Getting organized doesn’t have to be challenging. Often, the best approach is based on everyday habits—small actions you consistently take to maintain balance in your home and life. These straightforward yet reliable rules can be applied in any home, regardless of its size.
Avoid temporary storage
This is one of the least effective time-saving habits. It is beneficial to establish a permanent place for all your belongings. Creating a designated space for your items will help you stay organized. Temporary storage can create more problems than progress.
Group similar items
Keeping similar items together makes everything easier to find and store. Store your spices together in a designated spice rack or container in the kitchen. Keep coffee, tea, sugar and honey on one shelf.
Store where used
Save yourself the extra steps and keep your printer paper next to your printer. Store blankets and sheets in or near the bedrooms. Cleaning supplies stored in a caddy should go in the bathroom or kitchen, where they’re used most. Consider discarding the cleaning supplies you don’t use.
Make it accessible
Items that are frequently used should be stored in the easiest-to-reach location. In the kitchen, your everyday plates and glasses should be at eye level, not up high or buried in a lower cabinet. Rarely used items such as holiday platters or spare comforters can be stored on a top shelf or in a storage bin.
One in, two out
To truly reduce clutter, try this method. Every time you bring something new into your home, send two things out. If you buy a new T-shirt? Let go of two older ones that are stained, stretched out or never worn. Bought a new book? Pass two books to a friend or drop them in a donation bin.
What’s your number?
Choose a number that works for you. How many of a specific item do you need? Do you use all five spatulas in your kitchen drawer? What about those 10 sweaters? Everyone has a different "right number" based on their space and lifestyle. By setting a personal limit, it is easier to say no to more items and yes to keeping what you truly love and use.
Don't pile it, file it
Paper can accumulate more quickly than you realize. Instead of letting bills, receipts or school forms sit in a “To File” tray for days or weeks, take 10 minutes to file them immediately. It takes less time than you think, and you'll never have to schedule a big catch-up session again.
Hire a mentor
At times, most of us need help from a friend or a professional to motivate and hold us accountable. A professional knows the shortcuts to get you organized and productive.
Getting organized is not a one-time event. It’s a daily and steady habit to keep you moving forward in life.
Transformational life coach Ranka Burzan owns a professional organizing company in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter. For more information, email [email protected].
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