02/21/2024
Are you tired of living in chaos but don’t know where to begin? Your home doesn’t have to look like a television reality show to be organized. The intent of organization is to have a system and that system needs to work for you and your family. Good organizational services are individualized, not a one size fits all.
Think about what you have and what needs to be organized. Ask yourself why you are keeping the item. “I might need it someday” is not a great reason. “I plan to use this in the summer for the family reunion” is better but make sure you really will. Much of what you have is replaceable. If the item doesn’t serve a functional purpose and does not make you smile, is it really necessary? If not, it could be released it to someone who will use it and appreciate it.
It can be difficult to let go because each item has memories attached or ideas of your good intentions. Just because you let something go does not mean you will lose the memory and the feeling that accompanies it.
Create a place for your possessions, a place to store light bulbs, extra pans and out of season clothes. If you don’t have a place for the things in your home, it’s difficult to declutter and get organized. Designate a home for each item, even if you decide to move things around later.
Put categories together in the room in which you use them. If you don’t have enough space there, put them as close to the area as you can.
Think outside the box for storage ideas and use what you have. A bookshelf can store linens, a pretty bucket or basket toilet paper. A tray can contain your beauty products on the counter and make it feel less cluttered. There are a number of great ideas on social media sites such as Pinterest and Instagram.
Know your style – different learning styles and your unique brain makes sense of order in a different ways. Are you a piler or a filer? Would you rather put paperwork in a letter tray or in a file. Knowing your style will make a difference when creating organization solutions.
In order for your system to be effective, you will need to enlist the help of others in live in the household. Giving each member of the family specific things to do helps with the process. Each person has chores that they like better so asking for ideas and giving grace will help everyone feel a part of the process and create success.
As you go through the process realize that items will get out of place but you can restore order. Life happens, sometimes it’s the flu, a busy week, or other circumstances but if you take action when the crisis is over, you can find order again. Be willing to continue pursuing your dream of better organization one baby step at a time.
Take 5 minutes or even 2 minutes every morning and evening to put things away. Once you begin the habit, the process becomes easier. Good habits are the key to success.
Your home does not have to look like your super organized friend’s home, it only has to work for you. The hardest part is getting started.
Need some help? Reach out and let’s have a conversation to see if I am the right fit for you.
