. Two things that most people dread and usually have a hard time making time for. On today's episode I help you change your attitude about both of those activities. Like I said before, I'm going to help you to get healthier, thinner, and stronger while keeping your house clean, without changing a single thing in your schedule. How? Well, I am going to help you change your mindset and approach to both exercise and housecleaning, by - in a way - combining them. Like it says in the title of this episode, I'm going to teach you how to exercise without really exercising.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Printout: "Exercise Without Really Exercising"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word MOVEEVERYDAY
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode23
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Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
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Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript23
If you know me well and listen often, you might notice that on today's episode I sound a little stuffy and congested. That's because I'm at the tail end of a cold that my little boy gave me. And while I feel very blessed that my family and I are usually pretty healthy throughout the year, it's just inevitable that when the weather changes, some kind germ or bug comes knocking on our door!
It's officially the beginning of the cold and flu season, which is actually the perfect time to clean out your medicine cabinet. And on today's quick 3 Minute Thursday episode I give you some tips on how to do exactly that.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode22
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Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript22
Are you ready for this?!? I'm going to give you an action plan to help you clean out one of the most dreaded areas of your home. Your closet!
For most of the country, we're right now in the middle of Fall. The weather is changing, and therefore, so is your wardrobe. It's getting colder and wetter outside. Goodbye sunshine, hello rain clouds!
Although I'm really resistant to it, it's time to put away our capri pants, tank tops, and those white leather wedges. While the temperature lowers, I'm sure those warm snuggly sweaters and cute high boots are starting to call you name. You might even be drooling over the clothing catalogs that have somehow found their way into your mailbox, showcasing the newest winter trends. But before you go shopping for some new digs, take the time to clean out your closet!
Cause, no matter where you live in the country - or world - and no matter what time of year it is, the changing of the season is the PERFECT time to clean out and update your closet.
Unfortunately, for some people, especially those who haven't done it for awhile, it can be VERY overwhelming.
Now, I can honestly talk for hours on this subject, but I don't have that kinda time. So today, I briefly give you a few ideas that can help inspire and motivate you to tackle that dreaded closet. In this episode, I give you a closet overhaul action plan that will help make your closet organizing simple and easy.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Download: "5 Steps to Organizing Your Home"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ORGANIZE
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode21
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Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
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Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript21
In life, we often put a lot of focus on what we really want... qualities we want to embody, goals and accomplishments we want to achieve. We especially put a lot of focus on material possessions that we wish to acquire. At times we even put focus on particular relationships that we desire and long for. We're always wanting more, which isn't necessarily bad.
However, instead of always seeking to add something to our life, we must discover what we need to let go of first. By doing so, we can uncover WHO we really are, and therefore, figure out what we really want.
Let me introduce you to the “Michelangelo Method.” Legend has it that when Michelangelo finished his statue of David, a local patron of the arts approached him, awestruck, and asked how he did it. The artist responded simply, “David was always there in the marble. I just took away everything that was not David.”
What many people don’t know is that the a giant block of stone that Michelangelo started sculpting was so damaged that his contemporaries considered it “ruined” and “a thing of no value.” But that didn’t stop the passionate artist from seeing his masterpiece inside.
Let me tell you how we can apply this amazing principle to so many areas of our life…
We can easily apply the Michelangelo Method to organizing our home. What sort of insignificant clutter do you have? What do you need to let go of to create a space that you enjoy? What sort of items do you have hanging around that tend to have negative feelings or associations attached to them?
When it comes to managing your time, what sort of things do you need to say “no” to? What time-suckers and distractions do you indulge yourself in? What sort of unimportant, but seemingly urgent tasks are on your to-do list that should be moved to an “Ignore List”?
Now let's take it even deeper. What needs to be cleared away in your life in order to reveal what you really want and to become the person you desire to be? What is stopping you from living the life you were meant to live? What fears, false beliefs, and negative perceptions do you tend to cling to that prevent you from reaching your full potential? It’s time to work towards letting them go. Uncover the masterpiece you have hiding inside.
Begin today to follow Michelangelo’s wise example… look within, overcome obstacles and setbacks, chip away at all the unimportant “stuff”, and begin sculpting a more authentic and simple life.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode20
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Book by Kenneth Schuman: The Michelangelo Method
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript20
Have you ever wondered why some people never seem to arrive to places on time? Now I know that everyone is late now and then, but I'm talking about people who tend to run late most of the time. Surely you must know someone in your life who is habitually late for almost everything.
Some may run only 5, 10, 15 minutes late on occasion, so it's not always so noticeable. In those cases, they are late enough that it isn’t detrimental to their event, but still a little annoying to those around them. But then there are those who run anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour late. Know anyone like that?
Well, no matter how late one might tend to be or how often, being late can become a bad habit. It's never good! Chronically late people can be so frustrating and baffling to anyone stuck waiting for them. Yet, it can be so hard to change that habit.
Unfortunately, for a good percentage of Americans, three little words accompany their entrance into most business meetings, gym class, dinner with friends, or even dates... those three words are “Sorry, I’m late.”
Again, I'm sure you know people who say those three words on a daily basis. And you might actually be able to admit that you are, in fact, one of those people. Are you a habitually late person?
Well, I'm not sure if you noticed, but in the title of this episode it says "CarlaRae Confesses"... that's because every once in awhile on Life Made Simple, we are going to feature a special "CarlaRae Confesses" episode where Yours Truly confesses and talks about an area of my own life that I need extra help in... areas of my life that I need to simplify. Because, I'm definitely not perfect!
So today, I have a confession for you. My confession is that I struggle with being on time. Yup, I hate to admit it, but I tend to run late sometimes. Kinda ironic, isn't it, considering I'm technically a Time Management Specialist. I guess it's just a classic case of "the cobbler's children go barefoot and have no shoes."
Now, I can say that I've gotten MUCH better over the years, because I used to be really bad. I was rarely ever more than 20 minutes late, but I was chronically 5-15 minutes late most of the time. Like I said, I've gotten much better, but I still find that I struggle with it.
In today's episode I reveal WHY most people are habitually late... because there is a lot of psychology behind it. And then we talk about a handful of practical solutions, tips, and techniques that I've applied to my own life that can definitely help you to be on time more often.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Free Download: "How To Be More Punctual"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word ONTIME
More on how to strengthen your willpower muscle: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode3
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode19
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Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript19
In this day in age, you'd think that the technology and our world of digital everything would at some point replace paper coming into our homes. But nope, it's just not the case! No matter how much we try to do online, paper just seems to keep piling up.
I could talk hours about how to take care of paper piles and how to organize good filing systems, but I only had 3 minutes for this "3 minute Thursday" episode, so I kept it super brief and short.
In this episode, I give you one quick tip on how to prevent paper from even coming into your home in the first place... specifically how to prevent it from coming into your mailbox.
The holiday season is just around the corner, and soon, you are going to be inundated with unwanted catalogs, coupons, credit card offers, donation requests, and other junk mail.
You see, most companies send you all that stuff because you because you most likely did business with them at some point in time. But many other companies send you mail because they bought your information from a data broker — who sells your information to any company looking to market to you.
Are you tired of all that unwanted junk mail? Want to declutter your mailbox? In this episode, I tell you about two great websites that can help.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Catalog Choice Website: CatalogChoice.org
DMAchoice Website: DMAchoice.org
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode18
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Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
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Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript18
Let's face it, life is kinda complicated sometimes. I love helping people clear out the clutter in their homes, but I also love to help them simplify so many other areas of life. Life just isn't always easy. Who doesn't need a little more simplicity? And one of the main goals of simplifying your life is to - in some ways - help make it a little easier, a little more effortless. And therefore, ultimately, the goal of simplifying your life is to help you discover a greater sense of joy and happiness.
Quite often, while coaching my clients when it comes to simplifying each area of their life, we talk a lot about the hurdles and struggles of getting there. We take a look at specific things that get in their way, things that stop them from discovering the true freedom of simplicity... the things that tend to stop them from experiencing the happiness that comes from simplicity.
Now, there's numerous different road blocks that prevent people from successfully simplifying their life, but I do find that there are common themes that I see quite often. In particular, I find that negative thinking patterns can really inhibit a person from finding joy and happiness in their life, no matter how much they simplify their homes, schedules, and to-do lists. Negative thinking habits can definitely prevent people from simplifying their life... and I love helping and coaching my clients with that particular hurdle.
So essentially, I help people de-clutter their mind. I help people let go of negative thinking habits and I help empower them to focus on positive ones. And I'll tell you, it's not easy. But it's something so important and something I am very passionate about.
Now, you might be thinking, "Yup that's totally me... I definitely need a little help with de-cluttering my mind." Or you may not relate at all and feel like you really don't struggle with negative thinking. But whether you have the habit of negative thinking or not, we have all experienced really hard days - or even weeks - when the feelings of worry, stress, anxiety, pain, or sadness overwhelm us. We've all been there! We've all felt crushed by those awful feelings. In this episode I give you one simple mantra that can help you get through those rough days... one mindset that I, myself, have practiced over the years that has gotten me through MANY tough times.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode17
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life" (CarlaRaeArneson.com/freeguide)
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript17
Think of a specific goal that you have in your life. Something that's a challenge and seems like it will take forever to accomplish. Something hard and tedious. Maybe you want to lose weight, make more money, finish a big project. Maybe you want to clean out and organize your entire house.
Or maybe your goal isn't something huge, but is simply a new habit that you want to form... or a bad habit that you want to break. Maybe you want to start getting up earlier without pushing the snooze button, or you want to start leaving the house on time instead of 15 minutes late. Maybe you want to exercise more, eat healthier, or you want to stop smoking.
Whatever your goal is, it's important to have a reward to focus on in order to motivate you to get there. The problem is, most people think that the only reward should be reaching the goal itself. Like if you want to exercise to lose weight, then being thinner and healthier is the reward. Or if you want to work hard to get a promotion, then the promotion is the reward. But is that really always enough?
The problem with having the goal be your only reward is that when trying to get there, you can easily get discouraged when things get tough. It's easy to lose motivation when it gets hard and tedious. Getting discouraged leads to slower progress, which then leads to guilt, which then leads to even more discouragement, which then lot of times leads to giving up on the goal all together. Can you relate?
When you're reaching for a goal and you're trying to stay disciplined when it gets hard, those kind of negative emotions (discouragement and guilt) are not good motivators... they are never good incentives. If you have negative associations with reaching a goal, it makes it a hundred times harder to get there and eventually it doesn't seem worth it. Having such a huge reward for AFTER you accomplish your goal sometimes just isn't good enough.
So what should you do? Well, in this episode I give you specific strategies on how to effectively reward yourself when trying to reach a goal.
Do you want even more inspiration on how to accomplish goals in your life that seem hard and tedious to achieve? Go back and listen to episode #2 of this podcast, titled "Why Is Change So Hard". In that episode I dive in deep to the psychology behind making positive changes in our lives and why it's just so hard to do sometimes.
You can also download the free worksheet I talk about in that episode called "7 Questions to Ask Yourself to Make Lasting Change". Just go to CarlaRaeArneson.com/change. Or just text the word CHANGEWORKSHEET to 44222... that's CHANGEWORKSHEET with no spaces to 44222.
Do you know anyone needing some extra motivation or inspiration in their life? Share this episode with them by having them go to CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode16.
Or you can share this episode and all the other episodes of the show by having them go LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com.
And don't forget to subscribe to our Podcast show on itunes or whatever podcast app you prefer, to stay updated on all our new episodes.
Links Mentioned in this Show:
Share this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/episode16
Share this Podcast: LifeMadeSimplePodcast.com
Free Worksheet: "7 Questions to Ask Yourself to Make Lasting Change"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word CHANGEWORKSHEET
Free Guide: "9 Ways to Simplify Your Life"
Or send a text to 44222 with the word 9SIMPLIFY
Website: CarlaRaeArneson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CarlaRaeArneson
Submit Questions: CarlaRaeArneson.com/AskCarlaRae
Full Transcript of this Episode: CarlaRaeArneson.com/transcript16
