The Circulation Solution, The Ultimate Organizing Approach For Lasting Clutter Relief

by Matt Baier, Joanna FitzPatrick (Editor)

"The Circulation Solution" is based on a very simple organizing circulation prevents accumulation. The most effective way to stay organized is to create a plan for movement, in series of manageable reliable stages. If the old standby of a place for everything and everything in its place is not working for you, in this fast-paced, overwhelming world of today, you will find the simple, practical solutions of "The Circulation Solution," right at home in the 21st century. "The Circulation Solution " withstands the organizing challenges, found in every room in your home and in every area of your life, including your schedule, your mail, and your life transitions.

121 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 29, 2019

Reviews

[Linda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful short book on how to get and continue to be organized, which is something you don’t often come across. I began reading it on my computer and before I knew it, I was on the last page. Matt Baier’s “The Circulation Solution”, proposes a unique perspective on organizing that I for one had not considered. His take on organizing is that it is not so much about your stuff, but rather about your priorities. He states that the reason to get and be organized is to take the less important stuff out of the way so that you can get to the most important stuff. This can be applied to objects, tasks, and basically your life. The old adage that being organized simply means that everything is in its place is outdated according to the author. Instead, everything is in movement and circulation. He uses examples easily understandable to explain this concept of organization, such as dishes, which start in the cabinet where we can reliably find them, are used, cleaned, and put back into the cabinet where we can again reliably find them. They have a place, but more importantly, they circulate. If anywhere in this circular pattern stops then back up and build up occurs. Circulation prevents accumulation. Everything therefore must continue to move forward in its circulation.
He also adheres to the definition of clutter as defined by Barbara Hemphill, a pioneer in organizing, as being a result of postponed decisions. And I have to agree. As a librarian, I see postponed decisions manifesting themselves in the back offices of every single library I’ve ever worked as piles of paper waiting to go somewhere, stacked books toppling over desks, office supplies half unpacked, and spilling out of closets. So many things are constantly being put aside to be dealt with later that the back office often looks like its been ransacked.
This little book packs a good punch in that its concepts are eye opening yet easily understood. Illustrations are used to help underscore key concepts. The author offers actual methods, tips, and solutions to organizing issues including time management without getting bogged down into minute details. He is also generous in attributing organizing ideas to others in the field and has referenced his research.
If you have been thinking of tackling your particular organizing problem but don’t know where to begin, begin with this book. I know I will, especially in the back office at work.

[Crotty Family · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well researched and presented

A great book with many insightful approaches to getting yourself organized. The author certainly knows what he's talking about and is clearly organized himself. The illustrations are excellent.