The new year has always been a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. I think with everything we have endured these past few months it’s not just the start of a new year but hopefully the year we return to normalcy.
We have been spending more time in our homes which has made it hard to ignore overflowing closets, kitchens filled with items that are never used, and garages bulging at the seams. As an organizer, the one good thing that has come from the past few months is people are clearing the clutter and reclaiming their homes. With so many working from home, it has forced us to rethink our spaces and create multifunctional work areas. We have also been stocking up on items but realizing we have no place to store them. I think during the coming year it is going to continue to be important to work on making your home a place that is simple, enjoyable, and most of all peaceful. If you have already taken the steps to get organized or if you are ready to start the process this blog is for you! These tips will help get you organized and keep you organized.
MAKE LISTS
I like keeping everyday lists of items I need to purchase, appointments I need to make, blog ideas, and any other important tasks that need to be accomplished. I use a notebook and the notes app on my phone. It doesn’t matter which one you use as long as it keeps you organized.
PURGE REGULARLY
I always suggest purging before organizing any area in the home. Letting go of the items that you no longer need, use, or want will not only free up space but will help you stay organized and avoid clutter. Start with a small area and once you start to see results it will motivate you to move to another area in your home.
SET REALISTIC GOALS
Homes that are lived in usually don’t look like photos in a magazine. Organize your home for how you and your family live daily life. Keep it functional, comfortable, and most importantly simple. The key to an organized home is to purge regularly, sort like items, and then contain what you are keeping. It really is that easy. It may be time-consuming setting up a system but once you are in a routine you will reap the benefits in your daily life.
BUY ONLY WHAT YOU NEED
A hard concept for many but it really is the key to keeping your home clutter-free. Sales can be tempting, online shopping has become the norm and big box stores are enticing. You have to retrain your brain and only shop for products that you need to replenish. Less stuff means less stress. Make lists and stick to them when shopping for household items.
CONTAIN LIKE ITEMS
Go through your house and corral all like items together. The reason this step is so important it prevents over buying items you already own. Group the like items in categories such as batteries, lightbulbs, first aid, gift wrap, office, etc.
Once you have sorted it’s time to find the containers that will work for your space. Measure and then decide if you want clear containers, baskets, or bins. There is no right or wrong way just what fits your budget, space, and lifestyle.
LABEL CONTAINERS
Save time and money by labeling your containers. If you forget what is in a container you will buy more of the same item and then say those famous words “I was looking for that!”. Label makers are inexpensive and once you own one you will wonder how you lived without it!
IF YOU TAKE IT OUT…PUT IT BACK
Training yourself to put something back after you take it out is one of the most important ways to ensure you stay organized. Purging, containing, and having a place for everything is great but if you take something out and don’t put it back clutter will begin to return.
Being organized alleviates everyday frustrations, saves you time, money, and makes your home a place that you cannot wait to come home to at the end of the day. Make 2021 the year you reclaim your space! Happy New Year!
