Dear Orlando, My Life is Too Crazy!
AMP Radio

Dear Orlando,

My job is stressful, I live in a cluttered studio apartment, I’m always having drama with my boyfriend, and I feel socially obligated to hang out with my friends all the time, going out to drinks and movies and spending money I don’t have. How can I simplify things so my life is less chaotic?

Yours,

Stressed

Dear Stressed,

I find that when I’m freaking out about my life the best thing to do is to clean. If your personal space is clean, then you will be able to relax in it. Since the weather is warming up outside (finally…GO AWAY JUNE GLOOM!), now would be a good time to go through your wardrobe and your apartment and get rid of anything you don’t need or wear anymore. You can make a little cash for many of these items by taking them to Crossroads Trading Company or Out of the Closet. Personally, I like Out of the Closet because they donate their proceeds to AIDS research and health care. You’ll be surprised at how relaxed you’ll feel after you know that you’ve helped the world by donating your old clothes and housewares to a good cause (or gotten cash for them). Once you have gotten rid of EVERYTHING you possibly can get rid of, go to The Container Store to find ways to organize the items you have left so your apartment will look neat and tidy (also check out Ikea, they have tons of organizational ideas). I know this is starting to sound like a commercial, but I actually do love all these stores and think they can help you. In terms of friends and feeling like you have to hang out with them, you need to learn the power of pretending. Tell them your mom’s in town and you are going to dinner. And then stay in and watch a movie. Tell them you’re going out of town on business. And then stay inside and read a book. It sounds like you need a vacation from your friends, so take one! And as for the boyfriend with the drama, you need to ask yourself if you’re interested in the drama or him. But mostly, clean up your space and get organized. It will make your life feel WAY less chaotic. I promise. YAY!

Love,

Orlando