Software updates

How often do you download and install software updates on your computer? Most operating systems make it easy as clicking a button to set this process in motion, and they will remind you when critical updates are needed. Some software has to be manually updated. But if you are using a computer, you need to do the software updates. Don't think of it as optional. This is mandatory maintenance.

I find people are resistant to updating for one or more of a few reasons: they think it will take too long, they don't think it's necessary for their programs to run, or they are afraid that updating will do some harm to their program or their computer. In general, software updates are essential for keeping a machine running efficiently, and any time spent downloading and installing updates (which can usually be done in the background while you work on other things) is minuscule compared to the time you may spend if you find yourself losing speed and functionality by using outdated software.

So get in the habit if clicking Yes! when asked if you would like to perform software updates now. Update early, and update often.

Need a professional to help you get updated?

Call Lelah at 818.269.6671

or email lelah@lelahwithanh.com

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Clutter-free gifts: Technology

Next in my series of clutter-free gift ideas: technology. This category of gifts was inspired by professional organizer Monica Ricci. Her awesome series, The Big O, on the podcast Vicky and Jen: What Really Matters has a terrific episode all about clutter-free gifts that I highly recommend you check out if you want to do more research on this topic. One of the major categories of gifts she talks about there is technology, and I think it is a great idea for a lot of people.

Many of these gifts take up no space at all, except perhaps hard drive space. They are items that get used every day. They are unique without being too specific, which is good if you aren't sure exactly what kind of games, music or books your tech-savvy friend or relative is interested in or already has.

• Online music subscription or credit, such as iTunes gift cards or Rhapsody subscription
• Software (some nice organizing-related software: Paper Tiger (PC only), Bento (for Macs)) 
• Online subscriptions for services like Flickr Pro or Evernote
• Phone cards or Skype credits
• Netflix subscription
• Gamefly subscription
• ebooks
• ebook readers like the Kindle or Barnes and Noble's new Nook
• External harddrive, great for backing up data
• Gift card to get digital photos printed or books made from them (such as at Snapfish)
• Printer or photo paper
• Printer ink (always appreciated by me!)

Lelah Baker-Rabe is a Los Angeles-based professional organizer. To discuss your organizing needs, call her at 818.269.6671 or email lelah@lelahwithanh.com