"Qi" is a central concept of Feng Shui (also written Chi or Ch'i, pronounced "key). It is best defined as "life energy," "life breath," or "active energy that flows through all things".

Everything is constantly in motion, everything has its own energy field and is connected in some way. All energy fields directly influence each other. Whether strengthening or weakening, everything flows. It is easier to follow the stream of Qi and to know what it favours, than to swim against the current. Clutter swims against the current; that is, it impedes the natural flow of positive Qi. It weakens...

In other words, according to Feng Shui teachings, a messy home or office indicates a disjointed life. If a stack of old newspapers or a pile of paperwork hinders the flow of Qi over a long period of time, Sha Qi will impose its negative influence on other areas, making you tired and even depressed.

• A congested entrance indicates a lack of openness toward new things.
• A mess under the bed may well keep you from getting a good night's sleep.
• Such "blockages" also occur when you postpone paying invoices or making an unpleasant phone call.
• Check your pockets or wallet: If you find ticket stubs, sweet wrappers or old receipts, throw them away, to ensure the free flow of money!

For harmony and free flowing positive energy in your space, start with eliminating your clutter! Like I always say, when you get organized you are turning matter into energy.

And, as ever, if you need help, call me!

There can be clutter and disorganization in your closets, on your desk and in your file cabinets. There can also be clutter in your head, with to do lists and action items, and even in conversations. "Conversation clutter" is especially a time-waster when it happens in meetings, where multiple peoples are affected. I read a great article written by a fabulous Coach (not to mention a good friend of mine), Nikki Anderson.  It resonated with me as a very simple process to follow in order to lead an effective ORGANIZED meeting.

According to Nikki, there are three simple yet important steps to conducting effective meetings:

1st - Create an Agenda, to be clear on WHAT you are there to talk about.  I would add that it's ideal that the agenda is distributed prior to the meeting so that everyone is prepared and/or has a chance to add feedback.

2nd - Have a Desired Outcome, to clear on WHY you're talking about these issues.  My .02 is to state this outcome clearly at the beginning of the meeting and get everyone's agreement.  Write it down on a flip chart if there is more then 2 or 3 people in the meeting, and add other peoples ideas if there is feedback.

3RD - Set Next Steps, to clarify HOW each person is going to implement the outcomes, including WHEN they are responsible for a deliverable. And, if you are in the meeting, to save yourself from head/action item clutter, write down your next steps and due dates.

As Nikki affirms, these straightforward steps will ensure your 'good ideas' are part of a productive, satisfying meeting with successful results.

Check out Nikki's blog for more great articles.