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Jan 30
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75 Creative Ways to Use A Label Maker

By Blog, Checklists, Quick Organizing Tips No Comments

“Is a label maker worth it?“

 

I say… label makers are one of the most useful tools ever made!!

 

Beyond labeling in the kitchen or whichever common area first comes to your mind, these organized little machines are ready to help you in every room of your house (and office too!).

 

But before you go buy the biggest, fanciest label maker, first ask yourself these questions to determine the right one for your needs.

 

Which one to buy?

Ask yourself these questions:

 

  • How many font options would you like?
  • What size of labels will you need to print?
  • How much room do you have to store it?
  • How simple it is to learn and use?
  • Does it use batteries, a rechargeable battery, or plug into the wall?
  • Are the tape cassettes easy to find?

 

Advice For Buying A Label Maker

 

In my opinion, the Brother brand label makers are the absolute best. I have gone through many, many different brands and styles of label makers over the years, and Brother brands have never let me down.

 

They’re simple to use, it’s easy for me to find tapes in person or online, and the overall quality is just top-notch!

 

However, I use a couple of different label makers depending on my client’s style. I’ll list them below and tell you some of the differences between them, too!

 

Label Maker Comparisons

 

The first, Brother P-Touch PT- D610BT, automatically cuts and trims the edges of the label so I don’t get a huge empty white space on either end. It also fits a larger label tape for bigger prints.

 

The second, Brother P-Touch Cube Plus PT-P710BT, uses larger tapes (24mm) which allows for large, easy to read, and beautiful labels in a pantry, linen closet, or on storage bins. The 24mm black tape with white font has quickly become my new favorite choice of tape because it actually has the look of a custom label!

 

 

Both of these label makers use laminated tapes. Using laminated tape is KEY for making professional-looking labels.

 

I prefer to stay away from the cheap paper tape that lower models use. This type will curl up once cut and leaves a lot of white residue when you peel the label off. Yuck!

 

So now that you have an idea of WHAT you’re shopping for…

 

Head out for the fun part! Or stay in and shop with your fingertips (our fave!)

 

Our Favorite Label Makers

(Remember to only buy what fits YOUR needs!)

 

 

How to Organize Your Entire House
with a Label Maker:

 

1- Office Cords and Plugs

  • Routers
  • Printers
  • Monitors
  • Laptop chargers

2- File Folders and Cabinets

  • Color code for more organization

3- Binders

  • Spine
  • Tabs
  • Pockets

 

4- Receipts Area

  • Bin / Basket / Container
  • Binder clip

5- Notebooks

  • Meeting notes
  • Reference notes
  • Specific projects

6- Drawers

  • Drawer dividers / containers
  • Office supply sections

7- Highlighters

  • “Important dates”
  • “Priority to-do’s”
  • “Goals”
  • Color code tasks for different people

8- Miscellaneous Cords

  • Phone charger
  • Laptop charger
  • HDMI
  • Ring light
  • Names on chargers for each family member

 

9- Bulk Office Supplies

  • Items taken out of original packaging

10- In-Tray

  • Sections for mail, paperwork, different kinds of documents you receive

11- Linen Closet Shelves

  • Towels
  • Sheets by size
  • Guest
  • Satin pillowcases

 

12- Laundry Excess

  • Items decanted / taken out of original packaging
  • Detergent
  • Softener
  • Bleach
  • Dryer sheets / balls

13- Laundry Baskets

  • Lights
  • Darks
  • Whites
  • Delicates

 

14- Board Games

  • Storage shelves of games
  • Age range
  • Type of game
  • Kid-friendly

15- Hobby Section

  • Shelf in closet
  • Project boxes
  • Drawer / Cupboard in storage furniture

16- Kitchen Cooking Utensils

  • Whisks
  • Tongs
  • Spatulas

 

17- Spices

  • Decanted items
  • Mixed bottles, give uniform labels
  • Easier to read

18- Snack Zone

  • Kids
  • Sweet and salty
  • Healthy

19- Baking Supplies

  • Bin of baking supplies
  • Sort by holiday

 

20- Health Section

  • Protein powders
  • Smoothie additives
  • Supplements

21- Meal Prep Jars

  • Salads
  • Smoothies
  • Juices

22- Frozen Items

  • Smoothie ingredients
  • Meat
  • Soups
  • Expiry dates on homemade items

 

23- Allergy Notes

  • Mark with yellow or brightly colored label tape

24- Bulk Decanted Items

  • Flour
  • Sugar
  • Oats
  • Coffee
  • Dried nuts

25- Fridge Shelves

  • Condiments
  • Proteins and cheeses
  • Fresh produce

 

26- Utensil Drawer

  • Serving spoons and forks
  • Steak knives
  • Kids cutlery

27- Pantry Shelves

  • Dried foods
  • Pasta
  • Rice
  • Extra seasonings

28- Tea Collection

  • Different types of tea
  • Brands

 

29- Cleaning Products

  • Under the sink bottles
  • Items no longer in original packaging

30- Additional Drawers

  • Organizational products with drawers

31- Playroom Supplies

  • Figurines
  • Lego
  • Small part toys

 

32- Kids’ Craft Supplies

  • Construction paper
  • Crayons
  • Coloring books

33- Label By Child

  • Separate toys
  • Split things evenly

34- Toy Bins

  • Stuffed animals
  • Contents by type

 

35- Bookshelves

  • Reading age of books
  • Fiction / Non-fiction
  • Per child

36- Garage Storage Bins

  • Big, easy to read

37- Seasonal Decor

  • Holiday
  • Special occasion
  • Tradition
  • Indoor / Outdoor

 

38- Camping Totes

  • Cooking supplies
  • Tent and sleeping setup
  • Games
  • First aid

39- Emergency Kits

  • Fire evacuation
  • Earthquake
  • Lockdown

 

40- Medicine and First Aid

  • Cold and flu
  • Allergies
  • Bandages
  • Kids products

41- Beauty Supply Bins

  • Nail care
  • Skincare
  • Hair products
  • Hairstyling tools

 

42- Expiration Dates

  • Makeup
  • Hair products
  • Shower products
  • Decanted items

43- Drawer Containers

  • Cotton swabs
  • Cotton pads
  • Exfoliation pads
  • Dental care

44- Cleaning Products

  • Toilet cleaner
  • Shower cleaner
  • Countertop disinfectant
  • Items no longer in original packaging

45- Family Member Bins

  • Per family member
  • Guest use
  • Excess supplies

46- Towel Hooks

  • Per family member
  • Guest use
  • Hand and face towels

 

47- Skincare Fridge

  • Sections for different product types
  • Order of routine

48- Shower Caddy

  • Per family member
  • Sections for different types

49- Product Bottles

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Liquid soap
  • Items no longer in original packaging

50- Traveling Containers

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Liquid soap
  • Skincare
  • Cleaning products
  • Jewelry

51- Makeup Brushes

  • Types of brushes
  • Per family member

52- Jars of Decanted Items

  • Soap bars
  • Epsom salts
  • Dishwasher tabs

53- Mirror Cabinet Shelves

  • Sections by skin, hair, dental, etc.

54- Bath Toys

  • Bin for bath toys
  • Per family member

55- Magazine Holder

  • Types of magazines
  • Content
  • Kids or adult material

56- Dresser Drawers

  • Shorts
  • Jeans
  • Sweatpants
  • Workout clothes

57- Under-The-Bed Drawers

  • Socks
  • Shoes
  • Extra pillows

58- Bedroom Cords

  • Chargers
  • TV
  • Lamp
  • Cable box
  • Clock

59- Closet Shelves

  • Summer / Winter storage
  • Sweaters
  • Pants

60- Nightstand Drawers

  • Sleep aids
  • Lavender / Calming spray
  • Lip balm
  • Sleeping mask

61- Vanity Drawers

  • Powdered makeup
  • Eyes
  • Lips
  • Brushes

62- Storage Furniture

  • Bins
  • Baskets
  • Containers
  • Cabinets
  • Desks
  • Wardrobes

63- Remotes

  • Cable box
  • TV
  • Media streaming box
  • Videogame console

64- Plant Markers

  • Use laminated labels
  • Names
  • Caring instructions

65- Learning Language

  • Label commonly used items around home / office with new language
  • Teach little ones reading and names of items

66- Reminders

  • For self, kids, spouse
  • Do dishes
  • “Put away shoes”
  • “Clean up toys”
  • “I love you”

67- Gift Tags

  • Personalize gift tags

68- Table Setting Place Cards

  • Holidays
  • Dinner parties

69- Charcuterie Boards

  • Types of cheese, meat, cracker, dried fruits, spreads, etc.

70- Hooks

  • Keys
  • Hats
  • Purses
  • Scarves
  • Reusable bags

71- Books

  • Without name on spine
  • Journal years

72- Videogame Storage

  • Console
  • Type of games
  • Kid-friendly
  • Per family member

73- Photo Albums

  • Printed photo books name / year
  • Spine
  • Sections of photos inside

74- Recycling Bins

  • Paper
  • Glass
  • Bottles

75- Kitchen Books

  • Cookbooks
  • Recipe books
  • User manuals
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Dec 16
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10 Ways To Stay Productive At Work Over the Holidays

By Blog, Expert Articles, Time Management No Comments

As winter vacation quickly approaches, this is our perfect opportunity to think about how others may be living it a little differently than us.

 

Usually, the holiday season is bright and sparkly, illuminated by strings of lights and Christmas cheer! There’s special baking to be done, thoughtful gifts to be wrapped, and a mantle to be decorated.

 

But for some of us – this is just an idle dream on our wish list.

 

Special occasions marked down on a calendar don’t mean the world winds down for everyone!

 

We still need our doctors and nurses, firefighters, dispatchers, news personnel and their production crews, too. Just to name a few!

 

Outside of organizations that normally run 24/7 there are still so many of us that work through the holidays to keep the world flowing (a huge thanks to you all!🤍)

 

So in order for us to soak up as many drips of the holiday season as we can get,

 

Here are 10 ways to stay productive at work over the holidays:

 

 

1. Start your work day routine earlier

 

You will actually double your productivity when you take advantage of this strategy!

 

Think about it, what would work more effectively? Sleeping from midnight to 8am, or from 10pm to 6am? The latter would give you a two-hour jump on the day. So in order to squeeze the most out of your day and be as focused as you can be, make sure you are setting boundaries around when your work day will begin and end.

 

 

2. Say “no” to people-pleasing anxiety

It’s not easy to say “no” to taking more on during the holidays. You want everyone to enjoy their time, and for work to close up as smoothly as possible.

 

But when you’ve got too much on your plate already, one must stop to think about their own needs and wants. Be polite but straightforward when declining a task or event invitation that may overload you. A great way to be courteous while turning something down is to say, “Thank you for thinking of me, but I am planning on spending that time working on X project/watching my daughter’s Christmas performance.” This conveys to the person that you’re grateful for their invitation, but that you also already have your priorities set.

 

 

3. Stay focused and productive at work

In order to keep yourself accountable for anything, you must first determine a goal to be held accountable to.

 

First of all, if you’re feeling in a slump, get your body moving to jostle your brain functions into working effectively. If you’re feeling overwhelmed this is the best technique to help you stay productive at work over the holidays. Then focus on the hardest thing first, A.K.A. your primary project. That task you most dread. Just get it out of the way or at least complete a big chunk of it right off the bat! Make sure to give yourself a realistic window of time for each thing on your to-do list and actually cut yourself off at that window.

 

 

 

4. Avoid getting distracted by thoughts

We all face distractions in the office (and our home offices). But even more so when the stresses of holidays and extended family come around!

 

To counter these distractions, remove anything that has distracted you in the past from your work area. This includes that eraser you’re always fidgeting with, your kids’ photos you reminisce with a little too long, and any loose papers that aren’t directly related to the task at hand. Put those items away in your desk for the holiday season and save them for January. Our goal is to be super productive and focused now!

 

 

 

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5. Taking (important!) breaks from work

It’s important to take time off from work every now and then to relax and rejuvenate. A holiday is perfect for providing this much-needed break from your work days!

 

We spend a lot of time at work… so why do we feel guilty taking time off? You certainly deserve it. Even if you’re running your own business, it’s still vital that you’re taking time for yourself. As much as it may feel like it, you’re not shirking responsibility or becoming less focused on your goals. You’re taking care of yourself so you’ll have the stamina to be your best and work effectively once the holidays are over.

 

 

 

6. Shop early to avoid the “Christmas Creep”

One of the risks of starting your shopping early is overbuying. But if you’re keeping track of your spending and who you’re buying for, this is no longer a worry.

 

Your best bet for having the most availability over Christmas is to look for sales now, shop online to avoid parking costs, and brainstorm creative ways to give the gift of experience. Gifts don’t have to cost a lot of money. You can bake a family member their favorite cookies or prepare a batch of healthy freezer-friendly snacks. You could type a list of restaurants to check out in the new year or create a “family favorites” recipe binder. Or give the gift of organizing with our Clear Out Your Clutter event in 2023! Think ahead – do you really want to sacrifice any of your enjoyment this holiday season? Instead of a cozy cup of hot chocolate while visiting with distant family, would you really rather be bustled around by a bunch of over-caffeinated shoppers? Choose to be productive now, you’ll thank yourself later.

 

 

7. Maintain your health during the holidays

Exercising is a great way to clear your mind. Not to mention the many health benefits that follow!

 

Being that we’re so busy around the holidays, meal prepping plays a huge role in our day-to-day energy! Food is quite literally our fuel, so you don’t want to be eating junk and slacking off at the gym now. The best way to combat energy fatigue is by finding ways to be active in your daily routine. You could have lunch in the park down the street, park your car further from wherever you go, and use stairs instead of an elevator.

 

 

 

8. Stop multitasking,
Learn how to prioritize and focus

A to-do list that’s way too long can leave you feeling exhausted just reading it all.

 

Instead of stressing about all the things you need to do today, prioritize just what’s important or has an immediate deadline coming up. Remember your focus is to stay productive at work over the holidays so you won’t be swamped when you return. Ask yourself, “What actually needs finishing this month?” Then get your mind focused and your hands dirty. Don’t forget to always keep your professional and personal tasks separate!

 

 

 

9. Manage interruptions from friends and family

Social media and texting are two of the largest distractions while at work.

 

Stay productive at work over the holidays by keeping your workday free from personal calls, texts, and emails. If you can’t manage this yourself, flip on the silent feature and store your personal cell in a desk drawer (lock it if you need to!). This way it’s completely out of sight and won’t be tempting you. Ask your loved ones to not call or text you during working hours unless it’s really dire.

 

 

 

10. Work Hard so you can Party Harder! 🥳

Why would we spend all of our energy working if there is no reward? We wouldn’t! This is where the “work hard, play harder” mentality is best adopted.

 

Above all the decorations and fancy dinners, the most important thing during any holiday is to make sure you’re truly enjoying quality time with your family. Let go of work when you’re not clocked in, it will all still be waiting for you whenever you head back.

 

Cherish the time you have with family, because you never know how many moments like these you will have left. 🤍

 

 

 

 

 

I hope that by following these tips you can soak up every ounce of holiday cheer!

 

It’s time to reconnect with yourself, your family, and pure JOY this year ✨ So remember to unplug, open up, and laugh until you burn enough calories for another slice of pie!

 

Wishing you a very merry Christmas and a refreshing New Year’s,

 

Sherry + The SP Team

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Christmas Shopping: Do it in One Day!

Nov 15
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Christmas Shopping: Do it in One Day!

By Blog, Quick Organizing Tips, Time Management No Comments

Would you sign up for the challenge of completing all of your Christmas shopping in one day?

 

Lots of people do! Though not many choose on their own accord (shout out to my last-minute shoppers), getting it all done in a day is becoming increasingly popular!

 

Not tempted to spend all your December weekends shopping for Christmas presents?

 

I don’t blame you!

 

Before you get that bubble of anxiety in your chest, let me tell you – it can be done!

 

You can do it in one day, but you’re going to need to be strict with yourself.

 

Up to the challenge? Let’s see if you’ve got what it takes…

 

 

First – Fuel up!

 

It’s hard to do logical Christmas shopping when your energy is crashing.

 

Skip the bread, carbs, and sugary breakfast cereals, says Simone Lovell, certified nutritionist, health coach, and owner of Fuel for Fat Loss. “Protein with breakfast is so important within the first hour of waking up.”

 

 

Begin with a Shopping Plan

 

A successful shopping spree always needs a list!

One of the great benefits of preparing your Christmas shopping list in advance is that you’re way more likely to spend less money. When you’re more aware of what you’re buying it’s easier to stick within a budget. Try to write down who you’re buying for, what you plan on gifting them, and the store(s) you will find these items in.

 

 

 

Example: Auntie Lisa – Holiday diffuser oils – Vitruvi

Switch on Tunnel Vision

Traveling to five shopping centers and various outlet stores is just not going to happen in one day, let’s be realistic.

 

As you’re planning the gifts you’ll buy and the stores you’ll need to visit, try to commit to just two shopping centers. It will be easier to stick to your goal of getting all your Christmas shopping done in one day. Search the online directories of local malls and see how many gifts you could buy in the least amount of locations. And while you’re waiting in line in these stores, pry your eyes away from register sales and do your best to avoid all distractions!

 

Skip the Sweatpants

 

Wear something that fits and feels nice; bring your confidence out!

 

A balance between comfortable and chic is best. Did you know we are more productive when we feel more put together? It’s true – when we feel insecure, we tend to buy more. You know, that fill-the-void kind of thing. So scrap the sweats and sneakers if they make you feel frumpy and instead reach for something stylish that will boost your self-confidence all day long for your Christmas shopping!

 

No Plus One’s

 

This is a key component of a successful and efficient day.

 

Not only will shopping alone save you time, but also lots of money (important for your budget!). How often have you gone out with a friend and spent WAY more than you planned? It’s just too easy to get caught up in “Those jeans would look great on you!” and “Haven’t you been looking for a pair of boots like these??” Since the goal here is to complete your shopping in one day, going solo is a must.

 

Tips and Advice

 

Remember that even if you’re short on time, do your best to not leave anything else to the last minute. If you’re Christmas shopping online, this especially applies to you – you don’t want your gifts to arrive after Christmas! To avoid the risk of this happening, make sure you get your orders placed before December 15th, leaving plenty of time for your shipment to arrive.

 

Another tip: if you really want to add as much productivity and efficiency as humanly possible, pick a theme for your Christmas presents. Themes can be anything from books to puzzles, clothes to home linens – the choice is yours. Basing gifts off of a theme will save you a lot of time and effort as you will visit hopefully only a few shops in the process!

 

Will you be checking off your to-do list early? Or running around in the last hour? Comment below!

 

 

 

 

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