I like carrying a small purse. If I have a large purse, I will fill the large purse up with stuff -- stuff that I have no reason to be carrying around with me all day.

However, I still need my purse to carry the things I need.

To keep from carrying so much stuff with me every place I go, I divided my things into small pouches based on purpose.

• Gym Pouch: Pad lock, gym membership card, headband, and earphones (When I'm at the gym, my jewelry goes into the pouch)
• Braces Pouch: Travel size toothbrush, travel size toothpaste, floss, and braces case (I have Invisalign braces right now)
• Makeup Envelope: Lipgloss, lipstick, powder brush, and powder
• Essential Envelope: Debit card, keys, cash, small digital camera, and cell phone
• Flat Wallet: Checkbook, gift certificates, and membership cards (If I buy something, I also store receipts in here temporarily)

If I'm going out to eat with friends for dinner, I'll grab my Braces Pouch and my Essential Envelope only. When I go to the gym, I only toss into my purse my Gym Pouch and my Essential Envelope. If I'm going shopping at the mall, I take my Essential Envelope and my Flat Wallet. A night out on the town might include my Braces Pouch, Makeup Envelope, and Essential Envelope. I use only clear plastic pockets so that I can always see what is inside a pouch. Having designated pouches means that I can continue to carry a small purse and only take with me the things I need.