As we are all at home during these virtual times, our home could be a little more tidy. Therefore, there is no better time to organize the space you see day in and day out. For some, just the thought of organizing can become overwhelming. That is why we have compiled a list of tips and tricks to keep you feeling motivated and inspired. Remember that organizing is not an end destination, it’s a process. It’s a process of acquiring skills, applying them, and then using those skills every day. Now let’s Marie Kondo the heck out of this Quarantine.
- Setting Goals- If you want to tackle your entire house, it is a good idea to start small. Focus on the bathroom and then move on to a closet, finish one floor before starting the next. Whatever you think might need the most organizing. If you start small, you won’t feel as overwhelmed.
- Making a Schedule- Set certain days of the week to tackle each project. Such as Monday- Bathroom day, Tuesday- Kitchen cabinets, Wednesday Kitchen drawers ect.
- Setting time limits- Breaking down into time limits of what you want to accomplish in each room or section. For example, if it’s bathroom day, you can start by organizing all of your towels (hand towels, washcloths, body towels) for 15 minutes then move onto another section in the same room such beauty products for 30 minutes. Maybe you just want to do an hour each day. When you only set a certain time limit, not only does it feel less like a chore, but it keeps motivation higher.
- Putting your plan into Action- Before you start, take some pictures and when you finish organizing take an after picture. This could be all the motivation you need to move onto your next room or section.
- Don’t get discouraged- if you feel overwhelmed take a break or if you have young children running around, let them be involved in the process of organization (they can organize by shapes, sizes or colors once put into piles).
- Practice the art of purging- This can be anything from clothes, books or even kitchen utensils. We all have too many objects in our lives and things that are OK to let go of. It’s safe to say if you haven’t used it in over a year or doesn’t make you happy then get rid of it. Start on your section by placing everything in a pile and then break the piles up into what you want to keep and what you want to recycle, donate or sell.
- Everything in your home should have a place- That way when something is picked up, it will always be put back correctly and in the correct room. As they say, a place for everything and everything in it’s place.
- Use Organizers- Clear containers or bags are always easiest, that way you can see what is inside
- Label Everything- make it easier on yourself and others to find what they need in a timely manner (to make it more fun, you could even purchase a label maker)
- Utilize your Space- Start getting creative with how to store certain objects and create more space on your shelves, drawers or walls. Install baskets, drawer separators, jars or hooks. Looking for a new bed frame? Get one with the built-in drawers underneath.
- Minimize your Papers- keep what is needed and shred or toss what’s not (think about going paperless for your bills) then organize into files (even sentimental papers like cards and schoolwork can be put into a clear filing container or even put into a scrapbook).
- Have Fun- Turn on some music, look at Pinterest for ideas, purchase fun organizers or a flower to put on that newly organized desk. Look back at the pictures you took and smile at what you accomplished! Then share those photos with your friends so they can become as inspired as you!
