Order is a lovely thing;

On disarray it lays its wing,

Teaching simplicity to sing.

• Anna Hempstead Branch

All of the organization gurus recommend choosing a small space first, setting a timer and beginning. From a financial perspective, that small space is your purse or wallet. Do you have 10 minutes? Set your timer and let’s go.

First: Gather what you need - sticky notes, pen, trash can and wallet/purse. Take everything out of your wallet and lay it out on the counter.

Second: Pick up each item and ask yourself – "Do I use this? Do I need this? Do I want this? Is my purse/wallet the best place for this item?"

If your wallet is the right place, put the item in the best place for it in your wallet, based on its use. If your wallet is not the right place for the item and you want to keep it, create piles (labeled with the sticky notes) so you will know what to do with the items when you are done. If the item is trash, throw it in the trash can.

It’s amazing to notice what we pick up and carry with us over time – ticket stubs, old lottery tickets, credit card receipts, business cards, phone numbers, tissues, candy wrappers, expired membership cards, just to name a few.

If we are carrying all of this extra "baggage" with us in our wallet, where else in our life may we be doing the same thing? Whatever comes to mind, jot that on a sticky note – a project for another day.

Third: When you have your wallet back together the way you want, notice the way it feels – lighter, simpler to find what you need, easier to remove what you need, and more spacious. And how do you feel? Lighter, in control, more free?

Extra Credit: Set the timer for five more minutes to take care of the little piles you just created – file, put away or toss.

As a person who values space, lightness and freedom, I know that taking a few minutes to remove the excess and create order, pays off. The feelings that accompany these activities flow into all aspects of my life.

Coaching Call to Action:

As you relish the feelings in your body from this clearing activity, consider what area of your finances you’d like to engage with next – bill paying, financial records, budget. What will create your next level of spaciousness? Put it on your calendar and go enjoy your lightness.