#18 Be as organized as possible

It is my experience as a parent, being a good example is not enough to teach someone else to be organized, you must instruct.  The author here gives a few examples but we all know the drill.  If you are able to put your hands on what you need, when you need it, every thing else just falls into place.  On the other hand, you must teach organizational skills.  Children and even adults really don't learn this by example as easily as being give specific instructions and materials to reach that goal.  If you want your child to put his dirty clothes in a hamper, get him a hamper.  If you want your child to put his dinner dish in the kitchen after he eats, tell him/her exactly what is expected.  If you want me to do something in an organized fashion, tell me exactly what it is you expect.  That's how it works.