Lessons from Irene
While we sit, waiting for the total damage that we will receive from Hurricane Irene, I can only reflect on this entire week. We’ve had an (unexpected and unheard of) earthquake, with the epicenter only 20 miles from our home. 2 days later I found myself in the middle of some of the worst weather I have ever experienced…57 mph winds, rain coming across the road in sheets – just like a winter blizzard and my car shaking, literally, just like the house did in the earthquake. And, now, here we are patiently waiting for the results of Irene.
I’ve been hearing and seeing people in panic mode, stocking up on anything and everything and have finally come to the conclusion that I guess we are not the norm. When I made my trip to the grocery store…which I never, ever do – I just don’t grocery shop, I was able to check on in the 12 items or less aisle and spent only $25.
No panic, no worries, because we are always prepared with the essentials on hand 365 days a year. Why are we always prepared? Most of it is mindset…and lessons learned over the last 4 years. You never, ever, know when your live is going to change in an instant and you have to be able to adjust. It only takes one unexpected event to change the way that you think about life priorities.
So, what does this all have to do with being organized?
1. Think ahead…not for the moment – be prepared. It will save you time, money and keep you safe.
2. Have a check list of emergency supplies that you have on hand and check it periodically. Just as you change light bulbs or air filters in your home, check your stash of emergency supplies on a bi-monthly or quarterly basis.
3. Keep an inventory of items that are in your home. Should you experience damage from a natural disaster how are you going to document to your insurance company the total value of your losses? Having make, model and serial number of items along with pictures of your valuable will assist in any refund that you may receive. Why not be prepared.
Be proactive with your household and business documentation and keep that information stored in 2 separate places. Keep one in your home and one in a safe place such as a safety deposit box or with another relative. Remember, if all of your information is kept on a CD and in a fire safe box, you are still taking a chance that you will loose your information because a CD will melt inside of a fire safe box. So, keep your information stored on a CD or flash drive or whatever you choose…but keep 2 copies.
Being prepared for life experiences will help you avoid overwhelm and stress. Once you have made your initial documnentation, you can quickly and easily keep it updated by adding in new purchases and removing items that you no longer have on hand. The main investment in this process is your time so if you don’t have the time, consider calling us for assistance. The important thing to remember is…don’t delay. Get Organized Today!
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