sorting objects my way
Just like folders to receive papers, I find that labelled receptacles, are essential. If sorting a large group of heterogenous items, such as items that people have left piled on my kitchen counter, this is what I do. First, I have at hand: jr. size legal pad, my roledex and blank cards, calendar, labels, slider-type plastic bags of various sizes, sharpie markers (or others that write on plastic). Second, have enough suitable receptacles, such as at least a dozen plastic shoe boxes, 6 or so clear, tall narrow bottles (like baby bottles) , a few larger containers, envelopes,and trash/recycling containers. Label one box "VALUABLES and MONEY". Then set within it a tall bottle for each country's currency you are likely to find, label these clearly. Label other tall containers:good jewelry, junk jewelry, other people's jewelry, and jewelry to be fixed. Use another tall bottle for postage stamps. The rest of your boxes you can label as you go along. They will probably be an array of places (Take to... basement, to bathroom, to grandma's), contents (Cosmetics, Art Supplies, Hardware, Sewing Items) and people's names (usually family members) . Line these all up in alphabetical order and start sorting. As you go, make labels and categories as needed. "Whose?", "What?" and "To Glue" are very useful categories. As you sort, use the yellow pad to note Projects or small actions, also enter calendar dates (e.g, movie coupon expiration), and phone numbers (folowing the 2 minute rule). Here are some other categories you might find useful: Batteries, Books, Car and Errands, Craft Supply, Toys, Take To Utility Room, Medications. Then when you are tired or your containers are full, distribute to proper locations. If unsure, store "like-with-like" or "point of use" (or both!). I hope this helps. It is reducing the accumulated clutter around here but increasing my SDMB list. Beware, it is time consuming.If the items are similar to begin with (all cloths or tools or tapes, for example), it helps to think about categories first.