A Journey Toward Simplicity and Peace
It is never too late or too early to start decluttering and organizing.
Have you ever found yourself wondering… what exactly is decluttering and organizing? How do I get started when it feels like my whole house needs a makeover?
Honestly, getting started is often the hardest part. But I believe that decluttering and organizing is truly for everyone, and I’ve compiled some helpful tips to give you that kick in the pants you’ve been looking for to get going.
First of all, to be organized, you need to start thinking like an organizer, and that begins with how you talk to yourself. Start by saying out loud, “I am organized.” The more you believe this statement, the more confident you’ll become in making it a reality. Our thoughts shape our emotions and behaviors, and I truly believe that everyone has the potential to be organized. If you want to see changes in your external world, you must first start with your internal dialogue.
Decluttering and organizing is a creative, trial-and-error process.
Sometimes, you’ll need to rearrange things multiple times before finding the perfect spot — and that’s perfectly okay! As your life evolves, so will your organizing needs. We aren’t robots; we’re creative beings whose lives and schedules constantly change. Over time, you’ll discover new ways to do things and develop little tricks that work for you.
Something to keep in mind is that every time you reorganize a space, it becomes easier. The hardest part is when clutter accumulates over months or longer. But once you’ve established a system, resetting and maintaining it becomes much simpler.
Because life happens. Unexpected events like home repairs, illness, or vacations can distract us from our organizing goals. When this happens, it’s important to get back on track as soon as possible and not let guilt or frustration take over. No one can keep up with everything perfectly all the time. The goal isn’t perfection, just practicing better and doing it for your “why.”
Understanding your “why” is crucial in the decluttering and organizing process. What is your goal? Are you a mom hoping to get out the door on time, a business owner wanting to prepare for tax season, or simply someone seeking more peace in your home? Whatever your goal, organizing will help you achieve it more efficiently and with less stress.
Organizing and time management go hand in hand. Small changes, like designating a spot for your keys or spending 10 minutes a day on a specific task, can create a cycle of productivity that transforms your life.
Use tools like timers, planners, and lists to keep track of your goals and stay on top of your organizing efforts. Remember, it’s not about how perfectly you organize; it’s about how often you engage in the process. Regular, consistent effort is what will make the biggest difference.
Here are a few tried and true ideas I live by when it comes to decluttering and organizing:
🌟Anticipate Your Needs
Decluttering and organizing is all about looking ahead and anticipating your needs. It’s not just about arranging items neatly or making your space look aesthetically pleasing; it’s about creating a system that simplifies your life. When you organize, you’re preparing yourself for future success by knowing what you own, why you own it, and where to find it.
🌟No One Is Exempt
Organization is essential for everyone. Whether you’re running a business, managing a household, or pursuing a personal passion, being organized is crucial to your success. It’s not just for perfectionists or those naturally inclined to tidiness—it’s a skill that everyone can develop.
🌟Small Steps, Big Impact
Decluttering and organizing can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into small, manageable steps makes it easier and more enjoyable. You don’t have to tackle your entire home in one weekend. Start small—one drawer, one shelf, one room—and build momentum from there.
🌟The “A” Space Principle
Once you bring a space to an “A” level—remember, there’s no such thing as 100% perfect—you can easily reset or tweak it as needed. This keeps the space functional and organized without requiring constant attention.
🌟Organizing as Self-Care
Think of decluttering and organizing as a form of self-care. By taking care of your environment, you’re also taking care of yourself. A less cluttered space leads to a more peaceful and productive life.
🌟Less Is More
Generally, the fewer possessions you have, the easier it is to stay organized. Simplifying your belongings allows you to focus on what truly matters, making it easier to maintain an organized space.
🌟Procrastination Makes It Harder
Procrastination only makes the task seem more daunting. The sooner you start, the easier it becomes to make progress and see results.
The way I see it, decluttering and organizing is like taking inventory of your life. When you handle each item you own, you’ll remember where it is and how much you have. This awareness helps you avoid unnecessary purchases and keeps your space organized.
Still not convinced organizing is for you? Here are a few research-backed reasons organizing your home is good for you:
🎉Improved Sleep: A clutter-free space can lead to more restful sleep.
🎉Saved Time: Knowing where everything is means spending less time searching for lost items.
🎉Saved Money: Avoid unnecessary purchases by knowing what you already own.
🎉Enjoyment of Spaces: A well-organized home is more enjoyable and less stressful.
🎉Improved Relationships: Organized spaces can lead to improved relationships by reducing stress and making shared spaces more pleasant.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s involving your family, hiring a professional organizer, or even enlisting friends for support, getting help can make the process more manageable. And also, teaching your kids to organize not only helps you but also sets them up for a lifetime of good habits.
If organizing isn’t something you enjoy, consider hiring a professional. Just as you might hire an accountant to handle your taxes, a professional organizer can help you create systems that work for your life. They bring objectivity, creativity, and problem-solving skills to the table, making the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Decluttering and organizing is all about knowing what you own, why you own it, and where to find it.
It’s a creative, flexible process that requires grace and patience, both with yourself and with others. By taking small steps, asking for help, and understanding your “why,” you can create a more organized and peaceful life. It’s never too late or too early to start decluttering and organizing. So, let’s embark on this journey together, one step at a time.
Embrace your GRACE to Organize and find joy in the process. Check out next month’s blog for part 2 where we’ll dive deeper into the decluttering process!
Recent Comments