This week’s topic is home organization! Our homes are our sanctuaries (well, they should be). Our homes should also be our safe havens from the hustle and bustle of the world. The way we organize and maintain our living spaces can significantly impact our mental and emotional well-being. A cluttered and disorganized home often leads to stress, anxiety, and a feeling of being overwhelmed. Conversely, an organized home can bring about a myriad of positive impacts that extend beyond the physical environment.
Over the years, I’ve really trained myself to become organized. So I can safely say that I have a pretty organized home. Organization really helps with my productivity and to help me feel at ease. I can’t stand a disorganized mess. Living in disorganization really makes life just a bit more hard, and life is already tough as it is.
You may be someone struggling with organization. If you’re not already in the habit of being organized, it is really hard to unlearn bad habits and pick up new ones. Especially, if you’re older in age. You know how the saying goes – you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. Even though there is a lot of truth in that statement, it doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to become an organized person. It just means that you’re going to have to be very serious and consistent in your efforts. It’s like a diet, continuing a workout routine or really anything else in life. Without consistency, there will be no results.
The first step to achieving an organized home
You might be feeling stuck in your messy, disorganized and cluttered home. You probably feel like you don’t know where to begin.
My advice is to first declutter. Read Declutter Your Mind By Decluttering Your Home.
Yeup, most people have FAR TOOOO many things. And too many things keep you disorganized. It’s pretty simple. When you collect items for fun, naturally you don’t have enough space for them. Then you end up with an endless amount of junk drawers and when you want to find something – you can’t. We have all been there. You need to find something, and it may even be important. But looking for it might take you days and causes you anxiety. That is not the way to live life. So, declutter.
I’ve actually fallen so in love with decluttering. There is something so satisfying about it! I promise, you won’t miss the things that you throw away.
The second step to an organized home
Once you’ve gotten rid of all your junk, you can then start to create “homes” for all the items you’ve kept. This is the part where you need to start being intentional about all your belongings. You will need to create a game plan. Make a checklist. It might look something like:
- sock/ underwear organizing solution
- kitchen utensil organizing solution
- winter clothes organizing solution
- coat closet configuration
- arts and crafts organizing solution
And the list will go on. You may recognize that you need more storage and/or a product that will help you be and stay organized or, simply, you just need the discipline to organize those items and stick to it.
Now, you may not even recognize the benefits of being organized. You may think your paperwork under the mattress solution is working just fine. I mean, if it ain’t broken – don’t fix it. But, also be honest with yourself and recognize where there is room for an upgrade.
Jordan Peterson listed as one of the 12 rules of life to be; “Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world.”
And listen. I am actually working on setting my house in perfect order! Well, as close to perfect as I can. Check back in a couple of years.
The benefits of home organization
Clarity of mind
Picture walking into a tidy, organized space after a long, tiring day. The sense of calmness that washes over you is undeniable. A clutter-free environment promotes mental clarity and reduces stress levels. When items are neatly arranged and easy to find, it eliminates the mental strain of searching for things, allowing you to focus on tasks with a clear mind.
Enhanced productivity
An organized home creates a conducive environment for productivity. With everything in its designated place, you spend less time searching for misplaced items and more time accomplishing tasks. A well-structured space enables efficient workflows, encouraging you to tackle tasks with enthusiasm and efficiency.
Improved time management
The adage “a place for everything, and everything in its place” rings true when it comes to home organization. By having systems in place and maintaining order, you save time that would otherwise be wasted on unnecessary searches or last-minute clean-ups. This newfound time can be redirected towards pursuing hobbies, spending quality moments with loved ones, or engaging in self-care activities.
Stress reduction
Cluttered spaces can contribute to a sense of chaos and unease. Conversely, an organized home creates a serene atmosphere that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Coming back to an orderly environment at the end of a hectic day fosters a sense of tranquility and helps in unwinding, allowing you to recharge and rejuvenate.
Financial benefits
Believe it or not, home organization can also lead to financial benefits. When you know what you own and where it is located, you are less likely to make unnecessary purchases. Moreover, proper maintenance of belongings can extend their lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and repairs, thereby saving money in the long run.
Enhanced social life
An organized home can boost your social life as well. You’ll feel more inclined to invite friends and family over, hosting gatherings or dinner parties without the stress of hiding clutter. A welcoming and organized home creates a positive impression, making guests feel comfortable and allowing you to focus on enjoying their company.
Baby steps towards home organization
Embarking on the journey to an organized home may seem daunting, but it’s achievable through small, consistent steps. Begin by decluttering and sorting items, assigning designated spaces for different categories, and establishing a system for maintenance. Consider donating or recycling items that no longer serve a purpose to streamline your possessions.
The positive impacts of organizing your home extend far beyond the physical space. A well-organized environment fosters mental clarity, productivity, and overall well-being. It’s not just about tidying up; it’s about creating a nurturing space that supports and enhances your daily life. Start small, stay consistent, and experience the transformative power of an organized home.
What to learn more and connect with me one-on-one? Book one of my eDesign Services.
