I love being organized.

BUT let’s be honest, the motivation to do it is sometimes hard to come by. Thankfully a new year encourages us to try a little harder to be a little better.

I’ve also found that if it’s easy, fun, and looks cute…it’s easier to keep things where they are supposed to be! So, I’ve rounded up some of our favorites from the past to help all of us simplify both our lives and our homes…

1. Gift Giving Organization!

Doesn’t it always seem like there is ALWAYS a gift giving event? From birthdays and holidays, to baby showers or new neighbors…seems like it’s everyday sometimes! Well, don’t fear! Shelley knows how to shop those deals, organize those gifts, and create the perfect GIFT station! {Wouldn’t that be nice!} See her tips and tricks to stay on top of gifts this year!

2. Clip Boards.

They might seem like old school…but when they’re adorable like these ones, you’ll definitely be using them! Here’s one idea to make them useful, hang them on the wall by that little hole in at the top. Then all you have to do is press it and it instantly becomes an area for notes, shopping lists, recipes, photos, and more! It’s like a versatile picture frame!

3. Chore Chart for Multiple Kids.

Every family needs one of these. Not only is it cute enough to leave out as decor, but it functions for everyone involved. No child is confused on what their chore is, because they drew it themselves!

4. Messy Car Solution.

How I wish my family had one of these growing up! Instead of garbage under or inside of the seats and on the floor…it’s in the trash! Lara even shows you how to make it…so you can customize it to coordinate with the interior of your car! 😉

5. How to Set Realistic, Achievable Goals.

It took me a few years to figure this one out, but once I did…I had to share! I’ve even updated the FREE Printable PDF version so you can use it any year {because, geesh…these years are flying by!}

6. Picture Frame Earring Holder.

For years I would fight with my earrings because they would get tangled. But those days are over now that I’ve made myself my own holder! I’ve included a step-by-step photo tutorial on how to make your own!

7. 72 Hour Kits for Kids.

What’s more important than being ready for an unexpected disaster? Not much. Missy shows us how she put together a pack for each kid and what she included!

8. Easy DIY Menu Planner.

I love these adorable, dry erase menu planners that Nicolette shared with us last week! I will definitely be making at least one of these this year {probably more, because they make the cutest gifts!}

Click here to see all our other great organization tips and ideas!

Additional Ideas to Stay Organized

{Or at least some that have worked for me!} 😉

If you’re like me, I’m constantly checking my vitals {aka: email, facebook, twitter, etc..} So I found a calendar that sends me an email when I have something important coming up! Whether it be a deadline, a birthday, or even just a reminder to work out it has definitely helped me to stay on track!

Again, if you’re like me…I have some new goals this year to begin living a healthier lifestyle. Last year I  shared some Ways to Stay on Track and I’m pleased to say that I’ve stuck with at least one of those tips! I’ve been using Myfitnesspal.com to help me track my diet, exercise, goals, and benchmarks as I’ve been on this journey! It’s simple and easy to use AND you can even get an app for it on your phones! Hoorah!

As for goals for this new year, I’m hoping to incorporate a little bit of each of THESE! Bobbi has gathered some great ideas for health, family relationships, photography, organization and more! You don’t want to miss those ideas and FREE printables! 😉

I have also found some awesome ideas online…here is one of my favorites:

Kelleigh from Kelleigh Ratzlaff Designs has created this beautiful Cash Envelope System to keep her financially on track!

She has kindly offered to share her template and tutorial so you can make your own! Be sure to tell her thanks! 🙂

Would you like to see more?

Check out our ORGANIZATION BOARD on our Pinterest page for new ideas everyday!

Hope you all have a wonderful 2012 & see success & happiness in your efforts of organization &  goal keeping!