I still use the method my parents had devised for me as a child for seeing numbers - colours! I use different highlighter pens for different items. Everything from everyday lists to spreadsheets can be prepared this way. For example, when using numbers, sub-totals can be highlighted in pink and the gross amounts in green.
2)Memory Statements
If, like me, your long term memory is great but your short term memory isn't quite so good, you may often find yourself putting things down and not finding them again, especially things like house and car keys. Try saying aloud, "putting car keys on kitchen work surface". Somehow that penetrates my mind and I know exactly where they are later when I need them. I have given many people this method, and it nearly always works.
3)Make lists
Whenever you need to remember something you want to get or do, use a sheet of paper or notebook to jot it down. None of us remember everything all the time and lists are so useful. For some things you can also start a list and just keep adding to it. My favorite lists include the one on the back of my door in the kitchen of reminders of vital things for any trip, including purse, mobile and adapter, credit cards, etc.
4)Post-it Notes!
Where would we be without them?! They are so great for quick reminders. Try keeping a post-it pad in the cupboard by the kitchen door, and when you need to remember to get a birthday present or food items for example, write it down when you think of it; then check your post it notes each time before leaving the house.
5)Calendars & Wall Planners
Calendars and day or week planners are great tools for keeping you organized. Discover which method of recording data works best for you and use it regularly.
6)Diary
Using and regularly updating your diary is essential to being organized. Using either electronic or hard copy version, always keep it updated. Record appointments and holidays well in advance.
7)Databases
Databases are also important to being organized. (I personally keep an electronic as well as a hard copy (printed) of all my data.) Divide your data bases into different areas of your life: friends and family, health practitioners, service providers, etc. Make sure your data is correct before recording it to avoid inaccurate or incomplete information. Do take the time to record everything correctly and regularly update it.
8)Duplicating Everything You Need
For traveling organize a big cosmetic case with the same things you keep in your home bathroom.
9)Financial Records
It is essential that you keep track of your financial income and outgoings. To help you with this I have devised a basic Financial Tracking Chart. (The template is available to download from my website)
10)Organizing Chart
To further help you organize yourself and create a proper place for all your belongings, and pertinent information, an Organizing Chart is invaluable. Write down the problem area, followed by what you are going to do to improve in that area. Basically, everything you own needs a home, or else it becomes a weed, (something not the right place). Identify belongings that don't have a home and create a place for them. You may need to have a clear-out to create more space. Make a list of your 'homeless' possessions and then decide where their homes will be from now on. Then create folders for your files and name them.
The good news is, once you have organized yourself you just need to keep following through. Then not only will you feel so much better, those around you will benefit as well.
COUNTRY
If you're the type of person who doesn't take the sun very well, don't book a holiday in Spain in August. If Greek food doesn't agree with you, don't go to Greece. If you detest the sound of car horns, stay away from Italy. I know this is a little simplistic, but the point is; have a little think about which country suits your needs best.
SEASON
Don't be caught out by the seasons. Some hot countries can be pretty chilly in autumn and winter, especially if you're up in the hills. On the other hand, some hot countries can be just too hot in the summer. Inland is usually hotter than the coast in summer and cooler in winter. Study the climate before you book.
LOCATION
The countryside sounds so peaceful and appealing, but if you're stuck ten miles from the nearest grocery store, the novelty will soon wear off. Find out how many restaurants are nearby. Is the villa within walking distance of a bar, and if not, are you willing to go without alcohol or stump up for a taxi every time you fancy a couple of glasses of wine with your meal? Another thing to consider is the distance from the airport; do you really need a three hour journey after your flight, or doesn't it bother you?
DO YOU NEED TO HIRE A CAR?
If the villa you decide upon isn't on a bus route, then you're going to need to hire a car. Take this into account when working out your finances for the holiday. If the villa is in a built up area, say by the beach and you intend spending your entire holiday on the beach, do you really need to hire a car?
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY WITH A REPUTABLE INTERNET WEBSITE
By using a reputable company to source your villa, you are minimizing the chances of being let down. Good rental companies are keen to make sure that the properties on their books are what they say they are. Secure payment methods are another reason to use a good company.
AIR CONDITIONING
If you're going to a hot country in summer, it could be a wise move to make sure that the villa of your choice is equipped with air conditioning. Many a holiday has been ruined through the lack of sleep. Most air conditioning units provide heat as well as cool air. It can be chilly in winter, so ask the question before you book.
SWIMMING POOL
Do you need a swimming pool? If you have small children and intend to keep them away from the water, book a villa without a pool? If the villa is on the beach, do you really need the use of a pool? Even in hot countries, the water temperature in winter can be a little to cool for comfort, so take this into consideration when booking. On the other hand, in summer, there's nothing better than cooling down in the pool.
PETS
Not all property owners welcome pets, but some do. Check with the owner that the villa is pet friendly. A good website will have the facility to do this.
NUMBER OF HOLIDAYMAKERS
If you're going as part of a group, make sure that you book a property that's big enough to accommodate you all. It's OK being on top of each other for day or two, but tempers will soon start to fray if you can't spend a moment alone.
ASK THE OWNER
Before you commit yourself to a particular villa, contact the owner and ask questions. Most property owners will be delighted that you are showing an interest in their villa, and will help you all they can. A good website will make it easy for you to contact the owner, and clear up any uncertainties before you pay your deposit.
Once you have done your homework and found the answers to your questions, you can book your holiday with peace of mind, in the knowledge that you have done all you can to ensure a memorable family holiday.
Both Genevieve Dawid & Alan Liptrot are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Genevieve Dawid has sinced written about articles on various topics from Mentoring, Education and Web Development. has pioneered new techniques to help her. Genevieve Dawid's top article generates over 27100 views. to your Favourites.
Alan Liptrot has sinced written about articles on various topics from Travel and Leisure, Real Estate and Recreation and Sports. Alan Liptrot writes for Your Holiday Rentals.com, providing worldwide and. Alan Liptrot's top article generates over 6120000 views. to your Favourites.